LOCAL

Parker to Serve 4 Years Following Plea Bargain
Conoco To Build Carbon Fiber Plant Here
A Giant Step Toward Quality Growth Says Mayor
Tonkawa Chamber Honors Coach
United Way Moves to New Office
NOC to Recognize Medical Profession at NEO Game

Parker to Serve 4 Years Following Plea Bargain

NEWKIRK — James Clinton Parker was formally sentenced this morning in District Court as part of a plea arrangement that abruptly ended a marathon jury deliberation in October.

Parker, who was accused of the asphyxiation death of 13-month-old Adam Allie in July, 1998, was sentenced by Associate District Judge Leslie D. Page to 21 years in the state department of corrections. Four years are to be served and 17 years suspended after Parker pleaded no contest on Oct. 29 to a reduced charge of first-degree manslaughter.

The 21-year-old Ponca City man was accused of force-feeding bread to Adam Allie, who was the son of Parker’s then-fiancee Linda Allie, while the boy was in Parker’s care in their north Ponca City apartment.

Parker called emergency 911 on July 27, 1998, to summon medical help for the boy, who was rushed to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center with a quantity of bread lodged in his trachea. Doctors responding to the emergency contacted police about suspected child abuse.

Jurors in a first-degree murder trial against Parker in October had deliberated for 14 hours and appeared deadlocked when prosecutors and defense attorneys reached an agreement for the reduced charge. For the murder trial, if jurors had decided Parker was guilty, their only sentencing options were either life imprisonment or life without parole.

Parker was in custody this morning at the Kay County Detention Facility following the sentencing hearing.

Conoco To Build Carbon Fiber Plant Here

Conoco Inc. today said it will construct an eight million pound-per-year manufacturing plant in Ponca City, the first of its kind to produce the company's patented petroleum-based carbon fiber.

Construction of the $125 million plant, to be built adjacent to the company's Ponca City refinery, will start in the second quarter (April-June) of 2000. The company said commercial quantities of the unique carbon fiber would be produced in the second half of 2001.

More than 200 construction workers will be employed during peak construction. According to Conoco officials, approximately 80 full-time positions will be created when the plant becomes operational.

The new Conoco carbon fiber is a revolutionary petroleum-based fiber developed by Conoco for use in the electronics, composite materials, plastics, automotive, construction, transportation and other niche markets.

In announcing that the first carbon fiber plant would be built in Ponca City, Jim Nokes, Conoco executive vice president, said, “Conoco's long-term presence in Ponca City, the existing Conoco infrastructure and the fact that our research and development team is based here were important factors in our decision.

“But, they were no more important than the enthusiastic support of local, state and federal officials and those in agencies who worked diligently with Conoco to make this a “win -win” for everyone.”

In response to the announced plans to construct the plant here, Oklahoma Gov. Frank Keating said, “As a competitive and profitable energy company, Conoco has proven itself as a responsible corporate citizen and aggressively embraced new technologies. I congratulate Conoco on their new facility manufacturing this revolutionary product and am sure it will prove a boon to the economy in Ponca City and Oklahoma.”

U.S. Sen. Don Nickles, a Ponca City native, added, “My compliments to Conoco for their progress in finding diverse and innovative new uses for by-products of the oil refinery process.

“I've been in touch with Conoco officials several times this past year and am delighted with their decision to locate this revolutionary facility in Ponca City. The plant will undoubtedly have positive economic repercussions for the entire community. Everyone who has worked to make this happen deserves much congratulations.”

Twelve years in development, the new carbon fiber will be manufactured using several of Conoco's many proprietary processes for carbon upgrading. Conoco's core competency in carbon upgrading has long made the company a global leader in producing high-value products from low-value petroleum feedstocks.

“We are excited about the future for our carbon fiber," Nokes said. "It is vastly different from existing carbon-based fibers and has unique properties that can enhance existing products and open the door to new markets,” he added.

Conoco is a major, integrated energy company based in Houston and active in 40 countries.

A VIP reception hosted Thursday evening by Conoco Inc., and the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce for U.S. Sen. Don Nickles included Conoco, state and local officials.

The event was held at the Pioneer Woman Museum prior to the annual Chamber banquet.

Nokes headlined the event as Conoco’s major representative.

Others on hand from Houston included Richard Severance, president of refining and marketing - North America. Severance spent the last five years in Ponca City as head of the Mid-Continent Business Unit. He was recently promoted to his present position.

Other Conoco personnel attending the reception and Chamber banquet were Mike Espinosa, treasurer; Dennis Parker, vice-president, SH&E; Bob Holtsmith, manager, business development; Fred Bell, manager, carbon fibers development; and Bill Gormley, director, carbon fibers finance and business support.

Also, Carlton Adams, senior advisor, corporate public affairs; Rod MacAlister, government affairs, Washington D.C.; Gary Marfin, manager, government affairs; Keith Pichanick, manager, strategy and business optimization; Mike Krampf, executive assistant to the president, RMNA.

Elected officials scheduled to attend included Sen. Nickles and Gov. Keating; Oklahoma State Senators Paul Muegge and J. Berry Harrison; State Representatives Jim Newport and Jim Reese; Cheryl Flectcher, State Director, Senator Nickles’ office; Ben Harris, representing Congressman Ernest Istook; and Bret Kiseling, representing Sen. Jim Inhofe

Other state officials included Russell Perry, Director, Oklahoma Department of Commerce (ODOC); John Reid, Director, Industrial Development, ODOC; Ron Bussert, ODOC; Dan McMahon, legal counsel, ODOC; and Gerald Hall, ODOC regional representative.

Representing the City of Ponca City were Mayor Tom Leonard; City Commissioners Lyndon Boyer, Richard Stone, Chris Hand and Keni Ray; and City Manager Gary Martin.

Dean Arthur "Skip" Porter, College of Engineering University of Oklahoma, a technology expert, was also slated to attend.

Scheduled to attend from the Ponca City Economic Development Advisory Board (EDAB) were Carl Renfro, Chairman; Ricky Flak; Brian Harpster; Bob Caine; Nick Spencer; Larry Buck; Karen Furman; Tim Burg; George Ferguson; Linda Brown, immediate EDAB past chairman; and Jan Jarrett, Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce.

Other area invited guests from education included Dr. Sally Downey, Superintendent, Pioneer Technology Center; Dr.William White, Superintendent, Ponca City Public Schools; Dr. Joe Kinzer, President, Northern Oklahoma College.

The guest list also included Craig Myers, 1999 Chairman, Chamber of Commerce; Barry Bickle, 2000 Chairman of Chamber of Commerce; Jerry Evans; David Myers, Mark Detten and Tom Muchmore.

Conoco personnel from Ponca City included Alan Huffman, Manager, Seismic Imaging Services; John King, Manager, Human Resources; Mike Fretwell, General Manager, Mid-Continent Business Unit; Nick Spencer, Manager, Ponca City Refinery; Randy Fralix, Manager, Branded Marketing; Diane Mitchell, Director, Finance and Business Support; Joe Rothbauer, Manager, Regional Transportation; Dan Gilliam, Manager, Finance A&IM; Bob Caine, Leader, Seismic Technical Support; Keni Ray, Director External Affairs and Communications; Susie King, State Government Affairs, Oklahoma City.

A Giant Step Toward Quality Growth Says Mayor

(Editor’s note: The following comments are from Tom Leonard, mayor of Ponca City)

Conoco has been committed to our community for nearly a century. It is fitting that we open the new century — the new millennium — with a renewal of that commitment. Conoco's decision to locate its first carbon fiber plant in Ponca City represents a giant step toward quality economic growth.

Over the past months, [Ponca City has] worked hard to earn this project and to earn Conoco's respect as a community that works pro actively with its business partners. To many, this announcement might seem to be a fitting conclusion to that effort. Instead, it is a beginning for our city. It is a beginning of the blending of business and community interests which will unite to solve the challenges of economic growth, excellence in education, affordable housing and quality of life for our citizens and your workers. And, indeed, I believe it represents a renewal of faith that the best days are ahead for Conoco, a premier company, and for Ponca City, a premier community.

Ponca City is deeply grateful to president Archie Dunham and the Conoco staff for the opportunity to support this promising new venture. We are appreciative of the fact that Jim Nokes, a Conoco vice-president, was in our city today to make the announcement. Sen. Don Nickles and Gov. Frank Keating were also actively involved in urging a positive decision to locate in Ponca City.

We worked once again with the highly skilled staff of the Oklahoma Deptartment of Commerce. Our Kay County commissioners — Wayne Leven, Dee Scheiber and Rex Purdy — will help with transportation needs. Once again, city manager Gary Martin and his staff showed its superior skills in answering Conoco s infrastructure questions.

Jan Jarrett and EDAB led a team effort that yielded a first-class presentation showing the value of our community to this project. Many others gave their time, effort and moral support.

Congratulations to the citizens of Ponca City for making this possible by funding economic development and, more importantly, by remaining steadfast in the belief that Ponca City can create its own future.

Tonkawa Chamber Honors Coach

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Business Editor

TONKAWA — High School Football Coach Steve Love, who led the Tonkawa Buccaneers to Class A State Championship, received the Outstanding Achievement Award Wednesday evening at the Tonkawa Chamber of Commerce Banquet.

Coach Love in accepting the award from Mayor Ronnie Blubaugh, paid tribute to his team saying, “I accept this award on behalf of the football team. This is my ninth year here and it is something we’ve been dreaming about.

“I just want to thank the community that got behind this and it is something everybody can be proud of. You’ve got some really good kids and I really enjoyed coaching them.”

Passing the gavel to incoming Chamber president Lance Glasgow, outgoing president Connelly Wade quoted John Wayne saying, “Courage is being scared to death and still willing to get saddled up and ride.”

Alluding to the theme of the banquet A Celebration of Diversity, Wade said to Glasgow, “Good luck in 2000 and let diversity be one of the many ingredients and the keys to your success.”

The 84th Annual Banquet featured Ron Hale, humorist and newspaper columnist, who gave a presentation on being happy and the role of laughter in recovery from illness and also staying well.

Robert Diemer Jr., area farmer and businessman, was named outstanding citizen. The presentation was by Wade, who lauded Diemer for his fairness and generosity in the community. “On behalf of the Chamber, I would like to thank you for all of your countless man hours and equipment hours that you donate to the Chamber and to the citizens and the community of Tonkawa,” Wade said.

The Lifetime Service was by Bob Steichen to Norma Lee Askew. Sen. Paul Muegge gave the Tonkawa Pride Award to Oklahoma Poet Laureate Joe Kreger.

David Manley was recognized with the Tonkawa Recreation Award by Kyle Simpson. Employee of the Year award went to Amanda Cook.

Members of the 2000 executive committee are Glasgow, Divina Love, president-elect Kenneth Vogt, vice president, Ann Farias, treasurer, and Connelly Wade. New directors are Joseph Brining, Melinda Glasgow, Lance Glasgow, Ron Carr and Connelly Wade.

Retiring directors are Brandt Harris, Mary Allan, Carol Diemer, Jerry Hook and Marilyn White. Cristy Crumrine is Chamber secretary.

Dinner entertainment was by the Tonkawa High School Jazz Band, under the direction of Jayma Moore. The band was well received by the audience.

The invocation and benediction was given by Dr. Brian W. Kovacs, representing the Ministerial Alliance. The meal was by Northern Management Services, under the direction of Ron Geiser. Servers were members of the Tonkawa High School girls and boys basketball teams.

Area Chambers represented at the event were Ponca City, Kaw City and Blackwell.

In addition to Sen. Muegge, other elected officials included, Representatives Jim Reese and Jim Newport, Kay County Commissioner Rex Purdy, County Assessor Teresa Engle, District Attorney Mark Gibson and Pat Schieber, county treasurer.

United Way Moves to New Office

United Way of Ponca City has a new home located at 205 North Second Street. United Way has been at the Chamber of Commerce since 1988, and it has been a wonderful location, says Larry Bittman, United Way board president.

Through the generosity of Fred Boettcher, the craftsmanship of Gary Ray, and the generosity and help of other individuals and organizations in the community, the new office has taken shape.

“Fred loves Ponca City and especially downtown. He is willing to do whatever possible to refurbish the building and keep businesses in the downtown area,” says Bittman.

On Dec. 18, board members and volunteers packed trucks and cars and moved United Way and AmeriCorps to its new home.

“With the funding of the AmeriCorps program, Promise Fellow, and Learn and Serve America, United Way has grown from two staff to five, and they just needed more room,” continues Bittman.

The office is still in need of a microwave and tables and chairs for the conference room. The chamber graciously donated a desk for the reception area, Brian Hermanson donated a conference table, and Conoco donated four file cabinets and two bookcases.

“With everyone’s help, we are open for business and look forward to showing of our new offices,” says Helene Schwartz, director.

NOC to Recognize Medical Profession at NEO Game

TONKAWA — Area members of the medical profession will be recognized at the second annual Physicians Day hosted by Northern Oklahoma College.

Physicians and their medical employees are invited to attend the Lady Mav and Maverick basketball games against Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College Jan. 17 in Foster-Piper Fieldhouse. They are asked to write their names on the backs of their complimentary passes before turning in the passes to ticket takers.

Members of the medical profession who would like to receive complimentary passes for the game may contact the Northern Athletic Director’s Office at 580-628-6760.

A reception will be held in the Harrison Room in the fieldhouse between the women’s and men’s games. Attending members of the medical profession will be introduced at half time of the men’s game.

Also recognized at half-time of the men’s game will be Dr. T.H. Boring, the college athletic physician; Kyle Turner, head of the newly implemented Athletic Training program; and students in the Athletic Training program.

Northern honors members of the medical profession in appreciation of all the help they give to college athletes.

DEATHS

Ida Belle Denney
Opal C. Grimley
Roy Grant Hiskett
Iva Eleanor Fry
Doris Christine Stewart Hicks
Sam Jay Kanelakos
Maxine Edwards
Ina Marie Marlin
Jack Felty
Lula G. Sanders
Rhea Ruth Wise
Paul W. Hutchison

Ida Belle Denney

BLACKWELL — Ida Belle Denney, resident of Blackwell, died late Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2000, in the Blackwell Nursing Home. She was 88.

A graveside service will be held 10 a.m. Friday, Jan 7, 2000, at the Blackwell Cemetery with the Rev. Wayne Bookout officiating. Burial will be under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home in Blackwell.

Ida Belle Denney was born July 9, 1911, in LaHarpe, Kan., the son of Clarence Estes and Fannie (Stainbrook) Fleming. Following her mother’s death, as a young girl, she moved to Blackwell to live with her grandparents. She grew up in Blackwell and attended Blackwell school. She lived most of her adult life in Tulsa, where she married Harold Denney. While living in Tulsa, she worked for the Boeing Aircraft Corporation. She later moved to McAlester where she lived for 25 years before moving back to Blackwell. She was a member of the First Free Will Baptist Church in Blackwell.

Survivors include a brother, Raymond Fleming of Vancouver, Wash., and several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Eva Ridgeway; and two brothers, John Fleming and Jim Fleming.

Opal C. Grimley

Opal C. Grimley, longtime Ponca City resident, died Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2000, at the Shawn Manor Nursing Home. She was 87.

The funeral will be held 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 7, 2000, at Grace Memorial Chapel with the Rev. J.D. Ward, pastor of First United Methodist Church, officiating. Burial will be in the Oak Grove section of the IOOF Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.

Opal C. Grimley was born July 14, 1912, in Argonia, Kan., the daughter of Jess and Nellie Maude (Newberry) Boxley. At an early age, the family moved to the Kaw City and Uncas area. She received her education in the Argonia and Kaw City schools.

On Sept. 19, 1931, she was united in marriage to Charles Edward Grimley in Arkansas City, Kan. The couple made their home in Kildare before moving to Ponca City.

She was a homemaker and enjoyed caring for her home and family.

Survivors include two sons, Charles L. Grimley of Arkansas City, Kan., and Gerald Grimley of Rio Rancho, N.M.; three daughters, LaWanda French, Jeanie Walker, and Joyce Smotone, all of Ponca City; one sister, Allene Shufelberger of Ponca City; 13 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and eight great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, one grandson, five brothers and five sisters.

Casket bearers will be Rick French, David French, Randy Smotone, Kevin Smotone, Terry Young Jr., and Mike Grimley.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Ponca City, Inc., 1904 N. Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, Okla. 74601.

The family will be at the Jeanie Walker home, 45 Stoneridge.

Roy Grant Hiskett

TULSA — Roy Grant Hiskett, former resident of Ponca City, died Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2000, at the Veterans Administration facility in Norman. He was 81.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 8, 2000, at the Holy Family Cathedral in Tulsa with burial at the Calvary Cemetery with full military honors. Rosary will be 7 p.m. Friday at the Fitzgerald Ivy Chapel. Arrangements are under the direction of Fitzgerald Funeral Service of Tulsa.

Roy Grant Hiskett was born May 14, 1918, in Ponca City, the son of Floyd and Cecil May (Onstot) Hiskett. He married Opha Stalman on Dec. 7, 1940, in Ponca City. He served in Oklahoma 45th Division during World War II and was awarded the bronze star for meritorious service during combat. After the war, they settled in Tulsa where he worked as a pipe fitter for Sun Refinery, retiring after 37 years. He was a member of the Immaculate Conception Parish in Tulsa and enjoyed his family.

Survivors include his wife of the home; four sons, Roy Dean Hiskett of Bristow, Mike Hiskett of Las Flores, Calif., John Hiskett of Tulsa, and Rick Hiskett of Girdwood, Ark.; one daughter, Diana Frost of Norman; a sister, Bernadette Maestas of Tulsa; and seven grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and three children, Charlene, Robert and Sandra.

Iva Eleanor Fry

BLACKWELL — Iva Eleanor Fry, resident of Blackwell, died Tuesday afternoon, Jan. 4, 2000, in the Blackwell Regional Hospital. She was 81.

The funeral will be 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 7, 2000, in the Roberts Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Rick Longcrier of the First Baptist Church of Blackwell officiating. Burial will be in the Blackwell Cemetery.

Iva Eleanor Fry was born Jan. 18, 1918, on a farm south of Blackwell, the daughter of Minor and Della Frances (Miller) Robertson. As a young girl, she moved with her family to Braman where she grew up and attended Braman schools until her senior year. She then moved to Jasper, Mo., where she graduated in 1936.

Following graduation, she married Waymon Rex Fry on June 7, 1936, in Jasper, Mo., and they settled on a farm near Braman. In 1947, they moved to Lamar, Mo., to make their home and, in 1960, they returned to Blackwell living there ever since. Her husband preceded her in death on Sept. 22, 1988. She was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Blackwell and the TEL Sunday school class. She was also involved in the ladies’ quilting group at church as well as a quilting group at the St. John’s Lutheran Church.

Survivors include two daughters, Mary Creech of Blackwell and Vanda Simmons of Tulsa; nine grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; a son, Marvin Fry; a sister, Esther Noll; and two brothers, Charlie Robertson and Orvis Robertson.

Casket bearers include Ben Creech, Jeremy Creech, Kevin Fry, Greg Balthus, Morgan Norris, and Charles Terrell.

Doris Christine Stewart Hicks

Doris Christine Stewart Hicks, 201 E. Broadway Plaza, died early Wednesday morning, Jan. 5, 2000, at St. Francis Hospital in Wichita. She was 85.

The funeral will be 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 7, 2000, at the First Church of the Nazarene with the Rev. Steve Bierly, pastor, officiating. Burial will follow in Longwood Cemetery under the direction of Trout Funeral Home.

Doris Christine Stewart Hicks was born Oct. 17, 1914, in Ponca City, the daughter of David Earnest and Clara Louise King Hicks. She attended Ponca City schools and graduated from Ponca City High School in 1931.

On March 1, 1946, she married Roy E. Hicks at the Free Methodist Church in Ponca City. He preceded her in death on March 6, 1996.

A longtime employee of Ponca City schools she retired from food service at the high school in 1984.

She was a very active member of the First Church of the Nazarene where she had served as Sunday school teacher, board member, missionary superintendent, and as a lay delegate to annual conventions.

She was a frequent luncher at the Wheatheart Senior Nutrition Center and enjoyed the Friendship Feasts at First Christian Church. She was well known for her pie making and dessert skills.

Survivors include two sons, David A. Hicks of Alpine, Calif., and Fred D. Hicks of Puerto La Cruz, Venezuela; a brother, Floyd Stewart of Ponca City; a sister, Crickett Shaw of Bellevue, Neb.; and a granddaughter.

Casket bearers will be Tim Randolph, Don McKain Sr., Don McKain Jr., Troy McKain, James McKain, and Clay Cooper. Honorary casket bearers will be Harold Mullins, Clifford Johnson, Frank Wilson, Jay Warner and John Maker.

Memorials contributions may be made in her name to the First Church of the Nazarene, 1900 West Grand, Ponca City, Okla. 74601.

Sam Jay Kanelakos

ARKANSAS CITY, Kan. — Sam Jay Kanelakos, former resident of Ponca City and resident of Arkansas City, Kan., died Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2000, at the South Central Kansas Regional Medical Center. He was 87.

The funeral is scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 7, 2000, at the Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home in Arkansas City. Burial will be in the Memorial Lawn Cemetery.

Sam Jay Kanelakos was born Socrates Demetri Kanellakos on Oct. 23, 1912, in Ottawa, Canada, the son of Demetric “James” and Stavroula “Stella” (Pavlakos) Kanellakos. He was reared and educated in St. Joseph, Mo., and Ponca City, graduating from Ponca City High School. He married Joye O. Reddick on April 29, 1938, in Newkirk. They made their home in Ponca City before moving to Arkansas City in 1950. He worked for Continental Oil Company as a gauger from 1943 to 1971, when he retired. He was a member of the Greek Orthodox Church; however, he attended the Central Christian Church with his wife and family.

Survivors include one son, Steve Kanelakos of Corpus Christi, Texas; two daughters, Mary Myers of Fort Worth, Texas, and Dorothy Thompson of Tulsa; one brother, Pete J. Kanelakos of Arkansas City; one sister, Sophia Paparonis of Oklahoma City; one foster sister, Georgia Phillips of Florida; nine grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; two brothers, George and Steve; one sister, Xanthia; and one grandson.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to Central Christian Church, c/o Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home, 100 East Kansas Avenue, Arkansas City, Kan. 67005.

Maxine Edwards

Susie Maxine Edwards, lifelong Ponca City resident, died Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2000, at her home. She was 67.

The funeral will be held 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 7, 2000, at Trout Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Roger Sober officiating. Burial will be in Odd Fellows Cemetery.

Susie Maxine Jones Edwards was born July 23, 1932, in Ponca City. She was raised by her grandparents, Homer and Lue Belle Jones. She attended Ponca City schools. On Nov. 24, 1959, she married Ernest Lyle “Bud” Edwards; he died Nov. 24, 1996. She owned and operated Maxine’s Yesteryears.

She enjoyed going to flea markets and rummage sales in search of a bargain. She also liked playing cards and spending time with her children and grandchildren.

She is survived by a son, Clyde Vinson of Noble; four daughters, Ellen Putnam of Danville, Calif., Barbara Ann Denning of Tonkawa, and Annie Kelly and Phyllis Lorene Bowen, both of Ponca City; 13 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Ernestine Edwards.

Casket bearers will be Jason Holinsworth, Ernest Logan, Chad Rogers, Travis Denning, William Hilton, Brandon Vinson, Alfred Wickham, and Ben Wickham. Honorary bearers will be Hayden Wayne Jones and Floyd Jones.

Contributions may be made in her memory to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 N. Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, Okla. 74601.

The family will be at the home, 507 South Washington.

Ina Marie Marlin

Ina Marie (Cindy) Marlin, longtime Ponca City resident, died Tuesday morning, Jan. 4, 2000, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 78.

A graveside service will be held 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 7, 2000, at the IOOF Cemetery with the Rev. Steve Bierly officiating. Service is under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.

Ina Marie Marlin was born Jan. 7, 1921, in Canadian County near Piedmont, the daughter of Ralph Warner and Lena (Luechon) Warner. She received her education from various country schools including Union School, finishing in Oklahoma City.

In November of 1941, she married Buford R. Marlin in Texas. She later returned to Ponca City where she was employed as a housekeeper, waitress, and various other jobs. Her hobbies included gardening, feeding wild birds, and playing with her dogs and cats.

She is survived by one daughter, Donna Marlin of Ponca City; four brothers, Lesley Warner of Noble, David M. Warner of Elmore City, George Warner of Oklahoma City and Ralph Warner Jr. of Tulsa; two sisters, Sara Anne Bostwick of Fort Gibson and Martha Tousey of Oklahoma City; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Steve Warner; and one sister, Ethel Vetzel.

The family asks in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to the Ponca City Humane Society, P.O. Box 2311, Ponca City, Okla. 74602 or Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 N. Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, Okla. 74601.

Obituaries

Jack Felty

Jack Felty, longtime Ponca City resident, died Tuesday Jan. 4, 2000, at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 75.

The funeral will held 2 p.m. Saturday. Jan. 8, 2000, at Grace Memorial Chapel with the Rev. Coy Whitener, pastor of Bible Baptist Church, officiating. Assisting will be the Rev. Bruce Allen and Rev. Babe Standerfer. Burial will follow in the Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel. Military graveside rites will be presented by members of the U.S. Army from Fort Sill, Okla. Masonic graveside service will be presented by members of the Ponca Lodge 83 AF&AM.

Born June 21, 1924, in Humphreys, he was the son of Parrot A. and Flora A. (Wallace) Felty. Mr. Felty served in the U.S. Army from April 1943 until receiving his honorable discharge in March of 1947. On May 15, 1947, he was married to Mary A. Buck in Vernon, Texas. He was employed as a route salesman for the Oklahoma Vending Co. He later worked as a County Assessor for Kay County and for Tiny Farha. He retired from Tom’s Snacks to help his wife as owner of the Hilltop Cafe. From 1983 to 1989, the couple owned the Anchor Cafe on West Highland.

Mr. Felty was a member of the Bible Baptist Church, Ponca Lodge 83 AF&AM, Ponca City Jaycees, Ponca City Ambucs, and the Tippers Club. He enjoyed fishing, bowling, camping, going to church and being with his family.

Surviving are his wife, Mary, of the home; one son, Ronnie Felty and his wife, Jerie, of Ponca City; one daughter, Linda Wroblewski of Ponca City; two sisters, Marlene Huffer of Vernon, Texas, and Darlene Bergquist of Topsham, Maine; one brother, Jimmy Ray Felty and his wife, Sue, of Granite; five grandchildren, Stephen Fowler, Crane Fowler, Angela Neufeld, Keshia Felty and Mea Felty. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Bible Baptist Church, 333 S. Washington, Ponca City, Okla. 74601.

The family will be at the home 837 North Elm.

paid obituary

Lula G. Sanders

Lula G. Sanders died early Wednesday morning, Jan. 5, 2000, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 77.

The funeral will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 8, 2000, at Marland Baptist Church with the Rev. John Stone, retired American Baptist minister of Arkansas City, officiating. Burial will follow in Odd Fellows Cemetery under direction of Trout Funeral Home.

She was born April 29, 1922, on the homestead in Noble County near Billings, the daughter of Anton and Josie (Ruzek) Kodes. She received her education in Perry and Marland, graduating from Marland High School.

Following her mother’s death in 1931, she lived five years with an aunt in Perry. After a few years in Colorado, she returned to the Marland area. On Feb. 10, 1946, she was united in marriage to Roy Leeland Sanders in Arkansas City, Kan. He preceded her in death on July 11, 1980. The couple spent many happy years on their farm west of Marland.

She was active in bowling, fishing, dancing, playing cards, needlework and frog collectibles. Lula was known as a great cook, which she attributed to her Bohemian background. Her specialties of baked goods gained her the nickname of “pie lady” of which she was very proud. Her hands were never idle. She made beautiful counted cross-stitch pictures which she embellished and framed herself. A talented singer and musician who played several instruments, she taught grade school band while attending Marland High School. She was proud of her family and had great fun in teaching them all that she knew. She enjoyed crossword puzzles, and her generosity, honesty and wit charmed both young and old with whom she had contact.

Survivors include her daughter, Deanna Garrett and her husband Michael of Bemidji, Minn.; son, Dennis Sanders and wife Marilyn of Ponca City. Other children include Leo Sanders and wife Doris of Fulton, Texas, Leeland Sanders and wife Dotty, Jay D. Sanders and wife Betty, Gerald Sanders and wife Yvonne all of Ponca City. Also surviving are 16 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren. Special friends were Vera and Marvin McClelland, Joe and Marsha Casto, Jim and Georgia Alexander, Ellen and Lorraine Cox, Sweetie and Raymond Conner, and many others who considered her “mom” or “grandma.” In addition to her parents and husband, her sister, Albie Stransky, and brothers Charles Kodesh, Lewis Kodesh, and Ed Kodesh preceded her in death.

Casket bearers will be Wilbur Ingmire, Marvin McClelland, Bill Cantrell, Mickey Robinson, Dutch Bufford, and Greg Miller. Honorary bearers will be the Monday Ladies Club of Marland.

Memorial contributions may be made in her name to the Marland Fire Station or to the Calvin Case Park, c/o Marland City Clerk, Marland, Okla. 74644.

The family will receive friends at the Trout Funeral Home Friday evening from 6 until 7:30.

paid obituary

Services Pending

Rhea Ruth Wise

Rhea Ruth Wise, Ponca City resident, died late Wednesday afternoon, Jan. 5, 2000, at Tender Heart Health Care in Ponca City. She was 81. Services are pending with Miller-Stahl Funeral Service. There will be no viewing scheduled at any time.

Paul W. Hutchison

Paul W. Hutchison, 2504 Cardinal, died Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2000, at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 81. Survivors include his wife, Marie, of the home. Services are pending with Trout Funeral Home.

NEWS BRIEFS

Singles Plan Meeting — Singles Connection will meet on Saturday, Jan. 8 at 3 p.m. for an afternoon movie at North Park 4, followed by dinner. For more information, call Mary Lou at 762-0578.

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

Square Dance — The Chikaskia Valley Square Dance will be Friday at the VFW Ballroom, 2900 East Prospect. Jacque Reid will be the caller for squares at 8 p.m., and George McElhoe will be the cuer for rounds at 7:30 p.m. Those attending are asked to bring finger foods.

Pauline’s Shrimp peel, All you can eat $11.95 Friday January 7th. For reservations call 765-5460. adv.

February Meeting Set — The Church Women United board meeting has been set for Monday, Feb. 7, at St. John Baptist Church, 1009 South Eleventh Street, at 9:30 a.m.

State Certified DUI School Bridgeway, Inc. is Kay Co.'s only local non-profit organization that offers both mid week and week-end DUI Schools and Assessments. Next school scheduled

Friday, January 7th and Saturday, January 8th starting at 5:00 p.m. We now offer the 24 hr. DUI School. Call 762-1462 for reservations and information. adv.

Accident — An accident at the intersection of North Seventh Street and East Highland Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:55 a.m. Wednesday. Two officers were assigned and a report was taken.

Friday Only, 70% off all Christmas and New Years merchandise. Carla’s Hallmark, downtown. adv.

Tags Stolen — An employee from Bowker Auto Mall reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:08 a.m. Wednesday that several tags had been stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Vehicle Vandalized — An employee at Grand Avenue Auto Repair, 210 West Grand Avenue, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:45 a.m. Wednesday that a vehicle had been vandalized. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. A request was made for an extra patrol.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from Probation and Parole at 12:12 p.m. Wednesday that a 35-year-old man was being held on an Ottawa County warrant for failure to pay.

Library Preschool Programs — Storytimes for youngster 4-7 years old are held at the Ponca City Library at 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. and for youngsters 2 and 3 years old on Wednesdays at 10 and 10:30 a.m. Subject for Jan. 11-12 is Bubble Bath.

Accident — An accident at the intersection of West Highland Avenue and North Ash Street was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 2:05 p.m. Wednesday. Two officers were assigned and a report was taken.

Head Country all day Friday special­ All you can eat, smoked BBQ ribs, beans, potato salad,

and coleslaw, only $7.49, all day. 1217 East Prospect. 767-8304. adv.

Subject Held — Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the Standing Bear Park at 10:14 p.m. Wednesday that a 49-year-old man was being held on two city warrants.

Free Live music by Joe Harris in our Lounge Friday, 8:30-12. American Legion. adv.

Loud Parties — The Ponca City Police Department received a complaint at 10:42 p.m. Wednesday that loud parties in the 900 block of North Oak Street were being held nightly. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Information was logged that a person would sign a complaint.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 300 block of Martha at 7:38 p.m. Wednesday that a 26-year-old man was being held on a Kay County warrant.

Assault — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 12:10 a.m. Thursday from a woman in Osage County in the 2800 block of Kelly Avenue that an assault had occurred. Information was transferred to Osage County Sheriff’s Office.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of North Fifth Street and Roosevelt Avenue at 9 p.m. Wednesday that a 23-year-old man was being held on a city warrant.

Assault — The Ponca City Police Department received a report of an assault in the 400 block of South Palm Street at 2:19 a.m. Thursday. Two officers were assigned and a report was taken.

Subject Held — The Communications Center received a 911 call from the 400 block of East South Avenue at 2:50 a.m. Thursday that a subject in a vehicle was acting suspicious. Two officers were assigned and a vehicle was towed from the scene. A 44-year-old man was held for DUI.

Subject Held — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 2:55 a.m. Thursday from the 400 block of South Palm Street that a subject was causing a problem. Two officers were assigned, contacted the identified subject at the intersection of North Ash Street and West Cleveland Avenue and held the 39-year-old man for having no driver’s license and transporting an open container.

Lost Youngster — An employee at Triple T, 1301 West Highland Avenue, requested assistance from the Ponca City Police Department at 3:32 p.m. Wednesday that a lost youngster was in the store. An officer was assigned and found that the child belonged to an aunt in the 400 block of West Otoe Avenue, who was in the process of moving.

Bicycle Stolen — A woman from the 400 block of North Thirteenth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:43 p.m. Wednesday that a bicycle had been stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Vehicle Hit — A woman at Wal-Mart reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 5:38 p.m. Wednesday that her vehicle had been hit while in the parking lot. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Subject Held — A woman from the 500 block of North Osage Street requested assistance from the Ponca City Police Department at 11:33 p.m. Wednesday concerning a stalking incident, that also included the theft of a puppy. An officer was assigned and a report was taken on second degree burglary and stalking.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 100 block of West Brookfield Avenue at 6:08 p.m. Wednesday that a 35-year-old man was being held for driving under suspension.

GARDENING

National Arbor Day Foundation Offers 10 Trees
Diggin’ in the Dirt
Red Groundcover Rose Debuts This Spring

National Arbor Day Foundation Offers 10 Trees

Ten free flowering trees will be given to each person who joins the Arbor Day Foundation during January 2000.

The free trees are part of the nonprofit Foundation’s efforts to support tree planting to commemorate the new millennium.

The ten trees are 2 White Flowering Dogwoods, 2 Flowering Crabapples, 2 Flowering Pears, 2 Washington Hawthorns, and 2 American Redbuds.

“These compact trees were selected for planting in large or small spaces,” John Rosenow, the Foundation’s president, said. “They will give your home the beauty of lovely pink, white, and yellow flowers — and also provide winter berries and nesting sites for songbirds.

“Planting these trees — which will beautify your home and community for decades — is an ideal way for families to do something personal and positive to mark the beginning of the new century and the new millennium,” Rosenow added.

The trees will be shipped postpaid at the right time for planting between Feb. 1 and May 31 with enclosed planting instructions. The six to twelve inch trees are guaranteed to grow or they will be replaced free of charge.

Members also receive a subscription to the Foundation’s bimonthly publication, Arbor Day, and The Tree Book with information about tree planting and care.

To become a member of the Foundation and to receive the free trees, send a $10 contribution to TEN FREE FLOWERING TREES, National Arbor Day Foundation, 100 Arbor Avenue, Nebraska City, NE 68410, by Jan. 31, 2000.

Diggin’ in the Dirt

By KATHY ZEHR

Time to turn over a “new leaf” as we begin gardening in the new century. One of my few new millennium resolutions was to keep a better gardening journal. Usually, I draw a makeshift garden plan but usually fail to write down the names of the plants selected in the excitement of diggin’ in the dirt in the spring.

When my purchased green bean or potato or petunia plant performs well, it’s great during the growing season. But, when its time to reorder, I have no idea which variety they were or where they were purchased so I can reorder for the gardens for the next season. I also have difficulty remembering if we planted tomatoes or okra in the third row from the left. Let’s see… was that last year or the summer before? And what was the name of that pea we didn’t like? Take time to log in the information now as you dream, plan and order.

Plants From Seed

It’s a little early to start seeds right now, but several readers have asked about the difficulty of growing their own plants from seed. If successful, you can produce 10 times as many plants for the price of one. It is not difficult or expensive to perform the few simple steps involved, but does require consistency! Attention to basics for growing from seed is very important, and failure to take care of just one simple requirement usually leads to the entire crop loss. Some plants which do well for beginners include tomatoes, green peppers, eggplants, petunias and impatiens.

Plant seeds about 8-10 weeks before the last frost predicted in Ponca City. (Since the seasons have become so unstable, check with the Kay County OSU Extension Office at Newkirk.). Any container which will hold in moisture will do (usually not clay pots). I have used egg cartons, the bottom half of milk cartons, biodegradable newspaper pots and the little black plastic containers saved from bedding plants purchased last season. You can buy peat-moss pots and other expensive units, but they are not necessary. Clean all used pots, flats and other equipment thoroughly with soap and water or a bleach bath before use.

Soil, Temperature, Water Vital

Successful sprouting starts with a sterilized soil, a place where seeds can be maintained at a steady 73 degree temperature, near a water source, and, later, a place for seedlings to grow in good light. Professional gardeners always recommend using a soilless seed starting mix purchased from a gardening center. It is sterilized and formulated to retain water, allows air penetration, and has a low pH (6.0) which most seeds prefer. Just one failure from soil disease from homegrown soils or leftover potting mix will make a believer out of you.

Do not plant the seeds too deep nor keep the soil too wet — usually one or two good waterings are all that is needed before the seeds begin to sprout. Tiny seeds are easy to sprout but need more care. Sow them on top of the soil and gently mist to keep the soil moist (not wet). If misting is not possible, water from the bottom, but do not allow the soil to remain soggy or let the top dry out. Pouring water on the top often dislodges the tiny hair like roots and kills the new sprout. If soil seems to dry out too quickly, a loose clear plastic tent may keep the moisture in, but allow air circulation (dry cleaning bags and clothes hangers make excellent temporary tents).

The steady 73-degree temperature will insure sprouting success with most plants. Some plants have different temperature requirements — please read the labels on the seed packets! Again, the top of the fridge is usually a good sprouting place. If plants fail to sprout, it is usually due to improper soil temperature or too much water!

Transplanting Seedlings

After sprouting begins, move the seedlings to a sunny location or under fluorescent lights placed about a foot above the plants (move as the plants grow). Plant grow lights are excellent, but are expensive. Many should be transplanted from beds to larger pots after they grow two leaves. If seedlings get spindly, it usually is because they are not getting enough light or are kept too warm at night. Most seedlings enjoy a cooler temperature at night. Reminder: If you are stratifying seeds in your fridge or keeping a pot of cuttings in the garage, check to see if the soil is dry. Water sparingly if needed!

Red Groundcover Rose Debuts This Spring

GARDENA, CALIF. — Just in time for the new millennium, Anthony Tesselaar International introduces the fourth in its highly popular series of Flower Carpet easy-care groundcover roses. Red Flower Carpet joins Flower Carpet Pink (introduced in 1995), Flower Carpet White (1997) and Flower Carpet Appleblossom (1998) in the line-up of roses that have won 14 international gold awards for their unprecedented natural disease resistance and high performance.

“We think Red might be the most popular Flower Carpet rose yet,” said Anthony Tesselaar, president of Anthony Tesselaar International. “People love the look of this rose. With its wide-open single flower and prominent golden stamens, it’s magic. The color really pops. And red, of course, is considered by many to be the most popular flower color, in all corners of the world.”

Red Flower Carpet, Rosa var. ‘Noare’, shares the same attributes of its Flower Carpet cousins, including impressive levels of natural resistance to black spot and mildew, a long bloom season, and glossy green foliage. And it has superb attributes all its own.

The new rose will be available coast-to-coast for a suggested retail price of around $12 to $16, where fine plants are sold.

Red Flower Carpet is an easy-care, long-blooming groundcover rose that produces a vigorous bush and glossy dark green foliage with burgundy margins. It stands 24- to 32-inches tall, with a spread of about three feet. Its parentage is R. ‘Ricarda’ x seedling (unnamed).

A prolific bloomer, Red Flower Carpet features softly ruffled, single blooms in sprays that gently cascade over the pot or along the ground. Its tight, compact buds are deep red and open to reveal velvety deep-red blooms with golden stamens. The single flower form is very open. Each flower is about 2-inches across and softens in color as it ages. This multi-colored effect, punctuated by the prominent golden yellow stamens, adds a lot of character to the bush.

It is winter hardy in U.S.D.A. zones 5 -10. Protect in the first year in zones 6 and below.

The plant establishes itself quickly and is quick to flower. Its long bloom season extends from mid-spring through fall.

It performs beautifully in landscapes, flower beds, mass plantings, large patio containers and hanging baskets, and makes an excellent tree rose.

SPORTS

Cowboys Outclass Langston
PC Lady Cats Seek Repeat
Tuition Payment Caused Suspension
Freshmen Hoops
Maroons Shut Down Bucs Early

Cowboys Outclass Langston

STILLWATER (AP) — To call Oklahoma State’s victory over Langston a tuneup may be misstating things. Glorified scrimmage might be more accurate.

The 16th-ranked Cowboys outclassed Langston from the opening minutes and rolled to a 125-65 victory Wednesday night in their final nonconference game.

‘‘It doesn’t hurt you any, but I don’t know how much good it does you,’’ OSU coach Eddie Sutton acknowledged. ‘‘We’re always going to try to play Division I teams, but we just couldn’t find anybody to play.’’

Instead of bringing in a small school from out of state, the Cowboys settled on Langston, an NAIA school only 25 miles away on the map but a world away on the basketball floor.

Oklahoma State set a school record with 36 assists and fell two points shy of the school mark for points in a game.

Brian Montonati had a career-high 25 points and 12 rebounds. Desmond Mason scored 22 points and grabbed a career-best 15 rebounds. Glendon Alexander needed only 23 minutes to set a career mark with 25 points, including seven 3-pointers.

Even Doug Gottlieb, who leads the nation in assists but struggles with his shot, went 8-of-10 from the field and scored a career-high 18 points.

‘‘It wasn’t a big challenge but winning a game, no matter who it’s against, gives you confidence going into the conference,’’ Mason said. ‘‘We didn’t play as well defensively and we will have to play in the conference.’’

Langston (1-9) shot just 38 percent compared with 62 percent for Oklahoma State, which also had a 46-32 advantage on the backboards.

Montonati scored the first seven points of the game and the Cowboys (11-1) capitalized on a size advantage to score often from inside. Montonati had 21 points by halftime.

Montonati scored six points and Alexander had five in a 13-0 run that gave the Cowboys a 34-12 lead with 9 1/2 minutes left in the first half. An 11-0 run later in the half helped spark the Cowboys to a 66-29 halftime lead.

‘‘In the first half, I think Brian thought he was back in high school,’’ Sutton said. ‘‘He’s been playing well. He’s a good shooter, about as good a shooter as we’ve got.’’

‘‘I just got a lot of open 15 footers tonight,’’ Montonati said. ‘‘That’s something I’ve been hitting well lately. I’ve just got a lot of confidence.’’

Mason had two 3-pointers to highlight a 12-2 run early in the second half as the Cowboys built an 81-36 lead.

Lee James scored 26 points for Langston.

‘‘I thought our kids played hard. They knew they were coming in as the underdog,’’ Lions coach Gregory Webb said. ‘‘I thought that Oklahoma State shot the ball extremely well and I think that hurt us.’’

The game was Oklahoma State’s first since 1982 against an in-state opponent other than Oklahoma, Tulsa or Oral Roberts. The Cowboys begin Big 12 play Saturday at home against Texas Tech.

OKLAHOMA ST. 125, LANGSTON 65

Langston (1-9) 

Mackey 4-5 1-2 9, Golightly 2-5 0-0 4, James 10-23 1-2 26, Sanders 2-6 0-0 5, Vicks 4-11 1-2 9, Hawkins 3-12 2-2 10, Thomas 0-0 0-0 0, Edwards 1-4 0-0 2, Fisher 0-2 0-0 0, Jackson 0-0 0-0 0. Totals 26-68 5-8 65.

Oklahoma St. (11-1) 

Montonati 11-17 6-7 28, Mason 10-12 0-1 22, Webber 4-6 0-0 8, Adkins 0-1 1-2 1, Gottlieb 8-10 0-5 18, Alexander 9-15 7-13 25, Jonzen 4-7 7-9 15, Sooter 0-2 0-0 0, Cazzelle 1-4 0-0 2, Keep 2-5 2-2 6. Totals 49-79 16-26 125.

Halftime—Oklahoma St. 66, Langston 29. 3-point goals—Langston 8-34 (James 5-15, Hawkins 2-8, Sanders 1-4, Mackey 0-1, Golightly 0-1 Vicks 0-3, Edwards 0-2). Oklahoma St. 11-25 (Alexander 7-13, Mason 2-4, Gottlieb 2-3 Sooter 0-2, Cazzelle 0-3. Fouled out—Mackey, Webber..

PC Lady Cats Seek Repeat

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

The Lady Wildcat basketballers ended 1999 with their first win of the season. They would like very much to take up where they left off in the first round of the Ada Tournament today.

The Lady Cats took on Mid-Del Christian this afternoon to help open the three-day, eight-team tournament.

That first assignment is not an easy one. A small school, Mid-Del Christian is 13-1 after a very busy first segment of the season. Ponca City is 1-3.

The Lady Cats have had some success at Ada. They took third place last year and also went 2-1 the year before.

But this year’s tournament field appears to be tougher.

The other teams in Ponca City’s bracket are Ada and Broken Bow.

The upper bracket features Mustang, Idabel, Moore and Atoka.

A win this afternoon would pit the Po-Hi girls against the winner of the Ada-Broken Arrow clash at 7 p.m. Friday. A loss would put them in the 1:30 game.

Ponca City coach Dana Pulley is hopeful her girls’ 50-45 win over Sand Springs on Dec. 17 is a break through.

Poor shooting plagued the Poncans in their early games. But some hard work in practice apparently paid off against Sand Springs as the offense finally caught up with the defense.

“Ever since the Broken Arrow game (the Wildcats’ third straight loss) we have been doing a lot of shooting and working on our free throws,” Pulley said. “Hopefully it is starting to pay off.”

Pulley gave her cagers the first week off over the holidays. But they were back on the floor after Christmas, again working on their shooting eye and defense.

“We also had to get the girls back in court shape,” the coach said. “But they are ready to play now. It’s been three weeks and they want to take on somebody.

“But we needed time to sharpen our skills. You don’t get that much time during the season. For example, we have the Ada Tournament this weekend, then we play Owasso Tuesday, Bartlesville Friday and Sapulpa next Saturday. The following Tuesday we play Union and then enter the Jenks Tournament that weekend.”

Despite the success against Sand Springs, the Lady Cats are still just shooting 30 percent (56-of-186) from the field and 48 percent (19-of-40) from the free throw line.

Senior Laura Sudbury is leading the Cats in shooting with an average of 6.8 points a game. Jena Birdsong is averaging 6 points and Alana Smith 5.

Sudbury is also the leading rebounder with 8 per game and is hitting 71 percent of her free throws.

Tuition Payment Caused Suspension

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The benefactor of an Oklahoma State University basketball player says the NCAA has made a preliminary decision to suspend the player for a year over tuition payments to a Maine prep school.

Kansas City businessman Tom Grant told The Kansas City Star in a story published today that the NCAA had made the decision to suspend Andre Williams over $20,000 in prep-school tuition payments Grant made on the youth’s behalf.

Grant told The Star that Williams, who played basketball at Schlagle High School in Kansas City, Kan., would be required to pay back the $20,000. The money came from Grant’s foundation and was paid to Maine Central Institute in Pittsfield.

Grant, in a statement made late Wednesday, defended helping Williams, and said the foundation had helped other students who never played college sports.

‘‘Andre is a fine young man, and is a victim of an arbitrary and capricious decision by the NCAA, which I sincerely hope they will reconsider since their stated goals are to help student-athletes receive an education,’’ Grant said. ‘‘I guess I don’t understand why it’s always necessary that everyone thinks you have an agenda when you help another human being.’’

Williams has been suspended from the Oklahoma State program since Dec. 18 after federal investigators visited the Stillwater campus in regard to allegations concerning his summer-league coach, Myron Piggie.

NCAA and Oklahoma State officials declined to comment to The Star regarding Williams. An NCAA spokesman, however, took issue with Grant’s characterization of its process.

‘‘Decisions made at both the staff and appeal levels are done based on precedent,’’ said Wally Renfro, the NCAA’s director of public relations. ‘‘It’s difficult to label a process like that as either capricious or arbitrary.’’

Rick Allen, associate athletic director at Oklahoma State, said the school was examining tuition payments to Maine Central. He added that the process was more complicated than officials originally thought.

Williams would be the second player with ties to Piggie and Grant to be suspended this season by the NCAA. Missouri freshman Kareem Rush is serving an NCAA suspension for payments he received from Piggie.

Rush’s older brother JaRon, has been suspended indefinitely by UCLA for reportedly receiving improper payments from a Los Angeles sports agent. That agent, Jerome Stanley, has denied making such payments.

Grant also paid tuition for JaRon Rush to attend Pembroke Hill in Kansas City, provided him with a leased car and gave him a room in his Johnson County home. But because Grant had known JaRon Rush since he was a child, the NCAA allowed the arrangement, citing a ‘‘pre-existing relationship.’’

Freshmen Hoops

Ponca City Red 69, Enid Waller 31 (boys)

Ponca City’s freshmen threw a defensive blanked over Enid Waller Tuesday, limiting the opposition to six second half points, in a 69-31 win at Enid.

The Wildcats were in front 31-24 at halftime, then really clamped down, outscoring Waller 21-3 in the third quarter.

“We totally dominated them with our full court press in the second half,” said Ponca City coach Brad Parent. “But overall this was one of the best games we’ve played. We had a little letdown in the second quarter (when Enid outscored the Poncans 14-12), but basically, this was a complete game. We hit 10-of-12 free throws and we had five 3’s.

Steven Morris and Kyle Karnish finished in double figures scoring with 17 and 11 points.

The Cats, now 6-1, are back in action this afternoon in Stillwater

Ponca City 69, Enid Waller 31

Ponca City 19 12 21 17 — 69

Enid Waller 11 14 3 3 — 31

Ponca City — Steven Morris 17, Kyle Karnish 11, Chance Hunt 8, Nate Macy 8, Justin Evans 8. Casey McClaskey 6, Bradley Turvey 5, Matt Miller 4, David Sikes 4, David Miller 0.

———

Ponca City Red 48, Enid Waller 21 (girls)

Ponca City’s freshman girls blew open the game with a 22-2 spree in the fourth quarter to top Enid Waller, 48-21.

The Lady Cats led 16-9 at halftime and still held a seven-point lead entering the final quarter.

“We were a little shaky from the long layoff for three quarters,” said coach John Maddox. “But the girls got in the groove in the fourth quarter. They had several steals and easy baskets.

Jamie Prado and Kristine Huddleston had 11 and 10 points for the Lady Cats, who moved to 4-0 in the conference, 7-1 overall.

The girls are now off until next week when they travel to Stillwater.

Ponca City 48, Enid Waller 21

Enid Waller 7 2 10 2 — 21

Ponca City 10 6 10 22 — 48

Ponca City — Jamie Prado 11, Kristine Huddleston 10, Ann Ziegenhain 9, Melissa Fore 5, Christine Nicks 5, Laura Sprehe 3, Kelli Wedd 2, Gerri Garza 2, Laura Cartlidge 1.

Maroons Shut Down Bucs Early

BLACKWELL — Blackwell held Tonkawa to nine first-half points and cruised to a 57-37 win here Tuesday.

The Maroons led 33-9 at the intermission led by Blaine Boyd, who finished the night with 23 points.

“I challenged our players tonight to play 32 minutes with intensity,” said Blackwell coach Mike Simpson. “We dominated them in the first half with our defense. To limit a team to nine points in a half is pretty amazing.

“Blaine continues to play like one of the best players in the state in Class 4A,” the coach said. “He was 9-of-10 from the field and really worked hard. We shot 57 percent from the field in the first half and played everyone. It is good to be playing well going into the Wheat Capitol Classic.”

Justin Geiser led Tonkawa’s scoring with 14 points.

The Maroons 4-3, play host Chisholm Thursday in the first round of the tournament at 8:30 p.m.

The boys’ field includes Altus, Hennessey, Canton, Fairview. Watonga and Piedmont.

Blackwell 57, Tonkawa 37

Tonkawa 3 6 12 16 — 37

Blackwell 18 15 16 8 — 57

Blackwell — Blaine Boyd 23, Tyler Dyer 6, Jared Reese 6, James Dollarhide 5, Kyle Pennington 4, Justin Shephard 4, Brett Fry 2, Ryan Penka 2, Nathan Pennington 2, Matt Waycaster 2, Jordan Field 1.

Tonkawa — Justin Geiser 14, Travis Reese 9, Miller 5, Lucas 3, Brown 2, Conaghan 2, Long 2.