LOCAL

Group Files PTC Complaints
City Election Set for March 14
Lot of Water for Ponca Citians During 1999 Sets New Marks
Literacy Council Training Workshop Begins Wednesday
Letter - Help! What About Ash Street?
Letter - An Impressive Millennium Celebration

Group Files PTC Complaints

By KRISTI HAYES

News Education Editor

A group of disgruntled employees at Pioneer Technology Center (PTC) are asking that the contacts of Superintendent Dr. Sally Downey and Assistant Superintendent Dr. Janet Cox not be renewed by the PTC Board of Education.

The group of employees, who chose to remain anonymous, signed a vote of no confidence against Dr. Downey and Dr. Cox.

They contend that 101 employees have been fired or forced out since Dr. Downey and Dr. Cox took charge in the spring of 1997. The group also states the board has not challenged or questioned why the employees left.

One of the items on tonight’s agenda for the monthly board meeting at PTC will be Downey’s contract. The meeting starts at 7 p.m.

The signatures were presented to Ponca City attorney Fred Boettcher, who confirmed receiving the letter. The employees will not publicly release their names.

Superintendent Dr. Downey was outraged upon learning of the accusations.

“I stand for accountability and have very little tolerance for people who don’t want to do their jobs. I can’t change the way I feel about that,” Downey commented.

She also said it was difficult when some people don’t want to do their jobs. “Dr. Cox and I try to have the very best vo-tech in Kay County, and we have been a Gold Star School for the past five years. But, it’s difficult when you have certain people who oppose everything. I will not back up. I am determined to hold people accountable,” said Downey.

The accusers say Dr. Downey has been given a three-year contract and each year the board extends that contract so she always has a “two-year salary cushion.”

Dr. Downey agrees that she has been given contract extensions, but not for the reasons the group would like to believe.

“The board of education here is very happy with what we have done. They have given me an extension because they are confident in me and hold me accountable,” Downey said.

In a letter sent to The Ponca City News and other media outlets, the group states that employees of the vo-tech are not welcome at the monthly board meetings and are reprimanded if they express an opinion to board members. They also note that most of the board meetings are not attended by the press or taxpayers.

Dr. Downey was also offended by these comments.

“The fact that we don’t have members of the press or others present at our board meetings is a total lie,” commented Downey.

She also disagreed with the accusations about not wanting employees at the board meetings, saying they welcome the staff to be a part of the vo-tech system.

In another accusation, group contends that the board has allowed itself to become isolated from the students, staff and taxpayers when no one attends the meetings.

Dr. Downey disagreed. “Our board doesn’t involve themselves within the school a lot of the time because they have confidence in us to do things right,” she said.

Board president Mary Rigdon was not available for comment.

City Election Set for March 14

By BOB PATTERSON

News City Editor

An election to select two Ponca City Board of Commissioners will be held March 14 along with the state primary.

That decision was confirmed by the Board of Commissioners Monday during a regular session at the Public Safety Center.

The commission in a special session on Jan. 6, had set the election for March 7, but it was determined the next day that the election could in fact be held on the same date as the state primary, thereby saving city taxpayers a lot of money.

City Attorney Kevin Murphy said that the commission needed to adopt an amended resolution that would call for the election on March 14, to take advantage of several benefits.

Among the benefits would be an increased voter turnout, less inconvenience to citizens in having to vote in two elections within eight days of each other, and a savings of about $4,700 as the cost of precinct officials would be borne by the state.

The election would be to elect two commissioners, thus filling the No. 2 and No. 4 on the board of commissioners, which are now held by Chris Hand and Kenneth Ray. Both have stated they would seek re-election.

So, the election will be held on March 14, with a run-off date of April 4. Prospective candidates will have a three-day period to file for the office, with that filing period set for January 31 through February 2, in the offices of the Kay County Election Board, Kay County Courthouse, Newkirk, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

There is also a contest period of two days, Feb. 3-4, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., for those who would contest a candidates valid declaration of candidacy. Those filing for the office must have a petition containing the signatures of not less than five percent of the number of electors voting in the last preceding general election or pay a filing fee of $200.

Commissioners also acted favorably on a contract with the International Association of Fire Fighters Local No. 2479. The matter had been in arbitration for a period of time, but the contract with changes to the current contract will become effective as of July 1, 1999.

A number of changes will be in effect, including insurance, wages, extra duty, job descriptions and policy guide, stand-by time, bid system, grievance procedure, operating of city vehicles, wage schedule and rates of pay, physical fitness (removed) and promotional guide.

The commission also approved amending an oil and gas lease with the Warren Corporation to include an area of Willow Springs Park, approved a lease agreement between the city and Apple Cart Catering Inc. for its use of E.W. Restaurant until March 15, and a lease agreement between the city and American Business Club (Ambuc) for the motocross track from Jan. 1 to the last day of June 2001.

Consent agenda items approved included granting $2,000 to the Ponca City Kids Wrestling Club for use in promoting and advertising the Oklahoma Kids Wrestling northwest regional tournament to be held Feb. 11-12 in Ponca City, approval of a contract with the state library department and city library for state aid allotment, accepted a proposal from Albright Title and Trust Company of Newkirk for a title search of properties on the Waverly Street project between South Avenue and Highland Avenue, and a recommendation from the Park and Recreation advisory board to approve construction of a cabin on Lot No. 39 at West Lake Ponca.

Also approved was a resolution designating and confirming the mayor’s nominations for various boards and commissions, including three to Animal Control. They are Francis Coonrod, appointed to May 2002, Alan Loch, reappointed to May 2002 and Homer Nicholson, filling unexpired term to May 2000.

Commissioners met as members of both, the Ponca City Utility Authority and the Ponca City Development Authority, to approve similar paper work on the oil and gas lease with Warren Corporation.

Lot of Water for Ponca Citians During 1999 Sets New Marks

By MAX STOKESBERRY

News Staff Writer

The official rain gauge at Ponca City’s Municipal Airport seems to be handling a lot of water these days. The annual precipitation level has moved past the four-foot mark each of the last three years as consecutive records were set in advancing to a hard-to-believe total of 57.59 inches in 1999.

The latest record stands 10 inches taller than a once well respected mark of 47 inches, which occupied the top perch from 1986 to 1997. Five other years of the last 21 also made it into what was then the elite over-40 group. The last such performance came in 1992, chalking up a score of 43.05 inches.

The next four years encountered drier conditions. A below-normal 30.10 inches in 1996 preceded the turnaround that brought 21 more inches the next year. It has been pretty much rubber boots and umbrellas since then, although occasional dry spells have been mixed in with downpours like the one that made a nightmare of last summer’s wheat harvest.

May and June collaborated on that one. It was the wettest June in more than 40 years, measuring 12.19 inches against 14.19 in 1957. May registered 9.80 inches and September was last year’s third wettest month at 8.21.

So 1999 winds up the Twentieth Century more or less dripping wet. The new water record of 57.59 was 20.55 above normal, according to the report of the Federal Contract Weather Station.

The summary by months was: January 4.56, February 1.85, March 4.31, April 4.35, May 9.80, June 12.19, July 1.02, August 2.46, September 8.21, October 2.64, November .44, December 4.46.

Year 1999 seemed to be more summery than wintery. Nine of the 12 months had daily temperature averages that were above normal, including July and August which were the warmest at 84.8 and an even 84 degrees, respectively. They were the only months to register 100 or higher on the official thermometer.

August produced the highest temperature in 1999, with a 107-degree showing on the 26th. There also were three-digit sightings of 106, 104, 102, a pair of 101s and 100.

July went 100 or over on nine consecutive days to close out that month. The high mark was 105 on July 29.

Coldest day last year was Jan. 3 when the mercury dipped overnight to nine degrees. January also had the coldest average daily temperature at 38.4, which was 1.5 degrees above normal. The second coldest reading was 21 degrees recorded on Dec. 21. Local records show there have been no below-zero temperatures at the airport since a minus-five reading on Feb. 4, 1996.

Literacy Council Training Workshop Begins Wednesday

The Ponca City Area Literacy Council’s ten-hour training workshop begins Wednesday, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Programming Room of the library. Training will also be on Thursday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. and Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

The workshop will prepare volunteers to tutor people in the community who need help learning to read. Anyone who can read can become a literacy volunteer. After the training, the volunteers are asked to tutor one to two hours a week.

There is a great need for tutors in the Ponca City area. Approximately one out of five residents cannot read well enough to read labels on cans or medicine bottles, write a check or read to their children.

To register, or for additional information, contact the Literacy Council at 767-0351.

Letter - Help! What About Ash Street?

Help!

Ash Street between Highland and Hartford is now a freeway. Eighteen-wheelers, trucks, trucks and more trucks are headed to all points north. Mother, keep your children in the house or backyard

The traffic is horrible 24 hours a day. No sleep at night! Can’t even get out of your own driveway without burning rubber to keep from getting run over. If you haven’t been down Ash Street lately, take an alternative route, please.

We are getting grouchy from lack of rest. Trucks, pickups, cars, probably motorcycles...roaring along, rattling, banging, clanging, backfiring, bumper-to-bumper. We had the traffic on Ash when Union and Hartford east was closed. We thought that was bad enough; this is far worse.

Six months of this! We work for a living. We need our rest. At least, route the trucks down a four-lane street. We get the airplanes, trains and now a freeway.

If the City of Ponca City kills all of the residents off on Ash between Highland and Hartford, they can turn this into a four-lane street to Industrial Park.

Help! The whole house is shaking, windows rattling, vibrating the shelves.

I am going to move over on Waverly Street. It is quieter. We have people that are ill living on this street. Elderly people, too.

Come on, Ponca, do something now to straighten this mess out. Hey! Where is the Tylenol P.M.?

Betty and Richard Bush

Letter - An Impressive Millennium Celebration

After attending three millennium events, I felt compelled to acknowledge the outstanding work of the Millennium Committee in putting on one of the most memorable events that I have ever attended. Starting with the opening events at the Poncan Theatre through the final fireworks display at midnight Friday, Dec. 31, the atmosphere was charged with excitement and anticipation as the quality of each event played out to the various attendees.

The ceremony marking burial of the time capsule was done with taste and held great significance to all veterans who have served our country. I was particularly moved during John Raley’s presentation when he asked all veterans who wished to join him in reaffirming the oath of allegiance to the United States of America. The entire ceremony, from the opening of the Yellow Hammer singers to the fly over, will be remembered by those in attendance for many years.

The other major event I would like to comment on was 100 Years of Broadway that was staged at the Poncan Theatre. At first, I was hesitant about attending a three-hour program, in particular because one of our Oklahoma schools was playing on national television. Needless to say, I am certainly glad I did because I witnessed one of the great performances that has come to the Poncan Theatre in many years. It was truly an outstanding performance by the entire cast and it brought back great memories to all of us who were in attendance.

Many thanks to Mayor Tom Leonard who had the foresight to appoint John Raley as Chairman of the Millennium Committee. Thanks to John, who assembled an outstanding committee too large to mention here, but who worked hard and diligently for over a year in planning and producing this historic event. I would be remiss if I did not mention the tremendous work and effort of Cathy Ferguson who was the main sparkplug of this historic and memorable event.

Ponca City is indeed blessed with outstanding volunteer leadership and workers and we should all be proud that we live in such a great community. Thanks to the Millennium Committee and all participants for a job well done.

Carl R. Renfro

DEATHS

Charles Gene Brunnert
Thomas S. Dodson
Charles Carlton Hall
Cleda L. Edwards
Edith Esther Bellmon
Sadie L. Barnett
Charlene Jackie Pulliam
George T. Powers
Lola Braswell Beaty

Charles Gene Brunnert

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Charles Gene Brunnert, former Ponca City resident, died Friday, Jan. 7, 2000, at the Life Care Center of Grandview, Mo. He was 71.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 14, 2000, at the Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church in Kansas City. Arrangements are under the direction of the Mount Moriah and Freeman Funeral Home of Kansas City, Mo.

Charles Gene Brunnert was born June 19, 1928, in Topeka, Kan., the son of Charles H. Brunnert and T. Eunice (Swindell) Brunnert. He graduated from Topeka High School in 1947 and from Kansas State University with a degree in civil engineering in 1955.

He was with the United State Army in the Signal Corps during the Korean War. He resided in Ponca City from 1954 to 1969. He retired from the public works department of Kansas City, Mo., as a project engineer, having lived in the Kansas City area since 1985. He had previously resided in Portland, Texas. He was a member of the Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church, where he was vice president of the congregation.

Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Imogene Schleckter Brunnert, of the home; a son, Charles W. Brunnert of Fort Worth, Texas; two daughters, Vicki L. Brunnert of Kansas City, Mo., and Toni K. Behling of Sunnyside, Utah; a brother, Donald L. Brunnert of Topeka, Kan.; and five grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one grandson.

Thomas S. Dodson

Thomas S. Dodson, longtime Ponca City area resident, died Sunday evening, Jan. 9, 2000, at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 72.

The funeral will be held 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2000, at Grace Memorial Chapel with the Rev. Paul Graham, pastor of Second Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will follow in the Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery.

Thomas S. Dodson was born Nov. 23, 1927, in Cooper, the son of Thomas Edwin and Lillian Mae (Couch) Dodson. He grew up in the Kaw City and Shidler area.

He received his education in the Webb City and Shidler schools, graduating from Shidler High School.

He served in the U.S. Army from August 1946 to January 1948. Following his discharge, he attended the University of Oklahoma, graduating with a bachelor of science degree. On Sept. 15, 1972, he married Regina Jean Woods in Ponca City; they made their home in Kildare.

He was employed as a plumbing and construction contractor for many years. He was a member of the Second Baptist Church and the NRA and enjoyed hunting.

Survivors include three brothers, Leonard E. Dodson of Topeka, Kan., Jim Dodson of Enid, and Jerry Dodson of Ponca City; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife in 1993, and two sisters, Mary and Patsy Ruth.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to Hospice of Ponca City, Inc., 1904 North Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, Okla. 74601.

Charles Carlton Hall

Charles Carlton “C.C.” Hall, longtime resident of Ponca City, died Monday morning, Jan. 10, 2000, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 90.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2000, at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery with the Rev. Bob Weaver, pastor of the Pioneer Christian Church, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.

Charles Hall was born April 18, 1909, in Antlers, the son of George Hall and Laura Bell (Guthrie) Hall. He received his early education in the Antlers schools. He married Audrey Ann Cranford on April 12, 1930, at Antlers with the couple making their first home in Cleveland. He was employed with the Johnson Oil Company while in Cleveland. The couple moved to Ponca City in 1932, where he began employment with the Marland Oil Company, later Cities Service and Continental Oil Companies. He retired as an operator in 1970.

His enjoyments included hunting and fishing.

He is survived by one daughter, Donetta Berry of Derby, Kan.; one sister, Viola “Sally” Wilson of Ponca City; one half brother, Melvin Stone of Ponca City; five grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; one daughter, Betty Lou Bright; and three brothers, J.D. Hall, Victor Hall and George W. Hall.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 North Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, Okla. 74601.

Cleda L. Edwards

Cleda L. Edwards, Ponca City resident, died Monday morning, Jan. 10, 2000, at the Shawn Manor Nursing Home. She was 84.

The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 13, 2000, at the Bible Baptist Church with the Rev. Coy Whitener, pastor, officiating. Burial will follow in the Longwood Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.

Cleda L. Edwards was born Sept. 9, 1915, in Pea Ridge, Ark., the daughter of James and Minnie (Gates) Pickett. On July 23, 1937, she married Thomas B. Edwards in Bristow. The couple moved to Blackwell in 1947 where they farmed. They came to Ponca City in 1985.

She was a homemaker and enjoyed fishing and crocheting.

Survivor include three sons, Everett Leon Davis, Thomas James Edwards and Lawrence Ray Edwards, all of Ponca City; one daughter, Susie Epperly of Ponca City; 23 grandchildren; and 45 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, two brothers and three sisters.

Casket bearers will be Jim Leon Davis, William Epperly, Johnny Ray Edwards, Timothy Ray Edwards, Joseph McMahan and Monte Joe Davis.

Friends may call at the funeral home until 9 p.m. Wednesday.

Edith Esther Bellmon

EDMOND — Edith Esther Bellmon, former area resident of Ponca City, died Sunday, Jan. 9, 2000, in the Baptist Retirement Center in Oklahoma City. She was 91.

The funeral will be held Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2000, at the First Baptist Church in Edmond. Burial will follow at 2 p.m. at the IOOF Cemetery in Ponca City under the direction of Baggerley Funeral Home of Edmond.

Edith Esther Bellmon was born April 22, 1908, in Ault, Colo., the daughter of John W. Richardson and Rosa E. (Jones) Richardson. She grew up in the Kansas City area and then moved to the Marland area where she graduated high school in 1925. She attended college at Tonkawa and Oklahoma A&M, now Oklahoma State University.

She married Weldon D. Bellmon on April 3, 1930, in Edmond, and they moved to Long Beach, Calif., where they lived two years before returning to the Marland-Billings area. They lived in Palestine, Texas, from 1938-1952 then moved to Farmington, N.M. until 1963. After her husband’s death, she returned in 1963 to Edmond, where she lived until her death.

She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Edmond, a past matron and 50-year member of Eastern Star, the Joy Singers, Happy Times and the Bell Choir, and had been a Sunday school teacher. She was very active as an oil painter and china painter.

Survivors include one son, John Delbert Bellmon of Layton, Utah, and one daughter, Mary Lou McGough of Yukon. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, one sister and two brothers.

Obituaries

Sadie L. Barnett

Sadie L. Barnett, lifelong Ponca City area resident, died Sunday, Jan. 9, 2000, at Tender Heart Health Care. She was 83.

A graveside service will be held Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2000, at 2 p.m. at Grandview Cemetery in Kaw City with the Rev. Don Stanton, pastor of Faith Tabernacle, officiating. Burial will be under the direction of Trout Funeral Home. There will be no viewing at the service; however, friends may call at the funeral home until 11:30 a.m. Wednesday.

Sadie L. Hargraves Barnett was born Feb. 9, 1916, in Osage County. She was the daughter of Jacob and Margaret Christene (Lucksted) Hargraves. She grew up and attended schools in Osage County.

On Oct. 31, 1935, she married Gilbert Clinton “G.C.” Barnett in Fayetteville, Ark. They made their home in Ponca City, and she served her family as a homemaker. Mr. Barnett died Aug. 12, 1982.

Mrs. Barnett was a member of the Pentecostal church. She enjoyed flower gardening, crocheting, painting and quilting. She loved spending time with her family, especially her grandsons.

She is survived by two grandsons, Danny and Jeremy Barnett, both of Ponca City; and a sister, Rena Suggs and her husband, Tom, of Burbank. Additional survivors include a brother-in-law, Ray Hedrick of Burbank, and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, a son, Gary W. Barnett; three sisters, Marie Hedrick, Lockie Norris and Mabel Hargraves; and three brothers, Jim, Andrew and Edgar Hargraves, preceded her in death.

Contributions may be made in her memory to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, for cancer research, 825 NE 13th Street, Oklahoma City, Okla. 73104.

The family will be at the home of Wanda Prado, 1617 N. Union, Ponca City.

paid obituary

Charlene Jackie Pulliam

Charlene Jackie Pulliam, former Marland resident, died Jan. 8, 2000, in Sterling, Colo. She was 80.

The funeral will be held Thursday, Jan. 13, 2000, at 10 a.m. at the Trout Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Dr. Mike Kear officiating. Burial will follow in the Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery under direction of the Trout Funeral Home.

Born Aug. 13, 1919, in Fairfax, she was the daughter of Charles and Anna Lee (Rummage) LaBenske. She attended Fairfax schools.

She was married to John Everett Pulliam on Dec. 15, 1962, in Blackwell. He preceded her in death on April 7, 1980. She was a member of the Baptist faith and a member of Order of Eastern Star of Ponca City. She enjoyed crocheting, reading, puzzles and playing cards.

Survivors include four daughters, Janice Luft and husband Rex of Sterling, Colo., Sondra Peterson and husband Mike of Marland, Nancy Crockett and husband Alan of Ponca City, and Sarah Brougher of Tulsa. Additional survivors include her son, John Pulliam and wife Arleta of Marland; and two sisters, JoAnna Hair and husband Charles of Ponca City, and Vivian Cottingham of Moose Haven, Fla. There are 10 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and many nephews and nieces surviving. In addition to her husband, a grandson, Leon Luft, preceded her in death.

Casket bearers will be Kenneth Evans, Bob Lindsey, Dave Peterson, James Peterson, Johnny Regnier and Mickey Robinson.

Contributions may be made in her name to the Marland Volunteer Fire Department, c/o Marland City Clerk, Marland, Okla. 74644.

There will be a luncheon served at the Marland Fire Department for family and friends following the service.

paid obituary

Services Pending

George T. Powers

Blackwell — George T. Powers, resident of Blackwell, died Monday, Jan. 10, 2000, at his home. He was 79. Services are pending with Hackler Funeral Home of Blackwell.

Lola Braswell Beaty

FAIRFAX — Lola Braswell Beaty, former resident of Fairfax and resident of Colbert, died Monday afternoon, Jan. 10, 2000, in Colbert. The funeral will be 2 p.m. Saturday in the chapel of the Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home in Fairfax.

NEWS BRIEFS

Softball — Ponca City Softball Association will meet Thursday, Jan. 13, at 7 p.m. at Pioneer Technology Center, Room B121, next to the cafeteria. For more information call 762-7885.

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.

Lumber Missing — A man reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 8:40 a.m. Monday that some lumber was missing from a private dock at Lake Ponca. The information was logged.

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

Spying? — A woman from the 2400 block of Eagle Road reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 8:40 a.m. Monday that a man had been seen looking into a neighbors bathroom window at 7 a.m. The information was logged, and the communications center advised her to call at time when offense is happening.

Item Missing — An employee at Amarillo Grill, 2605 North Fourteenth Street, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:37 p.m. Monday that a subject had stolen some grease from the business. Two officers were assigned, located the subject, who was to take the grease back. The information was logged.

Citation Issued — An officer requested additional assistance from the Ponca City Police Department at 12:20 p.m. Monday when a subject had illegally parked at South Sixth Street and East Central Avenue and got upset and parked again illegally, then sped south on Sixth. Another officer responded, stopped the vehicle at the intersection of South Eighth Street and East Otoe Avenue, where a citation was issued.

Fire — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 1:40 p.m. Monday from a resident in the 3300 block of West North Avenue that the back yard was on fire. Ranch Drive Volunteer Fire Department responded to handle the situation.

Subjects Held — An employee with the Kay County District Attorney’s office requested assistance at 3:09 p.m. Monday at 705 North Osage Street. Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department responded where a 62-year-old man was held for possession of a controlled drug with intent to distribute and a city warrant, and a 41-year-old man was held for possession of a controlled drug with intent to distribute.

Mel’s Clothing and Shoe has 40% off Mels price on entire stock. adv.

Vehicle Stolen — A man from the 1200 block of West Liberty Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:42 p.m. that his vehicle had been missing for two months. A report was taken.

Accident — The Ponca City Police Department received a report at 3:42 p.m. Monday that a three-vehicle accident had occurred in the 1400 block of West Highland Avenue. Two officers were assigned and a report was taken. Two vehicles were towed from the scene.

Gas Drive-Off — An employee at Sav-A-Trip, North Second Street and East Highland Avenue, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:45 p.m. Monday that someone had driven off without paying for $9.76 worth of gas. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Assault — A man was at the Ponca City Police Department at 4:05 p.m. Monday to report that he had been assaulted while at Pioneer Park. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Friends Of the Wildcats meeting 7:00 pm January 12th, Wednesday 4th. Clubhouse. Help us bring competitive sport’s back to Ponca City. Everyone welcome. Questions call Bob: 765-5573 or 765-4294. adv.

Beer Spotted — A man reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:44 p.m. Monday that a case of beer had been left by the corner of a vacant house in the 2000 block of Mary Street. An officer was assigned and the item was brought to the police department.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 7:45 p.m. Monday that a 14-year-old boy was being held for second degree burglary.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 2900 block of North Union street at 9:27 p.m. Monday that a 19-year-old man was being held on an Osage County warrant.

Assault — A man at the Triple T, 201 West Hartford Avenue, requested assistance from the Ponca City Police Department at 9:48 p.m. Monday, reporting that he had been assaulted. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Assault — A woman was at the Ponca City Police Department at 10:03 p.m. Monday, reporting that she had been assaulted. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Curfew Violation — A woman from the 2000 block of North Osage Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 10:44 p.m. Monday that a son had not returned from school. Two officers were assigned, located the juvenile who was returned to his mother. A curfew citation was issued.

Subject Held — The Ponca City Police Department received a report at 12:35 a.m. Tuesday that a man in a room at 116 South Fourteenth Street reported that a subject had come to the room, threatened him with a knife and cut a tire. Three officers were assigned and found the identified subject, and took the 34-year-old man into custody for assault with a deadly weapon, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

LIFESTYLES

‘Sticky Buns’ Just Right for Dessert
The Neighborhood Chef

‘Sticky Buns’ Just Right for Dessert

MMM! The enticing aroma of rolls warm from the oven is an appetizing invitation to good eating. Bobbie Talbott’s Honey Nut Sticky Buns are no exception. From Veneta, Ore. this country cook shared her recipe for these gooey, great-tasting sweet rolls in “Taste of Home” magazine. The rolls are good with coffee or tea for dessert. The magazine’s web site is www.reimanpub.com

Honey Nut Sticky Buns

2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active

dry yeast

1/2 cup warm water (110°-115°)

2 eggs

1/4 cup sugar

3 tablespoons butter or margarine,

melted

2 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

Topping:

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1/3 cup honey

1/4 cup butter or margarine

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup chopped pecans

Filling:

2 tablespoons butter or margarine,

melted

1/2 cup chopped pecans

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

In a mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in water. Add eggs, sugar, butter, salt and vanilla; mix well. Add 2 cups of flour; beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough. Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes.

Place in a greased bowl; turning over once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 1/2 hours. In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, honey, butter and salt; bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Boil for 1 minute. Pour into a greased 13x9x2-inch baking pan; sprinkle with pecans. Set aside.

Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; roll into a 24x8 inch rectangle; brush with butter to within 1 inch of the edges. Combine the pecans, brown sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle over butter. Roll up from the long side; seal seam. Cut into 1 inch slices; place cut side down in pan. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes. Bake at 350° for 25-28 minutes or until golden brown. Cool 1 minute; invert onto a serving platter. Yield: 2 dozen.

The Neighborhood Chef

By SHERRY MUCHMORE

Cheese, as eclectic as any food group found in the kitchen of today. In my refrigerator alone there must be at least 10 different varieties in the cheese keeper - Parmesan, cheddar, Velveeta, cream cheese, Colby, provolone, cottage cheese, Swiss, Pepper Jack and American, just to name a few and these are all pretty basic. Whether blended, processed, hard, soft, creamed, tart, smooth, chunk, shredded or melted; cheese is that special ingredient that blends flavors or adds that extra touch. It provides that special topping which makes ordinary into a masterpiece or adds a richness and creaminess to sauces and pastries that can’t be conceived otherwise.

The following recipes are not difficult to make and have super flavors that make every one a taste sensation. We’re sure you’ll want to make these over and over again.

This hearty dip has a great Tex-Mex flavor. Had to have this recipe after sampling it one evening. Really good with the big dip Fritos. Kind of like Frito Chili Pie, only better.

Chili-Cheese and Beyond Dip

Marilyn & Henry Noll

Ponca City, OK

1 16-ounce can tamales

(remove husks)

1 16-ounce can chili (no beans)

1 pound Velveeta cheese, cut

into pieces

1 cup picante sauce (pick your

heat preference)

1 bunch green onions,

completely chopped,

greens and all

2-3 cloves garlic, minced

In a skillet or saute pan, mash tamales and add the remaining ingredients reserving some of the green onion tops for garnish. Heat on medium until the cheese has completely melted. Serve immediately with chips or keep warm in a small crock on low to serve. Enjoy!

Here is one of many specialty foods Betty’s friends always ask for. Not only is this a great appetizer, you can pull several from the freezer, heat and serve with soup or serve on their own as a snack.

Bacon Cheese Melt-aways

Betty Durkee

Ponca City, OK

6 slices bacon, fried until

crisp and crumbled (reserve

2 tablespoons bacon grease)

1 medium onion, chopped fine

1 4-ounce jar sliced

mushrooms

1 8-ounce cream cheese,

softened

1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese

1 egg, beaten

1 teaspoon garlic salt

1/2 teaspoon celery salt

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

6 drops Tabasco

In a small skillet, fry bacon and set aside. Pour off bacon grease, reserving 2 tablespoons left in skillet. Saute onions and mushrooms in drippings until onions are clear and most of the liquid is gone. Set aside. In a mixing bowl, combine the remaining ingredients - the cheeses, egg, garlic and celery salts, pepper and Tabasco. Blend completely and stir in the crumbled bacon, onion and mushrooms. Spread on Triscuits and heat under the broiler until melted. This spread is also good when spread on the small Party Sourdough bread and toasted. The Party Rye is too strong a flavor and fights the flavors of this great tasting spread.

Note: Spread on the bread. Place on a cookie sheet in a single layer and freeze. Place frozen snacks in a freezer bag and store in freezer until needed. Heat as usual. No need to thaw before heating.

Talk about melt in your mouth goodness, what a treat these little tarts are when served as dessert with coffee, as a late night snack or as a sweet addition to any buffet. And, what’s really great, they can be made ahead and frozen. Just place unbaked pastries in single layer on cookie sheet, freeze and bag. Bake as directed when needed. (Actually, pastry always bakes flakiest when chilled.)

Apricot Cheese Tarts

Flo O’Connor

Ponca City, OK

1 cup sifted all purpose flour

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/2 8-oz. package cream

cheese, softened

1/2 cup butter (melted)

(1 stick)

Apricot preserves (or use your

favorite flavor)

Combine the above ingredients, except the preserves, and shape into a ball. Place in a baggie or wrap in waxed paper and chill at least 2 hours. Roll dough out on floured board and cut out circles with a 3 inch cookie cutter. Place a dollop of preserves in the middle of half of these rounds. Dampen with water around the edges of the filled pastry and place another pastry circle on top of the filled circle. Press to seal with a fork around the edges. Brush with a beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar. Bake until golden brown in a 400 degree oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Makes approximately 2 dozen 3 inch tarts. These can also be made smaller for a nice bite size.

Note: If freezing, don’t do the egg wash and sugar. Do this only before baking.

Hot, crusty bites of delight. These are so good and that peppery cheese flavor shines through - I used sharp cheddar but you might want to try white cheddar, it has a slightly smoother taste but rather difficult to find around this part of the country although it’s quite popular in the eastern part of the US.

Cheddar Pepper Biscuits

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup vegetable shortening

2 tablespoons butter

3/4 cup (3-oz.) finely grated

sharp cheddar cheese

(try white cheddar for a

richer flavor)

1 1/2 teaspoons coarsely

ground black pepper

3/4 cup milk

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Grease an 8 x 8 inch or 9 x 9 inch square pan. In a large mixing bowl stir together flour, baking powder and salt. Cut in shortening and butter until mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Toss in cheese and pepper. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour milk into well all at once. Work in until thoroughly moistened. Turn out onto a floured surface and knead 10 to 12 times until almost smooth.

Roll or pat into a 6 inch square, about 1-inch thick. Using a ruler or knife, cut into 2-inch squares. For a soft brown color, prepare an egg wash:

1 egg - beaten

1/2 teaspoon water

Brush the biscuit squares with the egg wash and place on baking sheet. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes or until biscuits are golden. Serve warm. Makes nine 2-inch biscuits. Or, ten 2-inch rounds.

Helpful Hint: To reheat previously baked biscuits, wrap in foil and reheat in a 325 degree oven about 10 minutes or until warm.

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

BUSINESS

Labor Commissioner Visits PC Firm, Kiwanis, Schools
Aggreko, Conoco Partner Energy Alliance Program
Nickles Purchases Texas Firm
Senate Review
PC Dentist Dr. Streight Attends Forensic Dentistry Conference
Logan Begins Own Firm Specializing in Architecture
Career Counselor Set to Speak at Luncheon
Rich Cantillon Begins Double Director Duties in Blackwell
ODOT Awards Signal Project
Commercial Federal Lauds Office Here For Accomplishment
Commercial Projects Top Building Permits During December

Labor Commissioner Visits PC Firm, Kiwanis, Schools

Labor Commissioner Brenda Reneau Wynn brought the Oklahoma Department of Labor’s Safety Pays Outreach program to Ponca City’s Nickles Industrial Manufacturing, the Ponca City Kiwanis Club and the Ponca City Public Schools.

The Safety Pays program is designed to help Oklahoma employers lower their workers’ compensation costs by implementing effective safety programs in their businesses.

“Qualifying companies participating in the Safety Pays program can receive up to a 15 percent discount in their workers’ comp rates right off the bat,” Reneau Wynn said. “Certified companies are also eligible for a federal OSHA exemption.”

Commissioner Reneau Wynn toured Nickles Industrial Manufacturing, this morning. Nickles Industrial Manufacturing produces equipment for the oil field industry.

Reneau Wynn said, “Oklahoma needs to boost its manufacturing base, and taking the initiative to reduce workers’ compensation costs through workplace safety programs is the best option facing employers in our state.

“Companies are literally saving tens of thousands of dollars each year in workers’ comp costs,” Reneau Wynn said, “That’s good for business and good for workers. The Safety Pays program has three goals: establish a safe and healthy workplace; improve the bottom line; and, create opportunities for new jobs or higher wages for existing employees.”

The Safety Pays program utilizes the state OSHA Consultation program which is free, confidential, non punitive and voluntary. State consultants and industrial hygienists differ greatly from their federal counterparts in one distinct area — they don’t write fines or issue citations. State OSHA consultants will identify hazards, assist employers in correcting those hazards and work with both management and employees to establish or improve safety programs.

The Oklahoma Department of Labor provides training and education, free of charge, for both employers and employees to help companies identify and reduce safety hazards in the workplace. By reducing workplace injuries, companies can substantially reduce their workers’ compensation insurance costs.

“Workplace safety programs are an effective tool in reducing injuries and lost work days which translates into lower workers’ compensation insurance premiums for Oklahoma employers,” Reneau Wynn commented. “Safety is not a priority anymore, it’s a value. I say that because priorities change but values always remain the same.”

After touring Nickles Industrial Manufacturing, Commissioner Reneau Wynn was scheduled to speak to the Ponca City Kiwanis Club at noon, Albright United Methodist Church, Ponca City. Commissioner Reneau Wynn also visited with Ponca City Public School administrative officials to discuss the safety programs for Ponca City public schools.

The Ponca City Safety Pays Outreach is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club and the Oklahoma Department of Labor. Employers wishing to schedule a safety consultation for their business should call the OSHA Consultation Division of the Oklahoma Department of Labor at 1-889-269-5353. The call and the consultation are free.

Aggreko, Conoco Partner Energy Alliance Program

NEW IBERIA, La. — Aggreko, the nation’s leading supplier of temporary utility rental services, has signed Conoco Inc. as a partner in Aggreko’s recently developed Energy Alliance Program (EAP).

The program was created to deliver a heightened level of service to EAP partners through the dedication of additional focused resources with an eye on providing “real value.” Aggreko calculates the “real value” of a project by taking into account the financial benefit of an improvement in production and subtracting the cost of the rental equipment.

“Through the development of creative, innovative, economic solutions to energy-related needs, Aggreko provides a complete temporary utility service package,” explains Neil Hamilton, Aggreko National Accounts Manager. “The EAP program allows us to assist our partners both in terms of service and in calculating the true value of projects present or pending.”

The Energy Alliance Program has four components: maintenance support, rental management, emergency response and process management. The maintenance support program links Aggreko’s turnaround/project planning team with plant maintenance personnel to assure downtime is kept to a minimum.

The rental management program helps EAP partners receive the highest level of service and efficiency possible by tracking and reporting six key areas of performance. The emergency response program helps participants plan for critical utility needs. And the process management program is designed to aggressively seek out methods to improve productivity by analyzing participants’ production losses and process bottlenecks and recommending temporary solutions.

“Aggreko is able to supply us with the equipment we need in a highly efficient manner. With just one phone call, the machines are on their way to us. The response time is excellent and we receive a substantial savings in time and money,” explains Wayne Mitchell, Conoco Inc. Ponca City Refinery Maintenance Planner, East Plant.

These services are supplemental to Aggreko’s ability to provide customers with top-of-the-line rental equipment and 24-hour emergency response capabilities.

“The program is the first of its kind in the industry and it is generating substantial benefits for participants. Our Energy Alliance partners are embracing the programs and additional services on every level of their businesses,” explains Mike Teague, Aggreko Oklahoma City Depot Manager.

Conoco has 124 years experience in the energy industry. A fully-integrated energy company, it is active in 40 countries and involved in every aspect of the oil and gas industry, including exploration, production, transportation, marketing, refining and power.

Aggreko is the world leader in temporary utility rental services, specializing in the fulfillment of rental power, temperature and oil-free compressed air needs. The company has more than 110 locations across the globe to provide quick, reliable, critical utility services.

Nickles Purchases Texas Firm

Nickles Industrial Manufacturing Corp., headquartered in Ponca City, has purchased D-MEC Compression services of Texas, effective Jan. 1, according to Bob Nickles, vice president/general manager.

D-MEC, located in Mineral Wells, Texas, is a diversified service company for the natural gas compression market. D-MEC operations include a variety of “Off-The-Shelf” sales to local customers, repair services (compressor valve, packing case and related compressor items), oil and water pumps.

Also, air starter motors, ignition system testing, lubrication system testing, in-shop, in-field and off-shore overhaul of compressors, and the leasing of field compressor units for gas gathering applications.

D-MEC was founded in 1985 by Lewis Daniel, who will remain with the company in his present capacity as field service project manager.

“We are very pleased to announce the addition of D-MEC to our company. Approximately half of D-MEC’s existing operation will blend in with existing Nickles operations, while the other half will provide diversification to give us an even broader range of products and services,” Nickles said.

Nickles Industrial [NI] is headquartered in Ponca City. Manufacturing/repair facilities are located in Ponca City, Pampa Texas, and McPherson, Kan. Warehouse facilities are located in Charleston, West Va. Memphis, Houston, Odessa, Texas, Casper, Wyo., and Calgary, Alberta Canada.

This fourth generation business now operates in “virtually every aspect of the gas compression parts and service market,” Nickles said.

The company had its beginnings in 1918 as an automotive repair shop founded by C.A. Nickles. Today Nickles Industrial is comprised of the former Nickles Machine Corporation, Panhandle Industrial Company and Kansas Cylinder Head Company and is the largest independent aftermarket power parts producer for large stationary natural gas compressors.

NI sells world-wide with products and services including new parts, repair services, field maintenance, used equipment, engineering services and a distribution system covering the eastern 41 United States [covering both low and high speed units].

Senate Review

By Sen. Paul Muegge

Two issues that always attract attention during a legislative session are teachers and education, and this year’s focus is not expected to be any different.

A recent report shows that hundreds of Oklahoma teachers are opting to take jobs in surrounding states each year, being lured by hefty pay increases and higher long-term earning potential.

The same report shows that more than 300 educators moved south to Texas for as much as $12,000 more than their Oklahoma paycheck offered. Another 250 found higher paying work in Kansas and Arkansas.

Education leaders are seeing this trend affect school districts statewide, in both large and smaller communities. Specialty areas like math, science, foreign language and special education are taking the hardest hit, and those are the areas that are critical to a balanced education for students.

Oklahoma employs more than 47,000 certified people to handle 624,000 students in 545 school districts throughout the state. It is a shame that many of those teachers have felt they needed to turn to other states to make the money they deserve to make.

As we gear up for another legislative session, teacher compensation is expected be one of the many issues in the spotlight. While Oklahoma’s low teacher salaries are driving some of the state’s best and brightest educators to seek other opportunities outside the state, we will be focusing on ways to reverse this trend.

I welcome your questions, comments and suggestions on teacher compensation in Oklahoma. Please feel free to contact me by writing to Senator Paul Muegge, State Capitol, Room 513-B, Oklahoma City, 73105 or by calling (405) 524-0126.

PC Dentist Dr. Streight Attends Forensic Dentistry Conference

Ponca City dentist, Dr. John Streight, recently attended a forensic dentistry conference and laboratory at Creighton University in Omaha, Neb.

Forensic Dentistry is the branch of dentistry which deals with the proper handling and examination of dental evidence and with the proper evaluation and presentation of dental findings in the interest of justice.

There are several areas in the field in which forensic dentists are involved. These include: Identification of unknown individuals and missing persons by personal dental records, Mass disaster identification, bite mark analysis in criminal investigations, child abuse injury including bite mark analysis and civil and criminal litigation as expert witnesses.

Of these areas, mass disaster identification is probably the best known by the public and the most demanding for the dental team. Pre-injury (ante mortem) dental records are meticulously compared and studied with (post mortem) records to identify victims.

The work is extremely stressful and requires that positive identifications be confirmed by several people on the dental team.

Dr. Streight expects to continue work in the area of forensics and has applied for membership in the American Society of Forensic Odontology.

Logan Begins Own Firm Specializing in Architecture

After working at several architectural firms in Colorado all along the Front Range, Paul W. Logan, a 1985 graduate of Ponca City High School, began his own firm specializing in architecture, construction management and building/code and accessibility analysis. He graduated from Oklahoma State University — School of Architecture in 1991.

As the Principal Architect for PV&-PRO Architecture & Planning, Logan focused on higher education projects developed by the State of Colorado. As the Owner’s Representative for the Higher Education and Advanced Technology Center, a Colorado State entity, Logan is responsible for overseeing the design and construction of many high-tech projects that are utilized not only by Colorado Community Colleges but by most of the local universities.

PWL-PRO Architecture & Planning is also currently the Architect-of-Record for an ongoing development of a virtual teaching facility being built by a partnership between the State of Colorado and Lucent Technologies.

This facility, known as The Convergent Technologies Innovations Laboratory, provides a national showcase for research, development, and training in the areas of Data Networking, Distance Learning, Distributed Education, Convergence Technologies, Technology Transfer, and Community Redevelopment in the Information Technology.

The facility is utilized by Lucent as a national demonstration site, as well as a test location for the latest Bell Laboratory innovations.

The State of Colorado will utilize this facility as a learning laboratory for students, as well as a national education model for information technology. The facility is being phased over the next five to eight years.

Logan’s practice also includes local representation for a national franchise company in the design and construction of one of the top child care facilities in the country.

While many of these facilities are being developed all around the Denver Metro area, Logan is expanding his practice to include Las Vegas and Phoenix. It is anticipated that approximately 40 of these facilities will be constructed in each of these major cities.

Paul and his wife Kim are the parents of a 20-month old daughter, Kalin, and are expecting their second child in January 2000.

Logan is the son of Eyvind and Carthene Logan, 1500 West Broadway.

Career Counselor Set to Speak at Luncheon

Yolanda Trant, JTPA Career Counselor, will be the guest speaker for the Jan. 18 Quarterly Business Advisory Council luncheon meeting at Pioneer Technology Center.

Trant will speak about “Providing On The Job Training Opportunities to Area Employers.” Mike Daughtery of Kay County One-Stop Career Center, says that all area employers are invited.

Guests wishing to dine should go through the cafeteria line to select their lunch and meet in Room 133 adjacent to the cafeteria.

Rich Cantillon Begins Double Director Duties in Blackwell

BLACKWELL - Rich Cantillon has been named Blackwell Chamber of Commerce director and Blackwell Industrial Authority executive director.

This is a position that Cantillon is familiar with having served as the Chamber manager form 1993 to 1996. He has been marketing representative since that time with Kay Electric Cooperative.

“I look forward to working with the Chamber and BIA. Blackwell is on the verge of making big things happen and I am happy to help make them happen,” Cantillon said.

A 1998 graduate of Oklahoma Leadership, he currently serves on the state advisory council for OSU Extension, Pioneer Tech Center business incubator board, Blackwell Public School Foundation board of directors, vice president of Kaw Lake Association, BancFirst advisory board, is Blackwell Rotary Club secretary-treasurer and serves on Will Rogers Boy Scout Council.

ODOT Awards Signal Project

Oklahoma Department of Transportation [ODOT] in the January letting of contracts, awarded bids for projects in Kay and Noble counties.

The contract for traffic signals at the intersection of U.S. 77 and Oklahoma 11 in Kay County and a traffic signal at the intersection of U.S. 64 and Tenth Street in the City of Perry in Noble County, were both awarded to Midstate Traffic Control, Inc., Oklahoma City.

Contract price for the U.S. 77 and Oklahoma 11 near Kildare was $27,879. The allotted time frame is 30 days.

The Perry project was awarded at the cost of $29,056 and also calls for the work to be completed in 30 calendar days.

Commercial Federal Lauds Office Here For Accomplishment

OKLAHOMA CITY — Commercial Federal Bank has named its Ponca City main office and Penn Plaza office in Oklahoma City as Oklahoma’s “Branches of the Fourth Quarter.”

The Ponca City main office is located at 400 East Central. Ponca City main’s branch manager Glenda Phillips said she believed this accomplishment is a result of her branch’s mission to go above and beyond the basic needs of the customers. “It makes a difference when everyone is working together and giving 100 percent for our customers,” said Phillips.

Both branches will continue to work hard in all areas of banking, and expect to expand in the areas of commercial banking and consumer lending.

Commercial Federal is a $13.1 billion federal savings bank that operates more than 250 branches in the states of Oklahoma, Nebraska, Colorado, Kansas, Iowa, Arizona. Minnesota, Missouri and South Dakota. In addition to retail and commercial banking, Commercial Federal’s services include residential lending, consumer financing, agricultural lending, trust services, insurance and stock brokerage.

Commercial Projects Top Building Permits During December

Commercial projects led the building permits in December in Ponca City, according to the monthly report of building inspector Charles Kelley.

The permit for the Cherokee Strip Credit Union’s 7,100 square foot building on East Prospect accounted for the lion’s share of the $1,411,400 permit total. The Credit Union permit valuation was for $1.4 million.

There was only one residential permit issued within the City limits. The valuation was $277,000. There were four remodel addition permits with an valuation of $113,500 issued. Five miscellaneous permits totaled $10,000 valuation.

Earl Whittaker’s electrical department issued 25 permits and 86 inspections were made. There were 49 plumbing permits issued and 99 inspections made and 54 mechanical permits issued and 90 inspections under Buddy R. Osborn, plumbing and mechanical inspector’s direction.

SPORTS

Cat Matmen Looking For Crowd Support
Cagers End Layoff
NOC Has Big Game Tonight
Maroons Win Title

Cat Matmen Looking For Crowd Support

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

Ponca City’s Wildcat wrestlers are looking for some help as they host Tulsa East Central tonight in a crucial district dual. The dual will start at 7 in Robson Field House.

“We need a big crowd for this one,” coach Todd Steidley said. “This is a big match for us.

“Right now our kids are beat up. Some of them are okay physicaally, but beat up mentally. It’s a good thang this match is at home. Our kids seem to respond to the home crowd.”

Ponca City stormed from behind to beat Jenks, 39-36, just before the Christmas break to take the first step toward the district title and a berth in the Dual State tournament.

Also before Christmas, East Central dropped close decisions to both Jenks and Stillwater.

“East Central is out of it (the district race),” Steidley said. “But they can still be the spoiler. They are a much tougher team than they were when the wrestled Jenks and Stillwater. They had three state qualifiers who were ineligible the first semister.”

To make that point clear, the Cardinals finished sixth in the Jenks Invitational over the weekend with 125 points. East Central crowned two champions, DeArmon at 130 pounds and Steel at 171. Douglass, who edged out Wildcat Clint Stafford, 5-2, in the 125-pound semifinals at Jenks Friday, finished second.

East Central’s Ketcher was third a 215, while Wiler (1¡2) and Lawley (119) took fourth place finishes.

By compairson, the Wildcats placed two in the top four.

Stafford came back to take third, beating Delk of Skiatook, 6 -4. Kyle Duren also won the consolation title at 160 pounds, pinning Moore of Yukon in 1:08.

Matt Littleton was fifth at 140 pounds while Michael Osborn was sixth at 152.

Ponca City finished 10th in the tournament with 71 points.

Sand Springs claimed the Jenks Invitational title, edging Muskogee 189-164. Edmond North was third, followed by Yukon.

Another future Wildcat foe, Perry, was fifth with 135 points.

District opponent Stillwater (Jan. 20) was eighth with 108.5 points. The Pioneers placed four with Perry (103) and Weaver (125) winning in the championship finals.

“Of course, there is a difference in tournaments and dual matches,” Stedley notes. “But East Central is tough. We’ll need all the help we can get.

“We’ll just have to hook it up and go after ’em.”

———

The district race should be somewhat clearer after tonight.

While the Wildcats (1-0) face the Cardinals (0-2), Jenks (1-1) and Stillwater (1-0) square off in Stillwater.

Cagers End Layoff

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

It’s been 24 days since the Wildcat basketball team has played a game.

The Cats return to the floor tonight at Owasso hoping all that rest will not translate into rust.

“I don’t think we’ll be rusty,” coach Ron Arthur said. “But Owasso has played four games since the break. They (the Rams) should be in midseason form.”

The Cats will have to play some big “D” if they are to beat the big “O.”

Defense has been one of priorities for the Cat cagers during the long break, according to Arthur.

Ponca City is averaging 56.6 points a game. That’s good enough for sixth place among the talented Frontier Conference teams.

But the Cats are dead last in defense, giving up an average of 69 points per game.

“The biggest problem with our defense is our offense,” Arthur said. “We are averaging 18 turnovers a game. That’s too many, we have to curtail that.

“During the break, we’ve worked on getting back on defense after a turnover. But its hard to get back when you lose the ball at the point.”

Artur does not want to slow the Wildcasts’ up-tempo game. In fact he is hoping for more of it against Owasso. The Rams prefer a more deliberate style of attack.

Owasso is aveaging just 49.2 points a game, but the Rams are allowing just 52.2 points in posting a 5-4 record, 3-3 in the conference.

“We have to force Owasso into an up-teampo game,” Arthur says. “And you have to stay in front of them. If you get down four points, that’s a lot to make up against a team like Owasso.

However, the lengthy layoff has helped the Poncans get Blaine Petrie back from the ankle injury he suffered before Christmas.

Petrie is averaging 14.4 points a game and his 6-5 frame will also come in handy under the boards, where the Cats are struggling on the offensive end.

Jeff Furnas is averaging 12.1 points an game while Billy Broughton is hitting at a 10.3.

Owasso’s top scorer is Richard Hardman, who is averaging 17 points per contest. Slowing him down will be Petrie’s job on defense.

———

The Lady Wildcats will preceed the boys onto the court at Owasso, starting at 6:30, looking for their second win in conference play.

The Owasso girls are 1-8 overll and winless in six league outings. They are last in the conference in scoring, 32.8 points a game, while giving up 46.8 point per outing.

Even with their shooting woes, the Lady Wildcats are scoring better, 36.1 points a game, but are also giving up more points, 48.3.

NOC Has Big Game Tonight

TONKAWA — This game is huge,” Northern Oklahoma College coach Mick Weiberg said as his Mavericks get ready to meet Connors tonight in Foster-Piper Fieldhouse.

The women’s game starts at 6 p.m. with the men to follow about 8.

Weiberg said Connors is always tough and that the game is important in that it begins to line things up for playoff action later in the season.

“Connors is in the other (eastern) division of our conference,” Weiberg notes. “But how we do against all of the teams in the region is taken into consideration when the seeding is made for tyhe rfegional tournament.

“We beat Connors on the road earlier this year in a real tough game,” Weiberg said. “Both teams are playing good ball right now and this should be a great game for the fans. This is the time of year when all our games mean more and we look forward to the support of our students and fans."

The Mavericks restarted the season in high gear, gaining important road wins over Northark and Westark.

NOC topped Northark Friday night 73-60 behind a 28-point performance by guard Larry Reid. Scott Prater added 12 points and Sherman Rochell had 10, along with six assists.

It was a gweat game for us comng back from the break,” Weiberg said. “We are really coming together as a basketball team. "It was one of Reid’s better games of the season.”

But the Mavericvks passed a big test on Saturday when they came from eight pointsdown with three minutes remaining in regulation play to beat Westark 78-69 in overtime.

The Mavs led 30-23 at halftime during what Weiberg said was definitely a defensive battle. “Both teams played excellent defense and had few turnovers. It really brought the college game out of us.”

Weiberg said his team pulled ahead by two points with 15 seconds to go in regulation. But Westark managed to sink a 40-footer to gain a 58-57 lead with four seconds left.

The Mavs threw away the inbound pass but fouled Westark before the could get the ball in to take no time off the clock. Westark sank the two free throws and the Mavs faced a three-point deficit.

“Most teams would have given up at that point,” Weiberg said. “But these guys stayed in there and gave us a chance to win. I’m proud of them because we never quit.

“We made one pass to Rochell, who sank a three-point shot from the wing at the buzzer that sent the game into overtime with a score of 60-60.

“That was a huge bucket for us,” Weiberg said.

The Mavs battled hard in the overtime period and pulled away in the final minute of play to cap the win. The Mavericks got 21 points from Rochell, 19 from Reid, Richie Myers had nine, Tyler Barnard eight, Chris Arledge seven, Scott Prater seven, Jeff Newby three, Felix Desjardins two and Colt Clark two.

Maroons Win Title

CHISHOLM — Kyle Pennington dropped in a basket with 2.9 seconds left to give the Blackwell Maroons their first Wheat Capitol Tournament title with a 59-58 win over Alva.

Blackwell came from six points down in the final period of the see-saw battle for their fifth straight win and run their record to 7-3 on the season.

The win broke a Wheat Capitol drought that had seen the Maroons reach the finals in 1986 and again in 1992, but come up short both times.

Blaine Boyd poured through 24 points for Blackwell while Pennington had nine. Both were named to the All-Tournament team. Also in double figures for the Maroons were Jared Reese with 11 points and Ryan Penka with 10.

The game was tied 27-27 at halftime before Alva moved in front 47-41 to start the fourth quarter.

“This was an extremely hard fought ball game,” said Blackwell coach Mike Simpson. We struggled defensive in the first half and gave up too many offensive rebounds, but Alva was bigger than we are.

“We feel very fortunate to be the first team to bring this championship to BHS.”

Blackwell tries to make it six in a row Friday when the Maroons host Perry.