From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Wednesday,
December 3, 1997
LOCAL
School Board Filing Ends Today
Local Filmmaker's First Movie to Open Here
'Disorientation' Session Set for NOC Sophomores
Newkirk Historic Home Tour Set Sunday Afternoon
Lake Patrol Officer Attends Seminar on Vessel Recovery
Oil and Gas Report
Singin' and Snackin' at Brace Books
Gala Tradition Madrigal Singers Set To Perform
Clean Water, Soil Testing Big Issues At Area Meeting
The Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Museum
Area Calendar
Blackwell Has New Gallery
Tonkawa Readies 'Old Tyme'
Iris Planted at 101 Ranch Headquarters
P.C. Police Emphasize Curfew Law
Immunization Clinic Set
Tonkawa's Fifth Annual Parade Set for Thursday
Tribal Job Fair Set Thursday At NOC Library
District Court
DEATHS
William B. Hooper
Blanche L. Bookout
Geraldine Prince
Jerry Joe Barnett
Glen E. Welsh
Services Pending
Geraldine Hinds
Leonard McGaha
Lou Vena Hutchison
Ann Howell
Funerals
Harold W. Rowe
Amy Vian Hadley
Laurence K. King
Memorial
Laurence King
NEWS BRIEFS
LIFESTYLES
PT Plan Holiday Service Project
Bits and Pieces
Nine Attend Valley Center School Reunion
SPORTS
Cats Can't Survive Redskins Firepower
Lady Cats Doomed With Poor Shooting
Newkirk Wrestlers Pin Ponca City JV's, 54-18
Frontier Wins Fifth Straight
Wildcat JV Drops Opener
World Class Skier
Paddle Fish Make Comeback in Kaw
By KRISTI HAYES
News Education Editor
Seven more people have added their names to the candidates vying for Board of Education positions in Kay, Noble and Osage Counties. Area residents will vote on the vacant Board of Education positions Feb. 10, 1998.
Current Filings
New additions as of noon today in Kay, Noble and Osage Counties are:
- Catherine Thomas for Kaw City C-84 Office No. 1 (one-year unexpired term)
- Scott W. Farrow for Kaw City C-84 Office No. 3 (three-year term)
- Don Smith for Kildare C-50 Office No. 3 (three-year term)
- Harlen Tiemann for Peckham C-27 Office No. 1 (three-year term)
- Kris Mapel for Peckham C-27 Office No. 3 (two-year unexpired term)
- Francis A. Murphy for Shidler I-11 Office No. 3 (five-year term)
- Gayle Edwards for Woodland I-90 Office No. 6 (four-year term)
Candidates that filed before noon Tuesday were:
- Mary M. Rigdon and Zane Barham for Pioneer Technology Center V-13 Office No. 1 (five-year term)
- Russell Cobb for Newkirk I-29 Office No. 3 (five-year term)
- Allen Miller for Braman I-18 Office No. 3 (five-year term)
- Ricky J. Hartz for Billings I-2 Office No. 3 (five-year term)
- Rexford Tautfest for Frontier I-4 Office No. 3 (five-year term)
- Mike Kruck for Ponca City I-71 Office No. 2 (four-year term)
- Linda Main for Tonkawa I-87 Office No. 3 (five-year term)
- Mark Cordell and Timothy B. Bradfield for Blackwell I-45 Office No. 3 (five-year term)
- Gary D. Madison for Woodland I-90 Office No. 6 (four-year term)
- James D. Martin for Woodland I-90 Office No. 7 (four-year term)
Offices that have had no one file are:
- Ponca City I-71 Office No. 4 (four-year term)
- Burbank C-20 Office No. 2 (three-year term)
- McCord C-77 Office No. 2 (three-year term)
Filing Closes
Filing closes at 5 p.m. today. Any contest of candidacy petitions may be filed until 5 p.m., Friday, Dec. 5. The County Election boards will then conduct contest of candidacy hearings the following week.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
"It was a blast!"
That's what Ponca Citians Diane and Charlie Mounts say about making the movie "Kites Toward Heaven," directed by Ponca Citian Robyn Kreger. The movie will debut here on Dec. 13 at the Poncan Theatre.
The Ponca City couple who saw Robyn Kreger grow up got involved in making the movie, which was shot last Fall on location near Rockport, Maine.
The Mounts' daughter Shelly and son-in-law Steve lived in Los Angeles, and when Diane and Charlie went to visit, they also saw Ponca City connections including Robyn. So they knew about her movie career.
Robyn had written the adaptation of the Truman Capote Christmas story years ago and told Diane then she wanted her to play the part of the older woman. But when it came time, Diane tried to convince Robyn she needed someone else, as she had acted on stage but not before a camera.
But Robyn was sure she wanted Diane as "Millie."
Although acting, singing and dancing are not new to Diane, who majored in theater at the University of Tulsa, making a movie was one giant leap from the stage. And Charlie remembers the biggest stage part he had until the movie, where he portrays "Ha Ha Jones," was as a cucumber in a grade school play.
A Tender Christmas Story
But Diane says that Charlie's part is brief - but effective - as a fierce Indian liquor dealer. Charlie said the movie is a "tender Christmas story about relationships."
When Robyn called on mother Betty's friends to help make an adaptation of the Truman Capote "A Christmas Memory," now retitled "Kites Toward Heaven," the Mounts packed their bags bound for Maine.
Following Thanksgiving with their son Chuck in New Jersey they moved on to Maine to shoot Charlie's scene as Ha Ha Jones, a Native American liquor store owner.
Making Fruitcakes
After about four days of shooting Charlie came home to operate Mounts Oil, and Diane, a travel agent with Carlson Wagionlit, stayed on filming her part as "Millie." The older woman she plays in the short feature movie befriends a young boy cousin and their annual Christmas project is making fruitcakes.
A Ponca Playhouse player from Ponca City, another friend of Betty's, Marsha Hiskett, who works at Brace Books and More, came on the set as a "mean aunt."
Ponca City attorney Max Berry, using his numerous years of experience with the Ponca Playhouse, joined the movie crew as assistant prop manager.
Diane said learning the lines for the movie began in June 1996, but she found out later that she could learn the lines from day to day. Each evening the crew got a "call" sheet under their door outlining the next day's shooting schedule.
Long Hours/Hard Work
"It was fun, but it was hard work and long hours," Diane said. Breakfast was between five and six a.m. After make-up at 6:15 a.m., it was on to the filming set at 6:30 a.m. Shooting ended on a short day about 7 p.m. and some nights as late as midnight. Then it was time to learn the next day's lines and take a break from the gray wig she wore.
One evening the entire crew went candlestick bowling and a good time was had by all and it was a welcome relief from the hard work. Charlie explained that making a movie was all-consuming.
Charlie said it was just enjoyable from his point of view to see Diane doing what she always wanted to do. Diane had always intended to go to Hollywood, but then she married Charlie and moved to Ponca City. So for Diane it is a dream come true to make a movie.
However, as it gets closer to premiering here on Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m., in Ponca City at the Poncan Theatre, Diane is getting nervous. She says that she hopes the hometown folks will judge the movie from the director's point of view and not for acting.
Marsha said she was a bit antsy too, as she never thought the film would be shown in Ponca City and she could do it anonymously.
Previous Experience
Robyn directed the film as part of her resume. She has worked on a number of films including "Primal Fear" and "Wayne's World II," but to prove her own merit needed to make a movie on her own.
Diane said that she never wanted to view the "Kites Toward Heaven" dailies. She is wondering about her feelings, when she sees herself on the screen. The Mounts will be seeing it for the first time on The Poncan screen. Their daughter Shelly, who lives in California, has been invited to a private showing there by Robyn. Shelly said she wasn't going to tell anyone that was her mother on the screen until afterwards.
Although their children won't be here for the premiere, friends are coming in from Dallas, Oklahoma City, Tulsa and Arkansas. Marsha will have friends and family watching.
Filming by Robyn's Dandylion Wine Productions took two weeks. She shot the film in Rockport, Maine, where she was attending the International Film and Television Workshops. While studying there, Robyn decided it would be a good setting for the movie.
Charlie said the scenery was beautiful and it was cold but it was on the coast and could have been much colder.
Borrowed Cameras/Professionals
Through a program at Panavision for new film makers, Robyn was lent a valuable camera equipment package. The camera dolly tracks were rented - and the rest is history.
Among the professionals helping out was Jonathan Andrews, M.B.K.S., who worked on the sound crew of the "Air Force One "movie, starring Harrison Ford.
Not only did Andrews join the crew but brought his new mixer equipment and enjoyed being in charge of the sound. One interesting bit of trivia is that the Rockport campus is where Mel Gibson's movie "The Man Without a Face" ends.
Robyn made the movie as a student project, but she is not a novice in terms of experience in the world of film. She graduated from Oklahoma University with a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and mass communication, majoring in radio/television/film with an emphasis in cinema studies.
In recognition of her "top scholar" status due to a 4-point grade average, she received an award and a medallion for highest class ranking.
Three years ago she was employed for The Koch Company and worked on the "Virtuosity" and "Primal Fear" features. At Koch she was assistance to feature producer Howard W. Koch Jr. at Paramount Pictures in Hollywood.
In 1994, Robyn worked for Broadway Pictures on "Lassie," "Stuart Smalley" and "Tommy Boy" as assistant to feature producer Barnaby Thompson, also in Hollywood.
While there she had daily contact with Lorne Michaels' New York Broadway Video and "Saturday Night Live" offices. Prior to that she worked as assistant to feature director Stephen Surjik on "Wayne's World II." And the list goes on.
Family Movie
The result of the determined Robyn and her cast is a short 52-minute feature movie. The plot is about the special innocent relationship between a boy and an older lady. The film would be rated "G" by industry standards.
Daughter of Dr. Ron Kreger and Betty Kreger, Robyn attributes her attraction to theater entertainment form her exposure to performing before crowds with dance routines from Kem's Gym and also from be a member of the Ponca City High School Cheerleaders.
Executive Director of The Poncan Theatre, Kenn Wessel, says is an honor to premier a young producer and director's work, and feels it is equally beneficial for Robyn's work to premier in the prestigious Ponca Theatre.
TONKAWA - The second annual "Disorientation" session will bring valuable information to Northern Oklahoma College sophomores preparing to make the transition from the two-year college to the "real world," according to Sue Rodgers, Northern counselor and seminar coordinator.
Hosted by the Northern Peer Counselors, the free "Sophomore Survival Day" seminar will be held in the Olin Walcher Conference Center from 8:45 a.m. to noon Friday. All Northern students are invited to attend.
Kelly Haikin, Northern Peer Counselor, will open the seminar with a discussion of Northern graduation requirements.
Interview skills will be presented by Thom Hunter, APR, of Norman. Employed by the Public Relations Department of Southwestern Bell Telephone in Oklahoma for the past nine years, Hunter currently directs SWBT's Oklahoma advertising plans, overseas internal communications for SWBT's 4,500 Oklahoma employees and oversees the company's grassroots initiative campaign. He helped implement SWBT's disaster plan and served as media relations coordinator following the bombing of the Murrah Building in Oklahoma City.
D.L. Williams, employment manager at Ditch Witch, the Charles Machine Works, Inc. of Perry, will give tips on preparing a resume and cover letter. Williams, a Perry native who has been employed for more than 20 years at Ditch Witch, currently works with Human Resources systems, selection processes and affirmative action.
Robert Campbell of Robert Campbell Clothing, will share ideas for planning a wardrobe for success, including selection and budgeting for specific careers. Campbell has operated a full line, upscale men's and women's clothing store in downtown Stillwater since 1978.
College representatives will be available in Memorial Student Union from 9 a.m. to noon to answer specific questions. Participating are Northeastern Oklahoma State University, Northwestern Oklahoma State University, Oklahoma State University, University of Central Oklahoma, University of Oklahoma and OU Health Science Center.
Funding for the guest speakers is provided by Project Partners, a School-to-Work consortium.
NEWKIRK - The 1997 historic home tour will begin at 1:30 p.m., Sunday in Newkirk. Four homes and one upper story historic downtown building will be featured this year.
Tickets are available at Albright Title, Bank of Oklahoma, Eastman National, Newkirk Main Street, and R&G Style Shoppe.
On Sunday the tickets will be available at the Newkirk Community Museum which will open at 1 p.m. The tours begins at 1:30 and will end at 4 p.m.
All proceeds from the tour will be used for the Main Street design grants and the Save Our Buildings Fund.
Ortwein Home
The oldest home on the tour built in 1903 belongs to Craig and Karen Ortwein. This unique craftsman style home was built by Eugene E. Eaton as rental property. The house is located in Farnsworth Addition which was platted in 1901 by Eaton and H.E. Farnsworth. Although this quaint and charming home consists of only 920 square feet, it is filled with warmth and love. Mrs. Ortwein has a country kitchen complete with an old kitchen cabinet rescued from her childhood home in Blackwell.
Originally, the house had two bedrooms downstairs and one on the second floor. The upstairs landing included a door with an outside staircase. This area has been redesigned as Sally's bedroom decorated in mute blue and purple with pink woodwork. Sponged hearts adorn the perimeter of the room. The master bedroom also upstairs has embossed burgundy wall covering on the north wall.
Hutchason Home
Reagan and Maggi Hutchason's home in Brown's Subdivision was built in 1905. Amanda Shanholtzer purchased the property soon after Joseph Brown platted the subdivision. This home has a unique and interesting architectural style that is easily identified in several of the early day photographs of Newkirk.
The house originally had four bedrooms - two upstairs and two downstairs as well as a living room, formal dining room, and kitchen. The Hutchasons utilize one of the downstairs bedrooms as a den. The kitchen is decorated in red hot chili peppers and knotty pine cabinets. The woodwork in the kitchen is from a barn on the Midgley ranch.
Horinek Home
In addition to building a palace on the prairie, Antone Horinek constructed a stucco home in Newkirk in 1916/1917 close to the St. Francis Academy so that his girls could attend school. Fred and Joanne Horinek's children were the fourth generation of the Horinek family to live in this home.
The living room faces east and runs the length of the house north and south. The dining room directly west of the living room was originally two rooms - a dining room and a bedroom. This room has the original wood floors and a built-in hutch with four leaded glass doors.
Upstairs the master bedroom was originally the room shared by the five Horinek girls. The middle room was converted to a half bath by Fred and Joanne. There are two other bedrooms which belonged to the boys.
Boomer Home
Marsh and Jan Boomer own the newest home on the tour. This craftsman bungalow was probably built ca. 1919 by Nathan F. Goodman. William C. Mitchell, Kay County Commissioner, purchased the property in 1926 and owned it until Lindsey McMahon bought it in 1943 for $2,500.
The Boomers have added a wood burning stove in the living room, restored the hardwood floors, added a spiral staircase and refurbished the attic for an office for Marsh and a playroom for Taylor and Susanna. All the woodwork in the home is original and the living room includes beautiful crown molding and window seats.
The Spohn Building
The historic Spohn building (now part of Housers Hardware) was built as a hotel in 1903 and later converted to apartments. Utilizing period furniture the front apartment has been transformed to the "way it used to be" by Newkirk Main Street design committee and assisted by Junior Main Street members.
The cozy three room apartment is complete with stove, refrigerator, dining table, Christmas trees, library table, bed and dressing table.
What if you were offered a great deal on a boat or a jet ski that was just too good to be true? You decide to purchase it and later find out it's been stolen. How could this have been prevented? Or let's say the boat you own was stolen from its slip at the marina. Once you have reported it to the authorities and they have submitted paperwork, will it be sent over the National Crime Information Center wire?
These are but a few of the problems being tackled by officials of the Department of Public Safety's Oklahoma Lake Patrol division with help from the Department of Tourism and Recreation. The two state agencies combined efforts with the First Marine Insurance Company of Osage Beach, Mo., to host the second annual Marine Identification and Theft Prevention Seminar at the Western Hills Lodge in Wagoner recently.
"We were excited about this year's seminar. We lined up several professionals in the field of marine theft from other states and learned their latest advancements to benefit our investigative efforts," said Lake Patrol Commander and State Boating Law Administrator Bob Sanders.
Ponca City Police Officer Mike Stasyszen who is assigned to Lake Patrol and is a search and recovery diver attended the seminar and has already recovered a stolen vessel using knowledge he gained through the courses.
"When I first received the report I thought it may have been fraudulent but because of the training I received at the seminar, I knew what steps to take to solve the case. I have to give a lot of credit to the organizers of the school," said Stasyszen.
The efforts of these investigators have tripled monthly reports of stolen vessels, motors and trailers.
"In September 1995, there were approximately 10 reports submitted each month of stolen vessels and that number has tripled since we have begun an organized effort in marine identification and theft prevention," said Director of Marine Theft Unit Rick Brewer. "We believe the bottom line problem is that when boaters report a stolen vessel, the local authorities aren't trained in submitting the exact information needed for recovery."
Brewer said their main goal is to train every law enforcement officer in the state on how to complete a stolen vessel report with the proper information.
"Although this may slightly increase the amount of paperwork, it will dramatically lessen the percentage of stolen boats, motors and trailers," said Brewer. "The more we do to prevent marine theft, the quicker insurance rates will drop and boaters will be less likely to purchase stolen property."
He said the general public does not know to check the serial or hull numbers on a boat and compare it to the numbers on the title to see if they match.
"And certainly if they purchase a boat that has been brought in from another state, this should throw up a red flag," said Brewer. "Boat thieves are more likely to steal them in one state and sell them in another because not all states require boats to be titled. In fact, only 30 states do and only four states require boat motors to be registered. The titling process is a main deterrent in marine theft."
Brewer said most law enforcement officers possess a greater knowledge in identifying stolen vehicles rather than vessels because of the comparison in numbers. There are three million vehicles registered in Oklahoma compared to approximately 226,000 registered vessels.
"Other states have already identified marine theft as a problem, we're just trying to meet their standards," said Brewer. "As long as we can get stolen property reported for entry on the NCIC system, we'll be in good shape."
Those attending the seminar were briefed on new Oklahoma boating laws that went into effect Nov. 1. Also, individual officers were recognized for their efforts in marine theft investigations for 1996 and awards were presented to Senator Herb Rozell and Representative Bob Weaver for their active roles in introducing legislation regarding marine theft and boating safety.
Charles J. and Mary L. Martin have revealed plans to drill a 1,900-ft. developmental well in Osage County's Domes-Pond Creek Field. The operator has designated the venture as the No. 7 Martin. Drillsite is 4.8 miles southeast of Bowring.
Section 23-township 27-range 11-nw-nw.
Drillsite has been staked for the No. 15 Drummond and Hull, a 2,950-ft. developmental well in the Barker Field, Osage County. The operation will be located 11.4 miles southeast of Fairfax. Drummond and Hull Oil Co. is the operator.
Section 36-township 24-range 7-sw-sw.
The No. 16 Jones and Buck, a 1,890-ft. developmental well, is scheduled to be drilled in Osage County's Domes-Pond Creek field. Jones and Buck Development is the operator. The well will be spudded 1.4 miles north of Herd. Section 23-township 28-range 10-sw-sw.
Deeper pay was the target at a re-entry operation in Osage County's West Barnsdall Field.
Located about 1.8 miles west-northwest of Barnsdall, the well is designated as the No. 8 Parks.
It pumped 12 barrels of oil per day from the Bartlesville Formation and bottomed at 2,025 feet.
John L. Parks is the operator.
Section 11-township 24-range 10.
DMS Investments Inc. is preparing to conduct a re-entry four miles west of Ponca City in the Garrett Field, Kay County.
Involved in the operation is the No. 1 Lyons.
DMS is planning to take the well to a new 4,131-ft. bottom in the Wilcox Formation.
Section 6-township 26n-range 2e-se-nw.
Home Stake Royalty Corp. has revealed plans to drill a 5,600-ft. developmental well in the Orlando Field, Noble County. The operator has designated the venture as the No. 1-28 Karen. Drillsite is six miles southeast of Perry.
Section 28-township 20n-range 1w-se-ne.
Drillsite has been staked for the No. 7 Bezdicek "A," a 1,300-ft. developmental well in the South Perry Field, Noble County. The operation will be located 3.3 miles south of Perry. BEZ Resources Partnership is the operator.
Section 10-township 20n-range 11-ne-sw.
The No. 1-97 Clavin, a 650-ft. developmental well, is scheduled to be drilled in Noble County's Northeast Happy Star Field. Three Sands Oil Inc. is the operator. The well will be spudded 3.5 miles west-southwest of Three Sands.
Section 5-township 24n-range 1w-ne-sw.
A new producer has been brought on line in Noble County's Orlando Field, with Harry A. Spring as the operator. It is designated as the No. 1-28 Margaret.
It pumped oil at the rate of 25 barrels per day plus 150,000 CF gas.
The well bottomed at 4,881 feet and will produce from a perforated interval at 4,770 to 4,780 feet into the hole.
Section 18-township 20n-range 11-ne-se.
On Thursday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., a special treat is in store at Brace Books and More for holiday shoppers who would like to rest their weary feet for a while. Les Gilliam, The "Oklahoma Balladeer," will be singing songs from his latest video "Oklahoma Pride", along with Christmas songs and other favorites requested by those in attendance.
His wife, Martha will provide samples of delicious treats prepared from her new cookbook "Home on the Range," which is available at the book store. This event is appropriately titled, "Singin' and Snackin'."
Many Ponca Citians have enjoyed Les' music for many years including his annual appearance at the Poncan Theatre for the Iris Festival plus numerous other public and private events. Thus far, he has recorded two albums and two videos. The albums are available on either compact disc or cassette tape.
His first album, "Classics and Creations" includes several of Les' own compositions as well as several classic songs such as "The Preacher and the Bear" and "I'm My Own Grandpa." His second album, "Western Country" contains mostly cowboy songs plus all-time favorite "That Silver Haired Daddy of Mine" and a meaningful patriotic song "What's Right With America", written by Les.
His two videos carry the titles of "The Cowboy Hit Parade" and "Oklahoma Pride." The cowboy video presents the top ten all time favorite cowboy songs, in both story and music. The pride video is a tribute to many Oklahomans who have made major contributions to country and western music. The CDs, cassettes and videos are all available at Brace Books and More.
Martha Gilliam's book features a collection of 742 recipes submitted by folks from all walks of life, both locally and far away. Music stars, working cowboys, Hollywood actors, cowboy poets, producers, disk jockeys, musicians, family and friends all contributed to the book. Also included are interesting tidbits about the recipes and the contributors.
The idea for the new cookbook came when Martha was trying to think of something to do in memory of a friend who passed away in January, 1997. Norma and Billy Joe Rogers of Lavon, Texas were a man and wife singing duet, and dear friends of Martha and her singing husband, Les. They often appeared with Les at cowboy gatherings and other events.
The ingredients for most of the recipes are items found in any kitchen. There are many recipes from current or former Ponca Citians. It is enjoyable to just thumb through the book to see who submitted what, and to read the comments at the bottom of the pages.
Lena and Ken Turner of Arkansas attended most of Les' 27 shows at Silver Dollar City in Branson in May, 1997. Lena found out Les' favorite pie was coconut meringue. The next day, here came Lena with a pie for Les. The recipe for the pie is included in the "Home on the Range" cookbook.
Ancel Cook was a classmate of Les' in Ardmore and now lives in California, working as an actor in movies and television. His most recent appearance was in a "Murder, She Wrote" episode, telecast on November 3, 1997. He submitted a recipe called "Ancel's Favorite Bean Mess."
The drummer who played for Les' band in the 1950s submitted a recipe which originally came from the mother of Pretty Boy Floyd. The drummer's mom lived next door to the Floyd home in Hanson, Okla. "Granny's Vinegar Pie" was Pretty Boy's favorite and his mother baked it for him when he returned from his escapades or stint behind bars.
Kenny and Lida Maze of Ponca City used to visit cowboy actor Ben Johnson at his home in California, several years ago. Ben usually fixed breakfast, including his wonderful flapjacks. The recipe for the "Ben Johnson Flapjacks" is in the book.
Eddie Burris, a friend of Martha and Les, who co-wrote "Okie From Muskogee" with Merle Haggard, also sent several recipes.
Martha has also received several recipes from Austria. Martha and Les have been to Austria twice and will return again in 1999 for another singing tour for Les.
The public is invited to drop in to hear the singin' and taste the snackin'.
A part of the Christmas Gala at the Marland Mansion that is a long standing tradition is the Madrigal Singers, who greet the guests in song in the foyer of the historic building. The event is slated for 7 p.m., Saturday.
The Madrigal Singers are a subset of the Chancel Choir of First United Methodist Church and perform in period costumes emulating Elizabethan royalty.
The chamber ensemble was formed in the early 1980s when the music ministry of the church first performed madrigal dinners in the Fellowship Hall of the church during the Christmas season.
Since that time, the Madrigal Singers have performed at a number of Marland Mansion Christmas Galas, civic and community club programs and activities at First United Methodist Church.
Members of the 1997 ensemble include sopranos Suzi Lenhart, Faith Kalback and Donna Butler; altos, Judy Jones, Marta Sullivan and Sally Wells; tenors, Travis Gordy and Howard Wells; and basses, Walt Kalback and Rod Kutz.
The singers will assembly in the foyer and begin singing about 7 p.m. A shuttle service is to be available to bring attendees from the Unity Gym parking lot to the Mansion.
Tickets are $35 and are available at financial institutions, the Marland Conference Center and The Ponca City News. The event is sponsored by the Marland Estate Commission.
Animal production and the protection of water quality were discussed at the area meeting of the Oklahoma Association of Conservation Districts.
Rep. Clay Pope shared his perspective on water issues facing Oklahoma and described legislative studies currently being conducted. Pope is the author of the state House interim study on nonpoint source pollution of watersheds. Participants also had the opportunity to meet the new executive director of the Oklahoma Conservation Commission, Mike Thralls.
Prior to coming to the Conservation Commission, Thralls served as Assistant Commissioner for the Oklahoma State Department of Agriculture. He and his wife Donna have five children and operate a wheat and cattle farm in Noble County near Billings.
"Poultry litter is an excellent natural fertilizer," Thralls said. "Problems arise only when over-application causes excessive buildup in the soil, resulting in phosphorus moving offsite."
A combination of best management practices that includes testing soil and letter, establishing buffer strips and exporting excess letter out of the watershed will allow both the threatened watershed and the industry to benefit, he added.
Thralls said two legislative interim studies and the Governor's Animal Waste and Water Quality Task Force will be recommending measures to be considered this legislative session.
"If called upon by the Governor and the Legislature, conservation districts and their partners, the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, stand ready to furnish the technical and cost-share assistance to put these practices in place.
"This is a time-proven approach and one that locally led conservation districts across Oklahoma are equipped to deliver," Thralls added.
District directors, associate members and staff of the Kay County Conservation District who attended the meeting included Garold DeWitt, Rick Jeans, Evelyn Engelking, Milton Lesemann, Joe Caughlin, Beverly Collyar and Lonnie Stone, as well as NRCS staff member Dick Zetterberg from the Newkirk Field Office.
The OACD Area Meetings include youth contests in speeches, essays and posters.
First place winners in the essay and poster contest, as well as first and second place winners in the speech contest, are eligible to compete at the state level during OACD's Annual State Meeting to be held February 22-24, 1998.
Newkirk Speech contestants Chad Dimmick, Ryan Cobb and Erin Morris represented the county at the Area II contest, accompanied by Vo-Ag instructor Robert Moman.
The Oklahoma Conservation Commission cosponsors the Area Meeting with the Oklahoma Association of Conservation Districts.
HUTCHINSON, Kan. - An eerie white dorsal fin sliced the blackness in an invisible line, framed by surface blue and darkness of depth. The Stars and Stripes of its owner gleamed for the universe to see. This great white shark of the sky is a predator - its only prey the acquisition of knowledge. Its name - The Space Shuttle. Its home - an IMAX Theater.
The Museum
The Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Museum in Hutchinson, Kan., is home to a comprehensive space center one wouldn't expect to find on the flatlands of Kansas. Its dramatic lobby beckons visitors with a SR-71 Blackbird (the world's fastest spy plane), a Northrop T-38 Talon (the aircraft used to train astronauts) and a full-scale Space Shuttle replica.
The view from the Space Shuttle experienced in an IMAX Dome Theater is evocative and exhilarating. The cargo bay lies open to the infinity of space and the safety of Earth. The spaceship quietly circles the Earth at 17,500 mph, relentless in its pursuit of information, its occupants part of a privileged few trained to guide its hunt for knowledge. From lift-off to landing, the viewer becomes, for just a little while, part of the chosen team.
Across the Cosmosphere lobby a Blackbird SR-71 stretches a 107 ft., 5 in. and could fly from Sacramento, Calif., to Washington D.C., in 57 minutes. When on the ground, body panel overlaps are evident. The plane contains six large fuel tanks but no fuel bladders. The skin of the plane served as the outer wall of the tanks. During ground refueling, fuel would stream from the plane's surface. Once the aircraft reached cruising altitude and speed, the plane expanded one to two feet, the plane's skin closed up and the Blackbird became leak free. Pilots warmed their lunch on the Blackbird windows which heated in flight to more than 6,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
The million dollar Justice Planetarium educates and entertains. Stars, their positions, history and mythology are relayed overhead with the beauty and clarity of a dark winter night illuminated only by the stars and their stories in the sky. The Planetarium also hosts Laser Light Shows choreographed to music.
From early rocketry to the Soviet and American battle in the Space Race, the Hall of Space Museum contains the complete story - Mercury, Vostok, Gemini, Voskhod, Apollo, Soyuz - programs that define space history, complete with full-scale replicas.
German V-1 and V-2 rockets were rescued from certain death in an unmarked grave by the Cosmosphere's director, Max Ary. In their museum home, the bombs are a tangible witness to the early military use of missiles - one can almost hear the buzzing of the V-1 echo in the hall. Additionally, two large sections of the Berlin Wall are housed in the museum.
The original Apollo 13 command module "Odyssey' resides in the museum. Restoration has just been completed after five months of intensive research, cleaning and reconstructing. Over 80,000 individual pieces were retrieved and put back into this historic spacecraft. Its reentry scars seem to echo the Odyssey signature words "Houston, we have a problem."
The Earth's largest collection of space suits pays tribute to the men and women that have foraged the unknown and evolved our knowledge of space.
Special Programs
Elderhostel Astronaut Training Program - An opportunity for those 55 and over a chance to live the life of an astronaut.
Future Astronaut Training Program - A summer camp for middle school students that educates and involves participants in a program developed from actual astronaut training.
Probe Into Space - A one-day program designed for Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts where participants earn badges in their respective programs.
Discovery Workshops and Investigate Space - Educational programs targeted to school-age children.
Teachers and Space In-Services - Special workshops and space study materials are available to school teachers.
Cosmosphere Academy - A science and technology magnet school located in the Cosmosphere building.
Additionally there is a Cargo Bay Gift Store stocked with space collectibles and a Cosmosphere Food Court where museum voyagers can refuel.
The Kansas State Cosmosphere and Space Center is a bright star in the Kansas prairie. Lift-off with an explosive all-day, all-ages mission at the Cosmosphere.
For more information contact The Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center, 1100 North Plum, Hutchinson, Kan. 67501. Call 316- 662-2305, or 800-397-0330, or Internet access, http://www.cosmo.org.
November 28-December 28
November 28-January 5
December 3
December 4
December 5
December 6
December 6-7
December 7
December 7-31
December 8
December 9
December 12
December 13
December 14
December 15
December 18
December 20
December 21
December 24
January 9
BLACKWELL - A new art gallery, the Main Street Gallery, has opened at 114 South Main Street in Blackwell. The owners are Greg and Dianne Balthus.
Balthus is a Blackwell native and is displaying his is woodwork in the gallery. Greg and his father, the late Keith Balthus, built numerous houses in Blackwell in the 1970s and 1980s.
In 1988 Greg was employed by the City of Blackwell. Except for projects for city desks, bookcases and other small projects he put his carpentry skills on hold until two years ago when he started building custom furniture. He creates his commissioned work in his garage-turned-shop, in addition to his city job. He will have some pieces of furniture on the showroom floor of the Main Street Gallery.
Balthus purchased the building which had been Bob's Picture Box Too and before that Milligan's Drug. With the first phase of remodeling complete the gallery has now opened.
Main Street Gallery will also be host to such artists as Gene Dougherty, Clyde Otipoby, Twilla Sprueill, Donna Royce, Lloyd Brockus III, C.J. Brockus, Mary Pearson and others.
There will be a variety of mediums on display including paintings, oil, acrylic, watercolors, prints, pottery, photography, leather, sculpture and blown glass. At this time there is still space for other interested artisans.
TONKAWA - Tonkawa will be celebrating the 5th annual Olde Tyme Christmas Thursday night. This year's theme is Stars Over Tonkawa. Stars of all colors and sizes will be shining brightly in businesses and homes all over this northern Oklahoma community.
The celebration will begin at 6 p.m., with the lighting of the gigantic Christmas tree in the center of Grand and Seventh Street. There will be public caroling under the tree during the lighting ceremony. The downtown lighting ceremony will feature the new star decorations, the building lights and the Northern campus lights turned on simultaneously for a dramatic and delightful effect.
The parade will begin at 6:30 p.m., from the Methodist Church at Fourth and Grand and will end at Ninth and Grand. Following the parade, there will be entertainment and festivities downtown. Merchants will be hosting open houses and having special sales. Local church, civic and school organizations will have concessions and the public is invited to bring the family to supper or dessert.
The Tonkawa News and Chamber of Commerce are sponsoring a residential (city and rural) lighting contest with $100 in prize money.The Olde Tyme Christmas is sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce.
The 101 Ranch headquarters site will be a lot prettier next year thanks to the efforts of the 101 Ranch Oldtimers Association and the Northern Oklahoma Iris Society. The group met together to plant 750 Iris bulbs on the site.
Planters were Jerry Cathey, Mark Talbert, Kelly Talbert, Bill Balcer, Jean W. Evans, John Maker, John Cooper, Linda Rennie and Maude Spangler.
One hundred and fifty of the bulbs were donated in honor of the late Arthur Marston by Opal Marston of Kerrville, Texas. Opal is the sister of Ruth Murphey, 101 memorabilia collector.
Another 400 bulbs were donated by Catherine Robinson of Marland in honor of her uncle Rex E. Spangler.
The Northern Oklahoma Iris Society donated 200 hybrid bulbs and Jerry Cathey provided the know how in helping to plant the bulbs.
Jean Evans provided drinks and brownies for the group to picnic with at the picnic tables on the 101 Ranch site. This is just one of the beautification projects that are being done at the ranch.
While the group was working three carloads of people stopped by during the planting just to see what was happening at the ranch and to look around, according to the workers.
The Ponca City Police Department notes that officers continue to emphasize the curfew ordinance.
This law primarily applies to those under the age of 18, however, those 18 and over can be cited if they allow persons under 18 to violate the law.
Parents who have children that have received at least one prior curfew violation may be cited themselves if they continue to allow their under age children to be out after hours.
In addition, businesses that allow patrons under the age of 18 to be on their premises after the specified curfew hours can also be cited.
Exceptions to the curfew laws would be organized, sponsored and chaperoned church or school activities. Anyone with questions concerning the curfew times, please call the Ponca City Police Department, 767-0370.
The hours of curfew for juveniles 15 through 17 are 11 p.m. Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and midnight on Friday and Saturday, with all ending at 6 a.m.
The curfew hours for persons under the age of 15 begins at 10:30 p.m. each day and ends at 6 a.m.
A new school immunization law was passed requiring all students entering seventh grade and now kindergarten to have completed their Hepatitis B series at the time of enrollment for school in 1998.
The Kay County Health Department will be having a special immunization on Dec. 8 at St. Luke's Church of the Nazarene, 1715 E. Prospect, from 2:30 to 6 p.m.
This clinic will be for those students needing this immunization.
It is a series of three injections that takes approximately six months to complete. It will be required for your child to have this immunization series at time of enrollment next school year.
Please bring a copy of your child's immunization record to this clinic. If you have any questions please call the health department at 762-1641.
TONKAWA - The fifth annual "Olde Tyme Christmas," will get under way Thursday evening with the annual lighting ceremony at 6 p.m., when the simultaneous lighting of the tree, downtown decorations, building lights and the Northern campus lights takes place.
The welcome will be by Mayor Evelyn Coyle and a prayer will be given by the Rev. Danny Dieth.
The lights will be turned on by Mayor Coyle, Dr. Joe Kinzer of Northern and Kent Bilyeu, president of the Tonkawa Chamber.
Following the lighting ceremony, there will be caroling under the Christmas tree.
At 6:30 p.m., the lighted Christmas parade will begin at Fourth and Grand and end at Ninth and Grand.
This year's theme is "Stars Over Tonkawa." "We invited everyone to gather under the tree for the lighting ceremony and caroling. Local church, civic and school organizations will have concessions and the public is invited to bring the family to supper or dessert," according to Carol Diemer, chairman of the retail development committee of the Tonkawa Chamber of Commerce.
TONKAWA - The Native American Leadership Program at Northern Oklahoma College (NOC) announces a Tribal Job Fair to be held 10 a.m., to 3 p.m., Thursday at NOCs Library Conference Room.
Human resource professionals and other officials from Cherokee Nation, Kaw Nation, Osage Nation, the Pawnee Tribe and the Ponca Nation have confirmed they will be in attendance at this first of its kind job fair.
"Many people do not realize that Oklahoma Tribes employ over 10,000 employees in a staggering array of jobs, including nursing, business, electronics, computer science, early childhood education, law enforcement, medicine, social services and many others," said Dr. Joe Conner, co-director of the Native American Leadership Program.
Tribes are interested in employing qualified Indians, but many non-Indians have found rewarding careers in tribal programs and business, according to Conner.
Conner said that all present NOC students and recent graduates are encouraged to come and meet with these tribal job recruiters. For more information call (918) 793-7361 or (580) 628-6358.
Blackwell
Divorces Granted
James Lee Gillespie vs. Kathy Jane Gillespie.
Civil Proceedings
Service Bank, Branch of Farmers Exchange Bank, Cherokee, vs. Velta L.
Johnston, et al.; plaintiff seeking judgments for $50,795.15 and $47,644.93.
DEATHS
BRAMAN - William B. Hooper, Braman businessman, died Tuesday morning, Dec. 2, 1997, at the Blackwell Regional Hospital. He was 72.
The funeral will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, in the Braman First Baptist Church with the Rev. Jerry Chastain, pastor, officiating. Burial will be in the Mulvane (Kan.) Cemetery under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home, Blackwell.
William B. Hooper was born Aug. 19, 1925, in Memphis, Tenn., the son of Connard Lawrence and Clara Ima (Ivy) Hooper. As an infant he moved with his family to Batesville, Ark., where he grew up and attended Batesville and North Little Rock schools. During World War II he began working in the construction business.
He was married to Beatrice D. Michau on Feb. 28, 1943, in Morriltown, Ark. The couple established their first home in Richmond, Calif., where Hooper worked in the Kaiser Shipyards during World War II. After the war, he worked in construction, moving to various states. In 1950, the family settled in Memphis, Tenn., where he owned and operated Hooper Construction Co., In 1957, they moved to Wichita, Kan., where he was employed as an automobile salesman for R.D. McKay Motor Company and Ben Robinson Buick. He later owned and managed the Central Motor Company, then served as general manager and buyer for Bill Spencer Dodge. He also operated a paint and body shop and continued in the car business as a wholesale dealer.
The Hoopers then moved to Braman, where Mr. Hooper purchased a paint and body shop, which he was operating at the time of his death. He was a member of the Braman First Baptist Church.
Survivors include his wife, Beatrice, of Braman; one son, Dan W. Hooper of Mulvane, Kan.; two grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and four nieces. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Geri Lynn Hooper; his parents; and three brothers, Clyde Newton, Ivy Gail, and Kenneth H.
Casket bearers will be Joseph L. Hooper, Jason Morgan, Mike Johnson, Kenny Sandborn, Ken Baker and Bob Michau.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Hooper's name to the Braman First Baptist Church, c/o Roberts Funeral Home, 120 West Padon, Blackwell, OK 74631.
Blanche L. Bookout, lifelong Ponca City resident, died Monday, Dec. 1, 1997, at her home. She was 66.
The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at the First Free Will Baptist Church with the Rev. David Bigger, pastor, officiating. He will be assisted by the Rev. Jack Adams, pastor, New Creation Church. Burial will follow in Ponca City Odd Fellows Cemetery under the direction of Trout Funeral Home.
Blanche L. (Lawson) Bookout was born July 22, 1931, in Ponca City, the daughter of A.G. and Florence (Gee) Lawson Sr. She attended Ponca City schools and had worked as a nurse's aide at Grandview Hospital and the Ponca City Nursing Home.
On Sept. 22, 1947, she was married to Vernus H. Bookout in Newkirk, and the couple made their home in Ponca City. Mrs. Bookout was a member of the New Creation Church. She enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren. Her hobbies include sewing, doll collecting and crafts.
Survivors include two sons, Buddy L. and Gary W., both of Ponca City; two daughters, Betty J. Hearne and Deborah L. Colwell, both of Ponca City; her mother, Florence Lawson of Ponca City; nine brothers and sisters; 19 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband on Aug. 13, 1992; one son, Allen R. Bookout; her father; and one sister.
Casket bearers will be Vernus Kendrick, Vinson Kendrick, Steven Hearne, Steven Bookout, Bill Pruett, and Jonathan Billingsley. Honorary bearers will be Michael Norris, Jim Hutchinson, and Jason Welch.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 North Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, OK 74601, or to the American Cancer Association, 2233 N.W. 39th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73139.
The family will be at the home, 725 North Pine Street.
LAMONT - Geraldine Prince, former Blackwell-Tonkawa resident, died as the result of a vehicle accident near Medford on Monday, Dec. 1, 1997. She was 59.
The funeral is set for 1:30 p.m. Thursday at the Lamont First Baptist Church with the Rev. John Sherrill officiating. A private burial service will be held in the Mt. Vernon Cemetery, south of Lamont, at a later date. Arrangements and cremation at Mrs. Prince's request were under the direction of Hills-Ely Funeral Home, Medford.
Geraldine (McConnell) Prince was born May 5, 1938, in Blackwell, the daughter of Homer Guy and Oralee (Hair) McConnell. She attended Blackwell schools and received her GED in Illinois.
She was married to Arthur Robert Prince on April 21, 1957, in Tonkawa. The family traveled with Mr. Prince's career in the U.S. Air Force to various locations in the U.S. and abroad. After his retirement in 1972, the family lived in Billings, Marland, Blackwell, Tonkawa and Lamont. Mrs. Prince was a member of the Freedom Baptist Church in Billings, and had been employed at the Medford Nursing Home in several capacities including nurses aide at the time of her death. She enjoyed camping, fishing, sewing, knitting, and crafts.
Survivors include two sons, Robert Guy of Arkansas City, Kan., and Donald Eugene of Lamont; three daughters, Jerie Jean Selty of Ponca City, Sherry Lynn Welch of Tonkawa, and Helen Marie Hawkins of Blackwell; three brothers, Garland Dean McConnell of Blackwell, and Donald Lee McConnell and Billy Ray McConnell Sr., both of Lamont; two sisters, Geneva Mae Belair of Blackwell and Doris Irene Prince of Lamont; 13 grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; and numerous other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur, on Jan. 8, 1996; her parents; three brothers, Homer Earl McConnell, Darwin Gene McConnell and Thomas Jefferson McConnell; three grandchildren; and a daughter-in-law.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. Prince's name to the Lamont First Baptist Church, c/o Hills-Ely Funeral Home, P.O. Box 280, Medford, OK 73759.
Jerry "Joe" Barnett, former Ponca City resident, died Friday evening, Nov. 28, 1997, at the Audie Murphy Memorial Veteran's Hospital in San Antonio, Texas. He was 55.
The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday at Trout Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Denny Hook, pastor of First United Methodist Church, officiating. Burial will be at Longwood Cemetery, where a military detachment from Fort Sill will provide military rites, and William C. Lickliter from Ponca Lodge 83 AF&AM will also conduct Masonic rites.
Jerry Joe Barnett was born Dec. 2, 1941, in Ponca City the son of LeRoy "Tiny" and Juanita Hope (Brewer) Barnett. He attended Ponca City schools and graduated from Oklahoma State University with a degree in animal husbandry. He participated in rodeos as a bull rider.
He was married to Janet Fay Martin on Sept. 22, 1962, and she preceded him in death on Dec. 21, 1967. Barnett entered the U.S. Army in 1965 and following his discharge in 1967, returned to Ponca City and joined his father as a barber at the Classic Barber Shop in the Community Building.
He was married to Karen Sue Redmond on Nov. 17, 1984, in Bandera, Texas, where, in 1985, the couple established their present home. Barnett worked as a valve technician for power plants, which involved extensive travel. His major hobby was raising and training homing pigeons.
Survivors include his wife Karen "K.C." Barnett of Bandera, Texas; one brother, Ted Barnett of Ponca City; one niece and three nephews. In addition to his first wife and parents, he was preceded in death by one sister and by an infant daughter.
Casket bearers will be Jack Hodges, Bill Bussey, Bobby Jack Williams, Carl Hilderbran, Ralph McReynolds, and Troy Anderson.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Barnett's name to the Texas Center Ladies Auxiliary Scholarship Fund, c/o Judy Kelley, 4540 South Horseshoe Trail, The Colony, TX 75056.
The family will be at 210 South Osage Street.
STILLWATER - Glen E. Welsh, former Blackwell resident, died Monday morning, Dec. 1, 1997, at Scottsdale Village Square in Scottsdale, Ariz. He was 92.
The funeral will be held graveside at Fairlawn Cemetery in Stillwater at 2 p.m. Thursday. Masonic graveside rites will be conducted by the Chikaskia Lodge No. 109 of Blackwell. Arrangements are under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home, Blackwell.
Glen E. Welsh was born March 6, 1905, in Franklin, Pa., the son of Charles and Ida Mae (Daniels) Welsh. As a young boy, he moved with his parents to Seminole, where he grew up. After his schooling he began employment in the oil fields as a roustabout, cable tool operator and pulling unit operator. Over the years he progressed to production and development superintendent. He retired from Carter Oil Company after 42 years of service.
During his working years he met and married Leora Blanche "Polly" Nixon. The couple moved to Scottsdale, Ariz. in July 1994. Welsh was a 32nd Degree Mason, and a member of the Eastern Star, White Shrine, Lodge of Research, Scottish Rite, and the Red Cross Constantine. He had also served several terms on the local school board at Bowlegs.
Survivors include his wife, Leora "Polly" Welsh of Scottsdale, Ariz.; one son-in-law; one sister-in-law; three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Jeannine Carol Welsh Banks, and his parents.
Geraldine Hinds, Ponca City resident, died early this morning, Dec. 3, 1997, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 86. Arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home.
TONKAWA - Leonard McGaha, former Tonkawa resident, died Tuesday evening, Dec. 2, 1997, at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kan. He was 89. Arrangements are pending with McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home, Tonkawa.
RALSTON - Lou Vena Hutchison, Ralston resident, died Tuesday, Dec. 2, 1997, at Tulsa Regional Medical Center in Tulsa. She was 64. Arrangements are pending with Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home, Fairfax.
Ann Howell, 1510 South Seventh Street, died early this morning, Dec. 3, 1997, at her home. She was 74. Survivors include her husband, Bill, of the home. Arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home.
Thursday
Harold W. Rowe - Funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. at Hackler Funeral Home Memory Chapel in Blackwell. Burial will be in the Blackwell Cemetery.
Saturday
Amy Vian Hadley - Funeral to be held at 10 a.m. in the Ponca City First Baptist Church Worship Center. Memorials may be made in Mrs. Hadley's name to the First Baptist Church, 218 South Sixth, Ponca City, OK 74601 or to the American Red Cross, 525 Monument Rd. Ponca City, OK 74604. Other arrangements will be announced later by Trout Funeral Home.
Laurence K. King - Memorial service to be held at 10 a.m. at the Quail Springs United Methodist Church, 14617 North Pennsylvania Street in Oklahoma City.
Memorial
Laurence King - Address correction: Memorial contributions for
Laurence King may be made to the Epworth Villa Benevolent Fund, 14901 North
Penn, No. 239, Oklahoma City, OK 73134 or to the American Heart Association,
3545 Northwest 58th Street Suite 400C, Oklahoma City, OK 73112.
NEWS BRIEFS
Square Dance - Chikaskia Valley Square Dance Christmas potluck dinner-dance will be Friday. Dinner will be at 6:30 p.m. at the VFW Ballroom, 2900 East Prospect. Turkey and ham will be provided and those attending are asked to bring two covered dishes of either vegetables, salads or desserts. Pre-rounds will begin at 7:30 p.m. with Bob Collyar as Cuer. Squares will be at 8 p.m. with Keith Stretch as caller.
Christmas Flea Market - The Ponca City Art Association Flea Market will be open Monday for Christmas shoppers looking for a unique or antique gift for that special person who has everything. Also available at great savings will be Christmas trimmings, toys, jewelry, decorative pillows, dishes, luggage, fabrics, flowers, baskets, cookie tins, kitchen items, tools, and thousands of other items too numerous to mention. In case of inclement weather, the sale will be postponed until later.
Marland Round-up Club Party Set - The Marland Round-up Club is announcing a change of date for their annual Christmas party. The party will be held on Sunday at 1 p.m. at the home of Charles and Karen Edmond. All members with their family and friends are invited to attend. The club will furnish Sloppy Joe's, and those attending are asked to bring finger foods to share. Between 2 and 3 p.m. Santa will appear and each family is to bring a gift for their child for the gift exchange. You'll come!
Vehicle Towed - The Communications Center received a report of an accident at the intersection of North Eleventh Street and East Chestnut Avenue at 8:05 a.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned, a report was taken, and one vehicle was towed from the scene.
Item Missing - A woman from the 700 block of South Sixth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:17 a.m. Tuesday that someone had stolen a turn signal lens off her car. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Vehicle Stolen - A man from the 400 block of East South Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 10:03 a.m. Tuesday that someone had stolen his vehicle Friday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Dryer Overheated - The Communications Center received a report at 11:23 a.m. Tuesday of a possible house fire in the 200 block of South Perry. Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department and three units of the Ponca City Fire Department responded and reported that a dryer had overheated.
Vehicle Burglarized - A woman from the 2000 block of John Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 1:01 p.m. Tuesday that her car had been broken into. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Subject Held - An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 300 block of West Hartford Avenue at 1:08 p.m. Tuesday that a 43-year-old woman was being held on a Kay County warrant.
Subject Held - An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of North Fourteenth Street and East Prospect Avenue at 3:44 p.m. Tuesday that a 19-year-old man was being held for possession of drug paraphernalia, having no insurance, failing to have a child wear a seat belt, and a Kay County warrant.
Accident - A vehicle accident in the parking lot of a business in the 300 block of East South Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 5:01 p.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Subject Injured - A vehicle accident at the intersection of East Central Avenue and South Fourteenth Street was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 5:05 p.m. Tuesday. Two officers were assigned and a request was made for an ambulance. A Ponca City Fire Department ambulance responded and took one subject to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center for treatment of injuries. A report was taken.
Larceny - An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 300 block of South Fourteenth Street at 5:01 p.m. Tuesday that a larceny report was taken.
Accident - A minor accident in the parking lot of a business in the 2400 block of North Fourteenth Street was reported to the Communications Center at 6:31 p.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken that a subject had been taken to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center for treatment of an injury.
Bicycle Stolen - A woman from the 700 block of East Albany Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:43 p.m. Tuesday that a bicycle had been stolen. An officer was assigned and information was logged.
Vehicle Recovered - The Communications Center received a 911 call from a person in the 1200 block of South Fifth Street at 10:58 p.m. Tuesday that his van had been stolen. An officer of the Ponca City Police Department was assigned and a report was taken. The vehicle was recovered at 12:29 a.m. Wednesday by White Eagle Police Department south of the Ponca City landfill and three people were in custody.
Subject Held - An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of North Elm Street and West Highland Avenue at 11:29 p.m. Tuesday that a 21-year-old female was being held for driving under suspension.
Subject Held - An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of West Hazel Avenue and North Osage Street at 1:26 a.m. Wednesday that a 43-year-old male was being held on a Kay County warrant for failure to return rental property.
Subject Held - The Communications Center received a 911 call at
3:28 a.m. Wednesday from a person in the 2700 block of Rice that a subject
was attempting to get into the front door. Two officers were assigned and
a 40-year-old man was held for violation of order and decree, and a report
was taken.
LIFESTYLES
Professionals Today, as a part of their Christmas service project, provided paper goods for Golden Villa at the last meeting in November. The meeting was held at Pioneer Technology and the members were guests for a Thanksgiving luncheon.
The program was given by member Sue Lunsford, who told how to "beat the holiday blues." She was introduced by Sandy James. Mrs. Lunsford is a licensed clinical social worker serving as employee assistance program counselor at Conoco. The business session was conducted by Debra Whitener, president.
The next meeting is set for noon Thursday at Pioneer Technology Center. This will be the last business meeting of 1997. Annually, the club provides Christmas presents for Bridgeway, and the last meeting in December is a ornament exchange held at a member's home.
Members signed an address book to present to Phyllis Worley, immediate past president, who is being promoted and transferred to Wichita with her employment. The club also bought a going away gift for Worley, under the direction of Ro Mayse, hospitality chairman.
Roses and raspberries were given by Ruth Capshaw and Welema Greer.
91st Birthday
Margaret McKinney was honored on her 91st birthday recently at a small get-together of family and friends at her home, hosted by her daughter, Jeralean McKinney. Refreshments, including a birthday cake, were served and the afternoon was spent visiting.
Social Event
A family and friends get-together was hosted during the Thanksgiving holiday by Irvin and Mary Lee Wright at their home in the Bressie community. Attending from Fort Hood, Texas were Russell (Dutch) Corwin and John Wiltz; from Newkirk, Jack and Isla Coffman; from Norman, Johnnie and Molly Jane Wright and from Claremore, Eula Don and Shari Don Freed. Attending from Ponca City were Irvin Leo Wright, Susan Lunn, Gordon Lunn Jr., Jack Lunn, April Dawn Lunn, Mary Lunn, Zane Lunn, E. A. and Mary Coffman, Robert, Sharon, Jill and Ashly Luis, Wilma Faust, Jonnie and Candala Coffman, Brooke Noble, Breanne and Landon and from Bressie, E. W. and Paula Wright.
Former classmates at Valley Center School, southeast of Billings, gathered recently in Perry for a reunion. Everett Cox of Ponca City and Mac Wall of Tonkawa began discussing a reunion after looking at a school photograph taken 60 years ago. The picture showed students at Valley Center from combined classes from Indianola and White Rock Valley schools. Nine Classmates attended the reunion with seven others unable to attend. Thirteen members are deceased.
Attending the Perry reunion were LaDonna (Tearney) Scott, Nila (Yost) Shobe and Ferol (Tobias) Mornhinweg, all of Perry; Joy (Long) LaForce and her husband from Enid; Mac Wall and his wife from Tonkawa, Don Drassen and Lucille (Pitts) Barnes from Enid; and Glen Smoot and his wife from Edmond; Annabell (Shearer) Williams and her husband from Moore and Everett Cox of Ponca City.
These people were part of a larger group pictured at the school in 1934
with teacher Anna Simmering Derrickson. The one-room school was used for
students of all ages and Cox told the News he and Wall worked for many
months to locate all of the classmates. Cox also said he had a 1931 photograph
showing some of the people also pictured in the 1934 photo.
SPORTS
By MATTHEW KOENIG
News Sports Writer
Despite winning the third quarter by a decisive 30-18 margin, the Ponca City Wildcat basketballers dropped their inaugural game of the season Tuesday night to the Redskins of Tulsa Union, 90-63.
After a three-point bucket to start the game, Tulsa Union never looked back. Behind the precision shooting of 5-9 guard Steve Geary, who led all scorers with 26 points, the Redskins leapt to a quick 21-13 lead in the first quarter.
That lead, however, became virtually insurmountable for the Cats, as the Redskins knocked down three straight 3-pointers to start the second quarter. By halftime, Tulsa had dug the Poncans a hole and held a commanding 47-21 lead.
But the Cats weren't about to be buried. A five point burst to start the third quarter, followed by a 10-0 run to finish it, and the Poncans sent notice to the Redskins' bench.
And the opposition seemed to respond. Opening the fourth quarter with 12 unanswered points, the Redskins reasserted themselves to streak away for the win.
As lopsided as the final score seems, however, the Wildcats were outscored in the second half by a scant 43-42 point margin.
To head coach Ron Arthur, that's a testimony to what he's preached since day one. "I've always tried to tell these kids that games are won and lost in the second half," he says.
The Wildcats exhibited moments of brilliance in the game, including strong play off the bench, a strong back court press, and 21-for-39 shooting from the field, but they also had 29 turnovers. The Redskins had just eight - three in the decisive first half.
"When you're playing up-tempo, you have to extend that to both ends of the floor," says Arthur. "You can't win with that many turnovers, and by the same token, we can't give up so many easy baskets."
On the night, junior point guard Tom Engle led the Cats with 16 points, including a pair of three's in the first half. Arthur was impressed. "We put him on their best shooter (Geary) and he did an excellent job. He played great defense, he's not afraid to get on the floor."
Senior Alfred Delancy followed up Engle with ten points, most of those coming from inside - an unenviable position against the Redskins. Delancy also led the team in rebounds, with six, and had two blocks.
Senior Micha Alexander also had a good game, scoring eight, six of those coming off a pair of 3-pointers to contribute to the Cats' third quarter run.
Rounding out the Cats' scoring were Kris Shores with seven, Jason Shelton with six, while Scott Larrison and Ryan Treadway both added four. Also, Wes Swygert and Paul Broome both had three, while sophomore Blake Geubelle added two.
The 0-1 Cats next take on Stillwater, Friday, at home.
"This one's behind us," said Arthur, "we gotta get ready for Friday."
By MATTHEW KOENIG
News Sports Writer
Ask Lady Cat head coach Dana Pulley what her team needs to improve on most after Tuesday's season-opening, 48-38 loss to Tulsa Union, and the answer is simple.
Shooting.
The Lady Cats shot just 13-of-55, for 23.6 percent from the field. "I think the pressure bothered them," says Pulley, "first game jitters. They were rushing their game and weren't taking the easy shot."
After a slow start for the Poncans in the first quarter, which saw the Lady Redskins go on top by seven, the Lady Cats put on a 6-0 burst to end the second and were down by just two, 16-18, at halftime.
But weak shooting by the Lady Cats to open the second half gave Tulsa Union the edge, and the Redskins went on a 20-4 tear. Though the Lady Cats closed that gap to just 11 in the fourth, they could never get any closer.
"I looked out there and we looked tired at times," says Pulley, "we forced too many shots, we were hesitant on offense. And when you get down, you get flustered."
On a brighter note, Pulley's pressing style paid dividends for the Lady Cats, who posted 24 steals and gave the ball up a respectable 16 times. The Lady Cats were also good from the free-throw line, hitting 11-of-16.
But the dearth of buckets, combined with the Lady Redskins' 40 percent shooting, killed the Lady Cats. For the Redskins, Andera Parker and Lauren Rector had phenomenal games, combining for 9-of-11 shooting.
Still, Pulley knows that the shot-selection and accuracy will come with time, and chooses to emphasize her team's hustle and aggressiveness over the Lady Redskins.
"It's not something to worry about (the shooting)," she says, "we would've won if our shooting was there."
Pacing the Lady Cats with ten points was senior Julie Schiltz, followed by Lesley Schieber with seven. Natasha Anderson, Tia Williams, Keesha West, and AlanaSmith had four apiece.
Pulley was especially impressed with the sophomore Smith, who came off the bench and exhibited strong defensive potential en route to posting three steals, a pair of rebounds and created a number of turnovers.
The Lady Cats next go into action against Stillwater at home Friday.
By FRED HILTON
News Sports Editor
NEWKIRK - Newkirk wrestling coach Gene Bennett says his No. 5 ranked Tigers will be a pretty good tournament team. But he is concerned, with the lack of entries in the upper weights, how they will fare in dual meets.
Some of his concerns were dispelled Tuesday as the Tigers pinned the Ponca City JVs 54-18.
Ponca City JV coach Jimmy Sharon has just the reverse problem as Bennett. The Wildcats are thin in the lower weights. The Cats had to give two forfeits, at 103 and 112 pounds, to start the dual. Newkirk gave one back at heavyweight.
But in between the Tigers collected six falls in the 10 matches that were wrestled.
The superior experience of the Newkirk grapplers showed through. The Tigers return two state placers, 112-pounder Travis Odell (3rd) and 171-pounder Jeff Schieber (2nd). Newkirk also has four more state qualifiers back in the lineup and another four grapplers who were starters on the varsity team last year.
Following the two opening forfeits, Newkirk added to the score when Cody Oestmann collected a pin at 119 pounds.
Brandon Weant topped Wildcat Jacob Bailey, 8-2, at 123 before Ponca City got on the scoreboard.
Clint Stafford gave the Poncans an exciting 8-7 win over Ben Vap at 130 pounds, getting a takedown with 17 seconds left to pull out the win.
But, Newkirk then scored three straight falls, by Jake Leven at 135, Cody Jones at 140 and Russell Schieber at 145, to take control of the dual.
Brady Burke needed a third period rally to down Ponca City's Michael Osborn, 8-2, at 152.
Then Kyle Duren gave the Wildcats their only pin of the dual at 160 pounds, flattening his foe in 1:12.
Jeff Schieber gave Newkirk another fall at 171 before Jeremy Levitt gave Ponca City its final decision, at 189. Levitt got a reverse and a takedown in the final period to nose out Leo Ring, 9-7.
Newkirk's Dustin Mills got the Tigers' final fall at 215 pounds. Ponca's Steve Bogadi received a forfeit at 275.
The Ponca City JVs join the varsity season opener with a dual at Owasso Thursday. They are scheduled to take part in the Del City Tournament Friday and the Winfield Tournament Saturday.
Bennett's Tigers find out more about their dual strength as they host Enid Friday, take part in the Ark City Tournament Saturday and face Perry and Blackwell in duals next week.
RESULTS
Newkirk 54. Ponca City JV 18
103 - Parker (N) fft.
112 - Odell (N) fft.
119 - Oestmann (N) p. Sharon, 5:43
123 - Weant (N) d. Bailey, 8-2
130 - Stafford (PC) d. Vap, 8-7
135 - Leven (N) p. Steichen, 1:32
140 - Jones (N) p. Schmauch, :46
145 - Schieber (N) p. Empting, 3:33
152 - Burke (N) d. Osborn, 8-2
160 - Duren (PC) p. Oldfield, 1:12
171 - Schieber (N) p. Vincent, 1:24
189 - Leavitt (PC) d. Ring, 9-7
215 - Mills (N) p. Neuerbard, 1:19
275 - Bogadi (PC) fft.
BILLINGS - Dee Buxton poured through 31 points, had 13 rebounds and seven assists as Frontier pulled away from Billings, 80-53, for the Mustangs fifth straight win Tuesday.
Billings stayed close in the first half and trailed just 36-32 at the break. But Frontier went on a 21-8 spree in the third period.
Boydd Romero and Albert Plumley each had 11 points to join Buxton in double figures for the Mustangs. Ronnie Bible had six points and 15 rebounds. Rupp and Dolezal each had 12 points for Billings.
The Frontier girls forged in front early and stayed there to win 61-43. The Lady Mustangs led 32-21 at halftime.
Carolee Bible had 20 points for Frontier while Stephanie Romero scored 17 and Denise Jake 13.
Katie Reins and Brooks Hutton scored 12 and 11 points, respectively, for Billings.
Frontier will be at home Friday against Shidler, starting at 6:30.
The Wildcat JV dropped their first game of the season Tuesday, falling to the Tulsa Union JV, 54-46.
After taking a commanding 27-19 lead in the first half, the Cats were bombed 35-19 in the second to suffer the loss. The Redskins' Michael Johnson launched the assault with seven second half points, and finished with 13 to lead all scorers.
Leading the charge for the Cats was Nathan Zimmerman, who finished with 11. Jeremiah Payne followed with seven, Brian Connelly had five, while Barry Geheb, Jeff Furnas, and Michael Galbraith each had four. Justin Ross, Barry Chance, and Paul Broome each had three, Blake Geubelle added two, and Craig Thulsted had one.
The Wildcat JV is set to take on Stillwater Friday, at home.
PONCA CITY POWER SKIER Kyle Trotter shows one of the tricks that placed him fourth in the world in the freestyle competition at Arizona this fall. Trotter, who qualified for the world competition by winning a five-state regional championship, will be featured on the Oklahoma Traveler portion of the Channel 6 news this evening. Trotter had to finish first in three qualifiers to reach in the world championhiops where he competed against 17 other contestants from eight countries. Trotter also finshed third in the Region V racing competition.
By FRED HILTON
News Sports Editor
It's an ugly fish and a nuisance to most area anglers. But there are spots in Oklahoma where fishermen line the banks in the hundreds to snag paddle fish.
This prehistoric fish use to roam the Arkansas River from its confluence with the Mississippi to Kansas. But a series of dams along the Arkansas has severely diminished the fish's habitat in the past few years.
The Oklahoma Wildlife Department and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are trying to get the plant-eating fish restored in the river.
A U. S. Fish and Wildlife team, headed by Bob Pitman of the Tishomingo office, is on Kaw Lake this week trying to determine how well that restoration effort is going.
Pitman, along with Brent Bristow of Tishomingo, Ken Collins of Tulsa and Cliff Slessinger of Arizona, braved the cold and drizzling rain to set nets near the Kaw City Bridge over Kaw take to try to estimate the growth of paddle fish in the lake.
Approximately 70,000 paddle fish were stocked above the dam in Kaw Lake from 1991 to 1996. The first screening for the fish last year looked promising. Now official are trying to determine if the stocking continues to succeed.
Under less than ideal conditions Tuesday, Pitman's team netted a couple of paddle fish in then 25-35 pound range. They are sure there are bigger ones in the lake.
"We netted one 50-pounder last year," Bristow said. "There should be some 60 to 70-pounders in here now."
The team plans on being here for a couple of more days trying to get a read on how the fish is doing.
Anecdotal evidence indicates they are doing fine.
Pictures of paddle fish catches have found their way to the walls of bait and tackle shops around the lake. Pitman also said that Kansas officials have found evidence of paddle fish being caught in parts of Kansas, although snagging paddle fish is illegal in that state.
"We are just trying to get the population back to where it will sustain it self," Pitman said. "Then Kansas officials will open the fish to snagging again on a limited basis."
Since paddle fish strain small plants as food, Pitman said they are no danger to other species in Kaw Lake or in the Arkansas.
Although there is already a good population of paddle fish above Keystone dam, Pitman said the stocking in Kaw Lake will also help that area.
"Some of the smaller fish will go over Kaw dam and help popular
the river below the dam." he said. "So we hope to have paddle
fish growing in both directions."