1959 TIMELINE AND STORIES

1959 TIMELINE and STORIES

 

 

Our nation was still growing and school children were memorizing 49 states and capitols.

 1959 April 5 mdnr "Spaulding's Ace, Features Local Golf"

A hole-in-one by Al Spaulding Friday afternoon climaxed golf activities during the week at the Miami Country club. Playing in a threesome with his wife and daughter, Suzy, the manager of the Miami B.F. Goodrich plant scored his ace on the 151 yard No. 12 hole. He used a 5 iron.

Mrs. Spencer Dawson also gained the spotlight during the week with an eagle on the 328 yard No. 1 hole. She used a 3 wood to sink her second shot from a distance of 150 or more yards. Mrs. Dawson was playing with Mrs. Bill Oliver, Mrs. Pat Campbell, and Mrs. Smae Lusk when she made her sensational shot. 

Regular competition for members of the Miami Ladies Golf Assn, was rained out Wednesday, but they went ahead with the morning lessons in the weekly clinic conducted by Johnie Stapp, club pro. 

The men's Twilight league will begin its regular schedule on May 5, according to Wayland Kelly, tournament chair.

  

1959 April 12 mdnr "Golfers from 18 High Schools to Compete in Tourney Here Monday"

Outstanding schoolboy golfers from Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma will be among the four-man teams from 18 high schools competing here Monday i the second annual invitational tournament sponsored by Miami High School in cooperation with the Miami Country club. Teams will be arriving from Ardmore; six OKC high schools; three from Tulsa; Muskogee; Midwest City, Miami; three high schools from Springfield,Missouri; Joplin, Mo; Coffeyville and Parsons, Kansas. 

Members of the Ladies Golf Assn will tabulate scores and assist with other details. The Miami high Student Council will provide hospitality service by serving sandwiches and milk to the players. 

Miami players finished second last year with a four-man score of 323. Harding won with 318. The Miami players were: Bob Hills, 77; Phil Temple, 79; James Emery, 79; and Dickie Neel 88. 

1959 April 14  "Miami's 2nd Annual High School Golf Meet"

Top honors were captured by Tulsa Edison and Ardmore entries Monday a the Miami Country club as 72 schoolboy golfers from three states competed in the highly successful invitational second annual tournament sponsored by Miami high school.Each school was represented by a four-man team in 18-hole medal play.

Ronnie Brown an all-around senior athlete at Ardmore, carded a 37-39+76 to take medalist honors.  

4-Man team scores: Tulsa Edison 321, Ardmore 326, O.C. Grant 332, Muskogee Central 336, O.C. Northeast 336, Miami 343, Coffeyville 345, Joplin 347, Cascia Hall 352, O.C. Hardin 358, Parkview, Springfield 368.

1959 April 19 mdnr "War Dog Golf Matches

Miami high school golfers played on the Grandview course at Springfield, Mo. Friday afternoon in competition with three Springfield high schools. 

Coach Jack Rucker's War Dogs won over Hillcrest 10 1/2 to 7 1/2; but lost to Central and Parkview. Scores posted by the Miamians: Dickie Neel, 37-40=77; Bob hill, 37-41=78; Mike Wilson, 48-45=93; Charles Hirsch 49-45=94; Stephen Moore, 46-50=96; Brad Smallwood, 49-55=104. 

 ***

Ladies Golf Notes:

Winners in competition for the past week for members of the Miami Ladies Golf Association were: Florence Dawson and Ruth Heyburn, championship; Millie Carter, Class A; Lois Cowles, B; Mildred Reniker, C: Susie Kemp and Helen Shafer, class D. 

 

1959 The Masters Golf Championship was televised and the world of golf began to change. 

 

 

1959 April 29 "Plant to Open at Commerce"

Ottawa county's newest factory will be open for public inspection Friday afternoon. It plans to begin full production next Monday...While Commerce baseball star Mickey Mantle is belting out hits for the New York Yankees, the Glenn Berry Manufacturers each day will be belting out about 1,000 pair of denims carrying Mantle's endorsement.

"We will carry a full line of Mickey Mantle work clothes," said Rose. The Yankee star has signed a "100 percent contract," meaning he will permit the use of his name and picture in promoting sales of the clothing."   

1959 May 1 mdnr "High School Boys Championship"

Oklahoma City Harding high school golfer George Hixon blistered the Lincoln Park course in two rounds to the win the boys high school golf tournament with a 54 hole total of 225. Other top individual scores are: Spike Goff, Duncan, 225; Terry Wilkerson, Duncan, 229; Robert Hill, Miami, 231. 

 

Teaching Lessons by the Pro:

Dad loved to create toys and personal methods for teaching golf swings. His use of the 8mm camera and side by side photos helped many of us in those years. He would hold ladies golf meetings and show them some of the swings he had recorded and then give lessons from that reference.

This old club converted to an early day "orange whip" to help us create speed at impact.

 

 

 

 

1959 June 15 mdnr TWO BERTHS IN NATIONAL PGA AT STAKE IN MIAMI TODAY by Mack Boswell

Big-name golfers toured the beautiful Miami Country club course today in 36-hole qualifying tests that will determine the two men who will represent the Oklahoma-Kansas-Arkansas section of the national tournament of the PGA at Minneapolis on Jule 29-August 2.

John Langford, municipal course pro at Enid and Loddie Kemper, former OSU golfing ace who is now pro at Okmulgee, shared top honors Sunday with three-under par 69's.

Langford lowered the course's nine-hole record with a seven-under recorded of 29. The old nine-hole course record of 30 belonged to John F. Robinson. Langford finished with a 40 for a 69.

John F. Robinson's 18-hole record in 1947 still stands at 64.

Doug Smith, asst. pro at Southern Hills and his foursomes of amateurs consisted of Bob Klein of Tulsa, and John F. Robinson and son, David, captured low-ball team honors with a score of  36.

"Side Notes"

Loddie Kempa of Okmulgee, who tied John Langford for medalist declared: "I have played on many golf courses, but I've never seen finer greens than these at this Miami club,"

Along with the delegation from Arkansas came a recent illustrated clipping from the Little Rock Arkansas Gazette with a feature about the reunion of the three Charles Lewises.

Charles Lewis Sr., 71 is a former Miami Country club pro, now of Battle Creek, Michigan. Charles Lewis Jr., who grew up in various pro shops operated by his father (and won numerous events while living in Miami, Ok) holds forth at the Little Rock Country club. Charles Lewis III is a top amateur golfer at 18 and is awaiting a call to military service. 

Lewis Sr., a native of England, came to the United States in 1913 after serving a golfing apprenticeship of six years. In a picture with his sons, he was holding the putter he delivered to America 46 years ago.  (The Lewis's kept their ties with Miami friends and the country club through the years when Johnie Stapp served as pro.)

1959 June 16  "OSU Coach Harris and Langford Gain PGA Spots" by Mack Boswell

Labron Harris of Stillwater provided an expert lesson on the Miami Country club course Monday while taking top honors in the three-state sectional qualifying for the National PGA in Minneapolis, July 29--Aug. 2.

           Personal notes from Jody (Joanne) LaCaff Lasky:

Letty, I remember a conversation that I overheard between your dad and mine. It seems at the club dances couples were meeting at the green closest to the pool for a little whoops. Your dad said the women's heels were leaving holes in the green. Then one of them said laughingly maybe he should put up a sign that read…..

 "Ladies, no high heels on the green."

That is the gist of the conversation… I just happen to over hear them.

Some of the best times we had as a family was being at the Fourth of July celebration. We would swim all day, change for dinner and fireworks. Dad would also assist with the fireworks. It was something we looked forward to each year.

Of course you know how many of the teens growing up would sneak into the pool and swim late at night…. Mostly in our underwear. I do remember seeing a few skinny dippers one time, but didn’t know them as they were older.

Dorothy Ann Horner explained the facts of life to me when I was in the seventh grade on the steps going up to the porches, on the north side by the swimming pool.

1959 June 23  "Hill, Neel Win Berths"

Bob HIll, Jr. and Dickie Neel, aces of the Miami High golf team the last two seasons, will represent Miami on July 6-8 in the Oklahoma Junior Chamber of Commerce tournament in Lawton.

Hill was the leader among five local youths who competed for the two state berths. Hill carded a one-over par 100 for 27 holes. Neel wasn't up to his usual sharpness, but gained the other ticket to Lawton with a total score of 122. Jim Taylor, all-state scholboy football tackle last fall, was third with a 126. Next were Charles Hirsch with a 151 and Roger Scruggs, a 153.  The local sponsors were the Miami Junior champber of Commerce with Earl Hahn and Raymond Gibson, Jr. in charge.  

1959 July 6 mdnr "Miami Girls in Tournament Spotlight"

Miami girls made the finest record of any single club competing in the annual state junior girls' golf tournament that will be completed today at Tulsa's Southern Hills Course. (During our three rounds of golf each of us stayed in family homes in Tulsa. I stayed with a family whose last name was McGraw. My host family had a daughter who played golf and consequently her parents were in charge of transportation and meals. 

Results match play:

Diana Oliver lost in B flight consolation semi-finals to Terry Townsend, Tulsa 4 and 3.

Nine hole divisions:

Letty Stapp won the championship of G flight with a score of 70-73-73=216.

Janie Berentz won the H flight championship with 76-77-78=231.

Susie Stephenson won third place in D flight with 66-61-74=201. 

Bobbi Sue Baron won fourth in C flight with 66,61,74=194

Barbara Dahl posted a 247 total in C flight and Mary Dahl carded a 270 in G flight. Sandra Stephenson shot a 74 to finish sixth in the peewee division. Five of the Miami entries also won medals for taking first places in special driving and putting contests. 

Paired today in the championship flight final match were medalist Jeannie Thompson and defending state champion Patty David, both of Tulsa.

 

This is the marble based trophy that I won in 1959. I have kept this trophy all of my life, while the others have gone away. 

 1959 July 10 mdnr "Miss Propper Wins Tulsa Golf Trophy"

Phyllis Propper of Miami won the A flight championship of the state junior girls golf tournament at Southern Hills Country club in Tulsa this morning by defeating Sally Perrine of Tulsa, 4 and 3. Phyllis, who will be a Miami High school Junior this year, led most of the way. She carded a 51 on the front nine. Sally shot a 56. The match ended on the 15 hole  

Nine Miami girls competed in the state meet, giving Miami Country club the best record of any club in the tournament. 

1959 July 12 mdnr "Joplin Golfers Compete Here"

Traffic on the Miami Country club golf course should be heavier today than at any time this year with inter-city matches between members of the local club and a 48-man delegation from Twin Hills, Joplin. Pat Campbell, chairman of the event, said boys wishing employment as caddies should report to the club by 9:30 a.m. 

1959 "Women's Tri-state Champions"

Faye Berentz, Claire Oliver, Hattie Wall, and Lois Garwood, winner of the overall team low-net for the 1959 Women's Tri-State  *Orrick Sparlin collection at the Dobson Museum.

 

1959 August 2 mdnr "Finals Near in Men's Tourney"

Final matches may be completed this week in most flights of the annual men's golf tournament at the Miami Country club. Players who have already qualified to play in championship matches includes: Joe Thompson vs Kelso Berentz in President's flight; Bob Nunn vs George Beck in A flight.

Quarter-final results follow:

Championship flight:  John F. Robinson won over Dr. W.D. Jackson; Jess Fronterhouse defeated George Windham; Ed Olivey beat Dick Lowry; P.J. Stephenson dropped Phillip Temple.

President's flight: Joe Thompson eliminated Ted Lowry; Bill Hirsch beat Bill Carter; Kelso Berentz won over Charlie Trussler; Rex Painter defeated Tom Barton.

A Flight: Bob Nunn beat Marion Zajic; Clarence Carselowey downed Dr. Harry Ford; George Beck beat Pat Campbell; Harry Whitaker won over buck Bagby.

B Flight: Ted Vernon defeated Jack Schofield; John Burford beat Wayland Kelly; Crab Grayson downed Frank Hansford; Paul McIntosh won over Noel Wyatt.

C Flight: Bill Oliver--Spencer to be played; Bob Hill beat Henry Garwood; Bill Harper ousted Don Curlee; Don Lockard advanced over Vernon Cray.

Semi-Finals: Thompson beat Hirsch and Berentz won over Painter in president's flight; Nunn beat Carselowey and Beck defeated Whitaker in A flight; Harper won over Lockard in C flight.

***

 "Golf Tourney Monday for Miami's Juniors"

Monday will be the final event of the season for Miami Junior Golfers. A picnic lunch will be served at noon on the porch of the club house. Trophies will be awarded to the tournament winners and new club officers will be elected. 

Winners by grade groups in last week's competition were: 7-8 Carole Luttrell and Bill Fullerton; 5-6 Jonny Highland and Lee Dell Snyder; 2-4 Jonya Stapp and Jimmy Painter. 

Pairings are as follows for Monday's play:  TWO HOLES, 6 AND 9

8:30--Gayla Brown, Judy Berentz, Jonya Stapp; Mrs. Clarence Carselowey; 8:40 Jimmy Painter, Judd Nafziger, Scotty Jackson; Mrs. P. J. Stephenson.  

NINE HOLES

No. 1 tee at 8:30--Bobbi Baron, Phyllis Propper, Diana Oliver; Mrs. Bill Plumlee; 8:40--Judy Fullerton, Barbara Dahl, Bethanne Badger; Mrs. Bill Medcalf. 8:30 Katrina White, Glenda Highland, Penny Zeis; Mrs. Dale Nafziger;  9:00--Stephen Moore, Tom Pat Wilson; Mrs. Olin Moore; 9:10--Dickie Badger, Charles Dawson, Jeff Reanger,: Kenneth Richards.

 From No. 6 at 9:00--Cathy Olson, Jenee Kenreigh, Julie Lockard; 9:10 Peggy Sapp, Sue Nunn, Carole Luttrell; Mrs. Ed Badger; 9:20 Bobby Zeis, Pat Wilson, Billy Oliver, Mrs. George Wojcik. 

From No. 1 at 9:20--Letty Stapp, Mary Dahl, C.Anne Richards; Mrs. Don Lockard; 9:30--Suzanne Stephenson, Janie Berentz, Mike Juergens; Mrs. Orville Dahl; 9:40--Johnny Stansell, John Badger, Billy Fullerton; Mrs. George Russell. 

  FIVE HOLES:

From No. 1 at 9:50 -- Kae Nunn, Sandra Stephenson; Mrs. Bert Wall; 10:00 Lee Dell Snyder, Susan Russell; Mrs. Bob Temple. 10:10 Butch Jenkins, Woody Painter, Johnny Robinson; Mrs. Kelso Berentz; 10:20--Mark Wojcik, Jim Thompson, Johnny Highland; Mrs. John Robinson.  

 

            Personal note:

Roger McCollum shares a painful story of swimming at the old pool at the country club:  One day when my mom was playing in a Women's club event left me at the swimming pool for the day. I fell asleep on the hard concrete after some swimming and woke hours later. The next morning when I awoke my entire back was blistered. It was pretty painful and I recall that it took 5-7 days before I could move without pain.

 

1959 August 2 mdnr "Playground Parade Day Contest Winners"

The parade in downtown Miami and the Rotary club's city-wide picnic Friday more than 700 youngsters  climaxed supervised activities in the 1959 municipal program, the larges ever held here. The photo page spread was shot by Orrick Sparlin.

More than 500 boys and girls participate in the parade, a new record here. The playground and parade is under the supervision of S.A. Red Robertson, general director of the summer program and Mrs. Lawrence Zane, supervisor of tournaments and special contests at parks.

1959 August 5  "Second Annual Sidewalk Sale"

1959 August 8  "Club Champion"

 

John F. Robinson, 1960 Club Champion **Orrick Sparlin Collection at the Dobson Museum.

 

1959 September 16 "8 Teams in Fall Tourney at Miami Country Club"

Tournament Chairman, Harry Whitaker asks players to complete their first round by Sunday. In playing for qualifying scores, each entry must play with another member of his team. Two players from each team, who post the lowest qualifying scores, will compete in match play with the lowest scorers from other teams. One match is to be played each week. 

Team members who do not have the two best qualifying scores will continue consolation medal play rounds each week. 

 

 

 

Lady golfers decorating for Christmas: ...., Yvonne Temple, Lottie Mae Russell, Hattie Wall, Florence Dawson, .... Johnson, Erin Wojick *photo from Orrick Sparlin collection, Dobson Museum.

 1959 December 10  "Country club Slate Chosen"

Miami Country club members re-elected Pat Campbell as President at their annual meeting Tuesday night. also re-elected were Dr. W.D. Jackson, vice-president, and H.F. Myers, secretary-treasurer.

Elected to the board of directors were: O.A. Rockwell, Corbin Shouse, Vernon Sapp, Orville Dahl, Wayland Kelly, Jerry Zeis, and Myron Jenkins. Club improvements will be considered when officers and directors meet in January.

 

**In 1958 Mrs. Jack Horner and Mrs. Bert Wall both held the title for the lowest score posted on nine holes, a 39.  Hattie (Mrs. Bert) Wall would go on to set the women's course record with a par round of 38. I matched that round while playing college golf at NEO and my sister, Jonya matched the par round in the 1970's.  All records and trophies burned in the fire in 1984.  

 

Sometimes we just need to reflect and laugh at our memories and the times.

Playground parade pictures by Orrick Sparlin

1957 The Race: the Muntz Jet vs the Chrysler 300

After writing the stories about George Coleman, Jr. I cannot go on without sharing another one of George's influences in our lives in Miami. Both George and my dad loved to race cars and play golf. The early 1950's green Oldsmobile that dad bought when we arrived in Miami in 1954 came from George Coleman. That car alone, made many fast from Miami, Oklahoma to Santa Anita, California, where dad and his country club crew would play in a golf tournament then drive home. In the early days, it was Dr. Robert Baron who rode shotgun, later Doc Jackson was a regular. The shotgun driver had the responsibly of keeping an eye out for the Highway Patrol.  

Mad Man Muntz caricature on Steering Wheel

<https://www.mecum.com/lots/CA0815-219801/1952-muntz-jet-convertible/>
 

In 1957 Johnie bought The Muntz from Lou Newell, who at that time owned Sky Ranch and a famous stud horse named Johnny Dial  Lou had bought the car in Indianapolis. (Contrary to rumors this car was not a pace car for the Indianapolis 500, as reported in my childhood.)

The car was made in 1951 by Mad Man Muntz. In the late 1940's a nationally known race car wizard, Frank Kurtis, who eventually developed a number of Indianapolis 500 winners, designed and built about 20 aluminum-bodied two-seater sports cars. Kurtis, however, lacked production resources, so Muntz stepped in and bought the manufacturing right. Muntz redesigned the car that was soon dubbed the Muntz Jet. He stretched the wheelbase, put in a back seat, replaced the Ford engines with Cadillac V-8's, added padded dashboards and seat belts, painted the cars in bright Easter egg colors, and even installed liquor and ice cabinets. (Our center console  held beer, but I don't recall that it was a liquor cabinet, merely space between the bucket seats, where mom and dad could hide their beers on the way to Minnie and Milts Dinner Restaurant in Joplin.) 

https://forums.aaca.org/topic/355937-1951-muntz-jet/

 

 

Bob Hill retold this story recently. Your dad must have bought the car in 1956, and it was well known to be one of the fastest cars on the road with a Cadillac V-8 engine. Bob and his buddies heard a rumor that George Coleman, Jr. had challenged Johnie to a race. The Will Rogers Turnpike was not open to traffic in the spring of 1957, but the road was open and cleared for traffic. The holdup being the finishing touches on the Glass House over the turnpike near Vinita. 

George Coleman, Jr. bought a new 1955 Chrysler 300 with push button transmission and decided to drive it back to Miami and challenge his golfing friend and race car buddy, Johnie Stapp, to a race between his new Chrysler 300 and the Muntz Jet. 

The two men and their fast cars arrived at the turnpike intending to race full speed from Miami to Vinita. Without proof, I am sure there was a gallery of people present to see the pro and George race.  

Bob and his buddies decided to ride their bikes to the first over pass between Miami and Vinita, so they could watch the race. By the time they arrived the race was over.

In the end, the pair never even made it Afton. The Chrysler out performed the Muntz because of the newer faster engine and the push button transmission. It was made to travel. The Muntz was a dragster and drove well on the straight out fast track. 

Shortly after the race, during my fourth grade year in school,  we moved to 209 H. N.E. where dad had a two car garage. I'm sure it was during that year 57-58 that dad bought a Chrysler push-button transmission shifter next to the steering column.  and the guys at B & B garage worked many hours to install the new engine. Dad could always be found tinkering with his car in that old garage. My sister and I spent evenings watching dad or doing our best to help and yet, stay out of the way.

Letter Series
Chrysler first introduced the 300 back in 1955, and with the debut of that high-performance 4-seater some would say the idea of the muscle car was born. Over the next 10 years, Chrysler would bring to market a range of 300s now referred to as the “letter series,” starting with that first 300 and continuing on with the 300B, 300C, 300D — a new letter every year with the final 300L in 1965. These special Chrysler's were among the fastest production cars on the road, equipped with the latest in luxury features. Other 300 models followed the letter series, but none would ever be as special as those first versions.  Chrysler 300: a Brief History

1955 Chrysler 300* 

 

Jim Taylor, son of Gob Taylor, personal memory of riding in the Muntz on Highway 66.

This event occurred with Pat Temple when Johnie took the two of us on a little ride going to Commerce and back on Highway 66. I believe this was a 1951 Muntz and was well capable of speeds in excess of 120 mph. Johnie also was an experienced race car driver and that Muntz looked hot to Pat and me. We were always asking Johnie to drive us around. Hence, he finally succumbed to giving us a ride and off we went. 

 

Rolled and pleated interior

https://www.mecum.com/lots/CA0815-219801/1952-muntz-jet-convertible/

When we got to Highway 66, we were really riding him to show us something. He did, he drove that Muntz right between two cars at 65 mph or so and he floored that Muntz and we flew through them. Scared me thoroughly as it did Pat, and we did not ask again. However, it was evident that Johnie knew well how to drive a race car. That Muntz was a state-of-the-art car in the early 1950's.

Jim Burford, son of John and Lucille Burford,shared this personal story: 

Jim told me that my dad was always his hero, not for the golf but for his racing passion. Jim became fascinated with how dad modified engines, like the Muntz, to go flat out 160 down the turnpike or late night roads like the one that connected Ben Stanley's corner on Route 66 to the east and back to the Fairgrounds. It was a lonely dark road until the boys and men challenged each other to drag races. Once, again it was the mechanics at B&B Garage on South Main, who kept dad's car rolling along. 

Our Muntz Jet was originally a mustard color that I now see on some of the new smaller cars. The interior was also rolled and pleated mustard color leather. Later, dad painted it black, a shinny black. Next, it became baby blue and the interior was changed to match it. No matter which color the Highway Patrol found him on Route 66 or the Will Rogers Turnpike. They knew his car and his name personally. 

To me the car was always that vivid mustard color.

L.K. Newell went on to establish his now well-known Newell Coach .

L.K. Newell also was a noted Miami business man, who kept many Miami people employed over the decades:  L.K. Lou Newell, Business man

 

1955 Chrysler 300 image credit:  https://fairfieldcollectibles.com/1955-chrysler-c300-red-1-24-scale-diecast-model-by-motormax/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw6_CYBhDjARIsABnuSzpW5Aao1mWieAaIsSEfU8wFPpsM_VBQZn6ZTvFpaRyJblakaAL4lHsaAmmzEALw_wcB

1958 TIMELINE AND STORIES OF THE MIAMI GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB

 Personal photo of Mickey Wright and Johnie Stapp April, 1958 at Miami Country club.

1958 March 9 "Ladies Ready for '58 Golf Activities" 

Weekly golf competition for members of the Miami Ladies Golf assn. will resume Wednesday at the Miami club, weather permitting. Officers for the year are: Mrs.W.L. Oliver, President; Mrs. Ed Badger, secretary, and Mrs. Lee Adkinson, treasurer.

1958 March 30  "Spring Fashion Festival Feature at Country Club"

Decorations appropriate to the Easter season set the theme for the Women's Division luncheon and spring fashion festival Thursday at the Miami Country club. Center of interest at the officer's table was an Easter egg tree and tiny birds made by Mrs. Bert Wall.

Mrs. William L. Oliver, commented on fashions offered by Ramsay's and Hub Clothing Co. Modeling the spring fashions were Mrs. Tracy G. Wright, Mrs. Henry Garwood, Miss Katie Murphy, Mrs. Kelso Berentz, Mrs.Charles Stansell, and Mrs. A.L. Commons. Door prizes were won by Mrs. Woodrow Painter, Mrs. Bill Carter, and Mrs. Warren Wilbur.

Bridge and canasta rounded out the social afternoon. Winner of the bridge prizes were Mrs. Albert Jackson, Mrs. Clarence Carselowey, Mrs. A.J. Poleet, Mrs. Orville Dahl, Mrs. A.L. Commons and Mrs. G.R. Hill. Mrs. Robert Reavis, Mrs. Emma Bayliss, Mrs. H.M. Kreiger and Mrs. R.E. Holland won the canasta awards.  

1958 April 13 "High School Golfers"

The Harding team, a pre-tournament favorite, took home the four-man team trophy with a combined low score of 318 on 18 holes of medal play. Miami War Dogs finished second with 323, followed by Bristow, Cascia Hall and Edison. Bob Hill was low for the local team and third low for the tournament with a 37-40=77. The other Miami scores were Dick Neel, 39-49=88; Philip Temple, 38-41=79, and James Emery, 38-41=79.
 

1958 April 27 "Mickey Wright to Conduct Golf Clinic Here on May 2"

Mickey Wright, one of the nation's finest golfers, will present a clinic at 1:30. The class is open to the public. Wright, a member of Wilson Sporting Gods is one of the longest drivers in the women's professional division. She turned pro in 1954 and ranked 12th among the leading money winners in women's professional golf 

(Personal Note) This event was one of the biggest events of my childhood, because dad asked my 5th grade teacher if I could miss school for a few hours. With a grudging consent, Miss Garman, said "Yes." What I honestly remember is having lunch with Mickey Wright and my parents at the Miami Hotel where the dinning room served it's meal on pink linen tablecloths. She was so gracious and kind to us and to the gallery who came out that afternoon to watch her exhibition. She never quit smiling. 

Mickey Wright and Johnie Stapp, standing on old Number 9 tee box with hole 7 tee box in background. Thank you Bob Hill for showing me the power lines in the background as the clue to the setting.

 

***

Miami high school golfers, winners of second place Tuesday with a 482 in the annual invitational tournament at Bristow, will compete Thursday against Kansas schoolboy teams on the municipal course at Coffeyville. Bob Hill carded a 116 to take top honors for Coach Bill Smith's Miami team. Dick Neel was just a stroke behind at 117. Phil Temple shot a 121 and James Emery 128.

1958  UPGRADING the Sand Traps (bunkers) 

Roger McCollum recalls that Johnie must have gone to play Southern Hills in a PGA qualifier. Upon his return he made the decision to take our old flat sand traps, that members rather liked because they could putt out of them, and upgrade them to deep bunkers that required a sand wedge and new golf skills to hit the ball out of the deep traps.

Within a couple of weeks the bunkers were lowered (deepened). They all had a foot to foot and half faces on them now. Oh, how the membership howled about that!. But to this day, I credit your dad for teaching me how to get out of the deep bunkers with GREAT success. 

Letty's personal memory of this event: I vividly recall watching my dad one day take a shovel to the south side sand trap on number nine hole. The fairway broke to the right and two sand traps were there to catch out rolling golf balls. Dad dug and dug on that facing. Over a few days he and the greens keeper placed a metal front to protect the wall, and lined it with wooden slates (that may have been railroad ties). Then the sand trap was extended outward. It became a bear in my lifetime.

I can even recall, thanks to Roger's memory, that the next few holes to have sand traps enlarged and deepened were hole #3 on the right and left side; hole # 5 on the right side; hole #7 on the front right; then hole # 8 on the left side. One by one over the next summer the sand traps grew in depth and width, thanks to dad's experience in Southern Hills. 

1958 May 8 WELCOME JAYCEES AND JAYCEE JANES to the BIG 1958 Junior Chamber of Commerce Convention, Miami, Oklahoma  May 9-11

1958 June 6  "Kids Golf Classes to Resume June 21"

The next golf training class for Miami youngsters will be on June 21. Classes for the next two Saturdays have been called off. Mrs. Stapp will be hospitalized this weekend and her husband will attend the National Open tournament next week in Tulsa. 

(Ha, ha,  I didn't remember this. I wonder who took care of the kids?)

1958 June 8 "Women's Handicap Tournament"

 1958 June 8 "Southern Hills hosts National Open"

Golfdom's great as well as some of its unknowns will stage the 58th renewal of the storied National Open over the well-manicured Southern Hills Country Club next week. The excellent condition of the course, coupled with it "untricked" layout, may put in sharp focus one of the age-old arguments of golf: Will the "old guard" such as Ben Hogan and Sammy Snead, hold sway over the up and comers like Ken Venturi and Arnold Palmer. (Tommy Bolt wins the Open.)

1958 June 9  "Sputnik III"

The Pentagon's chief space scientist has conceded that the Russians may be using their giant Sputnik III to spy on the United States. But he added, "My guess is they are not." 

1958 June 16 "Robinson Medalist in Miami Tourney"

John F. Robinson, former city golf champion, won medalist honors in qualifying rounds for the annual Miami Country club championship with an even par 72. One round will be played each week in the tournament. The finals are scheduled for July 13, second by June 29 and third by July 6.

Pairings for Championship flight: 

John F. Robinson, 72, vs Ray Mantle, 82.  Dr. R.E. Baron, 79, vs George Beck, 84.

G.R. While, 78 vs Joe Blockwitz, 83.  Dr. W.D. Jackson, 81 bye

Jack Myers, 74 vs Bob Temple, 83.   Kenneth Childress, 79 vs Bill Neel, 84.

Dick Lowry, 78 vs Mac Rupp, 84.   Phillip Temple, 82, bye

Pairing for First Flight:

James Emery vs Rex Painter. Roy McDonald vs Henry Kenreigh; Charlie Trussler vs Frank Hansford; DeArmon , bye.

Pairings for Second Flight:

Woodrow Painter vs John Burford; Buck Bagby vs Wayland Kelly; Joe Thompson vs Noel Wyatt; Blaine Dahlquist, vs Harry Dean; Ted Lowry vs Al Spaulding; P.J. Stephenson vs Bob Hill; George Wojcik vs Bernie Schaff; Dr. Harry Ford, bye.

 Pairings for Third Flight:

Bill Hirsch vs Ed Badger; Earl Fisher vs Bill Medcalf; Tom Barton vs Spencer Dawson; Marion Zajic vs Darrell Kissee.  Bill Carter vs Frank LaCalf; Harry Whitaker vs Chuck Holden; Henry Garwood vs Lee Adkison; Jack Schofield, bye.

 

1958 June 17 "Hill, Neel Qualify for State Junior Tourney"

Bob Hill and Dick Neel, who are due to be starts on the Miami High School golf team again next season, qualified for the state Jaycee junior tournament to be held in Ponca City, June 24-26 sponsored by the Junior Chamber of Commerce. Hill, who will be a junior next fall at Miami high, paced the local contestants with a 27 hole total of 39,39,40=118. 

1958 June 24 mdnr  "Favorites Win in City Meet"

Leading contenders for the men's golf championship of the Miami Country club advanced in the first round of the annual tournament and will play their second matches not later than next Sunday.

Defending champion Jack Myers defeated Bob Temple, 3 and 2, and will met Bill Neel in the second round. Neel gained a default victory from Kenneth Childress of Webb City, Mo.

The Myers-Neel winner will play the survivor of the match between Dick Lowry and Phil Temple. Lowry won over McRupe of Vinita, 2 up, and Temple had a first round bye.

In the upper bracket of the championship flight, former city champion John F. Robinson advanced over Ray Mantle, 2 and 1. He is paired this week against Dr. R.E. baron, winner over George Beck, 1 up.

G.R. White had to go 19 holes before gaining a 1 up win over toe Blockwitz. His second-round opponent is Dr. W.D. Jackson, who had a first-round bye. 

FIRST FLIGHT; James Emery defeated Rex Painter; Roy McDonald shaded Harry Kenreigh; Charlie Trussler beat Frank Hansford; DeArmon of Vinita, bye.

SECOND FLIGHT John Burford beat Woodrow Painter; Buck Bagby bumped Wayland Kelly; Joe Thompson shaded Noel Wyatt; Blain Dalquist of Vinita defeated Harry Dean.

THIRD FLIGHT

Bill Hirsch downed Ed Badger; Earl Fisher edged Bill Medcalf; Tom Barton won over Sencer Dawson; Marion Zajic defeated Darrell Kissee; Bill Carter bumped Frank LaCalf; Harry Whiteaker shaded Chuck Holden; Lee Adkinson dropped Henry Garwood; Jack Schofield, bye.

1958 June 29  "Miami Fans Will Ride 'Special' to Yank Tilt in KC"

The Frisco "Mickey Mantle Special" from Tulsa to Kansas City will be boarded by a number of Miami fans when it stops here at about 8:45 this morning. some 650 riders of the train will see this afternoon's game between the New York Yankees and the Kansas city Athletics.

The game holds special interest for northeast Oklahoma fans because Mickey Mantle of Commerce is expected to play with the Yanks and Ralph Terry of Chelsea, a former Northeastern A&M student, is slated to pitch for the Athletics. 

1958 July 6  "Fireworks Show"

 Rains failed to interfere with the Fourth of July four-ball golf tournament for husband-wife teams at the Miami Country club. More than 25 entries were caught in the afternoon downpour, seven of whom drew golf balls as extra prizes for getting so wet. 

The fireworks display at the club put on by Gob Taylor, was cut short when an explosive fell into the firing area, setting off a series of displays simultaneously. Personnel in the danger area escaped injury. No fans were injured. 

Personal Memory: Carol Cowles vividly recalled sitting on the wet grass ready for an evening of fireworks when suddenly all of the fireworks began to fire at once. She said it was the  biggest fireworks show she'd ever seen, and will remember it forever. 

***

"Junior Golf"

Members of the newly-organized Junior Golf league will compete Tuesday for low putts in rounds beginning at 9 a.m. at the Miami Country club.  A business meeting will be held at 12 noon, followed by sack lunches. Practice rounds were played at he club last Tuesday with mothers accompanying the beginners on their rounds. Members of the league are between the ages of 10-15.  Pairings for Tuesday's rounds are:

Bobby Baron, Judy Fullerton, Gayle Haralson

Gretchen White, Barbara Dahl, Dianna Oliver

Barbara Blue, Carole Luttrell, Katrina White

Susan Nunn, Phyllis White, Beverly Saft

Sandra Thompson, Ann Habeger, Letty Stapp

Tommy Brown, Bill Fullerton, Bill Oliver

John Robinson, Mike Juergens, Pat Wilson, Brian Elizando

Scotty Haralson, Geoffrey Scholfield, Tommy Spaulding

Charles Dawson, Chuck Habeger, Terry Johnson

Jeff Ranger, Jerry Johnson, Joe Thompson, Stephen Moore.

**What the newspaper doesn't list are the mothers and fathers who weekly walked the two holes (old #6 and #9) for the pee wees, the first five holes for the pre-teens, and the nine to eighteen holes for the older teens. Our parents and some grandparents proudly showed up to keep our scores and to teach us golf course etiquette. My father insisted that children follow the rules of etiquette at all times. I my case, I didn't know first names of many of the women and men who were members until I'd left home and in some cases read their full names in my research. Every man was a Mister and a lady Mrs. or Miss. We were never allowed to use first names. 

1958 July 20 "Downtown Parade Set Friday for Youngsters"

 Several hundred Miami boys and girls are expected to participate in a downtown parade at 10 a.m. Friday that will climax activities in the summer municipal playground program at local parks. Pets, dolls, and bicycles will be featured. First, second, and third prizes, along with ribbons, will be awarded in four divisions: best decorated doll buggies; dolls, and pets. 

All children of Miami are invited to take part in this parade, even if they have not been enrolled in the playground program, according to S.A. Robertson, general director and Mrs. Lawrence Zane, special events leader for the summer programs.

1958 August 3 "Junior Golf"

Junior Golf league winner in the matches for low scores last week at the Miami Country club were: Terry Johnson, Barbara Dahl ages 14-15; Charles Dawson, Diana Oliver, ages 12-13; Billy Oliver and Letty Stapp ages 10-11. 

1958 August 17 "Mantle Gets 34th But Red Sox Win"

1958 August 31 "Mixed Foursomes in Rounds Today at Country club"

Mixed foursomes will compete on the Miami Country club golf course this afternoon:

1:00 - Claire Oliver-George Wojcik; Nancy Johnson-Dan Heyburn

1:05 -Norma Lou Jackson-Rex Painter; Mary Whitaker-Bill Juergens

1:10 - Roma Dahl-Ed Badger; Yvonne Temple-Dr. Harry Ford

1:15 - Erin Wojcik-Orville Dahl; Helen Juergens-Bill Plumlee

1:20- Millie Carter- Joe Thompson; Virginia Campbell-Bert Wall

1:25 Dorothy LaCalf-Don Johnson; Forence Dawson-Corbin Shouse

1:30 Hattie Wall-William L. Oliver; Wilma Badger-Dr. W.D. Jackson

1:35 - Mary Van Beber-Pat Campbell; Helen Jones-Bill Cartr

1:40 - Barbara Shouse-Bob Temple; Norma Nunn-Harry Whitaker

1:45 - Letah Thompson-Frank LaCalf; Betty Plumlee-Td Vernon

1:50 - Glenna Vernon-Spencer Dawson; Lois Cowles-Bob Nunn

1:55 - Grace Painter-Claud Jones; Ruth Heyburn-Hance Van Beber

2:00 - Peggy Elizando-Claude Dale; Val Dale-Joe Elizando

2:05 - Louise Spaulding-Henry Garwood; Shirley Bomford-Kelso Berentz

2:15 - Lois Garwood-Tom Bomford; Faye Berentz-Al Spaulding

1958 August 31 "Junior Golf Results"

1958 August 31 "Twilight League Sharpshooters"

1958 September 7 "Mickey Wright in Dallas Open"

Long-hitting Mickey Wright, who recently gave a clinic here, turned in her best competitive round Saturday--a 5 under par 34-33=67-to wrest the lead from Beverly Hanson at the halfway mark of the Dallas Women's Open Golf Tournament."

***

"Afton School Chief Olvey Is Invitational Tourney Medalist"

Ed Olvey new superintendent of Afton schools and the newly-elected president of the Lucky Seven athletic conference, won medalist honors Saturday in the two-day invitation golf tournament at the Miami Country Club. Old man par was the real winner in Saturday's qualifying rounds as Olvey's three-over 75 was good enough to lead the field of 55 entries. Light rain started falling on the course at 4:30 p.m., with many out-of-town contestants firing away on the final nine holes at that time. 

1958 September 14 "PGA officers"

The new officers of the Oklahoma Section of the PGA are: Joe Dahlman, Tulsa, president; Cliff Calderwood, Little Rock, Johnie Stapp, Miami, and Dwight Travis, Bartlesville, vice-presidents, and Fred Kreyer, Wichita, secretary-treasurer. 

 

October 10, 1958

1958 October 23 "34th Annual Oklahoma Section PGA Championship"

Ted Gwin, Wichita, jumped out in front of of the Annual Sectional Championship with a 65-68 over the Burneyville Golf Course. Finishing with four straight 3's, Gwin, the 1951 champion, took a two-stroke edge over Jimmie Gaunt of Oklahoma City. Gauntt is seeking an unprecedented sixth Oklahoma Section title. Other players in the field include: Labron Harris 73-69, U.C. Ferguson 72-76, Dan Langford 74-77, Johnie Stapp 76-78.

 

 

 

1957 TIMELINE AND STORIES of the Miami Country Club by Letty Stapp Watt

 1957 Spring

Coached by Bill Smith on the left and Johnie Stapp on the right, the Wardog foursome from left, includes James Emery, Larry Parker, Phil Temple, and Bob Hill. In the foreground is the trophy won by the Wardogs at the Bristow Invitational tourney on Tuesday.

Spring 1957  "Wardog Golfers to Contend for State Diadem in O.C."

Oklahoma City next stop: Coach Bill Smith, left and Johnie Stapp, right, Miami country club golf pro, are working with Miami Wardog golfers preparing for the state schoolboy tournament in Oklahoma City Wednesday and Thursday. The Wardog foursome from left, includes James Emery, Larry Parker, Phil Temple, and Bob Hill. In the foreground is the trophy won by the Wardogs at the Bristow Invitational tourney on Tuesday. 

In preparation for the tournament Wardog golfers will participate in an 18 hole practice in Midwest City.

UPDATE--FOLLOW UP:

Bob Hill shares the rest of the story: In the 1957 State High School Championship our MHS golf team was in a good position after the first round to win another Championship. When we left the hotel to go to the golf course the next morning, the lady at the parking lot lost our car keys. She looked everywhere and we took that little building apart trying to find them with no luck.

We thought of all of our options and the last one was to call a locksmith. While we waited  for that to happen Coach Smith called the course to see if they would change our tee times, bu they refused. When we finally go to the course we learned that because we missed our tee times we were disqualified. It was just an unhappy adventure for all concerned. 

1957 March 3 "Women Golfers Schedule First Club Gathering"

 The long winter layoff from golfing will end Wednesday morning for members of the Women's Golf Assn at the Miami Country club. Mrs. Faye Berentz, President, announced the women will meet for coffee and rolls to discuss the spring and summer golfing program. 

Johnie Stapp, club pro, will explain the free clinic which he will conduct on Wednesdays. Mrs. Berentz said new and aspiring members will be welcomed. 

1957 April 11  "Miami Golfers Win at Joplin" 

Miami High school War Dogs defeated Joplin 12-6 in a match at Twin Hills Country club. James Emery, Miami, was medalist with an 84. Other members of the War Dog squad are Bob Hill, Pat Temple, Larry Parker, Steve Hollerbach, and Mike Wilson. 

1957 April 14  "Pairings Given for Club Play"

Last week's winners in golfing action among the women at the Miami Country club included:

Championship flight: Mrs. Robert Temple; class A, Mrs. George Murphy; class B, Mrs. Hance VanBeber; class C, Mrs. Ruth Heyburn.

Johnie Stapp, Pro and M.C. Bagby Club President

1957 May 1 "Country Club Set to Resume Golf Program"

Mcc golfing events that were cancelled during April's rainy weather will be rescheduled for May and June, according to Johnie Stapp, golf pro.

May 17 has been set for beginning of play in the Twilight League (on Tuesdays), with competition in the circuit due to continue for the next 16-18 weeks. Eighteen teams of four men each participated in the competition last year. We have found  this type of play provides the most democratic form of golf, said Stapp. "During the season's round-robin scheduled, men of the club will tour the local course at least once with most of the other members. This results in more golfing enjoyment.

1957 May 1 "War Dog Golfers in O.C. for State Tourney Action"

Sharpshooting golfers for MHS were in O.C. today for preliminary round in the annual state schoolboy tournament over Lincoln Park golf course. They wer to play 18 holes today and 36 Thursday. 

The War Dog foursome consists of James Emery, Larry Parker, Bob Hill, Philip Temple, Steve Hollerbach went along as a possible replacement.

Coach Bill Smith accompanied the team. Johnie Stapp, golf pro of the Miami Country club, plans to watch the local linksters during Thursday's final rounds. He has taken an active part in the development of golfing talent of local students. 

Smith and Stapp were with the War Dogs last week when they won the championship of the Bristow Invitation schoolboy tournament.

The Miamians won the state championship in the sand greens division last year. The are competing for the grass greens title this year. 

1957 May 1 "100 Teenage Golfers (Boys and Girls)  Play in State Tournament at O.C."

This year's high school tournament will host about 100 teenage golfers from 30 schools. The tournament is divided into three divisions and trophies are given in both grass and sand green competition. The boys opened with 18 holes and will follow with 36 holes Thursday, while the girls play nine holes' today, and will play 18 on Thursday.  

Enid returns the most experienced team. It is headed by Jim Wright, who lost to Jim Loy of Northwest in a sudden death playoff last year for the tate individual title. Enid won the state team title last year. 

The girls division also finds itself without a defending champ since Beth Stone, Muskogee, titlist for the last two years. Beth Stone went on to become a leading Ladies Professional Golfer is in the Oklahoma Golf Hall of Fame Beth Stone

 1957 May 10 "Hot Springs Leaders"

Johnie Stapp, Miami golf pro shot an 80 in Thursday's first rounds of the Arlington Open according to information received here.  

 

1957 May 10  "Miami Golfers in Matches Sunday"

Twenty or more golfers from the Miami Country club are expected to participate in matches at Independence Country club Sunday afternoon. Thirteen men have signed up the Independence rip, according to announcement this morning the local club officials. Other members wishing to play in the matches have until Saturday afternoon to register at the pro shop. 

Those who have signed are Bill Hirsch, Pat Campbell, Bill Neal, Bob Temple, Jim Nowlin, Charlie Trussler, bob Baron, Jess Fronterhouse, G.R. White, Clarence J. Carselowey, Dr. W.D. Jackson, G.R. Scott, and Neel Wyatt. 

1957 May 13 "Miami Golfers Divide Honors"

 Independence men defeated Miamian's 38 to 31. Miami juniors almost made a clean sweep of the matches making 12 1/2 points of a possible 13 points. The Miami boys were Dickie Neel, Bob Hills, Philip Temple, and Jim Taylor.

1957 June 11 "Johnie Stapp Among Leaders in Bartlesville Pro-Am"

An entry list of 150 shot qualifying rounds today preceding the opening of the 45th annual Oklahoma Amateur Golf Tournament. The tournament begins Wednesday with 18 holes of match play over the Hillcrest Country Club course.

Don Sechrest (future course designer) of Stillwater shot a five-under-par of 66 to win the pro-amateur, playing with Art Hall and Ed Henderson of Tulsa, won $85 first prize. Oklahoma City pro Jimmy Gauntt and Labron Harris of Oklahoma State University golf coach from Stillwater tied for second with 67 and $50 each. Johnie Stapp, Miami with a 68 finished third. 

1957 June 11  "Two Showings Slated for Golf Playoff Film"

Motion pictures of the Snead-Middlecoff playoff in the Phoenix Open golf tournament will be shown tonight and Wednesday at the Miami Country club. 

Tonight's showing will be for the stag night dinner beginning at 6:30. Members of the Women's Golf Assn will be the film at noon Wednesday in connection with their golf day luncheon. "Even if it is too rainy for our weekly golf competition Wednesday, the motion pictures of the tournament will be shown," said Mrs. Corbin Shouse, chairman of arrangements. The women's handicap tournament scheduled to been Tuesday, has been called off. 

 

1957 June 23 NY (UP)  "Mantle Replaces Ted"

Mickey Mantle of the Yankees replaced Ted Williams for the Rec Sox today as the nation's most popular choice for any position on the 1957 major league all-star team. Mantle, who led both leagues in batting with a .381 average and was tied with Hank Aaron of the Braves for the home run leadership at 19 at the conclusion of Friday night's games, has attracted a total of 50, 591 center field votes from the fans. 

1957 June 23 mdnr 

1957 June 30 mdnr "Women Golfers Play for Best 6"

The Best 6 play this Wednesday on the front nine will be the last for the local women before the Tri-State Women's golf tournament here July 11-12. Mrs. Bert Wall won the championship for low putts the past week. Mrs. Bob Temple was the winner in class A, Mrs. Woodrow Painter in class B, and Mrs. W. D. Jackson in class C. 

Katrina White a personal story:

My family, Hattie, Al and uncle G.R. White, were grateful to George Coleman for building such a beautiful golf course and clubhouse. Through the years the country club hosted Sunday dinners, Happy Hours, Class Reunions, and special events like our engagement party and Daddy's retirement from Miami Savings and Loan. We were so sad when it burned and later when the course was closed. Can't take away those memories! Sorry it was not able to thrive. 

Johnie and MGCC were so important to my entire family. My daddy,Al White, loved the game so. He and uncle G.R. taught me the game by sawing off a wooden putter, then playing holes 1 and 3 on the near side of the creek. I still have that putter and all the great memories. Gretchen and I played in the Jr. Golf League (photo above) where one of our mother's would walk the 9 holes with us, teaching the game and the etiquette of golf. They kept score, too. My mother, Hattie had been a P.E. teacher, and loved the game and shared that love with Al all of their lives. 

Playing in the swimming pool was a wonderful baby-sitter for our parents when they could slip away for a game of golf. Pure joy and such happy memories of a free, carefree childhood. It is heart-warming to see so many familiar names. It's Bill JOE Newman to me.

 

1957 June 30 "Bartlesville Golfers Play in Miami"

Golf teams of the Miami and Bartlesville country clubs will compete in matches today at the Miami club. A team of 28 Miami men lost at Bartlesville two weeks ago by score of 75 to 59.

Bridge games will be featured this afternoon for wives of the golfers. Mrs. Pat Campbell of Miami was high scorer in bridge at Bartlesville. (On a personal note, I might add Virginia Campbell was a powerful bridge player according to the articles I've read. Virginia was in mother's bridge club group and frequently won. Of course, I have vivid memories of walking into our home on H st Northeast and smelling cigarette smoke, peppermint candies, creme d'mint cookies, and nuts on the Tuesday's when my mother hosted bridge club. The smoke was so disgusting I swore I'd never smoke. Luckily, that was a smart decision for a grade school child to make.) 

Personal stories:

James Taylor has shared many stories of playing golf, caddying, and swimming at the MCC. Thank you James for your help and support. I greatly appreciate everyone who has shared.

During the summer of 1957 some of my friends and I would sneak into the swimming pool and swim at night buck naked. Dad was a member, and I didn't have to sneak in, but the pool was closed and none of my buddies fathers were members, so I snuck in with them to be with them. We were seen from the veranda and someone had complained to Johnie. One night when we snuck in, we were raising cane and I was diving off that little wooden board buck naked springing up and down when suddenly there was a snub nosed 32 in my ribs and a rough voice saying, "What are you doing here?" 

Scared me to death, when I finally gathered myself, I could see Johnie laughing and he told us to get. That's all it took and I never did that again. That is the only time I recall of anyone holding a gun on me, but I still think many of the country club women were disappointed when our swimming ended as we all were fairly physically fit. 

1957 July 3 "Women's Tri-State Golf Tourney Here July 10--12"

 Practice rounds may be held this Wednesday. Medal play competition for championship honors in six flights will be conducted Thursday and Friday, July 11,12. The 18-hole qualifying rounds on July 11 will determine the medalist and assignments to the six flights. Some 100 golfers from 20 or more Tri-State area clubs are expected, according to Mrs. Henry Garwood who is heading this year's event.

Miami Country club has hosted this event in 1941 and 1948. Extra events in the tournament next week include putting and driving contests. The Carrothers trophy, inaugurated in 1937, will be awarded to the team with the low grow score. The Miami trophy, established in 1948 by the men's division of the local country club, will be presented to the team with the low net score. 

 

1957 July 12 "Joan Thomas Medalist"

Mrs. Jim (Joan) Thomas of Webb City, Mo., winner of the women's golf championship for the Puerto Rican Isle in 1955, captured medalist honors Thursday afternoon in the Tri-State event by shooting 40-42, six strokes better than an competitor. (Thomas wins the title this year,) Mrs. Bert (Hattie) Wall and Mrs. Jack (Pat) Horner, the 1956 city champion, were the only other Miami entries to qualify for the championship flight. They had scores of 100 and 101, respectively.

While admiring the beauty and excellent condition of the Miami Country club course, most out-of-town entries agreed that it was one of the toughest, if not the most difficult golf layouts they ever encountered. 

1957 July 13  "Bartlesville Golfers Lose"

Miami golfers defeated a team from Bartlesville by a score of 45 to 39 Sunday afternoon at the local links course.  Jack Myers of Miami was the low scorer of the day, shooting an even par 72. John F. Robinson was next with a 73. Ed Hinds, with a 75, was low for the Bartlesville contestants.

1957 July 21 "Miami Youths to Play State Tourney"

Four Miami youths, Bob Hill, James Emery, Philip Temple and Dick Neel, will leave Monday for Duncan, where they will compete in the annual state junior golf tournament, Tuesday through Thursday. They will be accompanied by Johnie Stapp, professional of the Miami Country club.

The high school quartet earned the right to represent the Miami area in the state tournament when a junior meet was held June 25 at the Miami Country club under the sponsorship of the Miami Junior Chamber of Commerce, is co-operating with the Miami Coca-Cola Bottling Company. Hill won the top honors in that meet for the second year in a row. 

The Jaycees and Carl Hilliard, owner of the local Coca-Cola plant, are aiding in expenses of the local group to the tournament at Duncan. Darrell Kissee is furnishing the Ford Station wagon transporting the boys. 

1957 July 25 "Miami Entries Post Excellent Scores"

Miami's delegation made an excellent record in the first 18 holes of the state Jaycee teenage tournament at Duncan. In addition to finishing third from the top with a two-over-par 74, Bob Hill won the driving contest with pro-like distance of 241 yards. 

Johnie Stapp, Miami golf pro, who accompanied the local boys, reported that Dickie Neel shot a 77, Phil Temple 78, and James Emery, 81 in the first round. 

1957 September 22 "Mrs. Dawson is Tourney Winner"

Mrs. Spencer Dawson has added the championship of the Miami Women's Golf Assn, annual match play tournament to her list of golf honors this year. She defeated Mrs. Robert Temple, 6 and 5, in the championship round. She won over Mrs. O.R. Westfall in her first match and defeated Mrs. Joe Thompson in the semi-finals. 

Mrs. Kelso Berentz won over Mrs. Claud Jones, 5 and 4, for championship of A flight. In Thursday's B flight final match, Mrs. William L. Oliver defeated Mrs. W.D. Jackson, 3 and 2. 

1957 September 23 "Myers Captures Invitational Title"

Jack Myers won his second golf championship within a week by capturing the crown in the second annual invitational tournament Sunday afternoon. Myers won the Club Championship last Monday.  Kenneth Childress of Webb City, was the runner-up. 

In the A flight competition identical winning cars of 83-85 were posted by Rex Painter and Bill Neel of Miami. Painter won the title when Neel three-putted on the first extra hole. Visiting contestants from cities of the Tri-State area praised the excellent condition of the local course and described the greens as the finest they had played this year. 

Personal notes on dad, Johnie Stapp from Jim Taylor:

I don't know which tournament Johnie defeated Ben Hogan but he did (I think in was in California in the late 1940's after the war.) However, he did not win the tournament. Johnie was playing in southern California and elsewhere as a professional golfer on what became the P.G.A. tour. He was an accomplished golfer and had significant athletic ability.

He like my father lived during a different time and place. Much of what he learned was self-taught, and he received very little help. I can not help but marvel at their accomplishments and think of the disgust they would feel at many of the things occurring in our society today. While many things in the past were unfair, the American Dream was always a reality with the freedom to pursue it.

1957 September 30  "Miami Golfers Play Pro-Am"

The Miami Country club will be represented by four men in state golf competition and meetings this week at Oklahoma city and Tulsa. Club pro, Johnie Stapp, Dr. W.D. Jackson, John Robinson, and Kenneth Childress were to leave today for Oklahoma City. The three amateurs will team with Stapp in "best ball" pro-am rounds Tuesday. 

The local men will represent this area Tuesday night at a meeting in Tulsa to prepare preliminary plans for the National Open tournament that will be held next summer at Tulsa's Southern Hills course.

Stapp will finish out the remaining 54 holes in the tourney at Oklahoma City on Wednesday and Thursday and will attend the annual meeting of the state PGA in O.C. Stapp is tournament chairman for the Oklahoma PGA which serves all of Oklahoma and Arkansas and a part of Kansas. 

**

"Quarterbacks in City to Meet MHS Group"

Miami Quarterbacks will meet members of the 1957 Miami high school football squad at Monday night's meeting, Dr. Rex Graham, President announced. The prep candidates will be introduced by Bo Bolinger, new MHS coach. 

Another feature will be showing of the 1956 Oklahoma-Colorado game movie, obtained by Bolinger from OU athletic film library.  The meeting will be held at 6:30 in the Little Theater at NEO. Backers of War Dog and NEO college athletic groups who were unable to attend the inaugural meeting may plunk down $5 for club membership cards tomorrow night.  The club has dedicated itself to a wholesome development of interest in local sports, especially football, among patrons and youths. 

1957 saw Eagle-Picher suspending mining operations, costing 500 their jobs.

1957 saw actor Joel McCrea pay a visit to the Coleman Theater when they debuted his film "The Oklahoman."

Follow this link to learn more about the history of Miami, Ok. Miami History

* The book Miami Forever in our Hearts is available for purchase if you click on the blue link. 

** If you are interested in pictures of Miami in the 1930's, 1940's, 1950's, 1960's consider purchasing one of Ron Enderland's Hand Drawn Miami, Ok. Calendars.  2022 Historic Miami, Ok. Calendar