LOCAL

Board Gives Approval To Trimester Schedule
Alternative Plan by Kruck Found Little Support
Millennium Entertainment for Young and Old
Letters to Santa Claus
School Board Seat 6 Declared Vacant
Citizens Are Anxious To See New City Hall
Letter - Festival a Success, Thanks to Ponca Citians

Board Gives Approval To Trimester Schedule

By KRISTI HAYES

News Education Editor

It’s out with the old and in with the new for the 2000-2001 school year at Ponca City High School.

Three major curriculum changes, approved at last night’s monthly board of education meeting, will change the face of the high school...at least for the immediate future.

In the first year of the new millennium, city high school students will face scheduling changes, increased core class requirements and stringent academic standards.

Despite spoken objections from a number of local citizens, the controversial trimester issue passed by a vote of 5 to 1 with board member Mike Kruck voting no.

Superintendent Dr. Bill White, who recommended the change, was pleased with the outcome. “I’m very happy the board decided to give the trimester a chance. It will extend the opportunities for every student,” he said.

The trimester plan will begin next fall.

It will require students to attend five classes every day for 75 minutes each. It will cover the existing schedule of180 school days.

The trimester will encompass three 12-week sessions. The first one would meet from August to November, the second from November to February and the final trimester from February to May. No breaks would occur at the end of the trimester. Students ending the trimester on Friday would start the next trimester on Monday.

The trimester will allow for15 classes a year instead of the existing 12. Each trimester session will consist of two six-week grading periods culminating a final grade.

Board member Chris LittleCook voted for the plan.

“I have four children in school and I would never do anything to jeopardize their education or the education of your children,” LittleCook explained.

Dr. John Scroggins, assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction, said the trimester needed community backing. “As a community, we need to get together arm-in-arm and support this,” Scroggins said.

Board president John Young said he spoke with many school districts that implemented the trimester schedule and said the reason many of them abandoned the schedule was because of poor management.

“I believe we have good leaders at the high school and they support this change,” Young said.

Several citizens addressed the issue during public comment prior to the final vote.

Mark Jordan, local businessman and former board member, said he was concerned with the trimester because the superintendent might not be there to support the change. “I propose you table this item until you find out more information. If it’s a good idea now, it will be a good idea next year,” Jordan said, addressing the board.

Everett VanHoesen disagreed with Jordan. He felt the trimester would not fail if Dr. White accepted another position outside the Ponca City area. “I think you should go along with the recommendation of the [Building Level Team] and the teachers at Po-Hi,” he said.

Po-Hi student Stacy Hobb agreed. “Give us a chance to be leaders, not followers,” she said.

Increased Requirements

Unanimous approval was given to increasing course requirements. The change will not affect the current juniors or seniors. Changes to be made include:

— 21 credits for the Class of 2002 by adding a science class;

— 23 credits for a regular diploma and 23 1/2 credits for a diploma of honors for the current freshman class (add a semester technology class);

— 23 credits for a regular diploma and 23 1/2 credits for a diploma of honors for the current eighth grade class by incorporating the ACT Core, which means four English classes, three math, three science, three-and-a-half social studies, one-half credit for technology, plus one class of foreign language or technology course for a total of 15 courses.

Repeating Courses

The board will require high school students to repeat any core class in which they earn less than a “C” grade, effective the fall of 2000.

The proposal was passed by a vote of 5 to 1 with LittleCook opposing.

LittleCook questioned the effectiveness of the change and feared it might cause more students to drop out of school.

Courses a student must retake if given less than a “C” include English, math, science and social studies.

Board members discussed this proposal in detail, but said the students must be held accountable and accept responsibility.

Concerns were also made regarding how the change would affect the students. Board members noted that teachers need to warn students of the changes.

Alternative Plan by Kruck Found Little Support

By KRISTI HAYES

News Education Editor

Down in flames.

Before the trimester schedule was approved last night by the Ponca City Board of Education, board member Mike Kruck made a motion to accept the trimester schedule with several structural and accountability policies.

The motion failed by a vote of 2 to 4 with Kruck and board president John Young voting yes.

“I’m not sure what’s best for Ponca City,” declared Kruck. “I want to promote accountability, not only for the students at Po-Hi, but for the teachers.”

Some of the proposed changes Kruck included in his motion were having five classes per day of 80 minutes in length, homework load required in all classes with an increase of 50 percent, courses being taught in continuous trimesters and teachers using three delivery methods in each class.

A stringent attendance policy with the trimester plan was also part of Kruck’s proposal.

“Students that receive a “D” or “F” should be required to attend school 94 percent of the time,” Kruck said.

Other accountability policies recommended by Kruck included an ACT composite score of 25 with a 90 percent first-time success rate on all the Criterion Reference Tests.

Superintendent Dr. Bill White strongly disagreed with Kruck’s plan.

“Even the best private school in Oklahoma has a composite ACT score of 23. I think you need to be realistic in setting these goals,” commented White.

Kruck also recommended that a merit system be created to award the staff that meets accountability standards and put staff members on a one-year probation that do not. “If those teachers do not meet the standards after the probationary year, they should be relieved of their duties,” said Kruck.

Dr. White declared if board members accepted the proposal they would be violating the agreement with teachers.

“I highly suggest you follow proper procedures and strike any ideas of merit pay and placing teachers on probation,” White stressed to board members.

Kruck did point out that a positive aspect of the trimester format is that parents will receive progress reports every three weeks instead of the current six weeks and an increased use of facilities.

Millennium Entertainment for Young and Old

The Ponca City Millennium Commission has planned entertainment for Dec. 31 geared for all ages. There will be entertainment venues located throughout downtown Ponca City 1-11:30 p.m.

Cynthia Crowe / Larrell Birdsong

Cynthia Crowe is a well known entertainer. Learning to play guitar and piano as a school student, Cynthia has, for the most part, been a self-trained artist in instrumental and voice. Cynthia has sung on local, state and nationally-syndicated television shows such as “The Ted Mack Show.” Other credits are state fairs, Red Foley’s tour, and recording with Conway Twitty and his band. Cynthia will be featured in several spots during the Millennium Celebration on Dec. 30-31, including music for the “Best (or Worst) of Taste and Tasteless” and warm up act for stand-up comedian Argus Hamilton. Cynthia will also perform with her family, The Thomas Family Singers, and has been asked to perform with Byron Berline and his band.

Larrell Birdsong comes from a musical family located around the Tulsa area. His father, Fred, was a renowned fiddle player who made his first fiddle from a cigar box. Larrell and his brothers played for the OSU Student Entertainers and for various nightclubs, private clubs, and special dances during their college days.

Cynthia and Larrell will team up for the Millennium Celebration and will be performing 2:15-3:15 on the lower level of the Commercial Federal Building. They will also be performing in the “Culture Shock Phenomenon” Show at 4:30 p.m. at East Junior High School Auditorium.

Mike Mott

Mike Mott, senior loan officer at Home National Bank, will be performing two different times on Dec. 31. His first performance will be at Grand Central Station at 1 p.m. Mike will also perform on the lower level of Commercial Federal at 8:15 p.m.

Music has always been a major part of Mike’s family. As a child, he performed as a soloist for school, church and social functions. While serving in the military with the Old Guard (Honor Guard) in Washington, D.C., he traveled with the United States Army Band and Chorus and performed all over the United States as the ceremonial announcer and soloist. When Mike lived in Kansas, he was a regular at the Burlington Opry house singing country music as featured soloist. Mike was chosen to perform at The Johnny High’s country music review in Fort Worth, Texas, where he sang with recording artists LeAnn Rhymes and Shelly Wright. Mike has performed and recorded several songs for the Song Writers Guild of Dallas as demo’s for recording studios.

Locally he has performed at many functions like the United Way, American Cancer, Main Street, Heritage Club and many more. He is also a regular in the Poncan Theatre’s “Taste and Tasteless” show.

Ronald McDonald

Ronald McDonald is a world-renowned entertainer … star of stage, screen and television. Ronald McDonald will be performing magic and comedy for kids of all ages at Centennial Plaza in downtown Ponca City from 1-2:30 p.m. His performance is courtesy of Clement Collogan, owner/operator of Ponca City’s McDonald’s Restaurants.

Steve Crawford, Magician

Steve Crawford entered the magical world of entertainment while only six years old by studying the art of magic at the Ponca City Library. With the help of his school teacher, he presented his first elementary school assembly while in the fifth grade.

Later, Steve became the opening act for Alice Cooper, performed at Sea World in San Diego, Calif., and “magically” promoted products and provided motivational speaking for Nabisco Corporation, Fleming Foods, and other corporate events. He has also performed at conventions, state fairs, comedy clubs, on television, and has done several television commercials.

Steve is a world record holder in speed escape from regulation handcuffs. He co-hosted the syndicated television show “The Magical Mystery Tour,” founded the Mid-America School of magic and the Bricktown Street Magic Club.

Steve’s show is packed with plenty of comedy and fun said a spokesperson. In the show, “Presto the magic Rabbit” makes an appearance and disappears in a very mysterious and comical way. Audience members are “pick-pocketed and almost decapitated during the spinetingling guillotine act.”

Steve Crawford will be performing twice during the Millennium Celebration. His first performance will be at Grand Central Station from 1:45-2:30 p.m. He will also be entertaining from 7:15 until 8 p.m. on the lower level of the Commercial Federal Building.

Letters to Santa Claus

Dear Santa Clause, My name is Hunter and I am four years old. I have been a good boy this year. Please bring me a basketball, Mash and Cobra and Wrestling Stage. I will leave you some milk and cookies because I love you.

Hunter

Dear Santa, My name is Amber and I am 10 years old. For Christmas I would like any kind of bears, coloring books and Beanie babies. Thank you.

Amber

Dear Santa Clause, My name is Breanna and I am four years old. I have been a good girl. Please bring me a baby and a car. I am leaving you milk and cookies. I love you.

Breanna

Dear Santa, Here is what I want for Christmas, a ring and a basketball. I would also like some clothes. I love you, Santa.

Emma

Dear Santa Clause. My name is Hannah and I am three years old. I have been very good this year and I would like you to bring me these things — Barbie bike. I am leaving you some milk and cookies because I love you.

Hannah

Dear Santa, My name is Jaylenee and I am four. For Christmas I want you to bring me a baby doll, Barbie Jeep and baby diaper bag. I am coloring you a picture of a candy cane, and some Christmas decorations.

Jaylenee

Dear Santa Clause. I am three years old and my name is Devon. I have been very good this year. Please bring me a car and football. I am leaving you milk and cookies. Thank you.

Devon

Dear Santa Clause, I have been very good this year. My name is Chelsea and I am four years old. I would like you to bring me a Barbie bike, pink motorcycle, hair clips and a computer for my mom. I will leave you a snack. Thank you, Santa Clause.

Chelsea

Dear Santa Clause, I am coloring you some picture. My name is Victor and I am five years old. For Christmas I want a train, car and truck.

Victor

Dear Santa Clause, My name is Austin and I am five years old. I have been good this year and I want you to bring me a motorcycle, Furrby, vehicle, Big Giant Monters Truck and a Jingle bell toy. I love you and I will leave you some milk and cookies.

Austin

Dear Santa Clause, I am four years old and for Christmas I want you to bring me a Barbie car, Barbie and candy cane. I have been very good this year. My name is Melanie and I am four years old. I love you.

Melanie

Dear Santa, My name is Darian and I am three years old. I want a bike for Christmas. I have been good and I will leave you some milk and cookies. I love you, Santa.

Darian

Dear Santa Claus, My name is Quenton and I want a monster truck, Lady Bug and Hot Wheels for Christmas. I am four years old.

Quenton

Dear Santa Clause, My name is Mercedes and I am four years old. I would like a bike for Christmas, Santa. I have been very good this year. I will leave you cookies and milk and I thank you.

Mercedes

Dear Santa Clause, I am four years old and I have been very good this year. My name is Candace and I want you to bring me a Barbie Money Deal and a motorcycle. Thank you and I love you.

Candace

Dear Santa, My name is Michael and i am four years old. I would like for you to bring me a Sting Wrestler and Cobra Wrestler. I will leave you some milk and cookies because I love you. Thanks.

Michael

Dear Santa Clause, I am Gabrielle and I am four years old and I have been a good girl this year. Will you please bring me some shoes, dress and a purse. I love you.

Gabrielle

Dear Santa Clause, My name is Leigh and I am four years old. Santa, I have been very good this year and I want you to bring me a small puppy. Thank you, and I love you.

Leigh

Dear Santa, I am Sara and I am four. I believe I have been good this year and I want you to bring me a bike and a Barbie, please. I will leave you something to eat and drink. I love you.

Sara

Dear Santa Clause, I have been very good this year and I want you to bring me these things — Power Ranger (Blue), car and some food. My name is Christain and I am four. I love you.

Christain

Dear Santa, I am Viviana and I am four. I want a baby doll, Barbie car and a Barbie for Christmas.

Viviana

Dear Santa, I am five years old and for Christmas I want a monster truck. I am coloring you some pretty picture — all different colors.

Sean

Dear Santa, My name is Aaron and I am four. Please bring me a YoYo for Christmas. Thank you.

Aaron

Dear Santa Claus, I am four years old and my name is Brenton. Please bring me a Sega and a dinosaur for Christmas. I am coloring you some pictures, and drawing you some little people.

Brenton

Dear Santa, I am Coleman and I am five. Forst Christmas I would like an airplane, monster truck and a hamster. OK?

Coleman

Dear Santa Clause, I am three years old, Santa, and my name is Morgan. I have really been good this year and I want you to bring me a Barbie doll, TV, Barbie car, Batman and Robin movie and a Barbie computer. I am going to put out some milk and cookies just for you because I love you, Satna.

Morgan

Dear Santa Clause, I am Kaylen and I want you to bring me a Barbie bike, microwave house and firecrackers for Christmas. I have been very good and I am 4 years old. I love you.

Kaylen

Dear Santa, My name is Colton. I have really been good this year and I want you to bring me a Baby Motor Bike, fire gun and microwave. I will leave you some milk and cookies, and I thank you.

Colton

Dear Santa Clause, My name is Andria and I am three years old. I would like for you to bring me a Barbie doll and a bike. I will leave you some cookies because I love you. I have been a good girl this year.

Andria

Dear Santa Clause, This is Christina and I am five years old. I need you to bring me a Barbie doll, baby, motorcycle, new shirt and pants and some new shoes. I have really been good this year. I love you.

Christina

Dear Santa, My name is Sherry — Ms. Sherry and I’m old enough. I have really been good this year and I need you to bring me a new van, some home repairs and Turtle (candy). Thank you.

Ms. Sherry

Dear Santa, I am five-year-old Thomas and I have been a very good boy this year. Please bring me a Poke Mon Watch, motorcycle, go cart, skooter, fire truck and a car with remote control. I love you and I will leave you some cookies and milk.

Thomas

Dear Santa Clause, I am four years old and I need a jeep, Legos and motorcycle for Christmas. I have really been good this year, and I will leave you a snack if you’re hungry. I love you.

Jonathan

Dear Santa, I am four-year-old Kevin and I have really been good this year. I need you to bring me a Boy Jeep, fire gun, and a fire truck (big). I love you, Santa.

Kevin

Dear Santa, My name is Marleana and I am four years old. For Christmas I want a picture. I am drawing you a picture right now, and for Christmas I would like for you to bring me a picture.

Marleana

Dear Santa Clause, My name is Jenny and I am three years old. I have been very good this year and I would like you to bring me something good for Christmas I love you.

Jenny

Dear Santa, My name is Katie and I want a tractor and a bike for Christmas I am four and I have really been good this year. I will leave you a snack. I love you.

Katie

Dear Santa Clause. I am three years old and I have been a very good boy this year. Please bring me a Butterfly bike and a stroller. I will leave you some milk and cookies because I love you.

Tylynn

Dear Santa Clause. My name is Wade and I am four years old. I have been very good this year and I need you to bring me a basketball and goal. I love you, Santa.

Wade

School Board Seat 6 Declared Vacant

By KRISTI HAYES

News Education Editor

The Ponca City Board of Education unanimously declared Seat 6, previously held by Steve Stalcup, as vacant, at Monday night’s Ponca City Board of Education meeting. Board members then opted to fill the vacancy for a term of one year.

Candidates who live in the ward and meet the board requirements may submit their name. Board members will then interview each candidate and select the appropriate one by Feb. 20, 2000.

A change order totaling $2,451 to the West Middle School kitchen expansion project was approved Monday night at the regular board meeting of the Ponca City Board of Education.

Change Order No. 1 contains several items that developed after the project was bid. The new contract amount will be $381,485.

Board members approved a new Open Transfer Policy. Part of House Bill 1759 requires that the board adopt a policy that includes at least the basic minimum requirements of the Open Transfer Act. Several staff members attended a workshop last month and have worked on a policy adapted from an OSSBA sample policy and a policy developed by Western Heights, modified to meet Ponca City’s district needs.

Other Agenda Items

A renewal agreement with Jack Mason Agency (formerly Simpson Agency) of Ponca City was accepted to provide life insurance for all support employees of the Ponca City Schools. There have been no changes from previous years and the rate remains the same. The premium will be $377 per month.

Board members set the regular board meeting dates, times and locations for the 2000 calendar year. All meetings will be held at 6:30 p.m. at the Administration Center, 111 West Grand. The dates will be Jan. 17, Feb. 21, March 13, April 17, May 15, June 19, July 17, Aug. 21, Sept. 18, Oct. 16, Nov. 20 and Dec. 18. All meetings will be held on the third Monday of each month with the exception of March to accommodate spring break.

Discussion Topics

Jerry Jantz gave an update on the District’s Technology Plan. He said 218 new computers have been added to the schools and 32 are in the process of being distributed.

He reported on the progress in making sure the computers were all Y2K compliant. He told board members on Dec. 29 they would turn back time on the servers for 24 hours and watch the rollover. “All staff will be on duty and will go check each computer model for compliance,” Jantz said.

Superintendent Dr. Bill White reported to board members that a special dinner meeting would be held on Jan. 31 at 6 p.m. at Po-Hi to receive progress reports on school improvement. He also noted that another meeting could be held in early January to hire a new football coach. “The search is very aggressive and we are eager to fill the position,” White commented.

He also noted that a recent report shows 61 percent of Po-Hi graduates attended an Oklahoma college last year.

Reception Held

A reception was held to honor all Partners in Education (PIE). A certificate of appreciation was presented to each business. Stony Jones, transportation, was also honored as the Support Employee of the Month.

Citizens Are Anxious To See New City Hall

By BOB PATTERSON

News City Editor

It became very apparent at Monday’s work session of the Ponca City Board of Commissioners that the citizens were anxious to get some word on the renovation of the Civic Center and East Wing to City Hall.

“I’ve had a number of calls and inquiries, as have other commissioners, as to when we are going to see some action on the renovation project,” Commissioner Dick Stone said during the session.

He and other commissioners heard a report from Troy Lewis, architect, and Randy Lauritsen, city engineer, concerning the timeline on the project Monday. Commissioners were looking for an earlier date of completion, but Stone said “but while we want the project to be done in a manner that will enhance the No. 1 Fire Station just completed, we do realize it will take a specific amount of time.”

Officials at the work session, while not making final decisions, instructed Ken Parr, public works director to bring to them additional information concerning the water treatment plant residuals dewatering improvements.

Mayor Tom Leonard said he wanted an update on the improvements package, at least back to the Jan. 25, 1999 suggested date that it was first brought up.

The matter was part of the Camp, Dresser and McKee’s engineering contract discussion at the work session for the entire water treatment plant improvements, that go back some six years.

A discussion was also held on the renewal and future operations of the Wheatheart Nutrition Center, located at 319 West Grand Avenue. That contract is up for renewal on June 30, 2000, according to city clerk Marc LaBossiere.

While the center has lost the cooking of noon meals to the Blackwell center, it maintains a healthy clientele of 70 or so at noon each day it is opened, and a similar number of meals that are sent to city residents through a volunteer method.

The center also looks forward to being able to utilize a recent grant that will establish a computer in the center, mostly for the clientele to use in email efforts.

Finance director LaBossiere also presented an update on revenues and expenditures for the fiscal year 1999-2000. The report also included projected revenues and normal expenditures for the fiscal year 2000-2001.

A proposed ordinance establishing a Ponca City Tomorrow Board for the city was also discussed.

Additionally, updates were given on one of the newest ventures in the city and on one that has been at the forefront of discussion for many years. They included the Pioneer Transportation Inc., which ihas been providing rides throughout the city by public transportation since mid-fall and an ambulance study as presented by Fire Chief Gary Denny.

Letter - Festival a Success, Thanks to Ponca Citians

Festival of Angels is again a great success, thanks to the spirit and enthusiasm of the people of Ponca City!

Back in 1994, a small group of volunteers decided that we needed some lights in our town. We hoped to encourage tourists to come here during November and December. We also wanted some neighborhoods to participate by lighting up their homes. The Ponca City Rotary Club agreed to help us get the project off the ground, the City Commission approved the use of city attractions to place the displays, and over 300 citizens donated money to help purchase the lights that first year.

The committee chose “Festival of Angels” as the theme for the celebration. We needed something to help set Ponca City apart from the other lighted displays in other towns. Since angels are universal to all religions, everyone would be included.

Look at us now! In 1999, there have been more spectators and more motorcoaches come through the exhibits at Lake Ponca Park that ever before. We know there are at least 35 neighborhoods that have really given a great effort to have every house lighted. Several tourists have commented that they have been to many other holiday lighting celebrations, but they have never seen as many lights or as much participation as they see in Ponca City.

Angel Central has had a banner year. We have more corporate sponsors than ever before, and the money raised in donations at the park has been great, too! All the money raised will help us add new lights and exhibits to the festival in 2000.

The Festival of Angels Board of Directors would like to heartily thank all the volunteer clerks at Angel Central, the Angel Hosts at Lake Ponca Park every night, and the people who have helped install lights and displays. We also owe a great deal of gratitude to several city employees who have taken care of the electrical aspects of the exhibits. It takes over 400 people every year to put on this show, plus a very active board that organizes and arranges all the details.

Festival of Angels is part of the Millennium Celebration, so we will be open until Friday, Dec. 31, 6-10 p.m. every night.

Pick up a map at Angel Central so you don’t miss any of the neighborhoods, drive through the park one more time, and don’t forget the Cultural Center, Cann Garden Center and the Civic Center.

And a special thnks to all the citizens of Ponca City for inviting your friends and relatives here to come see our angels! This is a wonderful, caring community. We should all be proud we live here.

Kathy Adams, President

Festival of Angels, Inc.

DEATHS

Merle Livingston
Casey Michael Esch
Freta M. Hamlin
Josephine Hancock
Cameron Blake Allmand
F. Lucille Brown
Hughes Hampton

Merle Livingston

POND CREEK — Merle Livingston, former resident of Pond Creek, died Monday, Dec. 20, 1999, in Integris Bass Baptist Health Center in Enid. He was 80.

The funeral will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 22, 1999, in the chapel of the Wilson Funeral Home in Pond Creek with the Rev. Sherri Shaw officiating. Burial will follow in Pond Creek Cemetery.

Merle Livingston was born Nov. 27, 1919, in Pond Creek, the son of Jasper Newton and Mabel Brigham Livingston. He graduated from Pond Creek High School in 1938 and married Evelyn Elva Wright on Jan 5. 1942, in Enid. He was a World War II veteran of the U.S. Army Air Corps stationed in England and received the Bronze Star for bravery.

He moved to Billings in 1954 from Tonkawa, where he farmed and was the last of the Livingston farmers. He retired from farming and moved to Enid. He was a member of the Billings United Methodist Church.

Survivors include two daughters, Merlene Odenwald of Enid and Karen Dehdari of Flower Mound, Texas; two sisters, Bertha Seger of Pond Creek and Shirley Trekell of Troy, Ill.; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife on Sept. 19, 1991.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to Pond Creek Ambulance Fund, Billings Ambulance Fund, or the Billings United Methodist Church, c/o Wilson Funeral Home, 227 East Aspen, Pond Creek, Okla. 73766.

Obituaries

Casey Michael Esch

TONKAWA — Casey Michael Esch, longtime Tonkawa resident, died Sunday, Dec. 19, 1999, in Noble County. He was 29.

The funeral will be Wednesday, Dec. 22, 1999, at 2 p.m. at the First Christian Church in Tonkawa with the Rev. Dr. John Bartlett officiating. Burial will be in the Tonkawa IOOF Cemetery under the direction of McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home of Tonkawa.

Casey was born July 23, 1970, in Ponca City, the son of James Earl Esch and Nancy Ann (McKinnis) Pinkerton. In 1988, he graduated from Tonkawa High School where he was active in wrestling and football. Also, he was a member of FFA where he held many offices. He went on to further his education at Northern Oklahoma College and South Arkansas University in Magnolia, Ark. He married Kerry Linton on Aug. 17, 1993, in Las Vegas, Nev. Casey was a member of the First Christian Church of Tonkawa and the Cattlemen’s Association. He worked as an avid farmer and rancher in the Kay and Noble County area.

He is survived by his wife, Kerry and son, Colton James of the home; his mother, Nancy Pinkerton of Houston, Texas; his stepmother, Mary Lynn Esch-Bolton of Tonkawa; maternal grandparents, Edward and Sue McKinnis of Tonkawa; three brothers, James Bradly Esch of Havelock, N.C., Jason Douglas of Orlando, Fla., and Mark Edward Pinkerton of Houston, Texas; two sisters, Megan Doris Esch of Tonkawa and Alicia Dawn Kirkpatrick of Ponca City; aunts and uncles, Gaye and Mike Owen of Tonkawa, Judy and John Esch of Tonkawa, and Susanne and Ed McKinnis of Broken Arrow; his in-laws, John and Sandy Linton of Tonkawa and Jim and Bonnie Legg of Eureka Springs, Ark.

He was preceded in death by his father; paternal grandparents, Doris and A.J. Esch; and one uncle, Joe Esch.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Colton Esch Education Fund, c/o Service Bank, Attn. Shelly Dickover, P.O. Box 528, Tonkawa, Okla. 74653.

Casket bearers will be Jim Kodesh, Tony Kodesh, Brady Finton, Chad Jackson, Daryl Street, Kyle Robison, Craig Esch, Travis Williams, Randall Esch, and Todd Culp.

Honorary casket bearers will be Jeremy Owen, Kyle Owen, Mike Price, Tim Wyler, Jim Legg, Steve Pfluger, Mark Tarrant, Ty Williams, Wade Burns, Ryan Esch Lusk, Reed Esch Lusk and Chris LaBlue.

paid obituary

Freta M. Hamlin

Freta M. Hamlin, longtime Ponca City resident, died Monday, Dec. 20, 1999, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 80.

A private family graveside service will be held Wednesday, Dec. 22, 1999, with the Rev. Tom Ramsey, pastor of First Lutheran Church, officiating.

Freta was born on June 21, 1919, in Crescent to Frank and Alice (Davis) Schutte. She was raised in Oklahoma and graduated from Ponca City schools. She married Harry C. “Jack” Hamlin on Feb. 4, 1939, in Ponca City. He preceded her in death on April 27, 1984. The couple made their home in Ponca City where Freta was a homemaker and mother.

She was a member of the First Lutheran Church and enjoyed spending time with her family, gardening, and fishing.

She is survived by one daughter, Linda Johnson and her husband Gary of Ponca City; one granddaughter, Holly Johnson of Ponca City; one grandson, Matthew Johnson of Ponca City; two sisters, Alice Fulkerson and Wilma Lee Schatz, both of Ponca City; one brother, Billy Schutte of Ponca City; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Ruby Arnold and Elsie Greb.

paid obituary

Services Pending

Josephine Hancock

Josephine Hancock, Ponca City resident, died Monday, Dec. 20, 1999, at her daughter’s home. She was 83. Arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home. Local survivors include her daughter, Donna Manning.

Cameron Blake Allmand

FAIRFAX — Cameron Blake Allmand died at birth Dec. 18, 1999, in the Stillwater Medical Center. He was the son of Misty Dawn Allmand and Gregory Dewayne Bibbs. The funeral will be 2 p.m. Wednesday in the First Christian Church in Fairfax. Burial will be in the Nelogany Cemetery under the direction of Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home in Fairfax.

F. Lucille Brown

F. Lucille (Young) Brown, longtime Ponca City and Blackwell resident, died Monday, Dec. 20, 1999, at the Belleview Nursing Center in Oklahoma City. She was 85. Services are pending with Trout Funeral Home.

Hughes Hampton

FAIRFAX — Hughes Hampton, longtime resident of Fairfax, died Monday afternoon, Dec. 20, 1999, in the Fairfax Manor Nursing Home. Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Thursday in the Fairfax Cemetery under the direction of Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home of Fairfax.

NEWS BRIEFS

Subjects Held — An employee at Miller Market reported to the Ponca City Police Department that two shoplifters were in custody at 7:25 p.m. Monday. An officer was assigned and a 28-year-old man was held for petit larceny, and a 19-year-old man was held for petit larceny and giving false information to an officer.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of South Fourteenth Street and East Ponca Avenue at 8:20 a.m. Monday that a 20-year-old woman was being held on a city warrant for failure to pay.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 100 block of South Pine Street at 9:35 p.m. Monday that a 19-year-old man was being held on an attempt to elude and a city warrant for failure to pay. A vehicle was towed from the scene.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 10:39 a.m. Monday that a 17-year-old boy was being held for burglary of an auto.

Students “Christmas Break” open bowl special, December 17, 1999 thru January 2, 2000 (except on Mondays 12/20 and 12/27). Closed Christmas Day. $1.50 per game 75 cents shoe rental. 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Ponca Bowl, 762-3333. adv.

Shoplifter — An employee at Wal-Mart requested assistance at 1:49 p.m. Monday from the Ponca City Police Department with a juvenile shoplifter in custody. An officer was assigned and a 16-year-old boy was held for petit larceny.

Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential. Hours: Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and Thursday, 6-8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. 765-9689. adv.

Accident — The Communications Center received a 911 call from the 700 block of East Liberty Avenue at 2:35 p.m. Monday that a two-vehicle, non-injury accident had occurred. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Every Wednesday ð price clothes and shoes, except priced items. Check our daily specials. Caboose Thrift Shoppe, First and Central. adv.

Hit and Run — A hit and run accident in the parking lot of Triple T, 1301 West Highland Avenue, was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:10 p.m. Monday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. The Communications Center received a 911 call at 9:29 p.m. from a man at Wal-Mart that a vehicle had almost ran him off the road leaving the Triple T on West Highland. The information was logged.

Vehicle Damaged — A man at Hastings, 2900 North Fourteenth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:49 p.m. Monday that his vehicle had been damaged while in the parking lot. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Stolen Vehicle — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department was requested at 1:37 a.m. Tuesday to check on a car at the intersection of Donner and Pecan Road. The vehicle was found to be one stolen and a report was taken.

Grass Fire — A grass fire seven miles east of U.S. 77 on Oklahoma 11 and north of the road, was reported to the Communications Center at 6:06 p.m. Monday. Kildare Volunteer Fire Department handled the situation.

Suspicious Activity — The Ponca City Police Department received a report at 3:04 p.m. Monday that a vehicle in a parking lot of the 2700 block of North Fourteenth Street had occupants with suspicions of having drugs. An officer from the Kay County District Attorney’s office handled the situation and it was logged that drug paraphernalia and residue was found in the area.

Just Arrived! 14K clip earrings, 30” chains, diamond baby rings. The Jewelry Connection, 211 East Grand. adv.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of North Ash Street and West Hartford Avenue at 4:49 p.m. Monday that a 33-year-old man was being held on a city warrant for failure to pay.

Ponca City Pictorial History Books have arrived! Pick up your copy today! Will make a great Christmas Gift! Ponca City News Business Office, 8:00-5:00, Monday thru Friday. adv.

Smoke Investigation — A unit from the Ponca City Fire Department responded at 5:23 p.m. Monday and handled an investigation of smoke in the area of North Fifth Street and East Hazel Avenue.

City Offices Closed — Offices of the Ponca City city administration will be closed Thursday and Friday for an official holiday. There will be no residential refuse collected on the two days, with normal services resuming Dec. 27. The Recycling Drop-Off Center at 1001 West Prospect and landfill located southwest of Ponca City will be open Thursday but closed Friday and Saturday. The recycling center will resume operations Dec. 28 and the landfill Dec. 27.

LIFESTYLES

The Neighborhood Chef
Mayor Installs PT Club Officers

The Neighborhood Chef

By SHERRY MUCHMORE

Within days, the air will fill with the scents of fresh baked bread, savory roasted turkey and dressing, the sweet smell of fresh baked pies and pastries and the hint of spices that tantalize the senses of times past. This is a time when family and friends gather, talk, laugh, cry and remember. It can be the best of times and it can be the worst of times. Our senses are at their height and everything is in excess. Whether good or bad, food or maybe the smell of food, is a vital element that triggers our memories. So, take a seat, join hands and give thanks for the blessings of the season for we at The News wish you good cheer, warm memories and a most Merry Christmas.

There are some foods we just can’t bear to change or vary. In our family one is Mom’s basic cornbread dressing. Christmas just isn’t Christmas without that dressing stuffed in a roasted turkey served with giblet gravy and cranberry sauce.

Mother’s Best Cornbread Dressing

1 large pan cornbread - crumbled

10 slices of dry white bread - torn

and small pieces

3 eggs beaten

1 teaspoon ground sage

1 teaspoon poultry seasoning

3 teaspoons salt

1 stick of butter or margarine

(1/2 cup)

1 1/2 cups green onions - chopped

1 1/2 cups celery - diced

1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley

1 teaspoon bay leaf - broken into

fine pieces

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1 teaspoon celery seed

turkey broth to dampen or use

canned turkey or chicken broth

If possible, bake and crumble cornbread the day before making dressing. Dry bread crumbs then also. When ready to assemble dressing, mix cornbread and white bread in a large bowl. In a small bowl beat eggs and add to bread mixture along with sage, poultry seasoning and salt. Meanwhile, melt butter in a large skillet and saute green onions, celery and parsley along with the bay leaf, pepper and celery seed. After vegetables are cooked, toss with the bread mixture and dampen with broth. You are now ready to stuff the turkey. There will be enough left to put in a buttered casserole that can be baked in a 350 degree oven for about 45 minutes to 1 hour.

The following recipe is another traditional favorite of family get-togethers. It’s one of those that just speak of the holidays.

Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Sharon Cooper

Ponca City, OK

1 cup uncooked rice (prepare

according to package directions)

2 packages frozen chopped

broccoli, cooked and drained

1/2 cup butter or margarine

(1 stick)

1/2 cup chopped onion

1/2 cup diced celery

1 can cream of chicken soup

(or cream of mushroom soup)

1 cup Cheese Whiz (or if you

prefer a cheesier dish, use

1 1/2 cups)

Prepare rice and broccoli according to package directions and set aside. Melt butter or margarine in skillet and saute onion and celery until tender. Mix all the ingredients together and pour into a buttered casserole dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 45 minutes. Note: Can be topped with crisp crumbled bacon.

Now after we’ve rested a bit from our big meal, comes the grand finale and our families favorite, pecan pie. So, over the years, I’ve experimented with different ingredients and their amounts for that extra special distinction that makes a great tasting piece of pie. See what you think.

Sherry’s Pecan Pie

1 9-inch unbaked pie shell (I use

the Ever Flaky Pie Crust from

Nov. 16th article)

3 eggs

2/3 cup granulated sugar

1/8 teaspoon salt

1 cup dark corn syrup

1/3 cup melted butter

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 to 1 1/2 cups pecans

In a mixing bowl, slightly beat eggs with wire whisk. Whisk in sugar and salt. Mix in dark corn syrup. Whisk the melted butter and vanilla into the sugar mixture and stir in the pecans. Pour into pie shell and bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes. Lower temperature to 350 degrees and continue baking for approximately 35 minutes longer. Serve on its own or with a spoonful of whipped cream.

Each family celebrates Christmas in their own special way. Our family traditionally has our large dinner on Christmas Eve, snacking on leftovers Christmas day. On Christmas morning while the children enjoy the gifts of Santa, breakfast is prepared. A favorite over the years has been breakfast burritos, a specialty from my sister’s husband. Though we don’t really have a recipe for the burritos, the following should work for this great tasting dish.

Breakfast Burritos

Larry McCall, OKC

Baked Ham - diced

Bag of frozen cubed hash

browns

Butter or margarine

Jalapenos - seeded and chopped

Green onions - dice the whole

onion

Eggs - scrambled

Salt and pepper to taste

Flour tortillas - burrito size

On a griddle, brown hash browns in butter. Add diced baked ham and heat through. Add jalapenos (to taste) and salt and pepper if desired. Stir in green onions and remove from griddle. Toss in the scrambled eggs. Serve with the following condiments: Picante sauce, sour cream and grated cheddar cheese.

Note: With children, make one batch without jalapenos.

Send your recipes to: The Neighborhood Chef, c/o The Ponca City News, P.O. Box 191, Ponca City, OK 74602, or e-mail me at: chef@poncacitynews.com (All recipes become property of The Ponca City News.)

Mayor Installs PT Club Officers

Sue Lunsford was installed as president of Professionals Today at the Thursday buffet luncheon at E.W.’s Restaurant. Installing officer was Mayor Tom Leonard.

Other officers for 2000 are Pixie Rowland, president-elect; Deanna Steele, secretary; Liz Cochrane, treasurer; Carmaleta Wesbrook, director-at-large; and Louise Abercrombie, historian.

Loretta Leathers was named “Member of the Year.” The presentation was made by Louise Abercrombie, who wrote an original poem in honor of the recipient.

Leathers was honored for her diligent work over the years on all Professionals Today projects, as well as her 1999 chairmanship of the annual Cherokee Strip Cook-off benefiting Hospice. Under Leathers’ leadership, the cook-off netted the most money in the club’s history for Hospice.

She was a charter member of the Pilot Club before it became Professionals Today and served as president in 1988-89. She was presented a elephant figurine for her collection.

Outgoing president Ruth Capshaw was presented a gift of a collectable doll from the club by Lunsford. Capshaw honored her officers with gifts for their work. New officers received a red rose with cedar greenery.

Lunsford set out goals for the coming year, and Capshaw told about achievements of the past year. The invocation was given by Lynda Fox, and Roylene Mayse provided the programs, which were done in the colors of the club, which are pink and burgundy.

An updated list of the members was presented by membership chairman Deanna Lowther. Recent activities included providing gifts for Bridgeway and paper goods for Golden Villa.

BUSINESS

Main Street Authority Moving To Upstairs Suite Downtown
Bank of America Catalyst Grant Will Help Pioneer Transit to Grow
Science, Technology Related Business Incubator Planned at Conoco Complex
EDAB Prospect List Begins to Heat Up
Chamber Membership Dues Go Up
Chamber Board Selects Several Panel Leaders
Reaccreditation Of P.C. Chamber Gets Approval
First National Bank Of Oklahoma Plans Addition
Chamber Banquet Tickets Sold Out
Attends Seminar
Tourism Meeting

Main Street Authority Moving To Upstairs Suite Downtown

Downtown is beginning to move upstairs. The Ponca City Main Street Authority executive’s board, voted to relocate its office to an upstairs suite. The vote followed a discussion on renewing the contract for the space it has occupied for some time.

“My mom always told me to practice what I preach” said Board Chairman Glenda Phillips. And since its inception, the Ponca City Main Street Authority has talked loud and clear promoting reusing the upperstory space in our downtown.

Bret Carter, design chairman, has often said “We have to remember that there is as much space upstairs downtown as there is on the first floor and that space is useful today for both offices and apartments. We have been very lucky to have the space we have had, and appreciate Barney Barnwell’s generosity for donating this space for these last several years, but it is time to move into a space even better suited to our needs” said member Verona Mair. The new location is at 307 1/2 East Grand over Deli-icious Diner.

Many of these upper floor spaces are great spaces; some have apartments, some have offices. Most have skylights and large windows overlooking Grand Avenue or other downtown streets. There have been a few in the past in Ponca City who have created great apartments, but a majority of the spaces continue to go unused.

However, reusing upper-story space in downtowns is a trend that has just begun but is growing rapidly. The Ponca City Main Street Authority firmly believes in being on the leading edge of trends in downtown districts, as shown by their vote.

Downtown upper-story spaces are good for apartments. They provide a fairly large space in an historic building, and “have no yard to mow” says Carter. He added “We have all seen Larry Bittman’s loft and Fred Boettcher’s apartments over John’s, and know what can be done, now it is time to show that great office space can be provided.”

One of the primary concerns that people wanting to locate a office on an second floor has often been handicap accessibility. However, according to the codes governing handicap accessibility, if there is a first floor space that can be used to provide the same services when needed, there is no problem. Fortunately in the case of offices, the office staff can meet clients or customers in a different place.

In 1997, the Main Street Authority had a “Upstairs - Downtown” tour that showed the public both the spaces upstairs that were being used as well as some other spaces that were not. The response and interest was over-whelming. The tours were packed. However, many on the Main Street Board began looking for an opportunity to show even more successful reuse of upstairs spaces.

Just last month, some of the members of the Board discovered that this space was available and began looking into how much it might cost to renovate it as office space for the authority.

“It’s a wonderful space” said Carter. The new space may need a lot of cosmetic work but it has great potential. Located in the historic Barnes building downtown, the suite has not been radically changed since the building was built in the 1920s. It has an office, large meeting room, and a “hall” measuring nearly 50 feet wide and 65 feet deep. The PCMSA sees the future use for this as a place for seminars and large meetings.

The large suite of rooms has original tin ceilings, quarter-sawn oak trim in the office area, and several vintage fans.

Members of the Main Street Board, Main Street committees, and other volunteers are “rarin’” to go to work to renovate the space. Also, they plan to keep careful records of all the costs associated with the renovation. It is the intent to do it right, but at the lowest possible cost - just to show it can be done. “Just wait until you see what they do with it,” said Design committee member Jeanne Glaser. And the public will get to see what they can do with it. The PCMSA is planning on having an open house and reception as soon as the office and main meeting room are complete.

Bank of America Catalyst Grant Will Help Pioneer Transit to Grow

Pioneer Transit Inc., is one of the non-profit organizations receiving a Bank of America Catalyst Grant for community development and neighborhood revitalization. The local grant is for $5,000. The grant was one of 50 awarded to cities for community development from the Bank of America Foundation. Total of all the grants is $250,000

“Bank of America was the first company to make a major funding commitment towards purchase of vehicles for the Pioneer Transit Program,” Art Mires President of Pioneer Transit, said.

“The support of the development of our communities is integral to the economic health of our country,” said Lynn E. Drury, president of the Bank of America Foundation.

“Not only does Bank of America provide funding for community development projects as one of its core businesses, but our company also supports it at the grassroots level. These Catalyst Grants will assist non-profits that work to revitalize neighborhoods through the growth of small businesses, job training and creation, and by providing affordable housing.”

The Bank of America Catalyst Grants is an ongoing Program managed by the Bank of America Foundation, in which $250,000 in grants is awarded on a quarterly basis, or $1 million annually, to nonprofit organizations with operating budgets of generally $500,000 or less.

Each quarter has a different theme, reflecting one of the four main categories of Bank of America Foundation giving health and human services, arts and culture, community development, and education.

“We’re pleased to provide this grant to the Pioneer Transit program,” said Charles Ziegenhain, senior banking executive of Bank of America in Ponca City. “Public transportation is an important issue for our senior citizens, the disabled, low-income individuals and people who do not own their own vehicles. We applaud the efforts of Pioneer Transit Inc., in providing safe an easily accessible transportation to our citizens.”

“We’re grateful for this grant from the Bank of America Foundation to help us provide affordable public transportation to the citizens of Ponca City,” said Mires. “Pioneer Transit plans to purchase three seven-passenger vans, each with handicapped access, to provide safe, affordable transportation to those who do not have cars or choose not to drive in cold, icy weather or at night.”

Science, Technology Related Business Incubator Planned at Conoco Complex

Over the course of the past several months, efforts have been moving forward a venture effort between the City of Ponca City, Economic Development Advisory Board (EDAB), Chamber of Commerce, Conoco Inc., the state level offices of OCAST (Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology and Oklahoma Technology Commercialization Center (OTCC) to establish a science and technology related business incubator, according to Jan Jarrett, Economic Development Advisory Board director.

The center, to be called the Mid Continent Research Center will be located in laboratory and office space in the Research West Building on the Conoco complex and will be promoted as an opportunity for community partnering with emerging science and technology companies.

Jarrett noted that EDAB brought the concept to Conoco several months ago to utilize vacant facilities on the complex to help create high quality jobs for Ponca City. Jarrett stated that Conoco responded favorably in support of the community and made the commitment to move the concept forward.

Since that time, and even before all details have been worked out on the working details of the Mid Continent Research Center, prospects have already been visiting Ponca City and a marketing trip has been made to a Technology Trade Show in Silicon Valley to promote the availability of this state of the art space.

Additionally, joint efforts are now nearing completion on location of a full time staff person at the Incubator who will serve both the Economic Development Advisory Board and the Oklahoma Technology Commercialization Center. Applications are now being taken and it is hoped that the new staff person will come on board shortly after the beginning of the year.

These efforts have not gone without notice. The most recent issue of Commerce Folio, the official publication of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce highlights the Ponca City efforts. The publication is distributed nation wide among top companies and executives, so the Ponca City story is being seen by decision makers across the country.

A special task force has been given the responsibility of establishing all operating policies and procedures for ultimate approval by EDAB and Conoco. Members of the task force are: Barry Bickle, Karen Furman, Greg Husen, Bill Lundeen, Diane Mitchell, Lee Evans, Carl Renfro, David Myers, Gary Martin, Gary Bracken, Garland McWatters and Dr. Sally Downey.

Initial meetings have already been held and a strong effort will be made to move the process along rapidly. Jarrett indicated that Ponca City’s stated desire to create top quality jobs for the community is a demanding order, but that with the kind of facilities and talent available, with hard work and strong cooperation, growth may be just around the corner.

EDAB Prospect List Begins to Heat Up

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Business Editor

Economic development’s prospect list is heating up, according to Carl Renfro’s report at last Tuesday’s meeting of the Economic Development Advisory Board (EDAB).

Renfro, who heads EDAB, and is also chairman of the Prospect Committee told that the decision as to where Conoco is going to locate the Carbon Fibers plant is at the final stages. He was optimistic that Ponca City had done its due diligence work and could be in the running. An announcement as to the location is expected within a few weeks, Renfro said.

Other prospects include a company that would repair oil rigs, distance learning companies and manufacturing companies. There were no details given on these prospects.

Jan Jarrett, EDAB executive, told about attending the San Jose Trade Show and the possibilities that may evolve out of the show.

A report was given on the incubator development at Conoco and is covered in another story. The Board voted to continue to meet on the second Tuesday of the month at 7:30 a.m. The Jan. 11, 2000 meeting will be followed by a planning session.

The EDAB meeting was held at the Commissioners Room and the Board will continue to meet there. Previously EDAB met at the Chamber of Commerce’s Conference Room.

Three City Commissioners, Chris Hand, Dick Stone and Keni Ray were in attendance, as was Gary Martin, City Manager. Some of the City Commissioners at a work session had expressed the feeling that they were being left out of the loop and wanted more information from EDAB.

Chamber Membership Dues Go Up

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Business Editor

After a report by Jim Lindsay, treasurer of the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce at the Thursday meeting, the Board approved a 2.5 percent raise in membership dues.

Other action of a financial nature included the approval to hire another high level employee for the Chamber office staff and reinstating the auction. For several years the Chamber had held an auction to supplement the budget, but this had not been done for the last few years. Another goal is to build the membership list.

Barry Bickle, incoming Chairman, will head up the membership division, and plans a vigorous membership drive.

During Chairman Craig Myers’ last meeting as chairman he congratulated the Millennium Committee for the work they’ve done. He also congratulated the Tonkawa football team for the state championship. The Board has regional members from Newkirk and Tonkawa.

Myers said, “Ponca City is changing and is no longer a community waiting for something to happen, but is going to be progressive and aggressive. We expect a major announcement (concerning economic development) in the next year. Also we are pleased to see strong young leaders coming forward (to lead the community).”

Chamber Board Selects Several Panel Leaders

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Business Editor

Barry Bickle was officially elected incoming Chairman of the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce at the Thursday Board meeting. Craig Myers is the outgoing president.

Other officers elected were Karen Furman, chairman-elect; Dan Gilliam, vice president; and Diane Mitchell, treasurer.

Bickle will chair the Organization and Membership Development Division and the Membership Committee. Russ Parker is the Ambassadors chair and C.W. Barber will head the President’s Club.

Karen Furman will lead the Governmental Affairs Division. Raj Phansalar is to be the chairman of the Legislative Review Committee and Bill Lundeen is the Infrastructure Committee chair.

Dan Gilliam is to oversee the Business and Community Development Division. Other sub-committees and chairman are Give Ponca the Business, Debbi Weatherly; Health and Medical, Janet White; Education, Sandy James; Leadership Ponca City, Carole Jeffries, Lana Jones and Jim Perry; Small Business Council, Dolley Rolland.

Reaccreditation Of P.C. Chamber Gets Approval

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Chamber of Commerce has announced that the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce has been approved for it’s twenty-five-year reaccreditation by the world’s largest business federation/organization.

“I am pleased to announce that the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce has earned Reaccreditation with the U.S. Chamber,” said Thomas J. Donohue, U.S. Chamber President and CEO. “Their leaderships strong organization and continued support for the principles of free enterprise has been a major asset in our efforts to promote pro-growth policies at the federal, state and local levels of government.”

The Accreditation Program was established by the U.S. Chamber to recognize chambers of commerce for their effective organization and outstanding performance. Roughly one in five chambers of commerce have been accredited.

For a chamber to receive Reaccreditation, every five years it must submit an Evaluation Report to the U.S. Chamber Accrediting Board, a panel made up of members of the U.S. Chamber’s board of directors selected by U.S. Chamber Chairman Will F. Nicholson, Jr. The Accrediting Board reviews the application and then votes on Reaccreditation for the local chamber.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation, representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.

First National Bank Of Oklahoma Plans Addition

First National Bank of Oklahoma will soon be opening a drive-in facility at its East Grand Avenue and South Fourteenth Street location, Chairman Jim Eatherly and President Ray Shaffer have announced.

The bank recently increased the parking capacity at the east side of the bank and this is where the new drive-in will be located. There will be two service areas, one lane will be direct and the other will be a remote unit.

Another recent improvement is the location of an ATM and a night depository at the rear of the bank. Shaffer said this area is well-lighted and has been a popular service for customers.

The bank is located in the former Harpster building and prior to that the structure was the Higdon Floral building. Harpster restored the building and then it was purchased by the bank. First National Bank of Oklahoma has branches in Ponca City, Tonkawa and Oklahoma City.

Chamber Banquet Tickets Sold Out

Tickets for the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Banquet are sold out, according to Chamber officials. This year the banquet features Sen. Don Nickles as the keynote speaker.

The event is set for 6:30 p.m., Jan. 6 at the Conoco complex. Chairman Craig Myers will hand over the reigns to Barry Bickle chairman-elect.

Notes/Quotes

Attends Seminar

Carole L. Jeffries, senior vice president of Pioneer Bank and Trust, recently attended the Freddie Mac Seminar in Oklahoma City, sponsored by the Oklahoma City Chapter of National Association of Professional Mortgage Women, which covered Conventional Underwriting Appraisals.

The course objectives were to improve underwriting submission skills, provide knowledge of underwriting guidelines, and an overview of Freddie-Mac’s automated underwriting system, Loan Prospector.

Tourism Meeting

Ponca City Tourism Authority (PCTA) at the December meeting voted to place a half page ad in the travel issue of Oklahoma Today. The Board voted not to do a Valentine’s Day giveaway on the Internet.

Missy Morland, coordinator, told there were 32 tour groups that had visited during the Festival of Angels and four of them were overnight stays. She told about the Millennium Giveaway and the Dan Dipert Travel Show in January.

SPORTS

Reason for Pushing Of Referee Clearer
Mavericks In Idaho Classic

Reason for Pushing Of Referee Clearer

By TOM WITHERS

AP Sports Writer

BEREA, Ohio (AP) — As Orlando Brown cupped his injured right eye, the Cleveland Browns offensive tackle was overwhelmed by pain and thoughts of his father’s blindness.

Brown remained hospitalized with blurred vision today. The reason he shoved a referee to the ground became much clearer.

On Monday, it was revealed that Brown might have permanent damage in the eye that was accidentally hit by referee Jeff Triplette’s weighted penalty flag during Sunday’s game between Cleveland and Jacksonville.

Brown, who pushed Triplette down after being struck by the flag, was being treated for impaired vision at the Cleveland Clinic.

Brown said his family’s medical history is what drove him to storm onto the field and confront Triplette. Brown’s father, Claude, lost his sight to glaucoma in 1993.

‘‘His family history has him very concerned,’’ said Browns coach Chris Palmer, who spent an hour visiting with Brown at the hospital. ‘‘He sees his dad not being able to see his children and things like that.’’

Triplette’s 3-ounce flag — weighted with BBs — struck Brown directly in his right eye.

In a statement released by the Browns, Brown apologized to Triplette, his teammates and Cleveland fans.

‘‘My actions yesterday were based upon an incredible amount of pain, which affected my judgment,’’ Brown said. ‘‘This situation was very scary due to my father’s blindness and having to deal with that for many years.

‘‘My injury and those facts still do not justify pushing an official. I regret what happened a great deal. Nothing like this will ever happen again.’’

News that Brown’s injury was serious changed the focus of the story from condemnation of the player’s actions to concern for his future.

The NFL is considering disciplinary action, which could include a fine and suspension. The minimum fine for physical contact with an official is $10,000.

Brown was expected to remain under a doctor’s care for at least two more days.

‘‘It’s not good,’’ Palmer said. ‘‘He is concerned about losing his eyesight.’’

Palmer said doctors were concerned about pressure building around the eye, which was swollen shut and covered by a metal patch. Doctors told Palmer that because Brown is predisposed to eye problems, any injury could make him more susceptible to glaucoma and other long-term damage.

Because Brown already has poor vision, he couldn’t see the flag right away as it was coming toward him, Palmer said.

After he was hit, the 6-foot-7, 350-pound Brown dropped to one knee, and Triplette rushed to his side to pull the marker from inside the player’s helmet.

Brown then staggered toward the Cleveland sideline, but returned to confront Triplette, an energy company treasurer. Brown knocked the 6-foot-5, 200-pound ref to the ground with a two-handed shove to the chest.

Four NFL players have been disciplined for such contact: Don Burroughs of Philadelphia in 1963, Monty Stickles of New Orleans in 1968, Michael Jackson of Seattle in 1982 and Steve Wisniewski of Oakland in 1996.

Browns president Carmen Policy, who appeared at a news conference with Palmer, said the league should not treat Brown any differently because of the severity of the injury.

‘‘The pushing of an official should never be ignored,’’ Policy said. ‘‘With that premise in mind, I don’t think what happened can simply be written off.’’

Palmer said when he saw Brown walking back onto the field, he thought he was simply rejoining the huddle. He thinks Brown became enraged when he crossed paths with Triplette.

‘‘I think if he was in a fit of rage, it would have been a sprint onto the field like you see in baseball,’’ said Palmer, who along with several Browns players tried to calm Brown down.

Policy said he hopes the NFL will change the way officials are instructed to throw their penalty flags. Officials are taught to throw the markers upward or at the spot of the infraction.

Palmer said Sunday’s incident would not affect Brown’s future in Cleveland.

‘‘He’s a Cleveland Brown,’’ Palmer said. ‘‘At this time, I have not changed my view of Orlando Brown. I do not have problems handling the player.’’

Browns linebacker Jamir Miller said he could understand why Brown lost his composure.

‘‘The man was upset that he was taken out of the game by a flag, of all things,’’ Miller said. ‘‘You have 300-pound guys running around at you all day and you get hit in the eye with a flag? It’s a frustrating thing.’’

Browns safety Corey Fuller berated a reporter for asking if any of the Cleveland players were afraid of Brown, fined $5,000 earlier this season for a late hit.

‘‘I’m not defending him and I’m not defending the ref,’’ he said. ‘‘It’s just a situation where it seems like the athlete is always totally wrong. He’s not out there robbing, killing, stealing. The man blew up. The situation got out of control.’’

Mavericks In Idaho Classic

By TED ATCHLEY

NOC Sports Information

The Northern Oklahoma College Mavericks managed to come away from the Southern Idaho Classic in Twin Falls, Idaho. with one win and two losses.

The Mavs faced off first against Chipola, Fla., and encountered shooting trouble that left them with a 92-66 loss.

Coach Mick Weiberg said that the Florida team was good, but the Mavericks should have been able to win.

“We faced some good teams,’ Weiberg said. “Chipola was 11-1 but we had the opportunity to put them away and didn’t do it. You can't play a good team and then not make the baskets,” he said.

The Mavericks then met host team Southern Idaho Friday and played better, but found themselves in foul trouble. “We learned that we have to be aggressive but stay out of foul trouble,” Weiberg said. The Mavs fell in that second game,102-82.

Weiberg said the score didn't show how close the game really was. “:We were within four points in the second half but then foul trouble kept us from pulling away,” he said.

Larry Reid, Chris Arledge, Richie Myers, Sherman Rochell and Scott Prater all fouled out for the Mavs. “We don’t have the depth to come back against odds like that.”

The Mavericks downed Gogebic, Mich., by a score of 102-81 in the third outing.

Weiberg said the final game on Saturday helped affirm that his team could play at a higher level. “:We were more confident and played more comfortably,” Weiberg said. “We controlled the game from start to finish and that's what it takes.

“Coming away from that classic with a win is great for our team,” Weiberg said. “The event is by special invitation and we feel good about being invited. We learned that when we play at the national level we are going to face some tough teams. We gained valuable experience that will help us improve our team.”

Guard Larry Reid was named to the All-Tournament team. He was 6-of-11 from 3-point range in the final game. Tyler Barnard was 4 of 7 from outside the arc.

The next game for Northern is Jan. 7 against Northark at Harrison, Ark. The next home game is Jan. 11 against Connors.