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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Sunday, November 8, 1998 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES SPORTS LOCALCity Calendar City CalendarItems for the City Calendar should be brought in or telephoned (765-3311) to Bob Patterson, at the Ponca City News, by Thursday noon. Anytime FOLOBS (Friends of Library Ongoing Book Sale), anytime the Ponca City Library is open, North of Multimedia Room (downstairs). Today “Rock and Reach” contemporary Christian concert featuring Overton and Broadway. 5 p.m. First Christian Church. Complimentary snack supper to follow. Admission is free. ALANO Group Open Discussion meeting (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street. Monday Kay County Retired Educators Association, 11:30 a.m., First Methodist Church, Sixth and Coolidge, Blackwell, program Northern Oklahoma College, subject music. Hospice of Ponca City Grief Support Group, 10 a.m., 1904 North Union Street, Suite 103; 7 p.m., Westminster Village. Ponca City Board of Commissioners, Ponca City Utility Authority, Ponca City Development Authority, 5:30 p.m., Public Safety Center Commissioner’s Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. ALANO Group 12 X 12 meeting (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street. Tuesday Economic Development Advisory Board, 7:30 a.m., Chamber of Commerce, 420 East Grand Avenue. Ponca City Library Board, 11:30 a.m., Library Board Room, 515 East Grand Avenue. RSVP of Kay County “Senior Bingo!” 1:30 p.m., Senior Center, 319 West Grand Avenue. McCord Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., McCord School Library. Osage Cove Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., Fire Station, Keeler Road and U.S. 60. Hospice of Ponca City Raindrops Support Group, 7 p.m., St. Paul’s Methodist Church, North Pecan Road at East Hartford Avenue. Rural Water District No. 1 Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m., Enterprise School on Lake Road. ALANO Group Beginner’s meeting (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street. Wednesday Cultural Affairs Commission, 11:30 a.m., Cultural Center Sun Room, 1000 East Grand Avenue. Rural Water District No. 3 (Braden) Board of Directors, 7 p.m., Braden Community Center. ALANO Group Big Book meeting (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street. Thursday Ponca City Housing Authority, 10 a.m., 201 East Broadway Avenue. Agrarian Club, 6:30 p.m., southwest meeting room, Western Sizzlin’. American Legion family dinner, 6:30 p.m., Auxiliary 79th Anniversary. Meeting to follow. Huff-Minor Post 14, 407 West South Avenue. 88.7 FM present The Martins with Greg Long, Christian Artists Concert, 7 p.m., Hutchins Auditorium, tickets available at Master’s Touch, call 767-1400 for more information. Diabetes: A Community Forum, 7 p.m., St. Joseph Regional Medical Center cafeteria. Blood screening, 6 p.m. ALANO Group Women’s meeting (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street. Friday RSVP of Kay County “Gospel Music Festival,” 1:30 p.m., Senior Center, 319 West Grand Avenue. Chicken Noodle Dinner, 5-7 p.m., adults $, children $2, homemade pie 50 cents, Asbury United Methodist Church, 700 West Liberty Street, proceeds go to missions. Golden Villa Annual Fund Raiser, 5-8 p.m., Woodlands Christian Church, $5 adults, free to children 6 and under. Surviving the Holidays — free workshop, 7 p.m., Westminster Village main dining room, 1601 Academy. ALANO Group Speaker meeting (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street. Friday-Saturday Ponca Playhouse production “Our Town,” 8 p.m., Poncan Theatre, 104 East Grand Avenue, Ponca City. Saturday American Legion Pancake and Sausage Feed (all the pancakes you can eat), 6:30 a.m.-10 a.m., 407 West South Avenue, adults $3, children under 12 $1.50, children under 6 free, proceeds to Rehab Program. Singles Connection hosting a Game Night at First United Methodist Church, Sixth and Central, 7 p.m.; A-L bring dessert, M-Z bring chips and dip; Child care provided if prearranged, call Teri 762-0956. ALANO Group Open Discussion (smoking allowed), 8 p.m., 603 South First Street. November 15 Ponca Playhouse production “Our Town,” 2 p.m., Poncan Theatre, 104 East Grand Avenue, Ponca City. Concert Pianist Sharon Williams Goldsberry concert, 2 p.m., First Baptist Church Worship Center, 218 South Sixth Street, artist reception following in Assembly Center, free admission. November 16 Surviving the Holidays — free workshop, 10 a.m., Wheatheart Nutrition Center. Ponca City Board of Commissioners Work Session, 2 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Multiple Sclerosis Support Group, 6:30 p.m., Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm Street, call Beth Wright 765-6738 for additional information. Family Council, 7 p.m., Highland Nursing Home, 1401 West Highland Avenue. November 17 Standing Bear Educational Committee, 11 a.m., Pioneer Bank Drive-In, interested citizens encouraged to attend. Kaw Lake Association Board Meeting, noon, Golden Corral, North Fourteenth Street and Bradley Avenue, Ponca City. RSVP of Kay County “Old Fashioned Pitch Round!” 1:30 p.m., Senior Center, 319 West Grand Avenue. Marland Estate Commission, 4:30 p.m., Marland Estate Conference Center. Surviving the Holidays — free workshop, 7 p.m., Presbyterian Church, Blackwell. November 18 Ponca City Tourism Authority, 2 p.m., Cultural Center, Sun Room, 2000 East Grand Avenue. November 19 Hospice of Ponca City Grief Support Group, 10 a.m., First Presbyterian Church, Blackwell. Park and Recreation Advisory Board, 6:30 p.m., Municipal Court Room, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Surviving the Holidays — free workshop, 7 p.m., Pioneer Bank and Trust, Community Room. November 20 Kaw Reservoir Authority, 10 a.m., Perkins Restaurant, Ponca City. Historical Preservation Advisory Panel Work Session, noon, Planning Conference Room, Commercial Federal Building, Room 305, Fourth Street and Central Avenue. Traffic Commission, 1:15 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. RSVP of Kay County Trivia, Music and Games, 1:30 p.m., Senior Center, 319 West Grand Avenue. November 20-21 Ponca Playhouse production “Our Town,” 8 p.m., Poncan Theatre, 104 East Grand Avenue, Ponca City. November 23 Ponca City Board of Commissioners, Ponca City Utility Authority, Ponca City Development Authority, 5:30 p.m., Public Safety Center Commissioner’s Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. November 24 Ponca City Main Street Authority, 1 p.m., Main Street Office, 117 North Third Street. RSVP of Kay County Senior Birthday Bash, 1:30 p.m., Senior Center, 319 West Grand Avenue. November 25 Planning Commission Work Session, 7:45 a.m., Planning Conference Room, Commercial Federal Building, Room 305, Fourth Street and Central Avenue. December 1 Planning Commission, 7 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. December 2 Energy Advisory Board, 7:30 a.m., Public Safety Center. December 3 Kay-9 Dog Training Club, 7 p.m., Ponca City Library, public welcome. December 4 Historical Preservation Advisory Panel, noon, Planning Conference Room, Commercial Federal Building, South Fourth Street and East Central Avenue. December 5 Hospice of Ponca City Community-Wide Memorial Service, 2 p.m., Woodlands Christian Church. December 6 “The Spirit of Christmas,” by Silvertones (Senior Adult Choir) and Youth Music Ministry of First Baptist Church, 6:30 p.m., First Baptist Church. December 7 Ponca City Board of Commissioners Work Session, 2 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Pioneer Christian Crusaders Motorcycle Association, 6 p.m., Conestoga at I-35 and U.S. 60, west of Tonkawa, more information 765-3164. December 8 Economic Development Advisory Board, 7:30 a.m., Chamber of Commerce, 420 East Grand Avenue. Ponca City Library Board, 11:30 a.m., Library Board Room, 515 East Grand Avenue. Hospice of Ponca City Raindrops Support Group, 7 p.m., St. Paul’s Methodist Church, North Pecan Road at East Hartford Avenue. McCord Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., McCord School Library. Osage Cove Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., Fire Station, Keeler Road and U.S. 60. Rural Water District No. 1 Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m., Enterprise School on Lake Road. December 9 Cultural Affairs Commission, 11:30 a.m., Cultural Center Sun Room, 1000 East Grand Avenue. Rural Water District No. 3 (Braden) Board of Directors, 7 p.m., Braden Community Center. December 10 Ponca City Housing Authority, 10 a.m., 201 East Broadway Avenue. Agrarian Club, 6:30 p.m., southwest meeting room, Western Sizzlin’. December 13 “Sing We Now of Christmas,” an evening of music presented by elementary choirs of First Baptist Church including “Christmas in Egypt,” 6:30 p.m., First Baptist Church. December 14 Hospice of Ponca City Grief Support Group, 10 a.m., 1904 North Union Street, Suite 103; 7 p.m., Westminster Village. Ponca City Board of Commissioners, Ponca City Utility Authority, Ponca City Development Authority, 5:30 p.m., Public Safety Center Commissioner’s Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. December 15 Standing Bear Educational Committee, 11 a.m., Pioneer Bank Drive-In, interested citizens encouraged to attend. Kaw Lake Association Board Meeting, noon, Golden Corral, North Fourteenth Street and Bradley Avenue, Ponca City. Marland Estate Commission, 4:30 p.m., Marland Estate Conference Center. December 16 Ponca City Tourism Authority, 2 p.m., Cultural Center, Sun Room, 2000 East Grand Avenue. December 17 Hospice of Ponca City Grief Support Group, 10 a.m., First Presbyterian Church, Blackwell. Park and Recreation Advisory Board, 6:30 p.m., Municipal Court Room, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. December 18 Historical Preservation Advisory Panel Work Session, noon, Planning Conference Room, Commercial Federal Building, Room 305, Fourth Street and Central Avenue. Traffic Commission, 1:15 p.m., Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Visions of Childhood Features Unique Americana MiniaturesARKANSAS CITY — The weekend of Nov. 14 and 15 will be the perfect time to “Make It a Weekend in Arkansas City! The Fourth Annual “Visions of Childhood,” a dollhouse, roombox, and miniature exhibit, will be held at the Wright Room of the Brown Center at Cowley College in Arkansas City. The Steering Committee announced they will have between 70 and 75 exhibits based on this year’s Americana theme. Terry Eaton of Arkansas City, who is chair of this event, will have six unique exhibits including a “log” church which was actually made to serve as a jewelry box. With the removal of the jewelry tray, it became a miniature carpeted church! The little piano is a pencil sharpener. Terry’s baby cross hangs from the wall. Terry’s mother, Marjory Hodkin, will show her collection of music boxes composed of miniature furniture, dating from the 1930s, including radios, Victrola, pianos, and a church organ. Among the anticipated exhibits are two scale models created by Marjorie Bicker of Winfield, a multi-talented artist who has painted murals on the sides of the buildings for which the scale models were built. Several other Winfield residents will feature items at the exhibit. Marilyn Albright will have a toy shop which dates back to the earlier part of this century. Martha Lierman will show a German Bavarian doll house which is a replica of the painted houses of Oberammergau, Germany. The house and furniture were built by John Elam of Winfield and painted by Lierman. The viewer will be also be able to see such models as a general store, school house, sun porch, greenhouse, southern plantation, town house, fire station, Victorian doll houses, an oil can collection, many Americana theme collections, as well as a panorama in Americana created by USD 470 school children. Dollhouses range in age from the ’40s through present day. After viewing the exhibits, visitors are welcomed at the Americana Tea Room which will be decorated according to theme and offer a special repast. Children will be able to play in the supervised play area. The proceeds of the exhibit, which is sponsored by The Arkansas City Area Arts Council, benefit fine arts scholarships at Cowley College. Cost is $5 for adults and $3 for children. The trip to the Tea Room is included in the cost. Creating Miniatures Those who want to learn about creating miniatures will have four opportunities. The first will be with Thayne Mellick, owner of “Little Things of Kinsley,” on Saturday at 10 a.m. He will have the materials available to create an outdoor stone garden scene. The cost of this workshop is $25; this includes all the materials. Participants should allow two to two and one half hours to complete the workshop. Participants will be asked to bring some small tools such as tweezers. Registration for this workshop is required by Wednesday, Nov. 11. Call 316-442-5895 to register. The three other workshops are also offered for a nominal fee of $3 each. Saturday at 2 p.m. Nancy Kindred will teach embossing which can be used in decorating dollhouses and room boxes. Sunday at 1:30 p.m. Joy Baker will show how to make polymer clay miniatures. Baker also has several exhibits at the show. Sunday at 2:45 p.m. Margaret Neal will teach how to create stamps which can be used for miniature stamping. All materials for these workshops are included in the fee. Each of these workshops is approximately one hour. Preregistration is appreciated, but not mandatory. Partnering with the Arkansas City Arts Council to create the exhibit are the Arkansas City Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, the Kansas Arts Commission, a state agency, the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency, Union State Bank, KSOK, and Home National Bank. Hours for the Visions of Childhood Doll House and Miniature show are from 10 to 5 on Saturday and from Noon to 5 on Sunday. For more information, email dac@arkcity.com or call Ellen Snell, coordinator, at 316-442-5895. Other opportunities for those choosing to spend the weekend in Arkansas City include a walking tour of the downtown historical district; an exhibit of oil paintings by artist Tom Myers at the Denton Art Center; a visit to the Cherokee Strip Land Rush Museum; a walk through the Chaplin Nature Center; and a tour of Arkansas City landmarks such as Wilson Park, Aunt Sally’s Landing and Scripture Hill. School MenusElementary Breakfast Monday — Cereal or honey bun, apple, assorted juices and milk. Tuesday — Biscuits and gravy or cereal or honey bun, apple, assorted juices and milk. Wednesday — Cereal or honey bun, apple, assorted juices and milk. Thursday — Pancakes with syrup or cereal or honey bun, apple, assorted juices and milk. Friday — Cereal or honey bun, apple, assorted juices and milk. Elementary Lunch Monday — Chicken nuggets with hot roll or corn dog, mashed potatoes and gravy, fresh fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears, Oreo cookies or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, diet plate, juice and milk. Tuesday — Crispy tacos or bread sticks with cheese and marinara sauce, shredded lettuce and cheese, fresh fruit, mexican beans, saltine crackers, dill spears, wacky cake or assorted cold sandwiches, salads or diet plate, juice and milk. Wednesday — Submarine sandwich or Taco Bell chilito, lettuce and tomato, tatter tots, fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads or diet plate, juice and milk. Thursday — Chicken strips with hot roll or cheese dog, mashed potatoes and gravy, Jello, fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads or diet plate, juice and milk. Friday — Meat and cheese nachos or cheese pizza, refried beans, mexican rice, saltine crackers, dill spears, cookies or assorted cold sandwiches, salads or diet plate, juice and milk. Middle School Breakfast Monday — Sausage with scrambled eggs and biscuits or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Tuesday — Biscuits and gravy or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Wednesday — Eggs and potatoes and biscuits or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Thursday — Cinnamon rolls or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Friday — Biscuits and gravy or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Mid-High Breakfast Monday — Eggs with sausage and cheesy tots or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Tuesday — Eggs and cheese roll ups or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Wednesday — Biscuits and gravy or biscuit and jelly or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Thursday — Blueberry muffin squares with eggs and sausage or blueberry muffin squares or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Friday — Scrambled eggs and toast or toast and jelly or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Middle School Lunch Available on Monday through Friday at the Middle School is Domino’s, Carl’s Jr., Taco Bell burritos. Monday — Chicken nuggets with hot roll, mashed potatoes and gravy, peas, fresh fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears, pudding or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or potato bar, juice and milk. Tuesday — Crispy tacos, lettuce and cheese, salsa, jalapenos, fresh fruit, wacky cake, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or potato bar, juice and milk. Wednesday — Taco Bell chilito burrito, refried beans, salsa, fresh fruit, Jello, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate, potato bar, juice and milk. Thursday — Chicken strips with hot roll, whipped potatoes and gravy, green beans, fresh fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or potato bar, juice and milk. Friday — Meat and cheese nachos, salsa and jalapenos, mexican beans, rice, fresh fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears, cookies or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate, pasta bar, juice and milk. Mid-High Lunch Available at the Mid-High Monday through Friday are Domino’s, Carl’s Jr., Taco Bell burritos. Monday — Chicken nuggets with hot roll, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or potato bar, juice and milk. Tuesday — Teriyaki chicken breast with hot roll, oriental vegetables, steamed rice, fresh fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or pasta bar, juice and milk. Wednesday — Submarine sandwich, lettuce, tomato and onion, tatter tots, fresh fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or Mexican bar, juice and milk. Thursday — Cheese dog, broccoli salad, fresh fruit, baked beans, lettuce and tomato salad, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or Mexican bar, juice and milk. Friday — Stuffed pizza, Italian blend vegetables, salad, fresh fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears or assorted cold sandwiches, salads, diet plate or Mexican bar, juice and milk. High School Lunch Available every day at Campus Mart, the Training Table Deli offers a pasta bar, baked potato bar, lean items and fresh fruit. The Ala Carte Wildcat line offers Domino’s. Training Table Monday- Friday — Pasta bar, potato bar, deli sandwiches and salads, seasonal fruit. All-American Line Monday — Ham and cheese croissant, french fries, lettuce, tomato and onion, strawberry parfait, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. Tuesday — Turkey and hot roll, whipped potatoes and gravy, turkey dressing, cranberry sauce, carrots, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. Wednesday — Pizza pocket, corn, Jello jigglers, tomato salad, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. Thursday — Chili dog with cheese, french fries, baked beans, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. Friday — Macaroni and cheese with hot roll, California blend vegetables, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. McCord Elementary Breakfast Monday — French toast sticks, juice and milk. Tuesday — Cereal, toast, juice and milk. Wednesday — Biscuits and gravy, juice and milk. Thursday — Cinnamon toast, juice and milk. Friday — Ham patties, toast, juice and milk. Lunch Monday — Pizza, green beans, peaches, ice cream and milk. Tuesday — Spaghetti with beef, french bread, blackeyed peas, applesauce and milk. Wednesday — Hot dogs with mustard and relish, tatter tots, carrot sticks, orange wedge, cookie and milk. Thursday — Steak fingers, potatoes and gravy, cooked carrots, pears, roll and milk. Friday — Pigs in a blanket, macaroni and cheese, green beans, pineapple and milk. Pioneer Technology Center The cafeteria will be open on Tuesday through Thursday from 11:15 a.m. to noon. The menu will feature chef’s choice. School CalendarPo-Hi Nov. 9 DECA at a conference in Edmond. PANIC rehearsal in the Howell Auditorium at 4:30 p.m. Ponca City Area Chamber Orchestra in room F-104 at 7 p.m. Nov. 10 PAC meeting in the conference room at 10:30 a.m. PANIC rehearsal in the Howell Auditorium at 4:30 p.m. Student Council meeting in room 101 at 7 p.m. Nov. 11 Veterans Day assembly at Hutchins at 9 a.m. Representative from Independence Community College in the conference room at 1:15 p.m. PANIC rehearsal continues. Nov. 12 Faculty meeting in room F-103 at 7 a.m. Representative from Cowley County Community College in the conference room at 11 a.m. PANIC rehearsals. Cross Country banquet in the cafeteria at 6 p.m. Nov. 13 Drama/debate in the Charles Page Tournament. Nov. 14 Drama/debate tournament continues. OMEA Chorale auditions at the University of Central Oklahoma. OMEA All-State Jazz auditions in Midwest City. Singles Group To Play GamesSingles Connection is a new area-wide fellowship for single adults who are 55 and younger. The purpose of this fellowship is to provide a safe Christian environment where singles — whether by choice, by divorce, or by the death of a spouse — can gather for fellowship and support. First United Methodist Church is hosting the next Singles Connection event — a Game Night on Nov. 14. The games will begin at 7 p.m. at FUMC, Sixth and Central in Ponca City. FUMC is providing a sub sandwich and drinks. If your last name begins with A-L, bring a dessert; M-Z, bring chips and dip. Child care will be provided, if needed, for a small fee. Please contact Teri at 762-0956 by Nov. 10 to arrange child care needs. For more information about this event call Becky at 765-5164 or Teri at 762-0956. PTSA Sponsors Recycling Drive In NovemberTo promote community pride and concern for the environment, the Po-Hi PTSA is sponsoring a newspaper recycling drive in November. In homeroom classes, the high school students are learning about the location of the recycling center at 1001 West Prospect and about which items may be recycled locally. The center accepts newspaper, cardboard, magazines, books, junk mail, tin cans, aluminum cans, glass and various assorted metals. Cardboard includes cereal boxes, paper towel rolls, brown paper bags and boxes. The Ponca City Recycling Center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The families of Po-Hi are saving newspapers from Nov. 2-18. Students will be bringing the newspapers to the student parking lot on either Nov. 18, 19 or 20. Volunteers will record the names of students who participate and then transport the newspapers to the recycling center. The PTSA hopes that families will continue to recycle on a regular basis. The PTSA, which includes parents, teachers and students, strives to work together to provide an important service to the community. The Po-Hi PTSA urges other citizens to join them in their recycling efforts. Annual Election Call To Be Made by BoardBy KRISTI HAYES News Education Editor Approving a resolution to call for the annual election of board members on Feb. 9, 1999, in Wards 1 and 5, and local support, emergency and building levies will be decided Monday night at the regular board meeting of the Ponca City Board of Education. The 1999 annual school election resolution is due no later than Nov. 20 to the Kay County Election Board. The resolution will call for the annual election of two board members, Ward 1, currently held by Andrea Morriss, and Ward 5, currently held by Marvin Clark. The filing period for board candidates will open at 8 a.m. on Dec. 7 and close at 5 p.m. on Dec. 9. All filings must be made at the Kay County Election Board in Newkirk. The local support levy for Kay County is 10.22, the emergency levy is 5.11, and the building levy is 5.11. The Capital Improvement Plan bond election for $9.95 million will also be held on Feb. 9. Other Agenda Items A revision could be made to the policy book concerning the closing of school for bad weather. The Board Policy Committee has proposed a revision to define categories of employees who are to come to work when school is closed for bad weather as soon as it is safe. Those that are to report to work include all twelve-month employees, administrative staff, site secretaries, maintenance employees and custodial employees. These employees will be paid for the time they are able to work. Five categories of employees who work directly with children will not be required to come to work on days when school is closed due to bad weather. They are teachers, teachers assistants, bus drivers, child nutrition employees and crossing guards. Board members will vote to renew the Oklahoma Public Schools Unemployment Compensation Account. Unemployment compensation coverage is required of all public schools under the Oklahoma Employment Security Act. Approval could also be given to the Gifted and Talented Committee for the 1998-99 and 1999-2000 school years. State law requires that the Gifted and Talented Local Advisory Committee be appointed by the board upon the recommendation of the superintendent. The committee will consist of at least three, but no more than 11 members, for a two-year term. Dr. Bill White, superintendent, will present November awards to: Wayne Rickman, Certified Employee of the Month; Peggy Eck, Support Employee of the Month; and Debbie Cain, Friend of Education. From Haiti to Bosnia, Military Called To DutyBy Richard E. Killblane Special to the News Editors Note: This is the final segment of a four-part series leading up to Veterans Day concerning American troop involvement throughout the world following the Vietnam War. This series is dedicated to United States recent war veterans — those who have served since the Vietnam War. Richard E. Killblane is a former U.S. Army Special Forces Infantry officer who served in Panama. He has a master’s degree in history. Haiti The United States had sent Marines into the country of Haiti back in 1915 to stabilize the government. When they left 19 years later, the country held one democratic election and that was the last peaceful changeover of government. From then on, one military dictatorship replaced another. After turmoil again arose with the departure of President “Baby Doc” Devalier and the government funds in 1986, American analysts were hesitant to intervene. After what seemed to be a peaceful election of Jean Bertrand Aristid, the Haitian military overturned the election. President Clinton placed the country under economic boycott. The already destitute economy became worse and Haitian refugees fled to American protection. The armed forces established refugee camps in both Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and Panama. As the press coverage increased, it seemed that the Haitian military would not bend to international pressure. On July 31, 1994, the United Nations Security Council authorized the use of military to force the dictators from power. In the first week of September, Clinton threatened an invasion. “Your time is up. Leave now or we will force you from power.” Former President Jimmy Carter led a last-minute envoy of peace with Sam Nunn and retired Gen. Colin Powell. When the deadline approached, Clinton warned Carter to pull out as he had just launched the 82nd Airborne Division. In a final appeal and under the threat of a forced invasion by American paratroopers, the Haitian military finally agreed to step down. Part of the agreement permitted the peaceful occupation of Haiti by a multinational peacekeeping force made up of 1,800 Marines, 3,000 troops from the 10th Mountain Division and 15,000 military police from 25 other countries, mostly the Caribbean Islands. Troops began to arrive Sept. 19, 1994. The infantry men of the 10th Mountain Division secured the airport and ports of the capitol city, Port-au-Prince. The Army’s mission was simply to show the flag in order to guarantee the peaceful reinstatement of Aristid. Law and order was left to the Haitian military thugs, and again the American soldiers had instructions not to interfere in domestic problems. Aristid supporters took to the street in jubilation. The very next day, the Haitian military beat them in the presence of American soldiers who were under orders to do nothing. The Haitians cried out for American protection. The day after, Clinton allowed U.S. forces to intervene “in instances of unreasonable force.” He sent in 1,000 additional military police to moderate Haitian security. Again like Somalia, American troops had gone in on a mission of peace, and found themselves in harm’s way. Armed violence increased, and Americans responded by raiding several known paramilitary sites and weapons caches. By the end of September, American troops even had to seize control of the state-run radio and TV stations which were being used to stir up violence. The crisis escalated, and the American troops found themselves in the middle of it. On Oct. 3, Sgt. Donald Holstead was shot in an ambush by several armed gunmen. On Oct. 16, an American soldier in country committed suicide. Americans found themselves in a Haitian quagmire just like 79 years ago. Clinton finally ordered the withdrawal of 6,000 troops by Nov. 30. Scaling down the presence did not reduce the danger to the few remaining American troops. On Jan. 12, a pickup tried to run an American-manned check point. In the ensuing shoot out, one U.S. soldier was killed and another wounded, while another soldier killed the Haitian driver. As Haiti faded from the news, Americans remained in country. To celebrate the anniversary of Aristid’s return, Vice Pres. Al Gore and his wife visited the country in October 1995. While driving through a slum area of Port-au-Prince, rioters stormed Tipper Gore’s motorcade and threw stones. One U.S. soldier was injured. Bosnia The victory of the Cold War, and the consequent breakup of the Soviet Union permitted the smaller communist countries to pursue their own agendas. The patch work of ethnic provinces of Yugoslavia returned to the hatred that had fueled centuries of conflict. After fighting it out with Croatia to the west, Serbian President Slobodan Milosovic turned its attention to Bosnia to the south. His goal was to cleanse the borders of any ethnic diversity, then expand Serbia’s borders to include this new territory. The ethnic fighting in Bosnia had begun in earnest isolating communities from outside aid. The Serbs figured they could starve the Muslims into submission. The U.N. took action by authorizing relief to the Muslims. The United States Air Force, with the Oklahoma Air Guard, began a steady stream of C-130 cargo planes on parachute runs of food drops. NATO jets flew numerous sorties over Bosnia, bombing Serbian artillery which had leveled many Muslim homes. During that time, a captain was shot down behind enemy lines. For seven days he remained unaccounted for as Serbians searched the wreckage area. Finally, an overflying fighter picked up his signal. Within hours, U.S. Marines came to his rescue and he was on his way home. This air war by the Navy and Air Force only delayed the inevitable, and the one-sided ground combat forced Muslims from their homes. After four years of ethnic civil war, both sides tired of war. Sensing this, President Clinton intervened to negotiate a peace agreement. On Nov. 1, 1995, the participants signed a peace agreement in Dayton, Ohio. While the leaders may have agreed to a cease fire, the inhabitants, fueled with hatred, would not so easily enforce it. The Dayton Accords called for 60,000 NATO troops to occupy the country of Bosnia to prevent further violence. On Dec. 18, 1995, U.S. Army engineers and U.S. paratroopers out of Germany and Italy flew into the snowbound TuzIa. The engineers then pushed their way through the heavy snow to construct a pontoon bridge over the Sava River on the Croatia-Bosnia border — the war had destroyed the original. As they neared completion, the weather turned unseasonable warm causing the snow to melt. The river flooded, thereby sabotaging the engineers’ work. By Dec. 31, the engineers finished and 20,000 American soldiers of the 1st Armored Division in Germany rolled into Tuzla. For fear of Americans becoming indefinitely committed to Bosnia, the Clinton administration picked an arbitrary date for completion — U.S. troops should be out of Bosnia by Christmas of the next year. The American soldiers took up their assigned locations, and their presence prevented further bloodshed by the inhabitants. Unfortunately the greatest obstacle that faced the peacekeeping forces was all those unrecorded mines scattered by the belligerents. On Dec. 30, Spec. Martin J. Begosh became the first American wounded as his armored vehicle ran over a mine. On Feb. 3, 1996, Sgt. Donald A. Dugan stepped on a mine and became the first American killed. By that time. 44 U.N. troops had been killed with three Americans wounded by mines. Meanwhile. Special Forces teams deployed throughout the country to provide surveillance of Serbian activities. This mission, combined with the reductions in the military, had stripped the Army of any remaining Special Forces. Consequently, the State Department turned to civilian contracting companies to recruit former Army soldiers to train the Bosnian military and clear the mines. It soon became apparent that Americans could not pull out on an arbitrary date, but only when peace was no longer threatened by instability. Nonetheless, Clinton chose to reduce the size of the U.S. forces in country. On Oct. 1, a brigade of 5,000 soldiers of the 1st Infantry Division “Big Red One” deployed to Bosnia to cover the withdrawal of the 1st Armored. From that time on, American units have continued to rotate into Bosnia. The Civil Affairs Battalion out of Oklahoma deployed in country to conduct civic action. Now Serbia has turned its expansion interests to Albania to the east. Habitat For Humanity Dedicates Eighth Home Built or RenovatedPonca City Area Habitat For Humanity Inc. recently dedicated its eighth house built or renovated in Ponca City. Cindy Shultz and her family are now living in their new home, a house dedicated by Paula Johnson and Penny Brownfield and renovated by volunteers of the Ponca City Habitat For Humanity organization. Habitat For Humanity is a world-wide organization that builds homes for low-income families that could not otherwise afford such a home. The recipient of such a home will not be charged interest on the home, but must make payments over a 20-year period to pay for the actual cost of building or renovating the home, plus the cost of property taxes, house insurance and a small escrow fund for necessary repairs that may be required during the 20-year loan. The monthly payments normally range from about $126 to $250. For a family to be eligible to receive such a home, the following must be met: • One or more members of the family must have a stable total yearly income of up to $17,000. Families with income above this range will be considered, according to need and extenuating circumstances. • Recipients must be willing to work 300 hours — sweat equity — on Habitat projects. • Recipient must be living in substandard or inadequate housing. For those interested in applying for a Habitat home in the Ponca City area, call (580) 765-2974 or contact Habitat For Humanity Inc., P.O. Box 2211, Ponca City, Okla. 74602-2211. Soil Testing Promotes Correct Application of Crop FertilizersBy Donald Stotts OSU Extension Service STILLWATER — Most persons would not add gasoline to their cars without first checking the fuel gauge. However, some producers essentially do just that on their crop fields — applying fertilizer without first testing their soil for plant-available nutrients and soil acidity. “It is possible to apply unneeded fertilizer or animal manure if the nutrient status of cropland or pasture is unknown,” said Hailin Zhang, director, Oklahoma State University Soil, Water and Forage Analytical Laboratory. Zhang said soil samples that determine the nutrient status of the soil are an investment, not a cost. “Fine-tune nutrient management will result in more efficient fertilizer use, which can increase yields, reduce out-of-pocket expenses and potentially reduce environmental pollution,” Zhang said. Soil testing is required of producers to fulfill their Animal Waste Management plans under state law. “Careful soil sampling is essential for an accurate fertilizer recommendation,” Zhang said. “A sample must reflect the overall or average fertility of a field, so that subsequent analyses, interpretations and fertilizations accurately represent the nutrient status of the soil.” Soil varies by location, slope and past management practices. Thus, it is important for a soil sample to represent a uniform field area. The first step is to determine a sampling area. Each area should have a similar crop and fertilizer history, while soil characteristics such as color, slope, texture, drainage and degree of erosion should appear similar. “Exclude small areas within a field that are obviously different,” Zhang said. “These can be sampled separately if they are large enough to warrant special treatment.” One sample should represent no more than 40 irrigated acres or 100 dryland acres. Some producers find using a soil survey map to be helpful in identifying a sampling area. When sampling a field, follow a random zig-zag pattern to get a minimum of 20 cores from the sample area, or grid the area and take one core from each grid. “Mix these sub-samples thoroughly and save about one pint for analysis,” Zhang said. “Fewer sub-samples taken in a given area result in less accuracy in evaluating the true nutrient status of the soil, which may mislead in making a fertilizer recommendation.” Surface samples should be done at tillage depth or six inches for routine analysis. Deeper samples down six to 24 inches subsoil should be taken for nitrate-nitrogen analysis along with the surface samples. “Typically, the best time to test soil is before each cropping season, allowing enough time to send off samples to a laboratory, have them tested and get back a fertilizer recommendation,” Zhang said. Soil sample bags and other information related to soil testing are available through all OSU Cooperative Extension county offices. “If a producer wishes, OSU county agricultural extension educators will mail samples to the OSU soil testing laboratory and assist the producer in interpreting test results,” Zhang said. OSU Cooperative Extension county offices are listed in most local telephone directories under “County Government.” Youth Summit Issues Focus Of Meeting at PTC ThursdayOrganizers say the Ponca City Youth Summit was a huge success, bringing together over 150 people interested in the future of youth in Ponca City. That was the first step in making positive changes for our community. The six issues of teen pregnancy, school drop out rate, sexual/physical abuse, race relations, juvenile crime/gangs, and substance abuse were discussed among the participants. The goal of the Summit was to identify issues to be addressed and come up with one or two concrete plans that could be implemented in the next year. The Summit committee is inviting anyone interested in these issues to attend a meeting, 7 p.m., at Pioneer Technology Center. Whether you attended the Summit or not, if you are interested in any of these topics, please attend. “We need everyone’s participation, from our youth who live with these issues everyday, to our retirees who questions the changes taking place in the community with regard to youth. If we all work together we can make a difference,” says Ann Bandy, Summit chairperson. There will be a short group meeting, and then participants will break into groups. Each group will be asked to look at the issues discussed at the Summit and refine and prioritize the short and long term goals for the coming year. Plans will be made for future meetings within each group. The Promise Fellow will be on board by Dec. 1, to work with each group, coordinate volunteers, work on a resource directory especially for youth, and help fulfill the goals of the Summit. For more information call Ann Bandy at 762-1254 or Helene Schwartz at 765-2476. Local Composer Set To Release Recordings of Her CompositionsBy KATHY ZEHR News Staff Writer Fans and friends who enjoy the inspirational music composed by local citizen Neva Balduff are cheering these days as the first copies of her God-inspired music have been released on CDs and cassette tapes. Balduff’s soothing music has been enjoyed by local music lovers for several years only through her personal appearances. Six of her compositions were also used in a successful sell-out folk opera “AVE,” produced in 1995. Neva is scheduled to autograph copies of her newly released CDs and tapes at Christy’s, 3005 North Fourteenth, from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14. After that date the recordings will be available in several locations in Ponca City. At last minute, Balduff found a mix-up on the cassettes, which has prompted a rerun order. She hopes the corrected tapes will be available by Saturday, but orders for the cassettes will be taken if they are not available. For several years, Neva received inspiration to create the haunting, yet exciting, music at home for her own “amusement and amazement.” On rare occasions, she would hesitantly share with friends and members of her church, and play a small concert, but did not dream that anyone would be interested in recording or using her works. Occasionally she was persuaded to record a cassette tape for someone. As time elapsed, the demand for recordings become heavier and she finally spent almost a year, traveling twice a month to Cornerstone recording studio in Oklahoma City, to produced the tapes. Neva’s son, Steve, accompanies her piano playing with his keyboard background. “It was a lot of hard work, very challenging, and sometimes frustrating, however, it was very fulfilling and a lot of fun and a good learning experience,” she says. Neva is planning to record one more CD before she hangs up her piano keys. The second tape will include some vocals of the beautiful lyrics she has also written for some of the music. Words are not included in this first tape. She credits Carolyn Hook, organist at First Christian Church for arranging some of the songs for quartet vocals. Some lyrics were written by Pat Brown for two of her numbers in “AVE.” Neva began composing the soothing (some call it healing) music in 1985, when a small tune kept running through her head during a busy morning at home. She finally stopped her work, sat down at the piano, and picked out the first line. “And the floodgates opened,” she said. In one year, she had composed 12 to 13 compositions by ear. None of the music was written down — it was just recorded in Neva’s head. She calls it a miracle that the inspirational music has been sent to her, since she was not a musician. She had taken formal piano lessons for about four years as a child but never developed the skill or felt accomplished enough to play in public. “Sometimes I can now hear an entire orchestral composition for these pieces in my head and am awed by the miracle that has touched my life,” she says humbly. Another “miracle” occurred in 1995, when a friend, Pat Brown, heard some of her compositions at a retreat and asked to use some of them in a folk opera, “AVE,” she was writing. The production, first performed at Northern New Mexico Community College near Santa Fe, was a smash hit and production had to be extended to accommodate the crowds. It is now being prepared in video form for media use. Six of Neva’s creations were used as a backbone for the production — a story about the two Mary’s in the life of Jesus. Some of the numbers used in the production and included on the CD included “Let There be Light,” and “Lament for the Children.” In an earlier interview with the composer, she said, “I am still awed every day by the unexpected success of this music and especially during the holiday season. I feel in my heart that more than one ‘miracle’ had touched my life.” Diabetes Forum for Community To Be Held Thursday at SJRMCIn observance of National Diabetes Month, St. Joseph Regional Medical Center will host a community diabetes forum Thursday, Nov. 12 at 7 p.m. in the medical center’s cafeteria. The forum will feature a panel presentation by members of SJRMC’s medical and pharmacy staffs. Panel members include Richard Keim, M.D., J. Christopher Banwart, M.D., Arden Blough, M.D., Kevin Carter, D.O. and Rick McCumber, R.Ph. Dr. Keim treats many diabetic patients in his Ponca City internal medicine practice. He received his doctor of medicine degree from Creighton University and has practiced in Ponca City since 1991. Dr. Banwart joined the medical staff in May as an orthopedic surgeon. He is a native of Fort Scott, Kan., and received his medical degree from the University of Kansas Medical School in Kansas City. Dr. Blough, a family medicine physician, received his doctor of medicine degree from the University of Oklahoma Medical School in 1994. He has seen patients at Ponca Family Medicine since December, 1997. Dr. Carter is an anesthesiologist and has practiced in Ponca City since August 1997. He completed his medical training at the Oklahoma State University School of Osteopathic Medicine in 1993. He is a native of Mounds, Okla. Rick McCumber has been the director of SJRMC’s pharmacy since 1993. He graduated from Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford. Prior to the presentations, participants will have the opportunity to have their blood sugar level tested by SJRMC nurses in Conference Room C from 6 to 7 p.m. The conference room is adjacent to the cafeteria. In addition, participants can learn if they are at risk for Type 2 diabetes by taking the American Diabetes Association’s seven-question test called “Take the Test, Know the Score.” Ponca Playhouse Cast Ready To Perform ClassicPonca Playhouse will open Thornton Wilder’s American classic, “Our Town” on Friday. JoAnn Muchmore is guest director for the production, which depicts the everyday life of two families in the town of Grovers Corner, N.H., from 1901 to 1913. In a representational for the narrator — the stage manager — addresses the audience, describing, commenting on and participating in the three acts covering “the daily life,” “love and marriage,” and “death and the meaning of life” of the Gibbs and the Webb families. Flashbacks sketch in the everyday existence and work of the families. Characters come and go, as the action focuses on the romance that develops between Emily Webb and George Gibbs from their schooldays through to their marriage and Emily’s eventual death in childbirth. The show ends with Emily happily recalling her 12th birthday. She desperately wants to share her happiness with her mother, who cannot see her as she relives these moments from beyond the grave. So she returns to the grave full of admiration for life, but saddened by how little people appreciate it. The cast list of this Pulitzer prize-winning story is as follows: Tom Cowley as The Stage Manager; Gary Owen as Dr. Gibbs; Chase Kelly as Joe Crowell; Joshua Sroufe as Howie Newsome; Carol Harris as Mrs. Gibbs; Vickie Hart as Mrs. Webb; Shane Green as George Gibbs and Jennifer Rupert as Rebecca Gibbs. Also performing are: Tyler Brown as Wally Webb; Christy Hassel as Emily Webb; John P. Maddox as Mr. Webb; Renae Orr as Temperance Lady; Pete Shields as Socially-Conscious Man; Kimberly Veltman as Cultural Lady; Jose Cervantes as Simon Stimson, and Shauna Roland as Mrs. Soames. Rounding out the case are: Ron Hernandez as Constable Warren; Matt Cowley as Si Crowell; David Rothrock as Sam Craig; Shawn Wilson as Joe Stoddard; Marlys Cervantes, Alana Cervantes, Marsha Hiskett, Robert Nesselrode and Linda Cowley as additional choir members. Brian, Holly and Hillary Harpster; Steve and Terry Huston; Cheryl and Zach Mauk, and Rodney and Sue Pemberton portray The Townspeople. The production staff includes Ivery Allen, producer; Pete Shields, technical advisor; Michelle Roberts, stage manager; Cary Emig and Robert Nesselrode, assistant stage managers; Cheryl Mauk, properties; Jessica Rothrock, costumes; Dave Guinn, light board operator; Dave May, sound design; Craig Rupert, soundboard operator; Marsha Shields, photographer; Linda Cowley, publicity; Marsha Shields and Cheryl Mauk, program; Christina Rich-Splawn, art work, and Matt Cowley and Misty Kennedy, stage crew. Performance dates for “Our Town” are Nov. 13, 14, 15, 20 and 21 at The Poncan Theatre. Tickets are now on sale to the public, and those wishing to make reservations can call 765-5360 Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. or Sunday 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. prior to the 2 p.m. matinee. All performances begin at 8 p.m., except the Sunday matinee. Corporate sponsors for “Our Town” are Pemberton’s and Trout Funeral Home. Additional funding has been provided by the Oklahoma Arts Council. Buddy Poppy Sales Honor U.S. Veterans“In Flanders Fields the poppies blow...” So went the immortal words of Col. John McCrae’s poem. Little did he realize when he penned those lines that some day the very poppies of which he wrote would be the true symbol of all those who gave their lives in our nation’s wars. Each year the Veterans of Foreign Wars sponsors their Buddy Poppy sale in the Ponca City area to raise money for needy and disabled veterans. In declaring the weeks of Nov. 2-14 Buddy Poppy Weeks, Tom Leonard, mayor of Ponca City, urges “the citizens of Ponca City to contribute generously to its support through the purchase of Buddy Poppies on the days set aside for the distribution of these symbols of loyalty in this city.” “I urge all patriotic citizens to wear a Buddy Poppy as mute evidence of our gratitude to the men of this country who have risked their lives in defense of the freedoms which we continue to enjoy as American citizens,” he continues. For hundreds of long-term disabled veterans in Veteran Administration hospitals and homes and in state veterans homes, every day is VFW Buddy Poppy Day. These are the men who assemble the poppies, tie them in bunches of 10 and pack them in boxes of 500 or 1,000 for shipment to some 10,000 Veterans of Foreign Wars Posts and Auxiliaries throughout the nation. Assembling of the poppies serves as therapy, providing exercise for the fingers and hands crippled by wounds, disease, and the effects of old age. The Veterans of Foreign Wars pays the disabled veteran for his work. In most cases, the money provides extra income for the disabled veteran to pay for the little luxuries which make hospital life tolerable. The monies raised through the sale of Buddy Poppies are used exclusively to assist disabled and needy veterans and the widows and children of deceased veterans. Hispanic Community Organizing AllianceBy LOUISE ABERCROMBIE News Staff Writer The Hispanic Community Alliance is set to meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Lincoln Center, 700 West Broadway. The main thrust of the meeting will be to elect officers. Richard Flores, Spanish translator, said, “The Hispanic community needs to be in attendance to get the alliance off to a good start. This alliance is for their benefit as well as the community.” Child care is to be available during the meeting. Richard Severance, Chamber of Commerce chairman, said, “This meeting is specifically for Hispanics to select some leaders to create the alliance. Later representatives of these groups will interface with the chamber and city officials.” Mayor Tom Leonard said, “The idea is to promote a Hispanic support group to explain to the new people in town what the customs are here — what they need to enroll the kids in school and other types of assistance. The organization is a starting point to create awareness of the culture.” Flores is assisting the group as they organize. A resident of Ponca City for the past seven years, Flores has a personal understanding of the Hispanic situation. He told of an effort in Colorado, where he came from, that was started by his sister. After the officers are elected the group will set some goals and set up an office where people can come for help. Flores said also hopefully a 24-hour “hot line” service will be available in the future for them to call if they have problems or need help. Flores said if they need help say for the utilities or the hospital and they can’t communicate with them there would be a “hot line” that could find an interpreter to aid them. Flores said, “That way the hospital has communication with them and the patient has communication with them.” The translator said, “We are trying to accomplish this so that the businesses can communicate a lot better with the clients and the clients can communicate with the businesses.” The organization that Flores observed was in Delta, Colo. He said there was the same problem there with the migrants worker coming in and not knowing where to go for help or housing or anything to get situated so they could go to work. So the idea was to form a MADA. This stands for Mexican American Development Association. Grants are being sought to help with the funding. This organization had the same purpose as the local Hispanic Association, which helped them get their utilities turned on and to get the schooling set up and to get them situated in the community. To let them know what the community is about and that the community is there for them if they accept it. Also the MADA let the Hispanics know what the laws were because in another country the laws are different than in this country. Flores said in Colorado, when the Hispanics move in, they go straight the MADA and MADA helps them. He said it is to the point now that MADA has its own attorneys that speak both languages. It also connects them with doctors, that people that are bilingual. Flores noted that the MADA has helped a lot, because sometimes when someone gets hurt and doesn’t know where to go most people will turn to crime for a way out. “They need to know they don’t have to do that, not only Hispanics but other races as well. You don’t have to turn to crime to live happy. There are people willing to help you if you will accept help.” The Hispanic community has been receiving positive help from the mayor and City Commission, Chamber of Commerce, Conoco and the Police Department, as well as many other sources in the community. Flores came to the community working for Randy’s Meats and now does translating full time. He and his wife have three children. The children are active in sports as well as other areas. Although this meeting is specifically an organizational meeting for Hispanics others are welcome to attend, Flores said. Hospice Offers Help Surviving Holiday Season After a LossBy Lisa Phelan Hospice PR Marketing Assistant The public is invited to attend Hospice’s annual workshop entitled, “Surviving the Holidays.” Grief is difficult at any time, but even more difficult during the holidays. One patient remembers, “I thought I was doing much better. The pain had subsided; I could laugh again. I was beginning to spend time with friends. Then I had to face my first holiday without him. I felt the familiar effects of grief wash over me.” According to hospice bereavement specialist, Lisa Lewis, “Grief is not something we simply get over, grief is an ongoing process. Things you thought you closed the door on can suddenly emerge with the sights and sounds of Christmas.” Positive steps towards the holidays can help alleviate the anxiety. First examine your expectations. We all want the “perfect” holiday but it doesn’t exist. We are bombarded with commercials and advertising gimmicks that compound the pressure to magically create the ideal Christmas. Decide what kind of holiday you want to have and set realistic goals. Secondly, simplify your celebration. Make a list of things you feel you need to do and then go back over the list and choose the things you want to do. So many of us undertake too much and end up feeling exhausted and empty. Next, do what feels comfortable. If you are suffering a recent loss you need to be gentle with yourself and do what is comfortable for you and not feel obligated to do what others think you should be doing. Let the people around you know what you need. Lastly, be realistic about family gatherings. Most families have ongoing issues and those can escalate during the holidays. Be realistic about what you can expect from family members. We cannot change family members; we can however, change how we act or react to situations. Don’t expect family members to give what they are unable to give. You may need to limit the amount of time you spend with your family. The most important step to take during the holidays is to simplify. Say no to invitations you’d rather not accept, don’t be afraid to express your feelings, if you want to cry, do. If you need to talk about how you are feeling, do. If you want to be alone, it’s okay as long as you continue to reach out to others on occasion. By taking time for yourself, and doing what’s comfortable for you, you will begin to enjoy the holidays instead of just coping. If you would like more information, Hospice of Ponca City invites you to attend one of their “Surviving the Holidays” workshops. Workshops will be held on Nov. 12 at Westminster Village, located at 1601 Academy Road, at 7 p.m., Nov. 16 at the Wheatheart Nutrition at 319 East Grand at 10:30 a.m., and Nov. 19 at Pioneer Bank at 7 p.m. A workshop will also be held in Blackwell on Nov. 17 at the Presbyterian Church at 7 p.m. These workshops are for anyone in the community who has experienced a loss. If you would like additional information about the workshops, or other bereavement services, please call Hospice of Ponca City at 762-9102. Survival TipsTips for Surviving the Holidays * Make or bake all your holiday gifts * Shop by catalog in order to avoid the Christmas rush * Contact a local college or foreign student center — invite a few students to dinner * Baby-sit for neighborhood children on New Year’s Eve. Or offer to baby-sit for parents while they shop or visit * Start a new tradition in memory of a loved one * Let someone do you a favor * Do someone favor * Read about holiday traditions in other countries * Organize a caroling group to go door to door or sing at a hospital or nursing home * Check with your church or local schools for special concerts or plays * Renew an old friendship * Harbor hope Northwest Electrical Substation Faces Next Step Toward RealityBy PATTI PFEIFFER News Staff Writer One of the last steps necessary for the Northwest Electrical Substation to become a reality may soon be taken. Monday night, at their regular scheduled meeting, city commissioners will be considering the construction bid for the substation and transmission line. Approval would clear the way for the commencement of the construction. The Energy Advisory Board, management, staff and engineering firm all recommending the best and lowest bid, in the amount of $571,750, be awarded to K.C. Electric from Enid. Only two bids were received and the other, higher bid was from an Oklahoma City company. According to Electric General Manager Rusty Edwards the new substation, which will be located at the southwest corner of Prospect Avenue and Ash Street, will supply electricity to the nearby industrial areas. Two contracts are up for consideration Monday night. One is a contract with Camp Dresser & McKee Inc. to complete preliminary design services associated with proposed new high service pumps installation at the Water Treatment Plant in the amount of $18,700. According to Public Works Director Ken Parr, the pumps are to replace the existing 30-to-50-year-old high service pumps, one which broke back in August. The other contract, in the amount of $72,200, involves engineering services associated with the proposed upgrades to the Lake Ponca Dam. Commissioners will also be considering the plight of two public nuisance structures. One, located at 510 North Third Street, will be considered for demolition. Commissioners are scheduled to hear an appeal from the owner of the other structure located at 305 North Lake Street. Also on Monday night’s agenda is a recommendation by the Park and Recreation Board to approve the concept of a city-wide Comprehensive Trails Master Plan and Functional Plans for Corridor Identified in the Master Plan in the amount of $18,000. A resolution granting the city engineer the authority to execute change orders subject to final approval by the Board of Commissioners for the No. 1 Fire Station will also be considered. Among those items contained on the consent agenda are: • Consideration of a proposal from Watson Construction to furnish labor and materials to construct wooden doors to replace existing original doors at the Marland Mansion and the removal of existing caulking at stone, sand prime, recaulk and paint both sides of five windows in the outer lounge at the Marland Mansion. • A recommendation to purchase a new Utility Truckster with Lift Bed for Cann Estate in the amount of $6,695 from Justice Golf Cart Co., Oklahoma City. • A partial disbursement for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements, Phase 2 in the amount of $192,291.98. • A change order and the final payment in the amount of $2,352.94 for the new metal building for the Water Distribution/Wastewater Collection Warehouse located at 112 East Brookfield, Ponca City, Oklahoma • A contract for the 1998 Annual Inspection of Lake Ponca Dam, as required by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, to Chapman, Gill & Associates Inc. in the amount of $3,500. Ponca Tribe Receives Funding for ProjectsFor the past year the Ponca Tribe of Oklahoma has been successfully competing for grants and contracts that the federal government makes available to Indian tribes nationwide. A listing of some of the programs that the Ponca Tribe has recently been awarded include, according to Steve Pensoneau, Ponca Tribal Program Officer, include: Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Assistance Act (HAHASDA): $1,100,00. These funds indicate a block grant awarded directly to the Ponca Tribe from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Other HUD programs in the Ponca Tribe include: Safety Center (police and fire protection), and housing rehabilitation: $750,000 Renovation of the White Eagle Health Center — $552,000 Wellness Center, including a hydrotherapy pool — $750,000 Renovation of the White Eagle Title VI building — $12,400 Indian Health Service (IHS): Diabetes Program — $80,586 Self-Governance Planning and Negotiation grant — $70,000 Tribal Management Program — $50,346 Health Education — $10,266 Injury Prevention Program — $8,461 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): General Assistance Program (GAP) — $90,000 Clean Air Program — $78,350 Environmental Justice — $19,160 Wetlands Program — $13,333 Administration For Native Americans (ANA): Ponca ANA Economic Development Program _ $107,000 Ponca Language Program — $49,155 Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA): Self-Governance Negotiation grant — $39,938 Tribal Roads Project — $1,600,000 Department of Justice: STOP Domestic Violence —$125,582 Universal COPS — $55,019 Headstart Program (in affiliation with United CAP, Pawnee, Oklahoma) $60,000 Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) — $75,000 (National Park Service) These programs are designed to improve the social and economic status of the Ponca tribal members to the highest level possible. Lionel LeClair, Chairman of the Ponca Tribe, states that “It is gratifying to be able to successfully compete with other tribes for these federal programs. These programs are being used to help the Ponca tribal members, and others who reside within the Ponca jurisdiction, with a variety of assistance activities ranging from health care to long-range economic development planning. I want to stress that these programs are all new within the past twelve months, and does not include the current range of existing services, such as the Community Health Representative (CHR) program, the Higher Education, and so on.” “By continuing to work together, as we have, the Ponca people can accomplish even more in the future,” Pensoneau said. Compassionate Blend To Help The Little Ones in Ponca CityAs the Christmas lights go up so do the holiday spirits of “the little ones” as they anticipate their most beloved holiday of the year. Yet, the wish list expectations of most children in the community are only a distant dream for some. But it doesn’t have to be that way. The Little Ones Christmas Initiative is the name of a charity effort being sponsored by PCSEA and KLVV 88.7 FM radio. Designed to benefit needy children in the community, the initiative will provide toys and clothing. The initiative is characterized by Conoco artist Rod Bailey as an extension of a successful effort coordinated and sponsored by Conoco last year. This year the program is being managed completely by volunteers on their personal time and includes compassionate people throughout the community as well as a significant number of Conoco employees. He said, “The teamwork and enthusiasm I’ve seen this year gives me great hope that we can do even more this year toward this worthy objective.” Money will be raised for the program using a limited edition print produced by Bailey. The print is entitled “A Conoco Christmas,” and depicts a Conoco Children’s Christmas Party in the year of 1946. The third in a series of Conoco heritage prints by Bailey “A Conoco Christmas” is being offered in return for a gift of $25 to The Little Ones. Copies of the print are available at Cherokee Strip Credit Union offices, KLVV 88.7 FM, Pioneer Bank and Trust, Home National Bank, and the Crafter’s Mall. Out-of-town contributors can send their gift of $25 plus $3 shipping and handling fee, for each print to: The Little Ones, P.O. Box 14, Ponca City, OK 74602-0014. Please allow two weeks for delivery. EDAB To Hear Requests For Various ProjectsTransportation and Marketing Committees will be coming before the Economic Development Advisory Board (EDAB) Tuesday requesting funds for projects. The meeting is at 7:30 a.m., in the Conference Room of the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce. The transportation committee has been working with a group to establish a transportation system here in Ponca City and is asking for funds not to exceed $1,000 for a start-up project. Meanwhile the Marketing Committee is requesting about $4,000 to improve industrial signage. Also under the marketing umbrella, is a report on the Conoco Lab Space Plan. Another funding request for advertising from the Kaw Lake Association is for an amount not to exceed, $1,500. A presentation of the results of the work force survey by the University of Oklahoma will be presented. Other reports are to be given on housing, Local Industry Council and Day Care. The new industry committee will report on prospect activity. Other items on the agenda are of a routine nature. Ponca City CAP Chapter Hosts Adjutant GeneralThe newly-formed Ponca City Composite Squad hosted Maj. Gen. Steven P. Cortright, adjutant general of Oklahoma, at its most recent meeting. As the adjutant general, Cortright is responsible for commanding units of the Army and Air National Guard. He is the military advisor to the governor of Oklahoma. Before becoming the adjutant general in 1995, Cortright served as the Air National Guard, assistant to the commander, Pacific Air Forces. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force in 1964. Cortright is a command pilot with more than 5000 hours of military flying time in the T-33, T-37, T-38, F100D/F, A-7D/K and F-16C/C aircraft. He flew 217 combat missions while serving in Vietnam from September 1966 through July 1967. Gen. Cortright addressed the squadron regarding how positive role models and organizations impact life and career. The general, a native Ponca Citian, graduated from Ponca City High School in 1959. He obtained a bachelor of science degree in business administration from Oklahoma State University in 1964. In 1973 he obtained a juris doctorate from the University of Tulsa. He has attended U.S. Air Force Officer Training School, Squadron Officer School, Air Command and Staff College and the Industrial College of the Armed Forces. He and his wife, Barbara, reside in Tulsa and have four children, David, Tiffany, Heather and Adam. Col. David Ruppel, Oklahoma Wing commander, presented the general with an Honorary Civil Air Patrol membership. He also presented the squadron charter to Lt. Clayton Johnson, squadron commander. A reception was held after the meeting so all cadets and senior members could personally meet Gen. Cortright. Castro Faces Death Jan. 7By PATTI PFEIFFER News Staff Writer Nearly 16 years after murdering two Ponca City women, John Walter Castro Sr. is scheduled to receive the same fate he handed down to his victims — death. Two days after the U.S. Supreme Court denied Castro’s final appeal, the Court of Criminal Appeals scheduled Castro’s execution for Jan. 7, 1999. To the families of his victims that is a date that can’t come too soon. “I’m glad … It’s time,” Ponca City resident Douglas Pappan said as he learned of the news. “I think it is great.” It was June 6, 1983, that the life of Pappan’s 29-year-old wife Rhonda, was cut short as she was brutally stabbed by Castro during an armed robbery at Hobo T’s, a restaurant she managed in Ponca City. It was not the first murder Castro committed. Two months earlier Castro shot to death an OSU student, Beulah Mae Cox, 31, in Noble County after she agreed to give him a ride from Oklahoma City to Stillwater. During the trial it was revealed that Castro became angry with Cox, asked her to drive off the main road, then forced her out of the car into the woods and shot in her the back of the head with a .25 caliber pistol. Four months later, as Castro sat in jail awaiting trial for the Pappan murder, the body of Cox was found near McMurtry Lake. Castro himself had led authorities to the body after he admitted to the murder and disclosed the location of the body. Although Castro was convicted and sentenced to death for the Pappan murder, the conviction was remanded for resentencing by the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals in 1995 because the testimony of two expert witnesses was not allowed. That case was then placed on hold pending the outcome of the Cox case. In 1985 Castro was found guilty of first degree murder and larceny of an automobile in the Cox case. Because of the Pappan murder and two prior convictions for armed robberies in Ponca City, a jury found there was a probability that Castro would commit additional acts of violence and sentenced him to death in April. That was the beginning of a long and lengthy appeals process — one that spanned 13 years and one that only ended last week when the U.S. Supreme Court denied to hear Castro’s appeal. The news of the execution date prompted a response from Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmondson. “I appreciate the quick response by the Court of Criminal Appeals,” Edmondson stated. “John Walter Castro brutally murdered two innocent young women 15 years ago. The death penalty was appropriate for those crimes. We are confident that the execution will be carried out and will be prepared to address any effort by Castro’s attorneys to stay the execution date.” According to Castro’s lawyer, final efforts to save Castro’s life may still be pursued. “We are still evaluating all of our avenues,” Norman attorney Steve Presson said. “I suspect we will be seeking a clemency hearing.” Time passes, lives go on and things have changed in the past decade and a half since Castro unleashed his murderous violence on two women. The Hobo T’s Restaurant is now a speciality shop. Pappan’s two young children have since become adults. Wounds heal but some scars remain forever. At least for now, Jan. 7 means one thing to the Pappan family — “closure.” “I will be glad to finally get this over with,” Pappan said. “ It will be good for my boys.” Rain Doesn’t Deter Veterans Day EventBy SALLY HODGES News Staff Writer “I Love a Parade” was the sentiment shared by those in attendance at Saturday morning’s Veterans Day parade. And they must have felt that way because the weather was not conducive to a parade. But the people came! And the parade went on! The crowd may not have been what it would have been on a bright and sunny day, but those in attendance were enthusiastic and came to show their appreciation and to honor the veterans. The rain did slacken throughout most of the parade, and the hardy enjoyed a well-organized event, one that had been in the planning for nearly a year. But more that a parade, it was a tribute to those who served their country during World War II or Bosnia or all the wars and skirmishes in between — young or old, black or white or American Indian, male or female, Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, National Guard or Reserves. What the crowd saw were veterans, floats, flags, bands, numerous color guards, Indian nations groups, Shriners, Scouts, military units from all branches of the armed forces, vintage and modern military equipment, fire trucks, classic and antique cars, trucks, motorcycles, bikes, and horses and wagons — and that was only part of what was seen traversing on the ground. Then from the air came the planes! The crowd heard the planes, but, because of the cloud coverage, were unable to see the planes — a big loss! Dignitaries included Miss Ponca City, state and city officials, officials from the Veterans Administration and other veteran service organizations, as well as military men and women from various branches of the armed forces. A variety of other entrees of individuals, groups, companies and organizations joined in the procession and were duly recognized and applauded. The local American Legion did itself proud. Chuck Gregg, commander of American Legion Post 14, put an inordinate amount of time and energy into the organization and production of the parade — and it showed. Along with a number of dedicated and hardworking volunteers, they presented a spectacular tribute to all the veterans of these United States in general, and Oklahoma in particular. The community paid tribute to veterans, who are ordinary people who come from every walk of life, and who left the security of their homes and loved one to go off and serve in any capacity they were asked to fill. Some were bombers, some were cooks, some were mechanics, but all played a role in the machinery called the military. They are proud to have taken their place along side their fellow soldiers and to have served so Americans might be free — and they know the price that has been paid for that freedom. Flood Victims Continue EffortBLACKWELL (AP) — Victims of flooding in north Oklahoma spent a cold, damp Saturday trying to clean out their homes and get life back to normal again. Kathy Hawkins, director of the Cherokee Strip chapter of the Oklahoma Red Cross, said one main consideration over the weekend was making sure everyone has heat. Some people who had returned home but had no heat were put up in hotels, she said. The Red Cross operation has expanded to cover Kay, Grant, Alfalfa and Canadian counties. Mrs. Hawkins said her agency expected to open over 100 cases by the end of the day for people needing assistance repairing homes and covering other uninsured losses. ‘‘We’re trying to help them as much as we can and keep them from getting sick as this is going on,’’ she said. Local and federal emergency management officials toured the area Friday. Area Flood Victims Can Call Government for AssistanceKay County Emergency Preparedness Director Patrick Zehr has issued a notice to any citizens whose homes have been affected by floodwater since last month. Anyone whose home was flooded and who has not been contacted by the government should contact either Zehr at 580-362-3825 or City of Blackwell Emergency Management Director Terry Bonewell at 580-363-7250. Zehr said the information will help the federal government make a decision whether its assistance can be provided to the victims. The Federal Emergency Management Association was here last week with damage assessment teams, according to Zehr. Red Cross chapter manager Kathy Hawkins in Blackwell said food and drinks are still available at the organization’s service center, 1313 West Furguson from 1 to 6 p.m. on Sunday and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on other days. Depending upon the kind of loss, the Red Cross can help immediately with food, clothing, rent, urgent household needs, medical needs, temporary repairs to homes, and replacement of personal occupational supplies and equipment, she said. “Our disaster volunteers and staff deal personally with each family’s situation. All Red Cross aid is free, made possible by donations from the American people,” Hawkins said. Anyone wanting to help can mail donations to the Red Cross at 1313 West Furguson, Blackwell, OK 74631 or call 1-800-HELP NOW. In Blackwell, approximately 70 homes sustained minor or major damage. Red Cross volunteers have now been doing damage assessment in other areas of Kay, Grant and Alfalfa counties. Nearly NewsNeither rain nor sleet ... well, you know how it goes. One postal patron on South Eighth (vicinity of Garfield Academy), reported that her postal delivery person went above and beyond the call of duty Saturday. The carrier was kind enough to pick up her newspaper from the rain-dampened front yard and pin it on her mailbox so it wouldn’t get wet. She said that she really appreciated the extra effort. Those that missed Saturday’s Veterans Day Parade missed an entertaining and moving event. It would certainly have been easy for those participating in the parade to stay inside where it was warm and dry but each participant had the same spirit of patriotism and desire to serve that led the honored veterans to serve their country. Sometimes it is the proper thing to do to sacrifice comfort for a noble cause. NN salutes Chuck Gregg and the other organizers and participants of Saturday’s event. DEATHSRosaline Stolper Rosaline StolperRosaline Stolper, 723 Red Oak, died Thursday, Nov. 5, 1998, at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 80. The funeral service will be graveside at 11 a.m. Monday in Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery with Rabbi Charles Sherman presiding. Arrangements are under the direction of the Trout Funeral Home. Rosaline Stolper was born Nov. 4, 1918, at Wichita, Kan., the daughter of Joseph M. and Vera Pinsker Goldenstern. At an early age she moved with her family to Ponca City where she attended schools. She was a graduate of the University of Oklahoma. She and Charles Stolper were united in marriage on June 9, 1940, and made their home in Ponca City. Survivors include her husband, Charles of the home; two sons, Michael Stolper and Jay Allen Stolper, both of San Diego, Calif.; five grandchildren, and a brother, Melvin Goldenstern of Ponca City. Memorials may be made to Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, 825 Northeast Thirteeneth, Oklahoma City, OK 73104. Friends may call at the funeral home until 10 a.m. Monday. The family will be at the home, 723 Red Oak. Homer Darrell BlairNEWKIRK — Homer Darrell “Soapy” Blair, longtime Newkirk area resident, died early Friday evening, Nov. 6, 1998, in St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Ponca City. He was 83. Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10 in the Newkirk First United Methodist Church with Dr. William R. Chace officiating. Burial will follow in Union Cemetery, Billings, under the direction of Miller-Stahl Funeral Service. Casket bearers will be Charles Houser, Harry Wayne Johnston, Mark Perez, Joe Schieber, A.D. “Donnie” Williamson and Tony Vap. Homer Darrell “Soapy” Blair was born Feb. 26, 1915, at Perry, Okla., the son of Charles Fred and Sally Shelton Blair. In 1922 the family moved to Three Sands, where his dad worked in the oil fields and as boxing coach for the oil companies. He grew up and received his education in the Three Sands area and was introduced to the sport of boxing before he was old enough to start school. After finishing school he traveled around the country working in oil fields and boxing. On Oct. 8, 1938, he and Mildred Margurite Gumm were married in Perry. They lived all over the United States while he worked as a boiler maker and construction worker. In 1943 the couple moved to Newkirk where he had since resided. Although he never won any major titles in the over 300 matches he fought, he built a reputation for training award-winning boxing teams which produced several Golden Gloves and national champions. He worked to instill confidence in young people and taught them the importance of hard work and training. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Newkirk, the Boiler Makers Union No. 592, and the Sheriff’s Reserve. In addition to boxing, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and reading. He is survived by one son, Charles Blair of Newkirk; a brother, George “Buck” Blair of Houston, Texas; a sister, Oneta Dungan of Tonkawa, and one grandson of Newkirk. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mildred, on Aug. 2, 1995, his parents, and one brother, Loren Blair. A memorial fund has been established with the First United Methodist Church. Contributions may be made in Mr. Blair’s memory through Eastman National Bank, Box 468, Newkirk, Okla. 74647-0461. Services PendingMaxine L. WurtzMaxine L. Wurtz, resident of Ponca City, died Friday evening, Nov. 6, 1998, at Westminster Village. She was 80. Funeral arrangements are pending with Grace Memorial Chapel, and will be announced later. Virginia Patten DeVineVirginia Patten DeVine, Ponca City resident, died early Saturday, Nov. 7, 1998, at the St. Simeon Nursing Center in Tulsa. She was 64. Funeral arrangements are pending with Grace Memorial Chapel and will be announced later. There will be no visitation at the funeral home. Joe RobsonJoe Robson, 3378 South Seven Mile Road, died Saturday morning at his home. He was 42. Surviving are his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Allen Robson of Ponca City. Funeral arrangements are pending with the Trout Funeral Home, and will be announced later. Lafreda O’MealeyTONKAWA — Lafreda O’Mealey, long time resident of Tonkawa, died at 1:22 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 6, 1998, in the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Ponca City. She was 88. Funeral services are pending with McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home in Tonkawa, and will be announced later. FuneralsTuesdayKatheryn “Rena” Elizabeth WilkinsGraveside service will be 10 a.m. in the Blackwell Cemetery with the Rev. Charles Ryser officiating. Roberts and Son Funeral Home, Blackwell, is in charge of arrangements. NEWS BRIEFSExtra Patrol — At 9:23 a.m. Friday extra police patrol was requested in the 2500 block of Industrial Boulevard due to the theft of property. Missing Vehicle — A vehicle was reported missing from the 3300 block of North Fourteenth Street at 10:54 a.m. Friday. However, it was later located. Accident — An accident at Hartford Avenue and Pecan Road was reported to police at 12:57 p.m. Friday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Ignoring Barricades — At 4:46 p.m. Friday police were advised that cars were driving around barricades at the Old River Bridge. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol was notified. Arrest — Police arrested a 19-year-old from the 400 block of South Lincoln at 5:14 p.m. Friday for spitting at an officer and public intoxication. Attempted Break-In — A resident in the 600 block of South Thirteenth Street called police at 7:38 p.m. Friday, reporting an attempted beak-in. An officer was assigned and a vandalism report was taken. Burning Bales — Fire units responded to a call from a motorist at 10:11 p.m. Friday advising that two burning bales of hay were in the middle of Waverly Street and Hubbard Road. Arrest — A 49-year-old woman was arrested at Pine Street and South Avenue at 11:06 p.m. Friday for driving under the influence. Signs Hit — At 1:11 a.m. Saturday police were advised that the “high water” signs at Pecan Road and Lake Road had been hit by a vehicle and were destroyed. Pole Hit — It was reported at 2:42 a.m. Saturday that a semi tractor trailer had hit a pole in the 2005 block of North Fourteen Street. An officer was assigned and a private property report was taken. Mailbox Hit — A resident in the 700 block of Brentwood Drive called police at 4:25 a.m. Saturday, reporting that their mailbox had been hit by a vehicle and the vehicle had been located. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Royal Neighbors Set Meeting — The Royal Neighbors of America will hold their Thanksgiving dinner on Wednesday, Nov. 11 at noon at the Community Christian Church. All members are urged to be present. Class Reunion — The 1948 Ponca City High School class reunion committee “wrap-up” meeting is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Nov. 16 in the Board Room at the Ponca City Library. All class members are invited to attend the meeting to make plans for future gatherings. Auxiliary’s Birthday — The American Legion will celebrate the 79th birthday of the Legion Auxiliary with a family dinner at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Huff-Minor American Legion Post 14, 407 West South Avenue. A regular meeting will follow the dinner. All Legion and Auxiliary members are urged to attend. Book Fair — Woodlands Book Fair will be held Thursday from 4:30 to 8 p.m. at Brace Books & More. Woodlands PTA will receive 20 percent of the total gross sales at the book fair, which will be used for the school. Rock and Reach — Overton and Broadway, an up-and-coming contemporary Christian recording duo, will be performing in the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) sanctuary, Fifth and Cleveland, at 5 p.m. today. The community is invited to the free concert. LIFESTYLES‘Garden of Gifts’ Being Planned By Local Council ‘Garden of Gifts’ Being Planned By Local CouncilThe Ponca City Council of Garden clubs met at the Cann Home on Nov. 4. The meeting was called to order by President Aline Heartsill and the Gardeners’ Creed was read in unison. Mavis Robison, secretary, read the minutes and gave the Treasurer’s report. Linda Sparks, vice president, introduced Wes Rice who gave the program on “Pecans in Oklahoma.” He distributed brochures on the best varieties to plant and helpful information on care of the trees. He has published a book on Pecans, available at the Ponca City Library and also a cookbook. Twenty-two members answered roll call and correspondence from Molly Bivin was read regarding the Ponca City Council hosting the Kansas Association of Arboreta and Botanical Gardens meeting in the year 2000. Linda Sparks advised the dates for the Wichita Lawn and Garden show will be March 4-7 and we will try to schedule a trip on the 5th. She had information on the Oklahoma Horticulture trip to Philadelphia flower show in March. Barbara Younger, Civic Development Chairman reported on the work that has been done at the Marland Mansion and various locations in Ponca City. Maureen Danielson reported on the “Garden of Gifts” and there will be a workshop on Nov. 12 at 8 a.m. at her home. The Decorating Committee advised there would need to be funds available to purchase greenery for the Open House. Mavis Robison and Leota See attended the District Board Meeting in Cushing on Oct. 24. Mrs. Robison reported the next District Convention will be in Midwest City. The State Convention will be April 29-May 1 at Norman. The December 2nd meeting will not be held. Decorating will be done on Dec. 5 and Open House for the Holidays will feature a “Garden of Gifts” on Dec. 6 at the Cann Home. The club members were reminded to bring their tray favors to the Open House so they could be delivered and distributed to the Meals on Wheels and homebound at Christmas. State Officers Present Program for PEOChapters EL and FC of Ponca City recently met together for a luncheon at E.W.’s Restaurant at the Marland Mansion and Estate. Special guests for the meeting were Debbie Reed and Diane Reed, both of Chapter P, Pawhuska, and both serving in the capacity of state officers or committee chairmen. Fifty members were present for the program which was presented by the two Chapter P members. Title of the program was “The State of the State.” Arrangements were made by Chapter EL, and Chapter FC furnished table decorations. PEO is an international organization with almost 6,000 chapters and approximately 482,000 members in the United States and Canada. Oklahoma has 194 chapters and approximately 8,500 members. The organization promotes and supports five educational projects: The Educational Loan Fund which is a revolving loan fund, established in 1907 to lend money to worthy women students to assist them in securing a higher education. Cottey Junior College — a fully accredited liberal arts college for women at Nevada, Mo., owned and operated by the PEO Sisterhood since 1927; PEO International Peace Scholarship Fund which was established in 1949 to provide scholarships for international women students to pursue graduate study in the United States and Canada; PEO Program for Continuing Education which was established in 1973 to provide grants to women in the United States and Canada for purposeful educational goals for self or service; and the PEO Scholars Awards, established in 1991 to provide substantial awards to women of the United States and Canada who are pursuing advanced degrees or are engaged in advanced study and research. Recipients of any of the above loans or grants need not belong to PEO, but must be sponsored by a PEO Chapter. At this time Chapter EL has sponsored Anne Rardin, daughter of John and Leslie Rardin, for an Educational Fund loan, a Continuing Education grant. Oklahoma State Chapter also has a fund called the Oklahoma State PEO Projects Fund. Anne has recently received a grant from it, also. Anne is a graduate of the Eastman School of Music and Texas University. She is now pursuing a doctorate degree in violin from The University of California at Berkley. Both Chapters EL and FC have sponsored numerous women attending the Pioneer Vocational School for Continuing Education Grants. Musical Performance Highlight At Opening of Senior CenterBy PATTI N. CARMACK News Lifestyles Editor There was dancing in the aisles and a lot of companionable singing for the opening of the local senior center Tuesday. Paul Martin at the piano, and David Long, who sang and played the guitar, provided a wide range of music for entertainment. Some of the tunes were just right for couples to dance to, and others enjoyed toe-tappin’ and singin’ along. Located at the Wheatheart Nutrition building, 319 West Grand, the senior center is open during November on Tuesday and Fridays, 1:30-4 p.m., for scheduled activities. In December the center will be open for events on Wednesday and Friday afternoons. The occasion was also used to celebrate the “International Year of Older Americans.” Registration information and activity suggestions were taken from 70 people attending Tuesday and a calendar of already scheduled events was distributed. Refreshments were provided by the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) and Eldercare for Kay County. Among those attending the celebration in support of the new program for seniors were Mayor Tom Leonard and Ombudsman volunteers Sharon Ridgway and Altha Martin. Some members of the American Association of Retired Persons were also present. Free blood pressure checks were offered by Eldercare personnel. A grant for the center was presented to RSVP by Nicki Carlsten with the Northern Oklahoma Development Authority (NODA), Agency for Aging program. NODA provides for the Wheatheart Nutrition project already located at the site. Marie Trenary is director for RSVP, a United Way agency. The program will offer afternoon activities for area seniors twice a week, including cards, bingo, music, fellowship and informational programs. In other words, there is a “little something for everyone” at the senior center. RSVP, 110 North Fourth, 762-9412, is coordinating activities and serving as a host organization. All area seniors are invited to participate in the center and may pick up an activity calendar at the RSVP office. Area churches will share musical talents for a monthly Gospel festival. Talent is not limited to those qualifying as senior citizens, and may include piano, guitar, trios, solos, etc. As one of the people present commented “a group sing-along is always enjoyable when accompanied by a good leader, a cup of hot chocolate and good fellowship.” The Nov. 13th entertainment will be provided by Northeast Baptist Church. RSVP volunteer Vivian Stubblefield said “senior citizens in Ponca City have been neglected too long.” Judging from the buzz of conversation, the laughter, and the interest shown in the center, senior citizens in the area are happy to have found a community meeting place. 101 Old Timers Association Selling Calendars, Metal ArtThe 101 Old Timers Association Board of Directors met at the Pioneer Motor Bank meeting room, located at Fourteenth and Highland in Ponca City, on Oct. 29. An organization with national membership, originally formed in the Ponca City area 30 years ago, the group works at preserving the rich heritage of a local landmark, the 101 Ranch site. Located south west of Ponca the site was home of the world famous 101 Ranch Wild West Show. The 101 Old Timers Association also directs it’s activities toward commemorating the men and women who worked on the ranch. Attending the quarterly business meeting were Marland resident and current association president, Jean Evans; Vice President Jerry Murphey from Corpus Christi, Texas, and Secretary/Treasurer Linda Rennie of Burbank. Also in attendance were board members Jack Keathly of Ponca City; Mark Talbert, area resident; John Cooper of Stroud and his wife, and board member Ruth Murphey of Corpus Christi, Texas. Two guests, Ms. Anitia Witt from Colorado, and her father, Cecil McCuine, were present, along with OTA. member Al Ritter of Ponca City who assists the board of directors with publicity related matters. The 101 Ranch Old Timers Association is not affiliated with the now defunct 101 Ranch Restoration Foundation which was formed in the mid-1970’s. It was remarked on during the business meeting that although the 101 OTA shared similar goals with the other organization, the Old Timers Association works in new directions with fund raising and implementing it’s historically related projects. The Old Timer’s Association was created in 1968 as a revival of the Cherokee Strip Cow Punchers Association which was organized in 1920 by Colonel Joe C. Miller of the 101 Ranch. According to OTA President Jean Evans, “We are actively seeking new members and are interested in discussing corporate sponsorship. We want to keep the memory of the performers and working cowboys and cowgirls of the ranch and the Wild West Show alive for future generations.” “We appreciate the limited success other organizations accomplished in preserving the history of the 101 Ranch and it’s remaining property. In 1976, the 101 Ranch Restoration Foundation purchased 72 acres of the 101 Ranch Headquarters site from a private owner. Their goal was to restore many of the remaining buildings but flooding of the Salt Fork River eroded the majority of that acreage and a subsequent fire destroyed the 101 Ranch Store and blacksmith shop.” “Since our organization acquired title to the remaining property following bankruptcy of the Foundation we have worked at preserving the remaining original site of the historic 101 Ranch. We are proud of our 101 Ranch museum collection on display at the Ponca City Cultural Center and last year’s completion of our roadside picnic area on the original site of the 101 Ranch headquarters and store. In 1973 the 101 Ranch Headquarters was placed on the National Register of Historic Places and in 1975 was designated as a National Historic Landmark.” President Evans’ father, Jack Webb, was a nationally known sharp shooter and trick roper who performed with the 101 Ranch Wild West Show during the late 1920’s. She added that any potential corporate sponsors were welcome to examine the financial records of the Old Timer’s Association. She related the organization would be happy to review it’s past accomplishments and future goals with any potential contributors. Vice President Jerry Murphey commented that although initial membership in the organization was limited to actual old timers who worked on the ranch, and their descendants, the 101 OTA now looks forward to expanding its auxiliary membership. According to Murphey, “Due to the passage of time and the dwindling number of original ranch employees, we expect our auxiliary members to eventually constitute the majority of our membership. Membership in the 101 Old Timer’s Association Auxiliary is open to anyone interested in the history of the 101 Ranch and America’s Old West. More information on becoming a member of the 101 OTA is available from Linda Rennie at the Pioneer Bank in Ponca City by calling (580) 762-5651, ext. 242 or by contacting her at Pioneer Bank and Trust, 1223 East Highland. The mailing address for additional information is Box 111, Ponca City, OK 74602. During the recent business meeting, association officers reported on the completion of their most recent project honoring the memory of one of the 101 Ranch’s featured performers, pioneer black cowboy Bill Pickett. Working with Ponca City officials, the 101 OTA located a special commemorative Bill Pickett plaque on Grand Avenue in the city’s downtown. Current projects now underway include honoring another 101 Ranch performer, Lillian Frances Smith. Billed as Princess Wenona and the California Girl, Ms. Smith was an internationally acclaimed trick shot artist touring with Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show during the late 1800’s and later with the 101 Ranch Wild West Show. Her unmarked grave at the IOOF cemetery in Ponca will be the site of a special commemorative headstone denoting her world record shooting accomplishments. The 101 Old Timer’s Association is currently seeking donations to fund the expense of marking the grave of Princess Wenona. Despite being a world class western performer from the 1880’s to the late 1920’s, she died in poverty at Marland, Okla. in 1930. Additional funding for another project is also being sought by the 101 OTA. Plans are underway to build a parking area and provide public access to the grave of Bill Pickett, and a monument to Ponca Tribal Chief White Eagle. This site is located on the east side of SH 156, one mile north of Marland. In an ongoing effort to raise funds for these projects and others, the 101 Old Timer’s Association sells 101 Ranch calendars illustrated with vintage photos of the 101 Ranch during its operating days. New 1999 editions are available for $10 along with a few 1997 and 1998 issues for $12 each. Along with the calendars, the organization also offers a limited number of miniature 101 Ranch metal art logos for $175. They are serial numbered and come with a certificate of origin. Interested parties can contact 101 OTA Secretary Rennie at the Pioneer Bank. In addition to existing fund raising efforts, the organization voted to authorize the licensing of a specially marked Winchester style rifle commemorating the 101 Ranch. A public offering of these limited number commemorative rifles is anticipated some time in the future. TOPS Chapter Holds MeetingTOPS OK 308 Chapter met Monday evening with Donna McCoy calling the meeting to order and giving the devotional “A Morning Prayer.” Loretta Riley led the TOPS Pledge and Betty Flower led the KOPS Kreed. Roll was called by Natalie McCoy and the weight report was given by Betty Flower. Best Loser was Fern Black. Donna McCoy was October Angel of the Month. The “Forbidden Food” drawn for this week was hamburger. New contact persons were drawn and a new contest was started which will last for seven weeks. A card was read from Donna McCoy and a read a newsletter reporting on the TOPS Walk Across America held on Oct. 17. The program was a general discussion and the meeting was adjourned. TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) is a non-profit organization whose members desire to lose or maintain weight. It neither sells nor endorses products. Members are encouraged to develop individual exercise programs, and contacts are used to encourage weight loss. Brief programs are presented each week and visitors are welcome to attend the meetings. Weigh-in time is 6 to 6:45 p.m. and meetings are at 6:45 p.m. on Mondays. For more information contact Betty Flower at 765-5448 or Natalie McCoy at 767-1429. CelebrationThe Good News Sunday School Class at First United Methodist Church is hosting an engagement celebration Nov. 13 for Laurie Hyde, associate minister at the church, and John Moeller. The dessert and coffee will be a “come and go” event at the fellowship hall, 200 South Sixth. The couple requests cards only. Those interested in attending may call Kay Johnston, 762-0544, or Londa Pontius, 762-6524, for more information. International Club MeetsThe International Club’s October meeting was hosted by Jannie Ross with Bette Lee and Gabriella Kovacs as co-hostesses. Guests for the occasion were Elaine Bowker and Margaret Watson from England, Paula Chanton from France, Valindna and Elena Zybrokova with baby Frederik from Russia. Dr. Jim Thomas gave an enlightening talk on “Energies of the Spirit” and concluded his program with a question and answer session. Nadia Salama, president, conducted the business meeting. The next meeting is slated for Nov. 18 at the home of Maxine Manering. Anyone interested in joining the club is asked to contact Aracelly Killblane, 762-3731, for more information. Veterans Gather for Reunion CelebrationThe group met at the Econo Lodge Sept. 25-27 in Ponca City for their 28th reunion. The Friday evening dinner was held at Furr’s Cafeteria and on Saturday evening a banquet was held at the Golden Corral. William Powelson welcomed the group. Gordon Moore gave the invocation and the flag salute. Jeff Sanders held the Memorial Service for Albert “Jiggs” Wakeman and others who had died. Margie Wakeman presented a U. S. Flag, in honor of her husband, to be used at the group’s meetings. William Powelson volunteered to make a stand for it. Letters were read and telephone calls were reported on from those who couldn’t attend. Pictures were taken and the group voted to come back to Ponca City Sept. 24-26 for the eighth time. Those attending were Jeff and Maud Sanders of Garfield, Ark.; George and Pearl Bartlett of Midwest City; Ernest and Ann Myers of Kingfisher; Urshel and Lois Beets of Norman; Hoy T. Jones of Clarksville, Tenn.; Gordon and Genevieve Moore of Miami; George French of Mendenhall, Miss.; Marjorie Wakeman of Kingfisher; Paula Grapes of Oklahoma City; Mildred King of Crescent, and William and Velma Powelson of Ponca City. Bits and PiecesGarden ClubSage, Rosemary and Thyme Garden Club will meet at 9:30 a.m. Nov. 11 at the home of Natalie Nelson, 1404 Academy Road. Co-hostess will be Barbara Kegler. Joe Widner, guest speaker, will present “Soap Making 101.” Members are invited to bring items for the Serendipity table being taken care of by Ms. Nelson and Janet Neylon. For more information about the club call Mary Anne Potter, 767-1957. Open House Pioneer Toastmasters are sponsoring an open house Nov. 11 at the R & D auditorium. Registration is 11:15 -11:30 a.m. The hour long meeting begins at 11:30 a.m. Anyone interested in the organization is asked to attend the open house. Contact Michelle Roberts, 767-3531, for further information. ABWA Meets Members of the American Business Women’s Association hosted an enrollment event and covered dish dinner recently at the Conoco Fourth Street Clubhouse. Guests were Evelyn Burns, Jan Zemp and Arnetta Washington. Karen Graham, vice president, led the flag salute and gave the invocation. Lana Byers presided at the meeting and Art Courtney reported on several fund-raising projects. Norma Griffith distributed tickets for the Christmas luncheon. The program was a skit given by members with Bonnie Nimerick in charge of the event. Twentieth Century Club Plans Guest Day EventBarbara McBride-Smith, a story teller of “mythical proportions,” will present the program when 20th Century Club meets Nov. 13 at 12:30 p.m. at the Ponca City Country Club for their Guest Day luncheon. According to reviewers Ms. McBride-Smith has a unique gift. “She can turn gods into mere mortals.” For example, Medusa goes from being a monster with snaky locks to a woman who has seen one bad hair day too many. She tells classic myths, but peoples them with characters she knew growing up in Waco, Texas. For 33 years she has used her skills as a teller of tales in her three occupations: classroom teacher, school librarian, and university professor. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, and a master’s degree in Library Science and Educational Media and Technology. She teaches homiletics courses in storytelling at Phillips Technological Seminary in Tulsa. She is a recipient of the John Henry Faulk Award for Outstanding Contributions to Storytelling and serves on the board of the National Storytelling Association. She has recently authored two books: Greek Myths, Western Style and New Testament Women. She is a full-time elementary school librarian at Skyline School in Stillwater. Arrangements for the meeting are under the Social Committee, consisting of Mrs. Bill Bridwell and Mrs. Nathandale Farris, co-chairmen. Others on the committee are Mrs. Graydon Brown, Mrs. Jan Cates, Mrs. Paul Davis, Mrs. William Martin, Mrs. Steve McGuire, Mrs. Richard Stone, Mrs. Bill Carmichael, Mrs. Joe Cornelson, Mrs. Edwin Loosley, Mrs. Carter Mathews, Mrs. Richard Severance and Mrs. William Wetzel. Greeters will be Mrs. Loosley, Mrs. Carl Renfro, Mrs. John Warren, Mrs. John McReynolds and Mrs. Stone. PCHS Class of 1948 Celebrates 50th Anniversary With ReunionThere were 121 classmates and 95 friends, family members and special guests participating Sept. 25 in a three day celebration of the 50th reunion of the Ponca City High School graduating class of 1948. This figure represented 66 percent of the surviving members of the class. Festivities began with a Friday night mixer and registration at the American Legion. On Saturday morning, a tour of the High School was taken followed by late registration, visitation, coffee and donuts at the Cultural Center. Saturday evening events started with a social and buffet dinner at the Ponca City Country Club followed by class pictures. The club was decorated in red and blue streamers and balloons with flower arrangements of the same color on each table along with cut outs of wildcat paws and heads. Each place setting was given a white coffee mug indicating the class of 1948 reunion in school colors. Following picture sessions, a nostalgic program was given by former cheerleaders, twirlers, girls choral group, boys’ quartet and a vocal solo. Ponca City afghans were given to the one coming farthest, married the longest, most grandchildren and great-grandchildren and one most recently married. Committee members were recognized and some special gifts given. Also recognized during the evening were Mrs. Florence Ott, Tom Wyatt and Earl Sullins, all former teachers of this class. Another special guest at some of the events was Mrs. Flora Galusha, secretary to principal, Homer Anderson from 1946 to 1952. The evening concluded with some listening and some dancing to music of the 1940’s and 1950’s played by Henry and Son. Sunday morning the class members met at the war memorial on the campus of the High School to pay respect to 43 class members who are no longer living. After a brief service, each name was read and a balloon released. Those attending then gathered on the steps in front of the building for a group picture. The 1948 class was one of the classes instrumental in getting the War Memorial erected to honor those who died in World War II. Sunday brunch at the country club completed the festivities where “goodbyes were said and plans begun for future reunions” said Barbara Radd, class member. Lindsey Guthrie Becomes The Bride of Dale BradleyA family ceremony at the First Christian Church Oct. 10, 1998 united Lindsey Guthrie and Dale Bradley in marriage. Their double ring vows were officiated by the Rev. Kent Dorsey in a 3 p.m. ceremony. Traditional wedding music was played. The bride is the daughter of Bob and Karen Banta of Ponca City, and David and Debbie Guthrie of Oklahoma City. The bridegroom is the son of Bob and Earlene Bradley of Ponca City. Special guests included the bride’s maternal grandparents, Jim and Billie Laminack of Statesville, N. C.; the bride’s great-grandmother, Lola Fox from Clinton; the bridegroom’s grandmothers, Lois Hobbs of Newkirk and Mary Bradley of Ponca City. The bride’s floor length gown of candlelight brocaded satin in a Princess design featured a sleeveless bodice and square neckline. Her double tiered tulle veiling with rolled edging was secured by a floral headband and she carried an arrangement of coral and white roses and greenery with ribbon accents. The bouquet was atop a Bible belonging to her maternal grandmother. The Bible had been a gift to the bride’s grandmother from her grandmother’s grandfather, and has been carried in weddings by the bride, her sister, mother and grandmother. Following tradition the bride wore a garter made by her grandmother and great-grandmother from lace from the bride’s mother’s wedding dress. The bride’s pearl earrings were a gift from Mandy Driesel. Mrs. Kristi Beier of Dallas, Texas served her sister as Matron of Honor. She wore a long, Navy blue gown with a sleeveless bodice and square neckline and carried a cluster of coral roses tied with silver ribbon. Best Man for his brother was Reb Bradley of Ponca City and guests were seated by Jason Beier of Dallas, Texas, brother-in-law of the bride. The guest book was attended by Mary Ann Bradley of Ponca City, sister of the bridegroom. A barbecue dinner and dance later in the evening was hosted by the bride’s parents, Bob and Karen Banta, at the Moose Lodge. The Zen Okies band played for the event. The newlywed couple resides at 2104 Joe, The bride is an HTS Specialist at the Opportunity Center and the bridegroom is employed with Ponca Machine. Hankins-Waller Wedding At Second Baptist ChurchMr. and Mrs. Matthew Clayton Waller have established a home at 1509 North Seventh following their Oct. 3, 1998 wedding at the Second Baptist Church. Waller and the former Aimee Linnea Hankins were united in marriage in a double ring ceremony at 4 p.m. officiated by the Rev. Paul Graham. Myrna Shelton was organist and Wade Childers sang “If You Could See What I See” by Geoff Moore and Steven Curtis Chapman. The bride is the daughter of Janis Johnston of Ponca City and Richard Hankins of Cherryvale, Kan. The bridegroom is the son of Deborah Woodward of Fresno, Calif. and Gary A. Waller of Ponca City. Carrie Hankins of Guthrie, sister of the bride, and Melanie Waller of Ponca City, cousin of the bridegroom, were attendants. Best Man was Kirby Fisher of Stillwater and groomsman was Wade Childers of Los Angeles, Calif., cousin of the bridegroom. Guests were seated by Johnny Mefferd of Crescent and Darren Playford of Ponca City. Candlelighters were Anna and Miriam Whitlock of Fletcher, cousins of the bride, and the guest book was attended by Wendy Childers of Stillwater, cousin of the bridegroom. Assisting with the reception at the fellowship hall were Marcia Whitlock and Joanne Anderson. Special guests for the wedding were Shirley Countryman, grandmother of the bride, and Clairlee Hankins of Granby, Mo., grandmother of the bride; Joan Waller, grandmother of the bridegroom. Also Bruce Woodward and Kate Woodward of Fresno, Calif.Frank and Robin Revard of Grapevine, Texas; Rhonda and Kashion Spencer of Stillwater. The couple took a wedding trip to Eureka Springs, Ark. The bride is employed as a victim assistant for the Kay County District Attorney’s office and the bridegroom is foreman for Arrowhead Industries. Mefford-Strickland Wedding Ceremony Held at St. Paul’sSt. Paul’s United Methodist Church was the setting for the wedding of Denise Renee’ Mefford and John Bridger Strickland II. The Rev. Darrel Hardy of Sharon officiated the double ring vows in a 6 p.m. ceremony. Parents of the bride are J.E. and Angela Mefford of Newkirk and the bridegroom’s parents are Ann Strickland of Ponca City and the late John Strickland. The bride is the granddaughter of George and Inez Mefford of Blackwell, Louis and Betty Backhaus of Newkirk, Rick Horinek of Newkirk, and the late Inez Williams. The bridegroom is the grandson of Gracie McGaughey of Pooler, Ga., and the late James McGaughey. The bridal procession was “Butterfly Kisses”, played and sung by Tim Muniz, followed by “It’s Your Love” sung by Chris Holroyd. Tim Muniz played and sang “Truly, Madly, Deeply” during the Unity candlelighting. The bride was gowned in a full length strapless fitted satin sheath, styled with a flared hemline. The train was attached at the back by a chiffon rosette, and was edged with Marabou feathers. She wore stephanotis in her hair and carried a cascade bouquet of greenery and Fire and Ice roses. Matron of honor was Stacey Glowacki. She wore a full length gown styled with a white sleeveless crepe top complemented by a black brocade skirt. She carried an arm bouquet of six white roses. The Best Man was John Coffman of Tulsa and serving as ushers were Neal Clonts of Edmond, Matthew Maniatis of Ponca City, nephew of the bridegroom, and Scott Stalcup of Pooler, Ga. cousin of the bridegroom. Kinsey Henderson of Ponca City, niece of the bridegroom, served as flower girl. She was gowned in a tea length white lace dress, accented with a red rose and ribbon, and a large bow in the back. Jamie Maniatis of Ponca City, nephew of the bridegroom, served as the ring bearer. He was attired in a formal black tuxedo. Attending the guest books were Lori Allensworth of Ponca City and Kerri Stuckey of Ponca City. A reception, following the ceremony, was held at Godfrey’s with piano music played by the Stillwell Brothers and a dance on the patio with music by the Zen Okies. Assisting with the dance and rec |