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Chrome?
Busted Knuckle Truck Show Comes to Wilkins Trucking Page 7
Next 1 Up Inspires a Community
Fire It Up With Guys and Ribeyes II Page 11
Standing Bear Powwow Page 15
COVER STORY
Ponca City Arts Festival: 50 Years of Art Page 20 SPECIAL REPORT State Of The City Page 28
12-MONTH HEALTHY CHALLENGE The Art of Aging Page 61
In Every Issue
Sudoku Puzzle 52/68 Crossword 53/68 The Sunny Side .............................. 57 Having the Conversation 58
Cocktail Of The Month 70
Letter from the Editor
Ponca City Monthly is a Member of the Society of Professional Journalists. We believe that public enlightenment is the forerunner of justice and the foundation of democracy. We strive to ensure a free exchange of information that is accurate, fair and thorough. We pledge to: Seek the Truth, and Report It; Minimize Harm; Act Independently; and to Be Accountable and Transparent. To read our full pledge, visit: spj.org/ethicscode.asp
We all live different lives during our time here on Earth. Before we find our “careers,” we may traverse a variety of different jobs before we find the right fit. One such job I had in a previous life was working for the American Red Cross in Ponca City.
My role working for the Red Cross was as a Preparedness Coordinator. In that role, I taught classes and gave safety presentations on how to be better prepared for disasters or how to prevent them from happening.
September is National Preparedness Month, and October is Fire Prevention Month, both big months for the Red Cross. Each September, I traveled to towns in our area to hand out safety information about fire, CPR, and natural disaster preparation. In October, the big task for fire prevention education was going to all the schools and teaching kids about fire safety.
When I first started speaking at schools, I was terrified. My palms would sweat, and my mouth would dry out from nervousness. I remember my first time teaching at a morning assembly in front of 300 kids. I awkwardly held up each large poster print I brought to help teach fire safety, but the more I spoke, the more restless the kids became. I was not holding their attention. I was so nervous during those first few presentations. I was tripping over my words, and the kids could see that I was not having fun. I was very disappointed in my performance and knew I had to revamp my presentation.
I was determined to overcome my fears during my next school trip to speak. “Kids are easy to please,” I told myself. “If you are having fun, they will have fun.”
So, I went home and made a plan. I wrote jokes, developed interactive activities, and practiced my new routine. I practiced my jokes and my lines over and over again. As I stood in front of the next school and introduced myself, I was still nervous, but ready. I started my presentation by telling a very silly joke, and the entire school broke into laughter! I had a few kids come up and hold the big fire safety cue cards for me, and as I went around the room, I interacted with the kids and got them excited by asking them questions. The kids intuitively gave silly answers and kept the other kids entertained. I paused here and there to tell a joke or sing a song, and before I knew it, my 15-minute presentation was finished. As I waved goodbye to the room of 300 elementary school kids, all their smiling, happy faces were forever imprinted on my heart.
I learned an important lesson that day about being in front of people. All people - kids, adults, anyone - don’t care if you’re nervous. It’s okay to be nervous when you get in front of people. But I learned that you can’t be nervous AND unprepared. As the famous saying goes - if you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.
When I give speeches now, I make sure to plan ahead. I think about my audience and practice what I will do and say. And most importantly, when I plan and practice, it calms my nerves so I can deliver my speech and have fun while doing it. Being able to walk in front of a room full of people and give a speech is not easy - but being able to go into a room of 300 kids and make them laugh while learning something important is probably one of the greatest things I’ve ever accomplished.
editor@poncacitymonthly.com
Got Chrome?
Story by Theresa Sacket | Contributing Writer
Near Tonkawa, just off I-35 stands a vertical truck sign, originally reading “We Fix Trucks” and now “Got Chrome?” A famous marketing symbol, now featured in numerous publications and college textbooks. This unique billboard is an upended big rig grounded vertically with interior poles planted 11 feet in cement. Cliff Wilkins is the visionary for this sign, a landmark that gets many roadside pictures and has withstood many Oklahoma storms.
In 1965, Cliff started Cliff Wilkins Trucking, focusing on hauling cattle and rebuilding trucks. By 1987, Cliff, along with his son Brett, expanded their operations by founding Wilkins Oklahoma Truck Supply, Inc., in Tonkawa, Oklahoma. This new venture provided repair services, a 24/7 service truck and a wrecker service, while continuing their truck rebuilding business.
The demand for “shiny” parts to customize trucks led to the creation of a retail section that sold nut covers, hubcaps, mudflap weights and bumpers. This segment grew as customers requested more custom parts for their vehicles, transforming the business into a renowned supplier for truck enthusiasts worldwide.
Wilkins Truck Chrome boasts a global customer base, serving truck owners from single units to entire fleets. The company’s deep knowledge and extensive experience ensure each customer receives personalized service, whether they’re decking out their “home away from home” or maintaining their fleet. Wilkins Truck Chrome serves customers globally, shipping to countries like the UK, Australia, New Zealand and more. Committed to being the best rather than the biggest, the company thrives on its reputation for exceptional customer service and high-quality products.
The popular Busted Knuckle Truck Show originated from customer demands, celebrating drivers’ customizations and visions. Since its inception in 2010, the show has grown to feature over 450 trucks annually, highlighting the pride drivers take in their vehicles. All are welcome Sept. 20, 2024, to check out this year’s show. You can see all the trucks, enjoy food and live music, grab a drink at the Bad Apple Bar and make lasting memories! The Busted Knuckle Truck
Photos provided by Wilkins Truck Chrome
show is the “working man’s” truck show; there are no prizes given out, but everyone comes together to show pride in what they have and to reminisce. This show is one more example of how the Wilkins strive to be the best rather than the biggest.
In recent years, Wilkins Truck Chrome expanded their showroom, adding a museum to showcase some of Cliff and Brett’s most remarkable custom trucks. One of the standout trucks in the showroom is the “Low Commotion.” This beautiful truck is a1969 Peterbilt. The Wilkins family spent nine years building out its customized features; it has all the bells and whistles, a true feast for the eyes! Also featured in the showroom is a 1934 Ford. The Wilkins made memories driving this classic car in the Great Race of 2006. They were one of three families from Kay County to participate in this coast-to-coast race.
The team at Wilkins Truck Chrome is invaluable, with many members serving over 17 years. Each employee, from founders Cliff and Dolores Wilkins to the latest generation, contributes unique skills to ensure the business’ success. The dedication of the staff, combined with a loyal customer base, drives the family-owned business forward.
Wilkins, Founder and President; Dolores Wilkins, Founder and Secretary, also retired; Brett Wilkins, Founder and Vice President; Kimber Wilkins, Treasurer; Cody Vaverka, Operations Manager; Tanner Wilkins, Antique Truck Specialist; Karen Patton, Buyer and Customer Service; Kyla Grose, Marketing and Social Media Manager and Customer Service; Hali Wilkins, Office Assistant and Customer Service; Brett Fruits, Customer Service and Freight Management; Leo Trejo, Shop Manager; and Ben Jones, Shop Assistant. The future of Wilkins Trucking depends on the Fourth Generation being a part of the business … Brooks Grose, Bennett Grose and Jasper Wilkins.
In addition to the Wilkins passing down their knowledge and expertise of the trucking industry to each new generation, there have now been five generations of Timber Wolves roaming the grounds and as much a part of the family as anyone else. The newest Timber Wolf pup, JoJo, was born this year and is sure to greet you when you visit.
in their lot during production and some of their hood ornaments and bumper stickers got put on some vehicles … we’ll have to watch the movie to see if their merch made the final cut.
The next time you’re driving down I-35, take time to stop by Wilkins Truck Chrome. In addition to everything you could need for a big rig, they have merch for everyday shoppers, including tumblers and T-shirts, and best of all, they always have a welcoming smile, hot coffee and stories to tell.
A special thanks goes out to all their employees:
Another fun fact about Wilkins Truck Chrome is that some of their trucks were used in the original Twister movie. In the most recent movie Twisters, several of the vehicles used in the movie were kept
Clifford
The new Twisters movie used the Wilkins lot to store vehicles during production.
Tanner Wilkins started young carrying on the Wilkins tradition
I have an amazing referral system. I am there to help/guide my clients through whatever it takes to be where they want to be, whether buying or selling. I have a simple business philosophy, always do the right thing for people by keeping their best interest first.
My business is built by the simple referral system, I follow the concept of “meet the transactional needs of a client, you’ll get a pay check… meet the emotional needs of a client, you’ll get an advocate.
114 W. Hall of Fame Ave. • Stillwater (580) 382-9988
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Standing Bear Park
Thank You to our Generous Sponsors!
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CITY LIBRARY ON GRAND
Estilo de fiesta callejera • Edgar Cruz actuando 5:30-7:30 Vendedores de comida y otros • Manualidades para los niños ¡Baile y celebración de la Cultura Hispana!
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601 Standing Bear Parkway Ponca City, Oklahoma 580-762-1514
Gourd Dancing … 1:00 Traditional Meal … 5:30 Grand Entry … 7:00 FRIDAY Gourd Dancing … 5:00 Grand Entry … 7:00
Next 1 Up Inspires a Community
Story by Andy Hicks | Staff Writer
As classes across Kay County settle into a new school year, Next 1 Up aims to ensure every student has the opportunity to look great, feel great and be great. Founded two years ago by Richard Broome, Andrew Simmons and Ryan Rader, the organization focuses on mental health awareness and fostering relationships with elementary schools to provide essential hygiene products and self-esteem-building programs. On Sept. 20, they will host their yearly fund-raiser, Guys and Ribeyes.
Co-founder Ryan Rader explained that Next 1 Up began as a discussion about how to help the community following a string of tragic deaths at the high school. “Richard (Broome) and I were talking, and it was like, what can we do for suicide? We all have kids, and we are busy. The only thing we could do is raise money. What does money do when a tragedy like that strikes? Money can’t fix it. We knew we had good support from friends and family. If we put something together, we could raise money, but then what do you do with that money?”
As they considered their options, Rader remembered the famous Deion Sanders quote: “If you look good, you feel good, and if you feel good, you play good.” This inspired their vision. “We thought
if we could help people look good and feel good, then maybe they would be good, they would be better,” explained Rader. “It’s really about a proactive approach to mental health.”
Through a program called the Kay County Coalition, the founders realized there needed to be more community services to provide hygiene products to area schools. Next 1 Up sprang into action, hosting the first Guys and Ribeyes event and using the proceeds to buy items to donate. “We provided shampoo, soap, toothbrushes, hairbrushes, hair ties, laundry detergent, feminine products, deodorant, lots and lots of deodorant.”
In addition to hygiene products the organization also provides free haircuts and support of self-esteem programs. “I think everybody feels better after they get their hair cut,” says Rader. This year in addition to free haircuts, they provided scholarship money to the City Arts summer art camp program.
Raising money for school kids is in Rader’s blood. He explained that his father, who worked for the City of Winfield, decided one year
Left to Right: Andrew Simmons, Ryan Rader, and Richard Broome at last year’s Guys and Ribeyes.
to host a golf tournament with his friends and coworkers. The tournament was a success and his dad managed to raise five thousand dollars. “He took those five thousand dollars, and he donated milk money for the whole school for the year.”
Rader even attributed the name Next 1 Up to his father, who passed away 20 years ago. “Our motto is lead, act and inspire. We are trying to be the leaders, act on what we say we will do and inspire others to do something positive in the community.” He feels it is his duty to be the Next 1 Up for his community, just as his father was before him. “Next 1 Up means I am the next one up for my dad, and we want to hand this over to our kids for them to be the next one up.”
money. “All of our fundraisers are geared around food because I am passionate about food, and food makes people happy,” Rader laughed.
Inspired by his father’s generosity, Rader considered how Next 1 Up could raise money, recalling his father’s golf tournament success. “We were thinking what we could do and how we could raise money, and I remember my dad doing the golf tournament, and he made five grand, so I thought, let’s double it, let’s make 10 grand.”
Instead of a golf tournament, Rader turned to his passion: cooking. As one of Ponca City’s Top Chef winners, he felt food would be a great way to raise
His father’s influence extended to the event’s concept. Rader recalled a memorable Saturday when his dad invited him to an event with the instruction to bring a sheet pan and some seasonings. At the park, surrounded by beer trucks and grills, they cooked steaks together, and the camaraderie of strangers cooking together made a lasting impression. “It was everything from grandsons, uncles, nephews, grandpas, dads, just a bunch of guys, and you cooked steaks, and when you got done with your steak, you went back through a line, and they gave the sides, and you sat down and ate it and maybe had another beer and that is just what it was.”
Next 1 Up held their first Guys and Ribeyes last year at the MLZ Ranch. Much like his memory, the event featured guys, grills and raising money for a great cause. “We had young kids to grandpas. We like the generations of men coming together,” said Rader. Despite the name, which he swears will never change, everyone – both men and women – is welcome to attend. “We are not
going to turn away any women that want to support Next 1 Up; they are more than welcome to come and cook a steak,” Rader adds with a laugh.
This year, they will sell only 100 tickets to the Sept. 20 event. They have added a special theme, Sailor Jerry, hoping it will add a fun pirate twist to the festivities, including a signature drink and party favors. Every ticketholder will receive a T-shirt with this year’s theme. They also plan to showcase about 20 unique motorcycles for attendees to view, making it another exciting event. This year, their goal is to raise $15,000 through ticket sales, silent auctions and raffle items.
Rader hopes that with this year’s money they can expand their programs even further. “We are here in Ponca, but we are not ignorant to know that a lot of our support comes from surrounding cities. A lot of our friends are throughout Kay County and Chautauqua County Kansas – there are a lot of my family and friends supporting me from there so we want to expand beyond Ponca. This year we set the goal of let’s get to Blackwell, let’s get to Tonkawa, let’s get to Newkirk, let’s get to as many places as we feasibly can and what makes sense, all it takes is money. “
For more information about Next 1 Up and to purchase tickets to Guys and Ribeyes II, visit their website at next1upfoundation.org or their Facebook page @next1upfoundation.
Hygiene products donated to area schools by Next 1 Up.
Fire up the grill for Guys and Ribeyes on June 20th
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Standing Bear Powwow 31st Anniversary
Story and Photos by Chelsea McConnell / Staff Writer
The Standing Bear Powwow will be held Sept. 27-28.
This year marks the 31st anniversary of the event. The first powwow was held in 1994 and marked the one-year anniversary of the beginning of the Standing Bear Museum, Education Center and Park projects. Carl Renfro says, “As Chairman of the Standing Bear Foundation, it has been our pleasure to sponsor the Standing Bear Powwow for the past 30 years. The powwow has grown from its beginning with less than 100 in attendance, to over 3,000 annually attending this outstanding event. We extend an open invitation to all the people of Ponca City, as well as the surrounding area, and our Native American friends, to this family friendly, historical event.”
The Standing Bear Powwow symbolizes the coming together of six of our area’s Native American Tribes – Kaw, Osage, OtoeMissouria, Pawnee, Ponca and Tonkawa. Each tribe brings their own unique set of customs and traditions to the event. Its longstanding success shows a deep respect among these tribes. Osage Nation Representative Tracey Ann Moore says, “The value it brings to the community is needed, it brings our elders from all tribes together to advise us on culture and traditions needed to carry on into the future. We also
bring our youth of all tribes into the arena to ensure our traditions will continue on into the future. The native people in this area are survivors of a tragic past, but today we can celebrate our existence at the Standing Bear Powwow for years to come.”
Every year, the highest elected official in each tribe is asked to name a representative for their tribe to sit on the Tribal Host Committee. Standing Bear Museum Executive Director T.L Walker has been helping organize the powwows since 1998. She has this to say about the positions held by the Tribal Host Committee, “Those positions are really positions of honor, and we treat them that way. They are there to guide us culturally and to help select the Head Staff and to make cultural decisions about the powwow.” This group meets one time. Many travel from out of town so it is important to Walker that their time be respected.
The Tribal Host Committee chooses the Head Staff, which is made up of Masters of Ceremonies, Head Man Dancer, Head Lady Dancer, Head Singer, Arena Directors, Water Carriers and Head Gourd
Dancers. All six tribes are represented among this group of individuals, and they are integral in bringing the powwow together.
A second committee made up of volunteers runs the logistics of the event, making sure all the necessary items are in place for the powwow. They oversee things like lighting, bleachers, seating for the dancers, organizing food and art/craft vendors and countless other items. After years of running the event, they’ve got it down to an art.
On the Thursday before the event, the arena gets blessed with a smoke blessing by Leroy Enloe. Friday marks the official start of the powwow. The Standing Bear Powwow is a Contest Powwow, with dance categories for men, women and children. All dancers must register Friday. The Gourd Dancing, a type of prayer dance, begins at 5 p.m.
After the Gourd Dancing, the Princess Contest is held. Princess candidates must be aged between 15-21 and be a descendant from one of the six tribes. The dance competition starts at 6:30 p.m., and the new Princess is crowned right after the Grand Entry. Judges are comprised of one
member from each tribe. The Grand Entry, led by the outgoing Princess, takes place at 7 p.m. and is when all the dancers come into the arena. After the Grand Entry and the Princess selection, the Intertribal Dancing takes place. Intertribal Dancing is social, not a competition, and all ages, dancers, styles of dances and even spectators are invited, welcomed to join. It is customary for women to wear shawls when they dance. T.L says she always has extra available for anyone who needs one.
Next the Friday night contests are held, which include the Tiny Tots (5 and under), the Jr./Teen Division (ages 6-17) and the Golden Age (55 and up) dances. Adult dances are held on Saturday night. Cash prizes in various amounts are designated for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in the Jr./Teen, Golden Age and Adult divisions. These prizes are awarded on Saturday night at the culmination of the event. Tiny Tots are all deemed winners and their prizes are awarded after they dance.
Gourd Dancing begins again at 1 p.m. on Saturday afternoon. Saturday afternoon is also when Specials/Giveaways take place.
“The native people in this area are survivors of a tragic past, but today we can celebrate our existence at the Standing Bear Powwow for years to come.”
Specials/Giveaways are dances that are meant to honor the dancer and could be for a Head Staff member, a family member being honored or someone returning from military service, for example.
At 5:30 p.m., dancers break for a traditional meal to be served. Cooks begin first thing in the morning and cook all day long. They prepare corn soup, steam fry, fry bread and potatoes. The corn soup and the steam fry are cooked on-site over a big, open fire in a very traditional manner. The meal is an incredibly important part of the event. Representative Ken Luttrell shares, “The traditional meal served to tribal elders, members and the public is a gesture of respect and unity, reinforcing bonds within our community. I have had the privilege of participating in serving meals alongside my family – an experience that has deepened my appreciation for the powwow’s inclusive spirit.”
At 7 p.m., the Grand Entry begins, followed by Intertribal Dancing and the Adult Dance Contests. The event culminates with the special dance contest which changes each year. This year, it’s going to be Men’s Straight Dance.
Many community members volunteer throughout the weekend to help make the event a success. Volunteers do a number of tasks, including running the merchandise
booth and helping with set-up and tear down. These volunteers play an integral part in serving the traditional meal. Elders are served at their seats and everyone else goes through a buffet line. T.L estimates they serve between 700-1,000 people in about 45 minutes, which speaks to the efficiency of the event.
Around 200 dancers participate each year with lots of family and tribal support in attendance. Many camp on the grounds throughout the weekend during the event. Food vendors are invited to attend each year, as well. Event organizers make sure that a good variety of food is represented so all vendors are successful. The event will also feature anywhere from 12-20 art and craft vendors. These are either Native American vendors or folks who bring Native American offerings.
For more information about this year’s powwow, contact T.L Walker at the Standing Bear Museum and Education Center at (580) 762-1514. Plan to attend this year’s event to see the spectacular dances. Just make sure to bring a lawn chair!
Arts Festival 2024
Stewarding Support of the Arts in Ponca City
It is said that wisdom comes from experience. When planning a community event with a long and successful history, the collective experiences of the past are where one must go to glean wisdom needed for making future events a success. The sentiment of learning from those who came before him is not lost on City Arts Executive Director, Terron Liles. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Ponca City Arts Festival, making it the longest running fine arts festival in the state of Oklahoma. This year’s event will be held Friday, Sept. 27-Saturday, Sept. 28.
Co-Chairing this year’s event are City Arts President Chelsi Hendrickson and volunteers Liz Leaming and Rachel Stewart. Hendrickson shares, “I am really excited about the 50th Annual Arts Festival this year. I have attended this festival as a Board Member and Chair for City Arts for the past several years, and to have the opportunity to be a Co-Chair for the event is very fulfilling. City Arts dedicates their time to promoting, teaching and nourishing visual arts, and planning this festival allows us to aid in that endeavor.”
Liles, Assistant Executive Director, Kestrel Tinklenberg and the Co-Chairs have been working diligently to ensure this year’s event builds on the success of previous festivals. Liles says, “We try to carry on as many of the traditions from the original guardians of the Art
Festival as possible. We have worked hard to continue their legacy.” Stewart adds, “We are excited to build on this success and continue to grow the festival, ensuring that it remains a highlight of our community's cultural calendar.”
As with any event or organization that has stood the test of time, City Arts and the festival have both evolved over the years. This evolution is critical to both the organization and the event’s longevity, as stagnation rarely leads to improvement. Liles says this of the festival’s more recent evolution, “It always pulled at our heartstrings to leave Soldani Mansion. But being able to get the festival to the Cann Gardens has been amazing because that allows for a true cement path. I can’t think of a more gorgeous setting, and it’s truly helped us with artist recruitment and retention.”
In honor of the festival’s 50th anniversary, they plan to grow their numbers and host at least 50 artists. There
Story and Photos by Chelsea McConnell / Staff Writer
will be a healthy mix of local artists, as well as artists from all over the country. Artists will show in categories including oil, acrylic, watercolor, photography, pastel, pencil, printmaking, sculpture, pottery, ceramics, jewelry and textiles. Entry into the show is juried. City Arts strives to have a healthy variety of art for our community to enjoy. Liles shares, “It is important to be open-minded and remember art is subjective. We want to have something for everybody.” Stewart adds, “The festival not only brings a diverse range of artistic expressions to our city but also has further inspired creativity and appreciation of the arts within our city and surrounding areas.”
New to the festival this year is the Patrons on the Patio event that will be hosted Friday evening from 4-6 p.m. This VIP event is for patrons who have purchased $150 or more in Festival Dollars.
Festival Dollars are simply a commitment to spend money directly with artists participating in the festival. They can be purchased via the City Arts website by
any individual or business. Liz says, “The Festival Dollars are a fabulous way to save slowly for a larger gorgeous piece of art to wear or hang or display. Plus, you get to attend a VIP event Friday evening!”
The Patrons event is being catered by Enrique’s Mexican Restaurant and will feature delicious snacks and margaritas.
Beginning at 4 p.m., the Patrons event allows these VIPs entrance into the festival an hour earlier than the general public.
Last year over $10,000 in Festival Dollars was sold! Liles is proud of the way local patrons support this event. He says, “The
way Ponca City attends and shops the Art Festival shows that our community understands why they should invest in genuine art, originals or signed prints from artists. Ponca has always done a good job of appreciating the visual arts and trying to fund it as best they can, and I think the festival exemplifies that.”
Leaming adds, “The Arts Fest has had such a deep impact on Ponca City over the last 49 years. Hosting this 50th event in September holds special meaning for me personally. It was the (then Arts Association) Board of Directors that gave me a purpose and passion and connection to the Ponca City community nine years ago when I began serving. The community of artists, beautiful art, beautiful discussions that came from the art, the events, and the children that have been taught and impassioned through classes and camps over the years are only some of the reasons that this place is so
all laborers,
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Liz
Leaming and Mindy LittleCook
“The
Arts
Fest has had such a deep impact on Ponca City over the last 49 years."
special. The impact of the arts in our community has had a great effect on how we continue to develop – and the 50th Arts Fest feels like it will be the culmination of that beautiful work.”
Returning to the festival this year is the Saturday morning brunch with bottomless mimosas from 9-11 a.m. Tickets are $45 and will feature a decadent brunch catered by beloved local chefs Paul Muehlberg, Nancy Tyndall and Larry Bittman. Leaming says, “Saturday’s brunch is the best way to spend a Saturday morning in the fall – champagne, homecooked food by local chefs and a wander through a shady festival full of creatives.”
Another inventive aspect of the event coming back this year is the Member’s Booth. The Member’s Booth is a booth space set up and run by City Arts exclusively for their members. Members who don’t wish to have a booth of their own can submit pieces to hang for sale in
the Member’s Booth. This is a great opportunity for novice and veteran artists alike. Tinklenberg explains, “It gives newer artists the confidence to step out of their comfort zone and be in a festival without the pressure of having to set up by themselves. I also love that we had some more experienced artists that showed in the member’s booth too because they don’t have the ability to set up on their own anymore. You have all levels of talent without all the extra pressure.”
Over $25,000 worth of art was sold at the festival in 2023, and sales are expected to grow this year. $1,500 in cash prizes will be awarded, as well. Best of Show receives $500. First, Second and Third place in both 2D and 3D receive $200, $150 and $100, respectively. The recipient of the Florence Riesen Novice award receives $100. Betty Scott shares more about this special award, “Florence was one of the original “Dabbers” that met in each other’s
homes to paint. They all decided to buy the Art Center for Ponca City to have a place to make art. She was a long-time member of the Board of Directors. As a tribute to her an award was named The Florence Riesen Award, and it is given to the best up-and-coming artist at the annual art show.”
The Ponca City Arts Festival will start Friday, Sept. 27, with booths open to the public from 5-8 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 28 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Make sure to snatch your Festival Dollars and Brunch tickets if you want to be included in any of the VIP events. For more information, visit City Arts website at www.pcarts.org. Be sure to also follow City Arts on Facebook as they share details about all the bonus events being held along with the festival, as well as announcements about artists who will be attending.
STATE OF THE
Report compiled by Tana McKinley
Assistant City Manager / City of Ponca City
MAYOR CITY
Homer Nicholson was first elected Ponca City’s mayor in March of 2007 and has continued to be reelected mayor ever since, completing 18 years. His current term of office expires in March of 2025.
MAYOR: Homer Nicholson Service: 2007 to present Term Expires: March 2025 mayor@poncacityok.gov
Nicholson was first elected Ponca City’s mayor in 2007. His current office term expires in 2025.
Over the years, Nicholson has been inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame for City and Town Officials; awarded Mayor of the Year by the Mayors’ Council of Oklahoma; presented the Mayoral Gavel from Ponca City’s Sister City in Baiyin, Gansu Provincial Peoples Government; and received the Marvin Hicks-Al Middleton Meritorious Services Award from the Municipal Electric Systems of Oklahoma.
At the state and national level, Nicholson has served as president of the Mayors’ Council of Oklahoma, president of the Oklahoma Municipal League, chair of the Oklahoma Municipal Power Authority board, chair of the Oklahoma Municipal Utility Providers and chair of the Mid-Size City Coalition.
He has served as a member of the Oklahoma Academy, Northwestern Oklahoma Workforce Investment Board; Oklahoma Homeland Security Advisory Council; Governor’s Task Force on Collection, Distribution & Enforcement of Municipal Sales Tax; Governor’s Water Council, Governor’s Council on Economic Development; Oklahoma Pipeline Safety Task Force; Oklahoma
Environmental Quality Board; Legislative Energy Horizon Institute Oklahoma, AmeriCorps and American Public Power Association’s Policy Making Committee.
At the local level, he has served as president of the New Emergency Resource Agency, vice-president of the Golden Villa Adult Day Care, quad chair of Leadership Ponca City and chair of the Retail Task Force, as well as a member of the Ponca Chamber of Commerce, Noon Lions, Literacy Council, Tourism Board and University Learning Center. As an avid pilot, prior to serving as mayor, he served on the Airport Advisory Board and later as an ex-officio board member. He also started and continues to coordinate meetings of the Kay County Mayors’ Round Table.
Nicholson has supported numerous local clubs and organizations over the years, including Ponca City Jaycees, American Legion-Huff Minor Post 14, Elks Lodge No. 2002, Lions Club International, the Poncan Theatre, Ponca Playhouse, Ponca City Main Street, Arts and Humanities Council and Community Concert Series.
He has spent countless hours supporting local events and parades portraying Lew Wentz as a historic reenactor, conducting charity auctions and chauffeuring others in his personal collection of antique cars.
PONCA CITY’S LONGEST SERVING
1217 E. Prospect • Ponca City 767-8304
This family restaurant is owned and operated by Oklahoma Barbecue Society’s Hall of Fame honoree, Danny Head. Danny’s BBQ Head Quarters is proud to say the meal you are about to enjoy is made with the same dedication and care that has twice won the Kansas City American Royal International Invitational Barbecue Grand Championship and the Jack Daniels Invitational World Barbecue Grand Championship, as well as countless regional and state championships.
In addition to serving great BBQ for lunch and dinner, we also offer Fried Catfish and we have Calf Fries on scheduled days. We also offer catering, which is not limited to our BBQ. We have a great selection to choose from and if you have a special request, we will try to accomodate that too. Our holiday smoked hams and turkeys are also very popular!
Governed by five at-large Commissioners, with one designated as Mayor, each Commissioner serves a three-year term. Nonpartisan elections take place the first Tuesday in March of each year with the election of a Mayor one year, two Commissioners the next year and two more Commissioners the following year. The City Commission annually selects a Vice-Mayor.
Representative body of the people
COMMISSION
The City Commission thinks and plans strategically for the better good of our community and encourages adaptive thinking for greater productivity and cost-savings for citizens.
Recent accomplishments of the City Commission include supporting efforts of the Mid-Size City Coalition regarding legislative funding issues, the Oklahoma Municipal League’s Legislative Committee regarding municipal issues and the Oklahoma Municipal Power Authority regarding public power issues. The City Commission approved a resolution supporting Oklahoma legislation for code enforcement officials to regulate mere vacant buildings as they constitute and lead up to the dilapidation of property and the cause of community health, safety and welfare issues. The City Commission also approved a resolution supporting Oklahoma legislation making certain acts against municipal, county and state officials unlawful, including assault, battery or assault and battery.
Mayor Nicholson coordinated meetings of Kay County Mayors’ Round Table to increase dialogue regarding pertinent issues facing North Central Oklahoma communities; participated in meetings of the Federal Railroad Administration to support passenger rail efforts; and worked with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation to rehabilitate and repurpose the Santa Fe Depot.
The City Commission approved annual agreements for services with the Ponca City Tourism Bureau ($276,667), Ponca City Main Street ($40,000), United Community Action Program/Cimarron Transit ($25,000), Northern Oklahoma Youth Services Center and Shelter ($15,000), Santa Bucks Giveaway ($5,000) and a one-time agreement with the Ponca City Tourism Visitors’ Center ($25,000).
PCDA (Ponca City Development Authority) Trustees determined that the City would be better served if they had the ability to provide incentives in both the housing and retail sectors. The City Commission approved a resolution amending the PCDA trust indenture to allow for public resources, under PCDA management, to be used for housing and retail. PCDA has since allocated $1 million toward housing incentives over the next three years to assist with Ponca City’s housing needs. PCDA’s incentives are designed to complement the City of Ponca City’s existing Housing Incentive Program, ensuring developers receive additional support to undertake crucial housing projects.
The City Commission’s path forward includes partnering with PCDA to attract and recruit new business, industry and residents and to support workforce development initiatives that provide access to affordable housing; creating an environment for open dialogue regarding community capital improvement projects; keeping Ponca City beautiful and safe through code enforcement and dilapidated buildings removal; working on favorable legislation to improve municipal revenues and limit sales tax exemptions through diversification of sources; and supporting efforts to extend Amtrak passenger rail service from Oklahoma City to Newton, Kansas, with the construction of railroad infrastructure capable of sustaining high-speed traffic.
City Commission meetings are held at City Hall, located at 516 E. Grand Avenue. Regular meetings are held the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 5:30 p.m. Work sessions are held the first and third Mondays of each month at 2 p.m.
As a local bank established in 1901, The State Exchange Bank is still about community and relationships. If the big banks don’t answer your calls or fix your issues on the same day, come see us.
• Hotshots, Flatbeds, Stepdecks, Vans & Power Only
• Specializing in Time- Critical Freight
• Air-Ride Tractors and Trailers
• Insured, including General Liability and Cargo
• Licensed and Bonded Freight Broker
• Locally Owned, Minority WomanOwned
• Real-Time Satellite Tracking
• 48-State Authority
• Available 24/7
BOARDS
Opportunity for a role and voice
Airport Advisory Board advises and makes recommendations to the City Commissioners on the planning, development, maintenance, operations and policing of the airport.
Animal Control Commission advises and makes recommendations to the City Commissioners on improvements and operations of the Animal Control Center; all ordinances for the control, regulation and licensing of animals in the City and any and all legislation concerning animals kept within the limits of the City.
Board of Adjustment decides requests for zoning variances and appeals from decisions made by administrative officials on the enforcement of zoning regulations.
Construction Appeals Board hears all appeals regarding code enforcement officer decisions referencing electrical, mechanical, plumbing, building and/or fire codes.
Cultural Affairs Commission, E.W. Marland Estate Commission and Historic Preservation Advisory Panel advise the City Commissioners on historic preservation, architectural and archaeological resources within the City.
Library Board considers all phases of library operations and makes recommendations to the City Commissioners for improvements in any area of library operations.
Parks and Recreation Board sets policies for the operation of the parks and recreation program, reviews and approves individual programs and capital improvement projects budget.
City Manager Craig Stephenson
Personnel Board advises the City Manager and the City Commissioners on matters of personnel policy and problems of personnel administration, representing the interest in the improvement of personnel administration in the City’s service.
Planning Commission considers and investigates subject matters tending to the development and betterment of the City and makes recommendations concerning the adoptions of surveys, maps and plans.
Ponca City Development Authority utilizes voter approved, dedicated sales tax funds to facilitate the creation/retention of quality job opportunities.
Ponca City Housing Authority administers Section 8 and low-rent programs.
City Manager Craig Stephenson is responsible for the implementation of policy and procedures, as directed by the City Commission, through the coordination and supervision of all city departments as they work toward the goals and visions of the Commissioners. He assists the Commissioners in the making of policies by providing preliminary planning, recommendations, technical assistance and reporting on all matters relating to the planning, development and operating status of City departments.
The path forward for the City Manager includes: supporting the attainment of City Commission and Department goals through budget implementation; providing timely communications via press releases, media tip sheets, employee newsletters, State of the City Report, Ponca City Information Guide, cable television channel, social media, website and advertisements; monitoring legislation at the state and national level with potential local impact; reviewing and revising Standard Operating Procedures and Commission Policy Statements as needed; maintaining Continuity of Operation Plans for all City Departments; enhancing employee education and development through annually required safety training as outlined by the City’s Safety Manual; participating in Certified Healthy Oklahoma and supporting the development of programs and events that recognize the positive impact of health on employees and patrons; and providing
guidance to bring back as much federal funding as possible to Ponca City taxpayers.
The City Manager’s office is located in City Hall at 516 E. Grand Avenue. Hours of operation are Monday thru Thursday, from 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.; and Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. For more information, call (580) 767-0339.
The City Attorney provides legal counsel, advice and advocacy on behalf of the Mayor, City Commission and various City officers to support municipal operations, programs and community policies of the City of Ponca City and the Ponca City Utility Authority, as well as prosecution of municipal offenses.
Human Resources provides employee relations, labor negotiations, employee compensation, job analysis and classification, employee benefits, employee training, development and recognition
programs, on-boarding and off-boarding processes, recruitment and selection, workplace safety, human resources policy development and compliance and personnel records management. Human Resources is located in City Hall at 516 E. Grand Avenue and open Monday thru Thursday, from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. For more information, call (580) 767-0305.
Finance provides timely and accurate financial information to the citizens of Ponca City, the Board of Commissioners and City departments, as well as providing records management, budget monitoring, accounting, investment and accounts payable services for the City. The path forward for Finance is to improve the budget document with additional performance and workload measures; assist the City Manager and City Commission with budget and funding solutions for long-term public capital improvement projects; work with an external auditor to enhance internal controls and financial reporting of the City’s businesses; monitor all financial transactions and compare budget; and upgrade the current financial software program. Finance also oversees the City Clerk, Utility Billing and Municipal Court.
City Clerk provides City Commission records, codification of municipal ordinances, contractual bidding, liens and permit requirements, official file maintenance, public notifications and regular meeting schedules.
Utility Billing strives to provide accurate billing service and records to all Ponca City Utility Authority
customers with prompt, professional and courteous service. Several payment options are available, including the payment window, drive-thru drop box, mail, online/internet, bank draft, credit card, as well as visiting with a customer service representative. There are currently 13,207 residential customers compared to 13,156 last year, and there are currently 2,432 commercial customers compared to 2,420 last year.
Utility Billing’s path forward is to explore the possibility and availability of a payment app for customer convenience, rearrange the office to accommodate more customer service representatives and upgrade utility billing software. The Utility Billing Office is located in City Hall, at 516 E. Grand Avenue, and open Monday thru Thursday, from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. For more information, call (580) 767-0311.
Municipal Court works in an efficient and professional manner to provide fairness and accurate records of all matters of the Court. The path forward for Municipal Court is to perform periodic clerk cross-training, develop a continuity of service plan, upgrade software, continue to update procedures and forms to comply with statute changes and renovate the Municipal Courtroom and offices. Municipal Court is located at 200 E. Oklahoma Avenue and open Monday thru Thursday, from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. For more information, call (580) 767-0382.
The City of Ponca City is searching for talented and motivated individuals who are committed to our organization. Open employment positions are posted at City Hall and www.poncacityok.gov. The City has medical insurance, dental insurance, prescription drug card program, Flexible Spending Account plan (Section 125), prescription eyeglass program, life insurance, City-sponsored retirement plan, paid vacation, paid holidays and paid sick leave.
At Triad Women’s Complete Healthcare, we’re dedicated to offering a wide range of women’s health care services. Led by Abby Parker, APRN, our clinic provides compassionate and knowledgeable care, including:
✤ Weight Management (including compounded prescriptions for Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, and Liraglutide)
✤ Hormone Replacement Therapy
✤ Genetic Cancer Screening (including BRCA gene testing for breast cancer, with 90% of insurances covering it if you qualify) ✤ Abnormal Pap Smear Management (including colposcopy exams and biopsies)
Gynecological Issues
Birth Control (including IUD and Nexplanon insertion/removals)
BUDGET
Fiscal Year 2024-25
The Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget runs July 1 thru June 30. It is in balanced form as required by the Oklahoma Municipal Budget Act, and it outlines the City’s administrative structure, departmental finances and work plans. This budget allows the City to continue providing quality services to the public, while maintaining a solid fiscal foundation for the following year’s budget.
This year’s budget includes a total of 410 full-time employees, an increase of six positions. There are 300 nonunion fulltime employees and 110 union full-time employees, as well as regular part-time employees and seasonal employees.
The total budget is $134,884,556, a 2.23% increase from the previous year, and it includes $16,185,339 for capital improvements, a 9% increase from the previous year.
Utility rate revenues are budgeted with increases from the previous year as follows: Water, 5%; Landfill, 5%; Wastewater, 3%; Solid Waste, 3%; and Stormwater, $0.25; as well as a 5% increase for Broadband customers living outside of the City limits.
The General Fund reserve amount is $3,000,000, which represents 10% of the
Hotel Excise Tax: 8%
General Fund’s 2024-25 operating budget.
Sales tax revenues are budgeted with a 3% increase from the previous year, and staff continues to closely monitor these revenues.
Simply put, Oklahoma local governments cannot function fiscally without sales tax revenue. Municipalities in Oklahoma are dependent on sales tax revenue to fund General Fund operations.
Here in Ponca City, sales taxes provide funding for services such as public safety. Keeping our City safe is very important to our citizens. That’s why over 50% of the General Fund budget is dedicated annually to Police, Fire, Animal Control, Communications/911 and Emergency Management services.
Sales tax revenues also support many other City services, such as streets, bridges, parks, pools and the library. And, these revenues afford us the opportunity to invest in economic development activities, which in turn provide better paying jobs, job diversification and ultimately a better quality of life.
The City also collects a Ponca City hotel excise tax of 8% from many different forms of lodging. The path forward for the hotel
Sales Taxes:
State Sales Tax: 4.5% in perpetuity
9.583%
Kay County Sales Tax -- Jail: 0.667% 0.3335% in perpetuity, 0.3335% expires June 30, 2028
Kay County Sales Tax -- County Court House: 0.25% expires Dec. 31, 2032
Kay County Sales Tax -- Fire Department: 0.333% expires Dec. 31, 2028
City Sales Tax -- General Fund: 2.0% in perpetuity
City Sales Tax -- Street Improvements: 0.5% in perpetuity
City Sales Tax -- Police Station: 0.833% 0.333% in perpetuity, 0.5% expires Sept. 30, 2028
excise tax is to promote Ponca City as a destination to be seen and experienced; fund annual agreements with Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce for Ponca City Tourism Bureau operation, Visitor Center upgrades and Santa Buck Giveaway program participation; and fund public recreation capital improvements. This year’s capital projects include the Wentz Pool renovation, 101 Rodeo Grounds lighting and Wally Smith Tennis Center courts resurfacing.
The City of Ponca City collects a Ponca City Hotel Excise Tax of 8% from many different forms of lodging. Of the taxes collected:
5/8 is for encouraging, fostering and promoting conventions and visitors’ development and economic development associated with the travel and tourism industry.
3/8 is for capital improvements to recreation facilities on public property for the public at-large within Ponca City and its environs.
Where the City gets $$$
GRANTS DEBT SERVICES
Bringing federal funding back to Ponca City taxpayers
Schedule of 2024 Federal Grant Awards Expended
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass through Oklahoma Department of Commerce
• CDBG Coronavirus, $423,763
• Small Cities Program 2022, $122, 072
U.S. Department of the Interior Pass through Oklahoma State Historical Preservation Office
• Certified Local Government Program 2023, $22,679
U.S. Department of Justice Pass through Bureau of Justice Assistance
• COPS Anti-Methamphetamine Program, $11,001
• Edward Byrne Law Enforcement Assistance 2023, $18,267
U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services Pass through Oklahoma Department of Libraries
• Continuing Education Grant- Department Library Development, $1,062
• State Aid Grant-Department Library Development, $11,155
U.S. Department of Homeland Security
• Public Assistance October 2022 Ice Storm, $1,005,284
• Emergency Management Performance Grant 20, $7,427
• Emergency Management Performance Grant 21, $22,281
• 2022 Oklahoma Emergency Management Association Conference, $572
Promoting and facilitating land use planning
Development Services promotes and facilitates land use planning as a positive tool for physical growth, sustainability and quality of life, and partners with individual citizens in achieving their goals and objectives while at the same time implementing established communitywide goals and action plans adopted and contained within the Ponca City Master Plan. The path forward is to begin a comprehensive revision of the City’s Zoning Code, complete phase two of the railroad quiet zone project, complete the rehabilitation of the Santa Fe Depot and execute a lease agreement with a prospective tenant, complete construction of the downtown streetscape plan and implement a road diet of Grand Avenue, adopt the 2021 edition of the International Code Council building codes and implement Fiscal Year 2024-25 CDBG (Community Development Block Grant projects).
Development Services is located in City
Funding for large capital improvement projects
Summary of Debt as of June 30, 2024
PCUA 2007, Wastewater Collection System Improvements
• $1,761,561
• Matures September 15, 2029
2009A Clean Water, Wastewater Lift Station Improvements
• $132,918
• Matures March 15, 2030
2019 Sale Tax, Public Safety Center
• $14,160,000
• Matures February 1, 2029.
PCUA 2021, PC Broadband Construction & Development
• $8,612,00
• Matures March 1, 2031
PCUA 2021B, Automated Meter Reading
• $2,257,000
• Matures August 1, 2025.
Hall, at 516 E. Grand Avenue, open Monday thru Thursday, from 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
For more information, call (580) 7670383.
Engineering maintains City infrastructure records and provides support services to City departments as needed, including engineering, design, planning, project management, land survey, construction inspection, GIS (geographic information services) and public resource information. The path forward is to complete engineering, design, plans and construction for the maintenance and improvement of various local streets, walkways and bridges throughout Ponca City as outlined in the Street Sales Tax budget; provide engineering, design, plans and bidding services, as well as consultant and construction oversight in the support of other City department’s
Attucks Park renovations were recently completed using biennial 2022-23 CDBG funds, which included playground, basketball court, restroom and sidewalk improvements.
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• Meals on Wheels
• Movie and game night
• Seasonal events
projects and programs, including Parks and Recreation and Environmental Services; provide engineering and GIS technical assistance for City departments and economic development projects in Ponca City; and manage the activities of the Community Rating System as part of the City’s participation in the National Flood Insurance Program. Capital projects include a service truck. For more information, call (580) 767-0383.
Traffic Engineering applies engineering principles to planning, design and traffic operation on streets and abutting land uses to provide safe and efficient movement of today’s traffic and plan for improvements designed to accommodate tomorrow’s traffic. The path forward is to continue replacing signal infrastructure at all signalized intersections; contract major street pavement striping; replace the oldest traffic control signs; re-lamp at least five signalized intersections under routine maintenance; provide support to City departments through sign manufacture/installation, traffic striping, plan reviews and mapping; evaluate policeinvestigated traffic collisions and develop recommendations for remedial measures to reduce collisions where possible; and prepare plans, specifications and manage construction of approved Street Sales Tax projects. For more information, call (580) 767-0327.
program. For more information, call (580) 767-0409.
The Street Improvement Project Trust Fund prudently expends street improvement sales and use tax revenues derived from the 1/2 cent dedicated tax, approved by the voters to maintain and improve city streets and sidewalks. Improvement project costs are leveraged with grant funds whenever possible. Capital projects funded this year to complete the Elm Street improvements project, Broadway Avenue to Highland Avenue; restripe Grand Avenue, from four lanes to three lanes as part of the downtown corner node project and road diet on Grand Avenue, from 14th Street to 1/4 miles west of Waverly Street; construct sidewalk along the north side of Hartford Avenue, from N.E. Woodlands Road to Pecan Road and on the east side of Pecan Road, from Hartford Avenue to Mockingbird Drive; complete the second phase of the mill and overlay project in the Mockingbird/Kyme subdivision; initiate a quiet zone along the BNSF railroad tracks from Grand Avenue to Highland Avenue; continue multiyear program to replace traffic signal infrastructure at all signalized intersections; contract pavement marking on major street system; mill and overlay Union
Street from Grand Avenue to Highland Avenue; and provide material costs for Street Division chip and seal program. For more information, call (580) 767-0327.
The Streetscape/Road Diet project will soon be underway. In 2023, the City set aside a total of $968,000 in ARPA funds to undertake a streetscape project in the Central Business District on Grand Avenue from 1st Street to 7th Street. In 2024, the City Commission approved a resolution creating a road diet on Grand Avenue, by reducing the number of traveling lanes on U.S. Highway 60 Business from Waverly Street to U.S. Highway 177, and an agreement with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation for landscaping improvements in the Central Business District.
The streetscape/road diet project will include creating new uniformly designed corner nodes; providing public water supply to each planter; adding handicapped parking spaces and ramps; attaching Edisontype lighting to the street lights along and parallel to Grand Avenue; changing parking spaces angles from 25 degrees to 45 degrees for 98 additional parking spaces; and implementing a road diet on Grand Avenue, from 14th Street to 1/4 mile west of Waverly Street. The road diet will reduce the number of travel lanes from four to two lanes with a turning lane.
Street and Alley Maintenance provides proper maintenance of streets, alleys, drainage systems, parking lots, snow and ice removal and City departments assistance. The path forward is to chip and seal 10 to 12 lane miles; replace 1,000 feet of curb and gutter; crack-seal 8 to 9 lane miles; assist with stormwater projects; and expand the asphalt recycling
The Streetscape/Road Diet Project in the Central Business District will include additional handicapped parking spaces and ramps.
Grants Administration applied for $171,250 in CDBG grant funding for Fiscal Year 202425 through the biennial Small Cities Set-Aside program. This program requires a 50% cash match specific to the designated project, and 51% of the project beneficiaries are required to be low- and moderate-income persons. Fiscal Year 2024-25 project requests include:
1) Home Buyers Assistance request of $30,000. This project will assist incomeeligible home buyers with down payment and closing cost assistance. The project match is $30,000 from PCDA.
2) Attucks Community Center improvements request of $50,000. This project will replace the gym and front-end air conditioning, renovate/rehabilitate bathrooms and weatherization/rehabilitate the gymnasium. The project match is $50,000 from Attucks Community Alliance.
3) Interim Assistance/Special Services request of $91,250. This project provides assistance to low- to moderate-qualified residents (according to HUD standards) where immediate action is necessary in order to arrest the physical deterioration of residential properties until something permanent can be undertaken. Additionally, interim assistance will be available to low- to moderate-income citizens to eliminate conditions which threaten their health and safety. The project match is $91,250 from the City.
The Ponca City Regional Airport maintains the highest quality of standards set forth by the Federal Aviation Administration and Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics, while promoting the Airport with its 7,201-foot runway. The path forward is to work with design consultants on a new Airport terminal with restaurant space and new parking area; maintain multiple hangars on the grounds; install and repair corporate hangar door seals; provide attended fueling operations seven days a week (7 a.m. to 7 p.m.); host the Northern Oklahoma Flight Academy for Ponca City area youth; and hold first Saturday of the month fly-in pancake breakfasts. Capital projects include a service vehicle and a 72” zero-turn diesel mower. The airport is located at 2213 N. Waverly Street. For
more information, call (580) 767-0429.
The City of Ponca City continues to support the Heartland Flyer connection between Oklahoma City and Newton, Kansas. This connection is a top priority of Amtrak, in order to connect the southern portion of the country to the north, and the east to the west. The Santa Fe Depot is being
LEISURE
Quality amenities to enjoy
rehabilitated and repurposed as a passenger rail depot and hub for the local transit system.
AMBUC Pool provides quality recreational opportunities with the goals of developing healthy minds and bodies, as well as enhancing quality of life. The path forward is to expand concession offerings, provide in-service training for seasonal staff, sell swimming pool passes, continue American Red Cross lifeguard certifications and operate registration software.
AMBUC Pool is located at 600 S. 8th Street and is open daily during the summer season, except on Wednesdays for maintenance. For more information, call (580) 767-0430.
L.A. Cann Gardens & Estate provides a safe,
clean facility with an aesthetically pleasing and educational outdoor environment for citizens, local garden clubs and visitors to spend leisure time. The path forward is to work with Survivor Resource network on the Herb Festival, City Arts on the Ponca City Arts Festival and the Festival of Angels on light displays; participate and sponsor educational horticulture events; rejuvenate areas with plant and hardscape materials and research unique alternatives; preserve botanical garden characteristics; and maintain a welcoming environment. L.A. Cann Estate is located at 1500 E. Grand Avenue. For more information, call (580) 767-0430.
Marland Grand Home preserves and maintains
the 1916 historic first mansion of E.W. Marland, oil baron and tenth governor of Oklahoma. Interpretation for tourists includes renovated 1920s era living areas, plus collections of 101 Ranch and American Indian artifacts that pertain to the life of Marland and his family. The path forward is to expand the Listen and Learn series; introduce new 101 Ranch Museum exhibits; increase revenue through rental and event revenue; and increase visibility through advertising, events and programs. Capital projects include refinishing the second-floor hardwood floors, upgrading the original basement lighting and replacing event tables and chairs. The Marland Grand Home is located at 1000 E. Grand Avenue and is open Monday
thru Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (580) 767-0427.
Marland Mansion & Estate preserves the historic landmark to educate the public about E.W. Marland, founder of the Marland Oil Company, and his family, and to create an authentic atmosphere which portrays the Marland lifestyle during the 1920s and 1930s. Additional grounds museums relate to the historic interpretation of the estate: Marland Oil Museum, Bryant Baker Gallery and Artist Studio and Lydie’s Cottage. The path forward is to expand and enhance all areas of advertising; evaluate future usage of the Gate House and Angela Hall; detail plaster/paint; rust proof and paint wrought iron doors and windows; sand, re-paint, re-stain and varnish exterior wood doors and windows; safely preserve and inventory artifacts on display and in storage; and recruit and train volunteer docents to lead guided tours. Capital projects include exterior masonry stone repair and replacement, as well as interior and exterior wood door repair. The Marland Mansion and Estate is located at 901 Monument Road and is open Monday thru Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (580) 767-0420.
Park Maintenance provides clean, safe and aesthetically pleasing parks, pools and facilities to the Ponca City community in a cost-effective manner and provides facility maintenance and support to other City departments. The path
forward is to grow plant material for the City; maintain a high standard of landscape by planting more perennials and shrubs; maintain Tree City USA and Bee City USA certifications; maintain the park system and lake with the highest-quality standards; continue the Arbor Day Celebration with local schools and citizens; trim and prune all trees in parks and lake areas; and create more lake accessible areas along the shoreline. Capital projects include four mowers and a backup generator for the greenhouses.
Ponca City Library provides access to the best sources of information, current technology, quality collections, outstanding programs and exceptional service for residents to have the resources needed to make informed decisions, explore topics of interest and successfully learn. The path forward is to increase online video programs, door counts and circulation, as well as complete a Library-use survey. Capital projects include modernizing the
elevator and replacing 28 chairs. The Library is located at 515 E. Grand Avenue and is open Monday thru Thursday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays (Labor Day to Memorial Day) from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Ponca City RecPlex provides a competitive six-lane lap swim pool, hydrotherapy whirlpool, steam and sauna room, rock climbing wall, 2.5 indoor basketball courts, trampoline area, two racquetball courts, cardio workout equipment, strength-training equipment, studio areas for specialized training and activities, kids’ zone, 1/8-mile indoor walking track, 0.9-mile outdoor walking trail, four tournament-quality softball fields, and four youth baseball fields and four tee-ball/soccer/youth football fields. The path forward is to expand program offerings for all ages, provide City employee health and wellness programs, expand league activities for youth and adults, partner with community organizations on educational events, convert the facility to LED lighting and improve facility cleanliness. Capital projects include a kids’ zone play structure. The RecPlex is located at 1604 W. Grand Avenue and is open Monday thru Friday from 5 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, call (580) 767-0430.
Recreation Programs provide quality recreation opportunities with goals of developing healthy minds and bodies, as well as enhancing quality of life. Recreation provides a wide range of services, such as senior meals and programming; gym rentals and events; kayak rentals; fun runs; youth camps and clinics and parades. The path forward
for Recreation Programs is to expand program offerings for all ages, provide City employee health and wellness programs, expand and promote Medicare Part D awareness, provide senior day trips and partner with community organizations on educational events. For more
Wentz Golf Course continues to maintain 4-Star ranking by Golf Digest.
Marland Mansion
information, call (580) 767-0430.
Wentz Camp and Pool provides quality recreational opportunities with the goals of developing healthy minds and bodies, as well as enhancing quality of life. The path forward is to provide in-service training for seasonal staff, clean and seal buildings, expand
Enjoy beautiful Lake Ponca by kayak. A self-serve rental kiosk is located south of the swim beach on Check Stand Road. Rental includes kayak, paddle and lifejacket.
cabin rental availability and repair pool tiles. Capital projects include pool and cabin repairs. Wentz Camp and Pool is located at 2932 L.A. Cann Drive. For more information, call (580) 767-0430.
Wentz Golf Course provides an 18-hole golfing experience with the lowest possible cost. The path forward is to maintain Golf Digest 4-star
ranking; increase revenue by holding demo days, skills competitions and clinics on the new driving range and short game area; increase pro shop revenue by increased corporate business outings; create more events with local businesses and clubs; cohost the Cherokee Strip Golf Classic; construct new tees on holes #4, #16 and #17; dredge out debris and refill ponds on #2 and #3; and clean maintenance barn surround. Capital projects include an 11’-wide rotary rough mower, 30’x45’x13’ equipment storage building and irrigation computer upgrade. Wentz Golf Course is located at 2928 L.A. Cann
Statistical Analysis Center - Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation
SIBRS Crimes for Ponca City Police Department
Source: State Incident Based Reporting System, 2023 *Data provided is current as of 07/24/2024
SIBRS (State Incident Based Reporting System) is a part of the National Incident Based Reporting System. SIBRS has three offense types (Crimes Against Persons, Crimes Against Property and Crimes Against Society) and there are multiple crimes within each category. SIBRS captures details on each single crime incident, as well as on separate offenses within the same incident. Crimes Against Persons in 2023 were 729 compared to 709 in 2022; Crimes Against Property in 2023 were 1,168 compared to 1,187 in 2022 and Crimes Against Society in 2023 were 397 compared to 343 in 2022.
SAFETY Protection of the general public
Drive and is open daily. For more information, call (580) 767-0433.
The Ponca City Fire Department minimizes the loss of life and property resulting from fire, medical emergencies and other disasters through fire prevention, public education, fire suppression, medical service delivery and other related emergency and nonemergency activities. The primary fire response area is 19.3 square miles within the Ponca City limits and 64 square miles of rural area in Kay County. In 2023, the Fire Department responded to 509 fire service-related calls compared to 1,113 in 2022.
The path forward is to standardize Emergency Medical Services supplies and equipment on all fire response apparatus, provide specialized training associated with aircraft related rescue operations and firefighting techniques, and place a new fire pumper into service. Capital projects include an administrative pickup truck, firefighting personal protective equipment gear, Lexipol consulting for Standard Operating Policies/Standard Operating Guidelines, Station No. 1 and Station No. 4 facility repairs, loose equipment and a Station No. 1 pressure washer.
Ambulance provides emergency care and transport services in an effort to mitigate medical emergencies for the citizens of Ponca City. The primary ambulance response area is 19.3 square miles within the Ponca City limits, and 419 square miles of rural area: 194 square miles in Kay County, 125 square miles in Noble County and 100 square miles in Osage County. In 2023, the Ponca City Fire Department responded to 5,377 ambulance calls compared to 4,881 in 2022.
The path forward is to seek and evaluate possible coursework opportunities for firefighters currently
certified at the EMT-Basic level to achieve a higher level of certification, which will improve PCFD’s ability to provide Advanced Life Support care to citizens; acquire intravenous pumps for ambulances; and provide support to neighboring fire service agencies serving rural areas who seek to obtain Emergency Responder Agency status from the Oklahoma Department of Health. Capital projects include an ambulance, a power cot, a power-load cot, five automated external defibrillators, two ventilators, multitherapy infusion pump kits and medication cooler units.
The PCFD has stations located at 500 E. Grand Avenue, 2900 N. Ash Street, 627 E. Hartford Avenue and 2330 Pecan Road. Call (580) 7670368 for nonemergencies or 911 for emergencies.
The Ponca City Police Department works with all citizens to promote safety, preserve life, maintain human rights, protect property and encourage individual responsibility and community commitment.
The path forward for the Police Department is to continue partnership with the Pioneer Technology Center and other area law enforcement agencies to hold a basic police officer certification program in Ponca City; constantly review, update and increase Police recruiting efforts to help fill vacant officer positions; restructure the Field Training Officer program and manual; obtain grant funding to continue upgrading equipment and technology, as well as maintain regular replacement of all body armor; seek grants and outside funding to maximize efforts with current funding, while being fiscally responsible; hold Citizens Police Academy Class 28; partner with Pioneer Technology to conduct the summer Youth Police Academy; complete Extra Eyes Academy to add new volunteers. Capital projects
include three police vehicles, two unmarked police vehicles, and taser, ballistic/armored shields and body armor.
The Ponca City Police Department is located at 300 E. Oklahoma Avenue. Call (580) 767-0370 for nonemergencies or 911 for emergencies.
Animal Control strives to make Ponca City a safer community and manages the animal population by enforcing laws that govern animals kept within the city limits and by capturing animals running loose. In 2023, Animal Control handled 1,071 animals compared to 899 in 2022.
The path forward for Animal Control is to maintain
Of the total 5,886 Fire and Ambulance responses in 2023: 91% were for ambulance, 3% fires, 1% good intent, 3% false alarms and 1% hazardous material.
the citizens by providing timely warnings, lifesaving information and other educational resources in regards to all dangerous situations that may occur in or around Ponca City. The path forward is to complete implementation of the Wireless Emergency Notification System as a public warning method and develop an internal standard operation procedure. Capital projects include the replacement of an outdoor warning siren. Call (580) 767-0380 for more information.
a goal of “No Kill” by releasing 90% of adoptable animals, build two outside kennels, provide parvovirus vaccinations on intake of all dogs, partner with the Northern Oklahoma Humane Society on the spaying/neutering of cats and the barn cat program, provide free microchipping and increase enforcement of intact animals. Capital projects include Northern Oklahoma Humane Society partnership programs.
Animal Control is located at 705 E. Hubbard Road and is open to the public Monday thru Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Friday 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Call (580) 767-0401 or (580) 767-0370 after hours.
Emergency Management ensures the safety of
Communications/911 provides emergency and nonemergency response to the citizens of Ponca City in a timely manner and maintains a high standard of communications to all emergency responders, other City departments and surrounding agencies. In Fiscal Year 2023-24, Communications/911 handled 20,091 Police calls for service; 7,050 Fire/EMS calls for service; and 1,101 calls for other City services, rural fire departments and outside agencies.
The path forward includes implementing online continuing education training through the Association of Public Safety Communications, obtaining Emergency Medical Dispatcher Certification for the Assistant Supervisor of Communications, obtaining customer service training from the Chamber of Commerce, attending the Oklahoma Public Safety Conference and implementing the cellular communications program to increase cross communications with area agencies.
UTILITIES
Electric, Water, Wastewater, Solid Waste and now Broadband
Capital projects include a dispatch audio logger.
Call 911 for emergencies only.
Ponca City Broadband is now available throughout the city and in some rural areas. It provides reliable access to the internet utilizing ultra high-speed, 100 percent fiber optic cable to the home at a reasonable price, allowing residents to take advantage of new opportunities for work, commerce, entertainment, enhanced quality of life and future innovations.
Broadband’s path forward includes growing the residential and commercial customer bases; becoming completely self-supporting by paying
all operating costs and making all debt reduction payments; working at the local and national level to identify potential funding sources for expansion into underserved rural areas surrounding Ponca City; finalizing engineering and construction to the new Sunset Villas housing development and Ponca City Energy.
Capital projects include customer installations, bucket truck, two installation vans/trucks, Wi-Fi radio replacement, free Wi-Fi licensing and support. For more information, call (580) 767-0311.
Ponca City Energy maintains and improves the
ENAMELWARE: A Legacy of the Prairie
Call me sentimental but as one who wasn’t fortunate to have enough time with my grandmothers, I cherish the little things that remind me of them. The 80-year-old grease bowl decorated with colorful tulips or the exact set of white and royal blue speckled salt and pepper shakers that were once the centerpiece of the kitchen table. Suddenly I’m back in her kitchen tip-toed on my red step stool and can hear her, “make sure you’re stirring at the bottom of the pan, so it doesn’t burn”. I often catch myself caught off guard when I see a jadeite measuring cup, golden brown glasses, that certain shade of enamel and there I am, eight years old with those salt and pepper shakers as the only thing between my relentless poker face and an armature bridge opponent.
Enamelware is so difficult to find, yet my family hasn’t gone without grandma’s gravy pot during a holiday feast, well ever. In Native American Culture, grandmas enamel dishes are a prominent find at camp. It calls for easy clean up and is seen as tradition. Many women running a camp were taught by the women who came before them. So, the style of dishes used is just as important as having supper ready on time. This got me thinking, how did enamel start? Where else is enamel culturally significant? Enamel cookware was initially developed in Germany in the 16th century. It began as coating cast iron pots, only on the inside to keep rust out of the food. I don’t know what life was like in the 16th century, but it sounds to me like they needed a lesson on how to season their cast iron, but who am I to judge? Enameling goes as far back as 1230BC, to 6 gold rings found in a Mycenaean tomb at Kouklia, Cyprus. Archaeologists believe enameling could’ve been developed independently in several places around the world, with ancient findings in both Greece and Egypt.
With the exact “first” discovery of enamel being cloudy, I think we can all agree to just be grateful for its innovation. It would be impossible to write about the history of enamel without mentioning the most iconic pieces: the Faberge Eggs. Manufactured between 1885 and 1917, the eggs are a real show of the brilliant effects that can be achieved using enamel. With the popularity of Faberge Eggs, Art Nouveau jewelers took enameling and created all kinds of beautiful pieces.
The rise of consumerism escalated quickly after the great depression and the post traumatic stresses of war time rationing in the United States. Among many things, along came the Teflon “nonstick” pan. Being seemingly convenient, we quickly learned how dangerous the coating is to consume and how easily it comes off with the smallest scratch. Cue the old fashioned remedies. Enamel is a naturally non stick surface made from metal coated in powdered glass which is then melted for a glass like finish. When cared for properly, your grandchildren could potentially feed their families on the same dishes you once fed their parents on. Enamel began as a very plain white coating, but now comes in an array of hues, patterns and designs. A legacy continuing to modernize with full intentions of becoming a beautiful keepsake us sentimental folk appreciate.
You can find a full set of dishes, from camp supplies, plates, bowls of all sizes, cups, utensils and more downtown at Ponca City’s authorized Crow Canyon
Enamelware retailer…
City’s electrical system, provides a reasonable annual transfer to the City treasury for the public good and maintains comparably low rates. The path forward for Ponca City Energy is to receive a platinum rating for reliable public power from the American Public Power Association; test 2,000 poles and replace inferior poles; test all system reclosers and capacitor banks for reliability; test 250 meter locations for correct instrument metering and billing; convert two miles of nonaccessible primary overhead to underground; update brittle overhead primary lines to #2ACSR; complete construction on multiple housing revitalization projects; upgrade underground housing additions by replacing direct bury cable with cable in pipe; replace and upgrade street light poles north and south of Highland Avenue on Fifth Street; install additional street lighting on Prospect Avenue west of Fourteenth Street; assist Ponca City Broadband by installing fiber, Wi-Fi radios and needed business customer fiber connects; and perform tree trimming, tree removals and right-of-way clearing in 25% to 30% of the system.
Capital projects include electric distribution system improvements, distribution reinforcement program,
east circuit river tie, capacitor control program, street lighting, line crew bucket truck, trouble crew bucket truck and office roof replacement. For more information, call (580) 767-0405.
Solid Waste provides residential and commercial collection services, roll-off services, Christmas Tree Recycling, Fall Leaf Pick-Up, Spring Clean-Up and
biennial Household Hazardous Waste Day with Phillips 66. The path forward is to collaborate with civic groups to clean up alleys and neighborhoods; and work with other City departments to remove and dispose of debris generated from construction, storm damage and code enforcement activities. Capital projects include a roll-off truck; service truck; 2-, 3-, 4- and 6-yard rear load containers and lids; and three
The Ponca City Recycling Center is operated by SCL (Supported Community Lifestyles), located at 1001 W. Prospect, and open Wednesday thru Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Recyclable goods accepted include cardboard, paper (presorted), tin/steel cans, aluminum cans, glass, metals, water heaters and latex paints. SCL offers curb-side recycling service on Wednesdays by subscription only.
The Ponca City Landfill meets all applicable state and federal regulatory requirements, while providing safe and convenient trash disposal to Ponca City and the surrounding communities. The path forward is to fulfill all monitoring and reporting required by
NATIONALREDHEAD APPRECIATIONDAY(Sept.23)
by Patrick Jordan
ACROSS
1. Less hazardous
6. Large burial chambers
11. Supersonic plane
14. Still breathing
15. French "Farewell!"
16. "Much ___ About Nothing"
17. Red-haired foe of Bugs Bunny (2 wds.)
19. Playful puppy's bite
20. Complete collection
21. Build up, as a fortune
22. Is introduced to
24. Korean car company
25. Blanc who did the voice of 17-Across
26. Red-haired Disney mermaid (2 wds.)
33. Buckets
34. Baseball gloves
35. ___ Vegas, Nevada
37. Channel for athletics fans
38. Big natural deposits of gold
39. "In memoriam" story, for short
40. Enjoyed a 41-Across
41. ___ tot (French fry alternative)
42. Bar soap brand since 1879
43. Red-haired boyfriend of Veronica Lodge (2 wds.)
46. "Leave this room!"
47. Electrically charged particle
48. Breed as salmon do
51. Oak nut
54. Letters between Q and U
57. Attila the ___
58. Red-haired pal of Scooby-Doo (2 wds.)
61. Caterer's coffee dispenser
62. Force to leave school
63. "Lord of the Rings" actor Sean
64. British afternoon beverage
65. Attempt a second time
66. Corrodes, like old metal
DOWN
1. "Simon ___" (party game)
2. Skin-soothing substance
3. Boxer's weapon
4. Adam's partner
5. Stays put
6. Cutesy "Goodbye!"
7. Poems of appreciation
8. Title for Muffet or Piggy
9. ___ Arthur of "The Golden Girls"
10. Hot seasons
11. Red-haired wife of George Jetson
12. Check for spelling errors
13. Spinning toys
18. Apple computer since 1998
23. Brother of Peyton Manning
24. Pottery-baking chamber
25. Yoga class pads
26. Spaghetti or lasagna, e.g.
27. More mature, as a melon
28. Express feeling onstage
29. First half of an LP (2 wds.)
30. Rear of a boat
31. Arm joint
32. Lions' dens
33. Veggie in many pot pies
36. Hog's home
38. Café au ___ 39. Appliance in a bakery
(2 wds.) 44. Dairy animal
Perilous, as some straits 48.
ODEQ (Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality) and EPA (Environmental Protection Agency); work with City departments to dispose of debris generated from construction, storm damage and code enforcement activities; and construct a new scale house. Capital projects include a landfill dozer. The Landfill is located at 2501 W. Riverview Road and is open Monday thru Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call (580) 767-0417.
Water Administration directs personnel who operate and maintain the water production and distribution systems, maintains records, develops and administers budgets, manages major infrastructure projects and ensures that water production and distribution operations comply with federal and state regulations. The path forward is to complete lead service line inventory project, monitor EPA regulations on emerging contaminants to ensure adequate and timely compliance with future regulations; complete Kaw Reservoir alternatives analysis; and seek State Revolving Fund funding for upcoming projects. Capital projects include repairs to the Lake Ponca dam embankment underdrain and spillway baffle blocks. Call (580) 763-8093.
Water Production operates and maintains a 16 MGD (millions of gallons per day) water treatment plant, 20 water wells, six distribution booster pumping
Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, World Famous Dixie Dogs (Corndogs) and much more!
HOURS:
Monday - Thursday 10:30 am - 9 pm
Friday & Saturday 10:30 am - 10 pm Sunday 11 am - 7 pm
Ponca City Energy sent a crew to Claremore, Oklahoma, to provide mutual aid in June of 2024. Crews worked around the clock to restore power after the town was struck by a tornado.
• Full seamless gutter installation, available in 2 sizes
• Gutter cleanouts & gutter repair
• Gutter guard installation
• FREE estimates & inspections
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facilities, two elevated water storage towers, one raw water booster pump station and four ground storage reservoirs. The path forward is to produce and deliver a high-quality potable water supply to the water distribution system and comply with all state and federal environmental regulations. Capital projects include the rehabilitation of two water wells; the rehabilitation of the sedimentation basin concrete walls and filter concrete walls at the water treatment plant; the replacement of chlorine feed equipment, a highservice pump and a service truck; and the installation of pump station security fencing.
Water Distribution distributes an abundant and high-quality supply of potable water to the City’s residential, commercial, industrial and wholesale customers, by maintaining 214 miles of water mains, over 11,400 water meters, various-sized valves and 1,050 fire hydrants. The path forward is to install new valves and fire hydrants where needed, complete the water meter change-out project and complete the lead service line inventory project. Capital projects include the Elm Street project, Broadway Avenue to Highland Avenue; 24” valve at Grand Avenue
and Central Avenue; a hydrovac trailer; a trouble truck; fire hydrant; and water meters/battery replacements.
Wastewater Administration directs the personnel who operate and maintain the wastewater collection system and the wastewater treatment plant, in order to eliminate sewer system overflows and plant permit violations and to comply with all state and federal environmental regulations. The path forward is to fulfill state and federal procurement and reporting requirements for American Rescue Plan Act funded projects and work with industrial pretreatment customers to maximize service provision and ensure customer satisfaction. For more information, call (580) 763-8093.
Wastewater Collection maintains approximately 178 miles of gravity sewer mains and interconnecting manholes, inspects and evaluates the sewer system to identify repair and replacement needs, and implements aggressive preventative maintenance programs to reduce sewer overflows. The path forward and capital projects include phase three of the Bois D’Arc sewer interceptor replacement project, Osage Street sewer line replacement, contingency
wastewater line projects and a service truck.
Stormwater provides rainfall runoff management and is responsible for maintaining compliance with federal and state regulations. The path forward and capital projects include updating the Stormwater Pollution Prevention plan, as well as any unanticipated drainage issues that arise.
Wastewater Treatment operates and maintains a 9.5 MGD wastewater treatment plant, 2.1 MGD groundwater treatment plant and 14 lift stations. The path forward is to eliminate wastewater overflows at the wastewater treatment plant and lift stations and to only discharge treated wastewater into the Arkansas River that meets or exceeds minimum standards established by state and federal regulations. Capital projects at the wastewater treatment plant include replacing the aeration basin diffusers on one of four quadrants, upgrading SCADA system at the operations center and replacing one of three return sludge pumps.
Christen Ground,
Aaron Wilcox,
Brad Liston, D.O.
Stephen Ross, M.D.
Ponca City Primary Care Providers
Welcome to “The Sunny Side” a new monthly column exclusive to Ponca city Monthly, where we’ll chat about all things homesteading! My name is Liz Threlkeld and I have been homesteading with my family in small forms or large fashions for most of my life. From growing gardens to DIY projects, to cooking and preserving, to raising and processing our own meat animals, we’ve learned a thing or two along the way. I’m excited to get to share some of this life with you. Ready? Let’s grow!
The Sunny Side
by Liz Threlkheld / Contributing Writer
Hey, Friends!
September is National Preparedness Month. It is an observance to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen anywhere, to anyone, at any time. They can be personal, local, regional or global. Being prepared means being “properly expectant, organized or equipped; ready,” according to Dictionary.com.
Most people who consider themselves homesteaders, have the mentality of preparedness because they always have to be ready for what Mother Nature deals out. Preparedness, however, is not exclusive to homesteaders. When you walk out into the cold all bundled up, you’re not scared … because you are prepared. People use preparedness all the time and don’t even realize it, but most of us have preparedness “blind spots” when it comes to our food.
Remember when the grocery store shelves were empty during COVID-19? That’s because grocery stores only have enough food on hand for their community for three days. There was a huge seed, greenhouse and canning supplies shortage as many Americans faced food insecurity for the first time and turned to planting a garden to address it. Gardens rewarded them with a sense of comfort and peace of mind for such a troublesome occasion.
There are so many good reasons to garden, such as the sense of accomplishment it gives you, the nutritional value of the food, the physical exercise it gives your body, the mental health perks of being in the sun with nature and all the life lessons it gives, but did you know that it can also address food insecurity for a person or a family?
I have recently spoken with several people whose loved ones, as children, struggled with being food-insecure. As adults, one has a garden; another, a young graduate, has plans to plant a garden. They want to provide food, and therefore food security, for themselves and their
families. It helps them feel some control over their food supply, something that, only a few generations ago, most Americans enjoyed.
Here are some suggested preparedness action items to address food security:
• Educate yourself on the physical and behavioral signs of food insecurity so you can identify it and help those who struggle with it.
• Grow some food. Plan to be involved with a garden next year in some way. Consider helping your neighbors with their garden, invite a friend to help you manage yours and share the crop or start seeds over winter. A few small patio or windowsill pots could be a great project to begin with children who struggle with food insecurity. Plant garlic! Fortunately, now is the perfect time to plant this vegetable for a spring harvest!
• Stock up on shelf-stable items that you and your family enjoy eating — Experts differ, but I recommend storing however much food makes you feel comfortable in your preparedness efforts. Don’t be afraid to use it either, just replace it when you do and your stash will stay refreshed.
It is important to note that not all people who have a garden do it for the purpose of preparedness, but it’s a happy side-effect, nonetheless. I like to say, “Be prepared, not scared.” You don’t put up a smoke detector because you are scared. You put it up to be prepared. So today, friends, I encourage you to brush up your preparedness efforts. You don’t have to do all the things or become a “prepper.” Just pick something you’re not currently doing and begin! Remember, you'll never regret being prepared for something.
Sowing grit and reaping freedom, Liz Threlkeld
Having the Conversation A Rural Cancer Survivor’s Story
Story by Stephanie Krenn | Contributing Writer
Every cancer journey, major medical diagnosis and chronic illness is unique to the individual, but each of us has a personal connection to these circumstances. Rural residents share additional burdens regarding access to medical care and resources for improved quality of life. I am not a medical professional, but as someone who has been navigating the discrepancies, and few improvements, in medical treatment and survivorship between urban and rural patients, I do have a story to tell.
The fact that I don’t remember the exact date of my cancer diagnosis without a calendar reminder proves how far I’ve come from the all-consuming experience. July 30, 2024, an alarm sounded on my phone reminding me of nine years since receiving the phone call that brought my world to a halt and tested my faith. I had a husband, a young child and bonus kids. I was a handful of years into a new career and making plans for the future. Lacking an extensive family history, and no apparent symptoms of a deadly disease, cancer was not on my radar. A miraculous series of events led me from my primary doctor to a mammogram. An incredibly painful biopsy followed with rushed overnight results that would shatter all my plans in a moment. The test showed I had Stage 3 invasive breast cancer at the age of 31. The hows and whys and complete shock took over my mind as the doctor explained the technicalities and medical jargon I would come to memorize and recite hundreds of times in my future. From the driver’s seat of my car, barely holding onto my phone and determined not to cry, I managed a simple “what do we do now?” She assured me that all the referrals were being made, and I only had to absorb the information and wait for the barrage of telephone calls from schedulers. The time
span of less than five weeks included multiple scans, blood tests and a surgery to place a port in my chest. It would be 33 days from that diagnosis call to my first chemotherapy treatment. My rigid habit of being a rule follower would become an endearing trait to my oncology team as the extensive list of dates and times on my choreographed medical calendar would become my lifeline. It would be 14 months before I could catch my breath and assess what had happened to me and my family, and a total of nine years to date before I could bring you the knowledge I have gained. This survival of mine has come at immense sacrifice to my family, our finances, my physical body and mental health. It has taken longer than anticipated to recover some of what was lost, and at times I have felt the physical distance between myself and service providers to be an additional barrier to my full recovery. I know that if I am experiencing these struggles, there are many others who need assistance to achieve their best outcomes. I am excited to discuss how I managed specific situations, along with other’s personal experiences, from treatment and surgeries to medical bills and mental health. Professionals from their fields will weigh in on resources available in the rural communities and how to choose the path that works best for your situation. You will find out what I had to fight for, what I would have done differently and where I found hope. I hope you’ll join me for the length of this series as I discuss the struggles, successes, losses and lessons to be learned from the most difficult season of my life, and how having this conversation can improve the lives of others in your community.
Follow Stephanie’s Cancer Survivor Story, part of a limited series - exclusive to Ponca City Monthly.
Selection varies… Peel & Eat Shrimp, Fried Cod, Popcorn Shrimp, Seafood Pasta, Crab Cakes, Tilapia, Stuffed Crab, Lobster Bisque, Fried Clam and more! $28.95 - ALL YOU CAN EAT Price includes salad bar and one cluster of crab legs!
The Art Of Aging
Story by Kelli Northcutt, Community Health Foundation Executive Director | Contributing Writer
Healthy Aging Month is celebrated every September and is held to raise awareness about the physical and mental health of older adults as well as to inspire adults aged 45 and older to improve their overall health and wellbeing. At the super young age of 45 (insert sarcasm by my teenagers here), if I haven’t started taking care of my health by now, now is the perfect time to start.
According to the CDC, the population of older Americans is living longer than ever. The added years to the average lifespan has extended the time adults are working and are being productive and creative. Aging, though, brings an increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases including high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, and dementia. It’s no surprise, especially to my aching joints, that as we age our minds and bodies change. It’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to both help deal with these changes and to help prevent some common age-related health problems.
The National Institute on Aging shares that many factors can influence healthy aging. Some of these factors, like genetics, are not in our control, but small changes can be made in daily life to help live longer and better. The Institute recommends the basic health habits that we have been taught our whole lives – to get some form of physical exercise, to eat a nutritious diet, to manage stress, to go to the doctor for routine screenings and check-ups, and to maintain social connections. Sometimes it can be overwhelming to think about all of the aspects of health and to do a total overhaul of our habits. It’s much easier and much more effective to slowly add small healthy habits over time. For example, add one fruit or vegetable to
one meal per day and try to increase this to an added fruit or vegetable to two meals per day over a month or two. Try adding a ten-minute walk in the morning or after dinner to increase your physical activity. On the first day of each month, contact one healthcare provider for a screening or routine appointment.
Brain health is especially important to healthy aging. It allows us to maintain memory, understanding, communication, and quality of life. Sometimes we overlook the health of our brains worrying about other aspects of health. There are many activities that we can do even at young ages to improve the function of our brains. Check out the full list in this article and try one of the suggestions!
Mental health is also a critical part of healthy aging. Many older adults are at risk for developing a mental health condition like depression or anxiety. These conditions are often underrecognized and undertreated in older adults. The World Health Organization urges patients and caregivers to be aware of the signs of anxiety and depression and to work to promote healthy aging to decrease the risk of a mental health disorder. Key strategies include: reducing financial insecurity, social support for older adults, and healthy behaviors like adequate sleep, good nutrition, and physical activity.
Even though many of us celebrate our 29th birthday every year, aging is certain and impossible to avoid. We each have a big role to play in how we age and each aspect of our physical and mental health in our older years. The earlier we work towards overall good health, the healthier we’ll age and the longer we can live the quality of life we desire.
Welcome…
All participants and visitors for the Cherokee Strip Golf Classic, Cherokee Strip BBQ & Chili Cook Off, Standing Bear Pow Wow, and the Ponca City Arts Festival, as well as other September events in our area.
Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy your time in Ponca City!
Fall means the holidays are just around the corner. If you are interested in advertising in PCM magazine, call or email me for more information… Robyn Ryan 580-761-1295 • robyn@poncacitymonthly.com
Carl Renfro President
Randy Renfro Treasurer, CPA
Rick Renfro Secretary, Restaurateur
Cindy Gorrell Vice President, Investments
We
Backyard Gardener
A Thank You to all Gardeners (and Growers)
by Kat Long / Contributing Writer
Fall has fallen. I know I say that every year, but boy howdy. It was a 24 hour shift this time. As I harvest the last of the basil, talk sweet to the very small pepper crop, trim up the kale and anxiously await the time to pick apples, I would ask a favor of you, dear reader, for this year and next.
Support your local growers and gardeners. As I have grown on my gardening journey, I know that I am a messy gardener at best and at worst, a bad plant parent. With many irons in the fire of life, the garden sometimes gets water and a careless weeding to keep it going through hot and really hot weather. Because of this, I grow what I love (herbs) and a few veggies that aren’t the best off the truck (kale, lettuces). There are always a few peppers and a few tomato plants, and if I think about it (and keep them alive) some beans.
Having said all that, I support local gardeners and growers in and around our community. And I don’t have to drive to the farms anymore. Well, I drive for the farm chicken. And milk. But I digress.
With the growth of Farmer’s Markets and our very own Sunny Creek Trading Post Farm Hub store, the money that used to be spent on gas is now funneled back into my grocery allowance. Let’s face it: if you have to pay this much for food, you should be supporting your local producers including veggies, fruits and meat. And the food is healthier in the sense that it didn’t have to travel on a truck and is picked at peak yumminess. And some of these growers have perfected their tomatoes, peppers, squashes, etc… so that the food just tastes better. In my humble opinion.
Now, if you are now asking “what is Sunny Creek Trading Post” and “where is this Farm Hub”, I’ll give you the short answer. For the longer answer, Sunny Creek was profiled in the July, 2024 Ponca City Monthly.
Sunny Creek Trading Post is a locally owned, locally sourced store located in the Pioneer Tech Incubator for manufacturing and processing, with a storefront located inside City Central at 400 E. Central Ave. They sell, on consignment, locally grown and made foods, supplements and handmade items. Sunny Creek Trading Post is open on Mondays and Tuesdays, 10 am to 6 pm (unless Monday is a holiday).
Liz Threlkeld and her family started Sunny Creek with the goal to connect local people with local products. And in my humble Backyard Gardener opinion, they are succeeding. It has been a whirlwind year for the Threlkeld family and this is just the beginning. If you are a local (within 100 miles) or a hyperlocal (in Kay County) grower who has way too many tomatoes, cucumbers, apples, pears, etc… and would like to make some income off your fabulous produce, give Liz a call and chat. Sunny Creek supports hobby, disabled and veteran producers and growers. The income they make from selling at Sunny Creek supports these individuals and their families.
If you don’t know who the local producers are or you only visit the Farmers’ Markets, please check out Sunny Creek Trading Post on Facebook. And try to work that food budget so you and your family can support local producers and gardeners. Those who can’t do, grow. That’s the way that saying goes, right? And of course, Happy Gardening.
Book Reviews
REMARKABLY BRIGHT CREATURES
by Shelby Van Pelt
This book has been on the National Bestseller list for close to two years now. I am just now getting around to reading it, but let me tell you, there is a reason it has maintained its spot for so long. This story captures you with a power that will not allow you to put it down until you are finished!
We meet a variety of characters as the story progresses; however, the 3 most important are:
Tova Sullivan, a widow, whose son, Erik, disappeared 30 years ago. She hasn’t let go of the night and tends to question if Erik really could have ended his own life, as the authorities concluded from their investigation.
Cameron Cassmore, a 30-year-old man who has been dealt some rough hands in life. His mother left him on an aunt’s doorstep at just nine years old and never even left a clue as to who his father might be.
Finally, Marcellus McSquiddles, who despite his name is in fact a Giant Pacific Octopus, NOT a squid!
Tova is simply seeking to live out her days in the peace and quiet she has come to know in Sowell Bay since being alone. Cameron sets off on an adventure to Sowell Bay to track down the man in a photo, he believes is his father. Marcellus wants to spend his remaining days in the Sowell Bay Aquarium, helping his friends discover the truths that will set their futures free, even though his future is grim.
I know what you are thinking. Did you just say an OCTOPUS is trying to help his friends? Yes, this story will have you wondering just how much could we learn from the creatures around us if we all spoke the same language!
Reviewed by Tara Anson
Simon Sort of Says
by Erin Bow
Simon O’Keeffe is a seventh-grader who has, along with his parents, just moved to Grin and Bear It, Nebraska, in the National Quiet Zone where the internet, cell phones, radio, television and microwaves are banned so radio astronomers can listen for signs of extraterrestrial life.
Grin and Bear It is a one-stoplight kind of town where everyone knows everyone else’s business and the funeral home is called Slaughter and Sons — and no one thinks that’s weird at all. Grin and Bear It is famous for three things: 1) That name, of course. 2) It has a cathedral-sized church that’s way too big for such a small town. 3) It’s surrounded by radio telescopes scientists use to listen for alien messages from outer space.
Simon and his parents are trauma survivors and Simon would love to not have everyone know about his past. When people learn of his trauma, they inevitably treat him differently. He’d really like the opportunity to just be normal. This is what makes Grin and Bear It so appealing to the O’Keeffe family — no one can just google them
and immediately know everything about them. Simon will have control of his story.
Simon makes two good friends in Grin and Bear It. There’s Agate Van der Zwaan, who is probably a genius, has OCD and lives on a goat farm with her many siblings. Kevin Matapang is a halfFilipino, half-Caucasian who bonds with Simon over Minecraft and Legos.
The title, Simon Sort of Says, is one of Simon’s coping mechanisms: When he’s asked to commit to something, he doesn’t say yes and he doesn’t say no. This is how he gets roped into helping Agate fake a message from outer space.
Definitely a great book; also, one of the Intermediate Sequoyah nominees this year.
Reviewed by Lorrie Layton
CHAMBER BUZZ
Story by Shelley Arrott, Ponca City Chamber of Commerce CEO | Contributing Writer
Hello, readers! August marked a busy month for the Chamber including several impact events, The Party at the Palace, the Stuff the Bus School Supply Campaign and the New Teacher Luncheon. However, August also kicked off the Chamber’s very prestigious 10-month program, Leadership Ponca City. LPC embodies the community’s pride in the program’s dedication to developing civic responsibility and leadership growth.
Leadership Ponca City proudly launched its 38th class in August, continuing its tradition of fostering local leaders! This new cohort brings together a diverse group committed to driving positive change and growth in the Ponca City community. We had a wonderful orientation day on Aug. 14 with Leadership Ponca City’s newest class gathering for the first time learning about the expectations, connections and growth as they began the LPC journey.
On Aug. 29-30, Class 38 met the challenge of their required overnight retreat at Camp Horizon. The retreat for Leadership Ponca City serves as an immersive experience designed to foster camaraderie, self-discovery and team-building among participants. Held in a serene setting away from the daily hustle, the retreat included a mix of interactive workshops, leadership exercises and reflective sessions that challenged Class 38’s problem-solving and communication skills. Always a retreat favorite of the leadership classes is the visit to Inspiration Point. The peaceful, rustic stone circle seating area at Inspiration Point located on the fringe of Camp Horizon helped everyone relax and open up in such an intimate setting. Being there after dark made it even more memorable, as we connected and shared stories under the stars. Attending the retreat is mandatory for LPC participants to continue in the program because it creates a strong foundation of trust and unity, setting the tone for the collaborative and impactful journey ahead.
September marks the first of Class 38’s regular
sessions. This month the class will experience History Day, and we all know that Ponca City is rich in history and culture! History Day is invaluable for Leadership Ponca City as it provides participants with a deep understanding of the community’s heritage, challenges and triumphs as developed and experienced by such great founders of our area, including Chief Standing Bear, B.S. Barnes, E.W. Marland and Lew Wentz to name a few. By exploring Ponca City’s past, participants gain insights into the factors that have shaped our present, nurturing a greater appreciation and commitment to Ponca City’s future.
Speaking of history, let’s discuss the history of Leadership Ponca City as shared with me by Larry Bittman, longtime Ponca Citian. In the mid-1980s, Ponca City was a hub of industry and community activity, yet it lacked a structured program to cultivate and develop future leaders. This gap was recognized by
Charles Hollar, an insurance executive who was the compass directing many innovative development opportunities in our community and state, including the Great Expectations Model promoting the premise that education is a two-way street with respect and optimism as the centerpiece. Hollar’s vision was clear: to establish a program that could identify, educate and empower the future leaders of Ponca City. At the time, the concept of a structured leadership program was still emerging in Oklahoma, with only two similar programs existing in the entire state, Oklahoma City and Tulsa. With a vision to strengthen the community through leadership development, Hollar initiated what became a landmark program for Ponca City, Leadership Ponca City, the third longestrunning leadership program in Oklahoma.
Hollar was serving as the Chamber of Commerce Chairman in 1987. He contacted Bittman, a financial professional deeply engaged in
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strengthening Ponca City, and told him he was going to put together the program. At the time, Bittman was in the midst of a critical period in his career overseeing the retirement of 1,200 Conoco employees in June 1985. Bittman knew the responsibility of putting together a program of this magnitude from scratch would be no small feat. Despite this monumental task, Bittman took on the challenge with the encouragement of John Myers, the Chamber CEO at the time, and the indispensable support of Melanie Norris, Myers’ assistant. Bittman and Norris’ dedication and hard work were pivotal in turning Hollar’s vision into a reality.
The initial phase involved a significant amount of groundwork. Melanie Norris undertook an enormous amount of legwork to set up the program. Once the structure was in place, the next step was to put out the call for nominations. The response was overwhelming, and the list of the first class of participants reads like a “who’s who” of Ponca City. LPC Class 1 included Carolyn Berry, Larry Buck, Gary Dorman, Terri Hadley, Brian Hermanson, David Keathly, Tom Muchmore, Chuck Rager, Bill Rutz, Dan Smith and Charles Ziegenhain.
Duane Wilson from Conoco and Bittman served as the coordinators for the first year. According to Bittman, the format, while effective, was straightforward compared to the creative and diverse sessions that characterize the program today. Initially, the group was limited to no more than 15 people, ensuring an intimate and focused environment for leadership development.
The foundational work done by Hollar, Bittman, Norris and the first participants set a high standard for future classes. Over the years, the program has expanded both in size and scope, adapting to the changing needs of Ponca City while staying true to its original mission of cultivating leaders. Leadership Ponca City has grown and evolved since its inception with LPC boasting over 600 notable alumni. These alumni serve on multiple boards, are elected officials and serve in leadership positions leading Ponca City into the future.
As the Chamber CEO, last year was my first class to serve as the organizer for Leadership Ponca City, and Leadership Chairs Brook Lindsay, Natalie Fraser and Sean Grigsba were invaluable to the program as they provided essential guidance, mentorship and strategic direction. Class 37 took their class project to new heights with the Mr. Ponca
City competition raising over $40,000 for 10 of Ponca City’s local nonprofits. The positive impact of Mr. Ponca City led to the highest number of Leadership Ponca City applicants to date, with 46 exemplary candidates vying for one of the 24 spots available today. Without a doubt, it was a tough task for Class 38 Chairs Natalie Fraser, Sean Grigsba and Molly Kyler to select Class 38, but the vast number of applicants speaks well of the program. Hollar’s vision of creating leaders of our future all those years ago and the collective contributions of Bittman and Norris left an indelible mark on Ponca City, ensuring that the community continues to thrive under the guidance of capable and inspired leaders. Leadership Ponca City serves as a testament to what can be achieved when passionate individuals come together with a common goal.
Today, Leadership Ponca City is celebrated for its innovative and engaging sessions that challenge participants to think critically and act decisively. The program has become a cornerstone of the community, fostering a new generation of leaders who continue to drive Ponca City’s growth and success.
Meet Leadership Ponca City, Class 38.
Above: Leadership Ponca City Class 38 participated in Orientation Day on Wednesday, August 14.
Cocktail OF thE MONth
Mixed by Jill Rowe/Staff Writer
What’s it like to get stung by a scorpion? Apparently, it feels like a hot needle poking your skin. That’s what I read, anyway. I have only seen a scorpion in person once (even if my husband doesn’t believe me), and that was close enough for me. If getting up close and personal with a scorpion isn’t your idea of a thrill, I found a far more enjoyable way to flirt with danger, the Scorpion Bowl. It’s not your average Hawaiian punch – it’s got a kick that probably deserves a warning label, but honestly, the name says it all.
Up until the early 1900s, punch was the undisputed king of drinks. However, by the Gilded Age, cocktails had dethroned punch, and by the time Prohibition arrived, punch was left in the dust. Victor “Trader Vic” Bergeron, who opened a bar in California just after Prohibition ended, was already experimenting with punches in the early 1940s. In his 1946 book, he aimed to revive punch, dispel its reputation for being served to stuffy crowds and exorcise its bad vibes.
The Scorpion Bowl’s story starts with Trader Vic’s adventure to Honolulu. He stumbled upon a drink at a bar called The Hut, where they were using Okolehao, a local moonshine made from fermented Ti plant. Impressed by the cocktail, Trader Vic returned to Oakland and whipped up his own version using rum. Vic was also inspired by the Polynesian tradition of Kava, a communal drink used in their parties and ceremonies. He wanted to bring that same
sense of celebration to his restaurants, so he created drinks made to be shared with friends.
Tiki culture thrived on an undercurrent of secrecy beneath its exotic garnishes and escapist allure. Bartenders, fearing recipe theft, guarded their concoctions closely, rightfully afraid that others would steal their ideas. This caution resulted in many different versions of classic tiki drinks being created over time, making it difficult to determine the exact original recipes.
Many of the original Scorpion Bowl recipes had up to 15 ingredients and were served in custom Tiki bowls, but my version keeps things simple and perfect for enjoying with a few friends. A key to balancing the bite in the drink is the Orgeat. Orgeat is an almond syrup with a hint of orange-flower water that helps balance the strong flavors and softens the drink’s sting. If you can’t find Orgeat locally, almond syrup works as a substitute.
Modern Scorpion Bowls often come with a fiery garnish, but I prefer a bed of mint, which is a much safer way to go. After all, the drink itself is risky enough without adding literal fuel to the fire! So, rally the gang, pull out that quirky tiki bowl you inherited from Grandma’s hoard, and let’s enjoy summer’s last sips before it’s gone!
The Scorpion Bowl
In your tiki bowl, mix all your ingredients with ice, give it a good stir, add a few straws and enjoy with your friends!
