From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Tuesday, December
16, 1997
LOCAL
State Transportation Secretary Details Highway Projects in Area
Nearly News
IOOF Lodge Appeals Ruling To Deny Sale of Cemetery
Heart-Shaped Wreath Offered
Otoe Eloska Sets Christmas Dance
DEATHS
Edmond L. Wilson
Bob J. Bowen
Wanda Long Brown
Emma Christine Wedel
Vivian Lanquist
Obituaries
Jessie Robbins Lear
Services Pending
Florene Burge
Ransom G. Robbins
Earl S. Howe Sr.
NEWS BRIEFS
BUSINESS
Energizing of Local Economies Involves Community Partnering
Marco, Mertz Combining To Build Fire Equipment
Tribal Council Training Sessions To Be in January
Mertz Character First Program Honors Positive Worker Traits
Marland Award Presented To State Regulator
LIFESTYLES
Noble County FCE Announces New Officers and Award Winners
Jean Keeler Ombudsman Area 'Volunteer of the Year'
Xi Gamma Sigma Chapter Plans Social Events
Little News
Chapter Holds Meeting
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Business Editor
Neal McCaleb, Oklahoma Department of Transportation secretary, highlighted the improvements of U.S. Highway 177 and other area projects at a luncheon meeting here Monday.
About 80 people from Kay County attended the meeting sponsored by the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce. The welcome was given by Chamber Chairman Larry Felix. In addition to Ponca Citians, representatives from Newkirk, Blackwell and Tonkawa were on hand to hear the top ODOT official.
U.S. 177
McCaleb, a popular speaker with a working knowledge of the highway systems in Oklahoma, told about the progress on 177, noting that it was a "super two" with broad shoulders. He also indicated the culverts are being extended, shoulders widened and resurfacing applied. He said eventually the road could be four-laned. Although there is no funding for the project at this time, he said ideally the second phase is where this would happen.
He said contracts of about $7 million have been let for 177 from the Salt Fork Bridge south to the Cimarron Turnpike. He said contractors are extending the drainage structures to allow extending the shoulders eight feet on each side and have already resurfaced the center section.
About $3.5 million was spent rebuilding the bridge at Red Rock Creek parallel to the old structure. McCaleb said the right-of-way has been maintained so that when the funds are available to four-lane, a parallel structure can be built. The same process was used at the Salt Fork Bridge.
The work connecting the new highway south of the Ponca City to the next three miles is expected to be under contract soon. McCaleb said, "ODOT is cleaning up a few right-of-way problems in the area, some of it is really a lot of legal 'i' dotting and 't' crossing at this point in relationship to the acquisition of the land that is owned by the Ponca Tribe. I think we have an agreement in principle of that and we're just waiting for the U.S. attorney to tell us how to go about doing that. It is fairly complex."
McCaleb said, "Once that right-of-way is acquired we're positioned to let that next three miles. We'll put it under contract immediately. We'll do it in phases. We'll build a parallel lane to the existing structure, keep the traffic on old 177 where it is right now. When the road is completed we'll move it over to the new road, tear up the old two lanes and reconstruct it."
The ODOT official said that the drainage problems must be cleaned up in the area. He said the road has been sinking because of the drainage. There will still be two lanes to drive on instead of traffic being detoured during the construction. The road will have two 12-foot lanes and eight foot shoulders on each side.
ODOT Program
"The big news in the state is the $1 billion highway program," McCaleb said. He said that as a result of the effort of Sen. Paul Muegge and Rep. Jim Newport and others in the legislature came together around Gov. Keatings' program of a major capital expenditure for roads across the state in order to stimulate economic expansion.
U.S. 77
He said the theory is that by improving the infrastructure system, the state will be more competitive. Tying the state together from the outlying communities to the metropolitan ares will make Oklahoma a competing marketing unit instead of 77 different counties that are competing in a world market.
During the question and answer session, Newkirk area residents asked about the possible refurbishing of U.S. 77 north from Ponca City to Newkirk and from Newkirk to the Kansas state line.
Teresa Engle, Kay County assessor, said that U.S. 77 is the direct corridor to U.S. 177 and the Cimarron Turnpike and a large number of trucks travel the route daily.
Jim Holt, retired state representative, told of the large number of Kansas tagged cars that can be seen daily in Ponca City business parking lots. He pointed out improving the road would be a boost for the economic growth of the area.
McCaleb said the improvement of 77 is not on the five-year plan, but advised the group to get its information together as to the traffic count, out-of-state traffic and other factors and make a report to ODOT. He said then a needs assessment could be made and perhaps it will be placed in future plans.
Felix said that Stuart Powell is chairman of the Infrastructure of the Chamber and this will definitely be a project.
U.S. 60
Responding to questions if there were any plans for improving U.S. Highway 60 east of Ponca City, McCaleb said the highway was in pretty good condition, but indicated there might be a possibility of some work immediately east of the Arkansas River Bridge.
He commented that where Highway 60 needs work most critically is from Pawhuska to Bartlesville and from Bartlesville to Nowata.
SH 11 & I-35
About the information center and improvement of the Interchange at State Highway 11 and Interstate 35, McCaleb says there are no funds at this time for improving the interchange. The configuration needs changing for safety and also a four-lane bridge over I-35 will be necessary.
On moving the center, McCaleb said ODOT owns some property at the intersection and it could be available. He said that a citizens group in the area is in favor of combining the rest stop, now located two miles north of the interchange, and a new visitors center.
McCaleb said ODOT favors keeping the rest stop, too, because it already has parking facilities for large trucks and parking of this magnitude would be expensive to add to a new visitors center.
City Projects
About projects that are not on the highway system, ODOT has set aside $1.6 million for the Fifth Street project. Twenty percent was local money and 80 percent was discretionary funds. This came under the surface transportation program.
McCaleb announced that the Union Street project is about to be let, which is to be about $2 million. He said in the last three years about $17 million has been expended in the area including the next three miles of four-laning of 177, from where it ends now at the south side of town to where it connects to the Salt Fork project is about $7 million. The four-laning from 60 south was about $6.5 million.
Return of Federal Funds
McCaleb talked about the reauthorization of the national highway building program and the possibility of Oklahoma getting more of its funds returned. Currently Oklahoma is a donor state.
Sen. Jim Inhofe, who was here Monday, talked about the reauthorization bill and efforts he is making to have more of the funds returned to Oklahoma.
Senator Jim Inhofe had high praise and enthusiastically endorsed the Great Expectations Program after attending the Woodlands School Assembly Monday Morning. Inhofe then attended the Friends of Education Meeting and said that he was more excited about the program than anything he had seen in 100s of schools he had visited over the years.
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Fred Taylor, owner of Photo Pro, has taken the meaning of "buttering up" to a whole new level. After being admonished by a photographer at The News for the lack of butterscotch candy in the hard candy courtesy basket at the photo lab, Taylor filled a basket with butterscotch candies and personalized the basket for reporter Louise Abercrombie.
NEWKIRK - The Ponca City Odd Fellows Lodge's attempt to sell its century-old cemetery entered a new arena Monday, with county commissioners seated at a judge's bench and a court reporter taking sworn statements.
The local Independent Order of Odd Fellows lodge is appealing the county board's decision a month ago to deny the proposed sale of the cemetery to the Loewen Group International.
Loewen has offered $700,000 to buy the undeveloped land now owned by the Odd Fellows lodge. The sale would not affect cemetery lots previously purchased by individuals or families, whether or not the lots are currently empty.
Opponents of the sale have argued that large corporations have targeted the cemetery industry as a way to prey on a gullible public.
Assistant District Attorney Chuck Bloeser said the commissioners are "striving for a fair process" for what appears to be the first time a 40-year-old state statute governing such sales has been followed.
The commissioners "are in uncharted territory," Bloeser said, and they now have 60 days to investigate the corporation and the contract to make a final decision.
News of the proposed sale last July - with the threat of the cemetery's operations changing from a non-profit fraternal organization to an private international corporation - stirred up several business people and residents in Ponca City.
In Monday's hearing, the local lodge's attorney, C.D. Northcutt of Ponca City, called on lodge secretary John Miner to refute opponents' accusations that individual lodge members would gain financially from the sale.
Miner, who also serves on the cemetery's board of directors, said the Odd Fellows were offered no enticements beyond the $700,000 proposed by Loewen.
Miner said the Odd Fellows lodge "cannot touch the money" that would be produced from the sale because the organization must stay non-profit.
He said the lodge wants to use the interest earned from the sale price to enhance its role in the community, such as by providing scholarships and helping community groups such as the Opportunity Center and Hospice.
Northcutt, who also called on Loewen representatives, told the commissioners that Loewen is "eminently qualified" to take over the cemetery because the corporation owns more than 500 cemeteries "and they do good work."
When the commissioners offered comments from the audience, Steve Huston, owner of a Ponca City funeral home and two local cemeteries, told the commissioners he was approached seven years ago by the Loewen Group but he turned down the offer.
He preferred to be a small-town funeral director, providing high quality and keeping costs down, he said.
Opponents to the sale provided each commissioner with literature describing a trend by big business to take over cemeteries.
The state statute limits the county commissioners to approve or disapprove the sale based on Loewen's financial standing and character, qualifications and experience, along with the adequacy of the company's initial investment ($700,000) and the cemetery's perpetual-care fund (protected by state law).
A drawing for a one-of-a-kind wreath has been set for Tuesday, Dec. 23 at 3 p.m. in the lobby of St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. With a $1 donation, individuals may enter their name in the drawing. All proceeds will go to benefit the Community Clinic through the St. Joseph Medical Foundation.
The heart-shaped wreath features a nativity scene in the center, surrounded by dark blue material, greenery and iridescent decorations. The wreath is currently on display in the SJRMC Lobby. Volunteers at the Information Desk will accept donations Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. until the drawing on Dec. 23. There is no limit on the number of times an individual may enter the drawing, and you do not have to be present to win.
"This is a wonderful opportunity not only to win a lovely Christmas decoration, but also to support a worthy organization such as the Community Clinic," said Sr. Mary Kay Liston, CSF, vice president, Mission Services at SJRMC.
For more information, contact Irene Ackerson, director of the St. Joseph Medical Foundation, at 765-0509.
The Annual Christmas Dance, hosted by the Otoe Eloska War Dance Society, will be Saturday at the Otoe Cultural Building in Red Rock, according to Ron Plumley, spokesperson for the tribe.
Eloska Tail dancing is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m., followed at 5 p.m. by supper and the appearance of Santa Claus with candy and toys for the children and the elderly at 6 p.m.
Inter-Tribal War Dancing will begin at 7 p.m. Arts and crafts will also
be available throughout the day. Please bring your own dishes and chairs.
DEATHS
Edmond L. Wilson, Ponca City, died Sunday, Dec. 14, 1997, at St. Johns Medical Center in Tulsa. He was 74.
The funeral will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Miles Funeral Service chapel in Winfield, Kan. Burial will be at 2 p.m. at the Walnut Valley Memorial Park in El Dorado, Kan. Friends may visit at the funeral home until 9 p.m. today.
Edmond L. Wilson was born Sept. 21, 1923 on a farm near Rock, Kan. He was one of 10 children born to Robert Allen and Lela Grace (Falkingham) Wilson. He grew up in the Rock Community, receiving his education at Green Valley Rural School. As a young man, he was employed at the grain elevator at Douglass, Kan.
He was united in marriage to Betty J. Lewis on Nov. 6, 1943 at the Douglass (Kan.) Congregational Church. During World War II he served in the U.S. Army as an infantryman in the South Pacific Theater and during the occupation of Japan.
Following his discharge he returned to Kansas and began employment with the El Dorado Oil Refinery. He was also self-employed in farming and custom hay work for many years. During that time the couple resided in El Dorado, Latham, Atlanta, and Burden, Kan. He retired from the refinery at El Dorado following 39 years of service. The couple then moved to Texas, next to Grove, Okla., and in 1995 to Ponca City. He enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren, woodworking, playing pool and visiting with friends and neighbors.
Survivors include his wife, Betty, of the Ponca City home; two sons, Allen of Odessa, Texas, and Jerry of Oxford, Kan.; two daughters, Linda Willard of Burden, Kan., and Velda Smalley of Oxford, Kan.; five sisters, Stella Brill of Udall, Kan., Mary Etta Pruitt and Emma Twibel, both of El Dorado, Grace Morgan of Atlanta, Kan., and Edith Spencer of Rock, Kan.; seven grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Frank, Fred and Johnny Wilson; and an infant sister, Edna Wilson.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Wilson's name to the Atlanta First Responders or to Ponca City Emergency Medical Service (EMS) c/o Miles Funeral Service, P.O. Box 720, Winfield, KS 67156.
Bob J. Bowen, longtime resident of Ponca City, died Friday morning, Dec. 12, 1997, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 70.
The funeral was to be held at 2 p.m. today, Dec. 16, at St. Luke's Church of the Nazarene with William Bonee, pastor, presiding. Burial was to be in Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.
Bob J. Bowen was born March 25, 1927, at Wynona, the son of J. Clarence and Edna L. (Ford) Bowen. While growing up he worked on a ranch near Pawhuska and was involved in rodeo. After graduation from Pawhuska High School he enlisted in the U.S. Navy Air Corps, serving in the Pacific Theater during World War II.
He was married to Virginia M. Mahnke on Feb. 7, 1970 in Pawhuska. Bowen had owned and operated the B.J. Furniture Store in Ponca City for nine years and also the B.J. Janitorial Services for 26 years. He was a member of St. Luke's Church of the Nazarene and the American Quarter Horse Association. He enjoyed working with horses.
Survivors include his wife, Virginia, of the home; four daughters, Sarah Jo Griffin of Old Ocean, Texas, Bonnie Alexander of Houston, Texas, Bobbie Joe Smith of Skiatook, and Mona Jo Wright of Tulsa; three stepchildren, Vicki Lessert, Kathy Northcutt and Ron T. Colberg, all of Ponca City; one sister, Mary Joleen Bishop of California; one brother, Wayne Bowen, Ponca City; 16 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; one nephew and three nieces. He was preceded in death by one son, Ron Lockhart; his parents; and one grandson.
Casket bearers were Chris Yazzo, Merle Fredricks, Brian Gates, Everett Gayton and Dennis Malaska. Honorary bearers were grandsons, Rusty Griffin, Jay Lessert, Keith Lessert, Michael Lindsay, Paul Northcutt, Luke Northcutt, Walter Northcutt, Chad Colberg, Jeremy Colberg, Stephen Wright, Donnie Lockhart and Charlie Morrison.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Bowen's name to the St. Luke's Church of the Nazarene, 1715 East Prospect, Ponca City, OK 74604.
The family will be at 801 East Grand Avenue.
SULPHUR, La. - Wanda Melita (Davis) Long Brown, former longtime Ponca City resident, died Sunday, Dec. 14, 1997, in Sulphur. She was 84.
A memorial service is set for 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 20 at Sunset Baptist Church in Ponca City. Arrangements in Sulphur were under the direction of Sulphur-Memorial Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Maramec (Okla.) Cemetery.
Wanda Melita (Davis) Long Brown was born in Maramec, in 1913, the daughter of Will P. and Bonnie (Creed) Davis. She graduated from Quay High School and attended Oklahoma A&M College at Stillwater.
She was married to Garland H. Long in 1937, and the couple made their home in the Pleasant View Community. Mr. Long preceded her in death.
She married William R. Brown on Dec. 19, 1954, and the couple made their first home in Maplewood, La. They moved to Ponca City in 1973. Mrs. Brown was a member of the Sunset Baptist Church and the International Club while living in Ponca City. Mr. Brown preceded her in death in February 1974 and she moved to Sulphur, La., in about 1977. She was a charter member of the Houston River Baptist Church. She enjoyed traveling and painting.
Survivors include two sons, Terry Long of Sulphur, La. and James G. Long of Korea; one daughter, LaDonna Ogden of San Antonio, Texas; one brother Elden Davis of Oklahoma City; two sisters, Wilma Milburn and Darlene Hicks, both of Tucson, Ariz.; five grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by both husbands and her parents.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. Brown's name to the American Heart Association First National Bank and Trust, Box 1151, Ponca City, OK 74602.
BLACKWELL - Emma Christine "Chris" Wedel, Blackwell resident, died early Monday morning, Dec. 15, 1997 at her home. She was 59.
The funeral is set for 10 a.m. Wednesday at the Roberts Funeral Home Chapel in Blackwell. The Revs. Harvey and Mildred Fix of Bethel Tabernacle of Ponca City and the Rev. Melvin Parker of The Church in Ponca City will officiate. Burial will be in the Blackwell Cemetery.
Emma Christine "Chris" (Apperson) Wedel was born Aug. 30, 1938 in Cushing to Edward Von and Anna Paradine (Brown) Apperson. She grew up and attended schools in Cushing. After her schooling she moved to Wichita, Kan., where she was employed as a secretary. She later returned to Cushing.
She was married to Lester A. Wedel in Cushing and the couple made their home in Wichita for 19 years. They moved to Blackwell in 1984. Mrs. Wedel was a member of the Pentecostal faith.
Survivors include her husband, Lester, of the home in Blackwell; two daughters, Sherry Wedel of Topeka, Kan., and Rebecca Wedel of Blackwell; one son, Lester A. Wedel Jr. of Wichita, Kan.; three brothers, Al Apperson of Stillwater, Bill Apperson of Ponca City, and Ed Apperson of Blackwell; and six grandchildren. She was preceded in death by an infant son, Ronald Carl Day; and her parents.
Casket bearers will be Bill Apperson, Billy Rider, David Rider and Harold Smith.
Memorial contributions may be made to Bethel Tabernacle Church, c/o Roberts and Son Funeral Home, 120 W. Padon, Blackwell, OK 74631.
YUKON - Vivian (Miles) Lanquist, former Ponca City resident, died at her home in Yukon Sunday, Dec. 14, 1997. She was 77.
The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, at the Chisholm Trail Presbyterian Church in Yukon. Burial will be in the Yukon Cemetery under the direction of Smith and Turner Funeral Home.
Vivian (Miles) Lanquist was born June 22, 1920 in Garber, the daughter of Kenneth and Gladys Miles. She graduated from Ponca City High School in 1938.
She was married to Donald Lanquist Sr. in 1946, and the couple made their home in Ponca City. They moved to Yukon in 1960. Mrs. Lanquist was a member of the Chisholm Trail Presbyterian Church. She enjoyed sewing, homemaking and caring for her Shelties.
Survivors include a daughter, Joeda Lanquist, a son Donald Lanquist Jr., and three grandchildren, all of Yukon; two brothers, Kenneth J. Miles of Ponca City and Bob Miles of Tulsa; and one sister, Martha Morgan of Norman. She was preceded in death by her husband in February 1985, and her parents.
Jessie Robbins Lear, Ponca City resident, died Saturday afternoon, Dec. 13, 1997, at the Shawn Manor Nursing Home. She was 82.
The funeral was held Dec. 15, 1997, at St. Luke's Church of the Nazarene with William Bonee, pastor, officiating. Burial was at the Ponca City IOOF Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.
Jessie Robbins Lear was born Oct. 8, 1915, in Tulsa, the daughter of Joseph Edward and Julia May (Giles) Robbins. Mrs. Lear was a member of St. Luke's Church of the Nazarene. Her main interest was working at the church.
Survivors include one step-daughter, Roxie Schrader of Ponca City; one brother, Frank Robbins of Sulphur, La.; three nephews, Gary Robbins of Sulphur, La., Bill Robbins of Marland, and Stuart Robbins of Houston, Texas; four nieces, Jolene Hutchison of Red Rock, Thelma Bennett of Ponca City, Judy Cooper of Arkansas City, Kan., and Janie Jones of Arizona; She was preceded in death by her husband, Leland Lear in May 1979; three brothers, Daniel, Nathan and Joseph Robbins; and her parents.
Casket bearers were Gary Robbins, Richard Williams, Roy Bennett, Joe Robbins, Chuck Robbins and Bobby Robbins.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. Lear's name to the St. Luke's Church of The Nazarene, 1715 East Prospect, Ponca City, OK 74604.
paid obituary
Florene Burge, former Ponca City area resident, died Sunday, Dec. 14, 1997, at her home in Santa Monica, Calif. She was 83. Local survivors include a brother Richard Burge and a sister, Helen Burge. Local arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home.
Ransom G. "Robbie" Robbins, Ponca City resident, died Monday afternoon, Dec. 15, 1997, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 84. Survivors include his wife, Rita of the home, 1405 Reveille Drive. Arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home.
Earl Sandford Howe Sr., longtime Ponca City area resident, died Tuesday
morning, Dec. 16, 1997, at his home. He was 71. Prayer services are 7 p.m.
tonight, Wednesday and Thursday night at Ponca Indian Baptist Church, White
Eagle. Arrangements are pending with Grace Memorial Chapel.
NEWS BRIEFS
Burglary - At 7:15 a.m. Monday Braden Meat Packing Company, 1025 North Waverly Street, reported a burglary. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Accident - A vehicular accident was reported to police at 7:55 a.m. Monday at England Avenue and South Seventh Street. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Burglary - A burglary at the Caboose Thrift Shop, 118 South First Street, was reported to police at 7:59 a.m. Monday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Lost Mower - At 8:23 p.m. a man reported that an "old mower" was in the middle of the street in the 1300 block of West Otoe Avenue. The owner was located and the mower was returned.
Accident - A vehicular accident at East Comanche Avenue and North Fourth Street was reported to police at 8:53 a.m. Monday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Theft - At 9:55 a.m. Monday a man in the 300 block of South Birch Street reported to police that a saw had been stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Money Stolen - A woman in the 2000 block of Turner Street reported the theft of money to police at 10:49 a.m. Monday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Shoplifting - An employee of Citgo, 320 West Grand Avenue, reported to police at 12:15 p.m. Monday that a juvenile boy had been caught shoplifting and ran from the store. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Burglary - At 1:55 p.m. Monday a person in the 2700 block of North Fifth Street reported a burglary at the residence. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Accident - A non-injury vehicular accident in the 500 block of South Ninth Street was reported to police at 2:53 p.m. Monday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Vehicle Vandalized - At 3:42 p.m. a woman reported vandalism to a vehicle while parked in the 2100 block of North Ash Street. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Assault - At 4:03 p.m. Monday a man in the 800 block of North Lake Street reported an assault of a 12-year-old that allegedly occurred at Liberty School. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Grass Fire - At 4:07 p.m. Monday the McCord Volunteer Fire Department responded to a grass fire near the 4000 block of east U.S. 60.
Recovered Checkbook - At 5:17 p.m. Monday a billfold and checkbook were found in the parking lot of the Woodlands Christian Church, North Fourteenth Street and East Hartford Avenue, and taken to the police station.
False Alarm - All Ponca City Fire Department stations responded to an alarm at the Ponca City Library at 5:30 p.m. Monday. The alarm was reportedly set off by a juvenile, and there was no fire.
Accident - A two-vehicle minor-injury accident in the 2700 block of North Fourteenth Street was reported to police at 5:35 p.m. Monday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Arrest - Police arrested a 32-year-old man from the 1300 block of North Oak Street at 5:41 p.m. Monday for domestic assault and battery.
Pranks - Police received a report at 5:52 p.m. Monday that kids were on the roof of the Drug Warehouse, 2214 North Fourteen Street, throwing eggs at vehicles. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Arrest - At 6:55 p.m. Monday police arrested a 43-year-old man from North Fifth Street and East Highland Avenue for speeding, no seat belt, driving under the influence and driving under restriction.
Altercation - Police received a report at 8:20 p.m. Monday of a fight in the 1000 block of North Sunset Street. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Accident - A minor vehicular accident at North Seventh Street and Young Avenue was reported to police at 8:29 p.m. Monday. An officer was assigned.
Arrest - Police arrested a 39-year-old man at 11:03 p.m. Monday from the 700 block of McFadden Drive on three city warrants for failure to pay, uttering forged instruments and violation of a protective order.
Arrest - At 1:58 a.m. Tuesday, a 39-year-old woman was arrested at West Grand Avenue and Waverly Street for driving under the influence, speeding and improper lane use.
Arrest - A 19-year-old man was arrested at 2:31 a.m. Tuesday from the 200 block of East Cleveland Avenue on two Kay County warrants for failure to pay.
Arrest - At 3:28 a.m. Tuesday a 51-year-old man was arrested from East Prospect Avenue and Snake Road on a Kay County warrant for bogus check.
Arrest - At 3:32 a.m. Tuesday a 20-year-old man was arrested at Park Avenue and North Union Street for driving under the influence, speeding, expired driver's license, left of center, on city warrants for failure to pay and a Kay County warrant for failure to appear.
Arrest - A 49-year-old man was arrested at 6:03 a.m. Tuesday from
Darr Park on three Kay County traffic warrants.
BUSINESS
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Business Editor
Approximately 40 area economic development leaders heard about "Energizing Your Local Economy" at a workshop conducted jointly Thursday by officials of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce and the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City.
The leaders were urged to engage in business development by "energizing your local economy by partnering with your community."
In addition to Ponca Citians, interested business and civic leaders and city officials from Blackwell, Newkirk and Tonkawa attended the workshop held at Pioneer Technology Center. The event followed the regular meeting of the Ponca City Economic Development Advisory Board.
Federal Reserve Speaker
Larry Meeker, vice president and community affairs officer of the Federal Reserve Bank, talked about the climate, financial tools, and conditions conducive to economic development. He told about the necessary partnering of the private and public sectors for the overall well being of the economy.
Meeker told about three types of project funding. In the area of private funding, he discussed equity, debt and secondary markets. In the arena of pubic/private funding and assistance, Meeker mentioned tax credits, rent supplements, tax abatements, interest rate subsidies, equity grants, loan guarantees, subordinated mortgages, technical assistance and linked fund. Loans and grants were sources named under public funding.
ODOC Building Blocks
Karla Graham, director of Business Development Division of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, told of the building blocks of economic growth. These included, leadership development, work force development, community infrastructure development, existing business development, entrepreneurial development and new business recruitment.
The four "C's" for creating a climate for business growth were listed as capital, communications, connections and consulting. Under capital the tools are lenders trained in development finance; financing for export transactions and access to venture capital.
Communications included local visitation programs, business needs surveys and appreciation programs. Connections included business-to-business associations, minority business development groups and main street/retail associations. Falling under the consulting category were financial analysis, permit and licensing and export development.
In the area of entrepreneurial development under capital local revolving loan funds, community based venture capital groups and low-interest funds for working capital were listed.
Communications for entrepreneurial development included mentoring and educational programs and business incubators. Minority business development groups, inventor associations and business to business associations made up the connections. Consulting involved product evaluation, market research and business planning.
Building blocks fueling business growth were assessing, planning, aligning and leveraging resources, creating new business, providing new services and evaluating.
Under related commerce services, using the four "C's" under capital were development finance curriculum, export finance program and capital consulting. Incubator establishment and certification, business visitation programs, business information and referral network, were listed under communications. Under connections were minority business development groups, inventor assistance program and women-owned business certification. Under consulting was business tax incentive training for licensed professionals and manufacturers incentive awareness initiative.
In addition to Graham, Gerald Hall ODOC economic development representative from Stillwater was present. The introduction was by Jan Jarrett, Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce and economic development executive.
What happens when you combine one of the leading firefighting apparatus manufacturers with 70 years of custom manufacturing experience?
Firefighters all over the world sleep a little easier.
That's exactly what's happening in Ponca City, as Marco Inc. - the manufacturer and designer of Firecracker Fire Suppression Systems and custom-built fire apparatus - has became a part of the custom vehicle manufacturing team at Mertz Inc. The merger of two proud traditions means both companies will build their benchmarks of manufacturing excellence and quality craftsmanship.
"With our self-contained skid units and our custom-built fast attack vehicles, we're going to create a new generation of firefighting equipment. We've got all of the pieces to the puzzle now," a Mertz spokesman said.
"Mertz tradition means the apparatus isn't just built - they're overbuilt. They're designed from the ground up using FOMOCO, GM and Mack chassis. And our custom-designed and manufactured bodies will continue to provide emergency services with apparatus that will survive the test of time."
Add Marco's firefighting technology, and you have quite a combination.
"The development of new firefighting technology is what makes the difference," the spokesman said. "The Marco Firecracker is a one-of-a-kind system, and the all new patented Compressed Air-Foam System, which will be introduced in 1998, is a one-of-a-kind system as well."
"The Firecracker and the Compressed Air Foam System are just a couple of examples of the Mertz Fire Apparatus Company's commitment to being the leader in firefighting technology."
The Mertz spokesperson said the company's dedication to manufacturing excellence will continue. "Just as we have for over 70 years, we'll stand behind everything we build - and stand behind it for a long, long time."
For more information on Mertz Fire Apparatus call (580) 762-5646.
SHIDLER - Community Hea-lth Promotion announces that upcoming Tribal Council Training sessions will be held on Saturdays in January. CHP is offering a special training series to provide an opportunity to enhance skills for Tribal Council members.
"Training is becoming increasingly important for tribal governments because of the changing nature of federal programs," said Dr. Joe Conner, co-director of CHP.
Specific training topics will include: The Legal Foundations of Tribal Governments, Making Effective Policy, Working as a Team, Getting Your Ideas Across, "Foreign Policy" (Building Working Relations With Other Governments).
All current Tribal Council members of Indian Tribes are encouraged to attend to enhance their skills as Tribal Council members. For more information call Gladys J. Haikey, Training Coordinator at (918) 793-7361.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Business Editor
A new employees' program entitled "Character First" has been instituted by Mertz Inc. The program, which is recognized as a new paradigm for personal growth, is an innovative program of recognition and character building.
Each month employees attend a session, which includes testimonials by supervisors who recognize their employees for certain qualities.
Fourteen employees were recently recognized for their positive character qualities and years of company service. Those recognized and years of service were, Ronnie Johnson, 10; Lee Garriott, 24; Charlie Ross, 6; Lee Leyva, 11; Karen Martin, 2, Dennis Wildman, 13; Jimmy Myers, 13; Kenny Boise, 2; Fred Kleinmann, 21; Jim Bullington, 18; Alan Pettigrew, 18, George Hunt, 27; Steve Sayers, 1, and Mike Fugate, 27.
These employees were each recognized for an individual quality that has contributed to the success of the company. For example, these qualities can range from diligence to dependability to reverence to dependability and a number other virtues.
The employees receive a note book that has information about qualities. Each month the employees receive pages with bulletins outlining definitions and examples. There are seven different categories. This include visionary, teacher, server, organizer, mediator, idealist and provider.
The employees are gathered at the different shifts to be recognized and to continue the Character Bulletin series. Company president Steve Ballinger spoke to the group at a recent session, telling them about the financial standings of the firm, the marked improvements made recently as a direct result of the employees' efforts.
A part of the series says that an employer is legally and morally responsible for the safety of the employee at work. Lack of self-control, carelessness, or immorality in one employee can affect others and subject them to violent outbursts, avoidable accidents or sexual harassment from the wrong attitudes and the resulting wrong behavior.
The Character First program goes on to say that by making character development a priority, the employer is attempting to correct wrong attitudes before they result in injury or damage.
The program notes that character motivates achievement, builds relationships, increases health and that building character is wise business.
SANTA FE - Don Basko, one of the leading advocates for the principles of the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission (IOGCC), was awarded the prestigious E.W. Marland Award recently at the organization's annual meeting in Santa Fe.
The Marland award recognizes an outstanding state regulator for contributions to furthering the organization's goals of conservation and efficient recovery of oil and natural gas, while protecting health and the environment.
Basko retired earlier this year as supervisor of the Wyoming Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, a position he held since 1969. Basko had served the IOGCC for many years in many roles, including as the governor's official representative, IOGCC officer, and committee chairman.
The Marland Award is named for the first chairman of the IOGCC, Oklahoma's
10th governor E. W. Marland of Ponca City. Gov. Marland was a dedicated
statesman, pioneer oilman , and is considered the father of the 62-year-old
IOGCC.
LIFESTYLES
The Noble County Association for Family and Community Education met Dec. 4 at the Women's Building, Noble County Fairgrounds. Catherine Robinson, president, called the meeting to order. The Pledge of Allegiance and the Association creed was led by Vice-President Denise Kienholz. The devotional and invocation was offered by Chaplain Margaret Tautfest. Christy Woods, secretary-elect, read the minutes and Denise Kienholz gave the treasurer's report.
Barbara Luttmer, County Song Leader, chose the theme of Christmas around the world, sharing interesting information about the songs chosen. She was accompanied by Velta Stringer, pianist.
Committees reporting were: 1998 FCE County Fair Exhibits; Gerry Snyder, NW District FCE Leadership Meeting; Patsy Smithheisler, County Committees: Oak Grove - Literacy: Debbie Woods, Bliss - Environmental: Patsy Smithheisler, Golden Circle - Citizenship and Community Outreach: Beverly Bay.
Committee chairpersons appointed were Financial Assistance for 4-H trips: Debbie Woods and FCE Food Booth sign: Betty Dillon.
Announcements were: Northwest District meeting will be March 12 at Frontier School; Kay, Logan and Noble Counties will host and planning committee will meet January 5, at Frontier School. The 1998 Yearbook Committee, Andrea McCluskey, Gerry Snyder and Margaret Tautfest, will meet Dec. 11. The group Secretary books and reports are due to County Extension office by Jan. 16.
Kaye Tipton, Noble County Extension Educator-Family and Consumer Sciences, announced the winners for awards. They are: Member of the Year: Debbie Woods, Oak Grove; Rookie Member: Marsha Dunham, Bliss; Young member: Christy Woods, Oak Grove, and Heart of FCE, Patsy Smithheisler, Bliss. These candidates will represent Noble County at the Northwest District Meeting March 12 at Frontier School.
The Noble County Association for Family and Community Education officers for 1998 were installed by Mary Rogers, Ladies of '76, using items from the home relating to a particular office. New officers are Catherine Robinson, president; Denise Kienholz, vice president; Christy Woods, secretary; Marsha Conway, treasurer; Frances Anderson, parliamentarian.
Betty Dillon, member of the Ladies of '76 FCE Group, presented an educational and informative program "Angels on Your Shoulder" displaying part of her collection of angels and sharing interesting anecdotes.
Door prizes were donated by Barbara Luttmer and Betty Dillon with recipients being Debbie Woods, Mary Rogers and Velta Stringer.
Hostess were Oak Grove FCE; Ladies of '76 were in charge of the program, covers and name tags and Town and County FCE did the table decorations .
The Oklahoma Association for Family and Community Education, Incorporated, a nonprofit organization, is organized for the purpose of continuing adult education in home economics and related subjects for educational purposes, and for such other charitable purposes as are related to the objectives of the Association.
Two Ombudsman volunteers from the NODA Area Agency on Aging received awards recently while attending the Oklahoma State Adult Abuse Conference in Oklahoma City. This award is given each year to outstanding Ombudsman Volunteers in each of the areas of the State. "Ombudsman of the Year" awards went to Jean Keeler of Ponca City and Faye Bensch of Chester.
L. Jean Keeler of Ponca City has worked as an Ombudsman volunteer for five years. She was commended for doing "a good job of networking the activities with which she is involved. She is aware of the Adult Protective Services program in her County and has referred several persons to those services."
She volunteers for Helpline in Kay County, and for the American Association of Retired Persons as a Long Term Care Cordinator. In her position with AARP she gives presentations to civic groups and tells them how to contact Adult Protective Services in their area. She also volunteers as a Bible study leader in nursing homes and senior centers, she tutors all ages, teaching English as a second language, and she volunteers for Habitat For Humanity.
Jean volunteers as an Ombudsman at the Ponca Nursing Home. She visits the residents of the nursing home at least once a week and often more. She keeps good documentation, and always completes follow ups on her referrals. She has "a great desire to do a high quality of work" said a NODA spokesperson. Ms. Keeler says "volunteering is a job - but when she sees the smiles on the peoples' faces who she has helped, that is all the thanks she needs."
Faye Bensch of Chester has been an Ombudsman for four years. She has visited nursing homes all over the state of Oklahoma as a member of the Singing Grandmas, singing and playing the piano.
Xi Gamma Sigma chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority met Dec. 9 at the home of Donna Ross. Members brought various toppings for baked potatoes and dessert was served by the hostess.
During the business meeting communication was read from former members Betty McLaury and Delorus Patterson. Meeting time was changed from 7:30 to 7 p.m. for future meetings. Sue Waggerman, Service chairman, reported on Christmas plans for the family adopted by the chapter.
Cindy Russell, Social chairman, announced plans for an informal get-together New Year's eve at the home of Barbara Feil and a Super Bowl party at the home of Leora Simmons.
Donna Ross gave the program, music and Bible reading about the birth of Christ. Following the business meeting a secret sister gift exchange was conducted. The next meeting will be Jan. 13 at the home of Barbara Ashlock.
Stephanie and Joseph B. Kotarski of Tulsa announce the birth of a son at 12:45 p.m. Dec. 3, 1997 at St. John's Hospital in Tulsa. The 8-pound, 4-ounce baby was 20-inches long and has been named Pierce Joseph Kotarski. He has two sisters, Madeline and Abigail.
Maternal grandparents are Harold Pierce and Barbara Younger and paternal grandparents are Joseph C. and Del Kotarski, all of Ponca City.
Xi Beta Tau chapter members of Beta Sigma Phi sorority met recently with June Miller, president, presiding. Announcement was made that the City Council Valentine dance would be Feb. 14 at the Elks Lodge with a cost of $2.50 per person.
As a service project each member will purchase a $10 toy, wrap it and
take to the Salvation Army for distribution. The chapter Christmas party
was scheduled for Dec. 15 at Godfrey's with a dessert and gift exchange
at Patsy Bray's home. The traveling basket was passed from Jan Ellison to
Mrs. Bray.