LOCAL

Thank You March Sunday Afternoon

Thank You March Sunday Afternoon

As a thank you to the community, members of the Ponca City High School Marching Band will march on Fifth Street from Highland to Hartford on Sunday afternoon from 2:30 to 4 p.m. The public is invited to attend.

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McDonald Electric has met the challenge from Ward’s Air Conditioning by donating $500 to the Po-Hi Marching Band. McDonald’s challenge other electrical contractors and heating and air contractors to do the same.

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The Instrumental Music Parents Association in production with Shuga daddy will sponsor a benefit fund raiser on Saturday, Jan. 13 from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Howell Auditorium. Overdrive will be featured. Cost is $5 and all proceeds will go the Po-Hi Band.

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Ponca City High School alumni are still contributing to the fund for the Po-Hi Band trip to Washington, D.C. The Class of 1952 recently donated $300.

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The Class of 1950 has also contributed to the effort. Members of the class challenge other Po-Hi classes to join the effort.

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Instrumental Music Parents Association members say State Rep. Jim Newport should receive a lot of credit for soliciting out-of-town donors from around the state for the band’s project.

Ed Latimer, board member, said, “He has taken a lot of time out of his busy schedule to make numerous phone calls and visits in support of the Po-Hi band trip. He has raised over $10,000 through his individual efforts.”

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Speaking of out-of-town contributions, Tulsa-based Williams Energy Corp., has contributed $5,000 to the trip fund.

DEATHS

Dean Shields Burkett
Carl Nance
Aaron G. Gayton
Edward Leroy Russell
Gary E. Magner
Nancy Geneva Jenkins Davis
Latita Ann Held
Thelma Maupin
Albert Struble
Jewell Baker

Dean Shields Burkett

GREELEY, Colo. — Dean Shields Burkett, former resident of Ponca City, died Dec. 17, 2000, at his home in Greeley, Colo. He was 83.

Dean Shields Burkett was born Aug. 1, 1917, in Lock Haven, Pa., the son of Mervin A. and Catherine A. Burkett. He was reared and educated in Lock Haven, graduating from Lock Haven High School in 1934. He graduated from Pierce Business College in Philadelphia, Pa., in 1937. He was employed with Piper Aircraft Corporation for 10 years in Pennsylvania and Oklahoma.

In 1947, he joined Conoco, where he served in administrative management positions for 30 years in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado and Montana. He lived in Ponca City during the 1940s and 1960s. He retired from Conoco in 1976 and took employment with a uranium mining operation in Shirley Basin, Wyo. In 1981, he retired and moved to Greeley, Colo.

He was an avid model railroader and an active artifact hunter, having collected arrowheads, a 2,000-year-old buffalo skull and pre-Columbian materials collected from seven western states. He was a longtime member of the Oklahoma Anthropological Society, the National Model Railroader Association and the Greeley Shortliners Club.

Survivors include his wife, Betty; two daughters, Debbie Burkett of Greeley, Colo., and Carol Lovil of Houston, Texas; two sons, Dean Jr. “Chip” Burkett of Westminster, Colo., and Peter Burkett of Kalispell, Mont.; a sister, Ruth Greninger of Lock Haven, Pa.; and nine grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Ray Burkett.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of Northern Colorado, 2726 11th St. Road, Greeley, Colo. 80634 or to the Northern Colorado Animal League, 1620 42nd St., Evans, Colo. 80620.

Private family services were held.

Northern Colorado Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

Carl Nance

EDMOND — Carl Nance, father of Kenneth Nance, died Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2001, in Edmond. He was 69.

The funeral was to be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 12, at the Edmond Church of Christ. Burial is in the Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Matthews Funeral Home of Edmond.

Carl Nance was born April 19, 1931, in Lexington, Okla., the son of Cyrus and Rosa Nance. He graduated from Noble High School and moved to Edmond in 1963. He was employed at Tinker Air Force Base from 1952 until retiring in 1976. He married Zella Stark on Feb. 26, 1953, in Chickasha.

He was a member of the Edmond Church of Christ, had served in the Air National Guard and the U.S. Air Force, was a Mason and a cattle buyer.

Survivors include his wife of the home in Edmond; two sons, Kenneth Nance of Ponca City and Chet Nance of Fort Collins, Colo.; one daughter, Katrina Myers of Edmond; and seven grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, 825 NE 13th Street, Oklahoma City, Okla. 73104.

Aaron G. Gayton

Aaron G. Gayton, life-long Ponca City resident, died at his home Wednesday afternoon, Jan. 10, 2001. He was 68.

Evening prayer services will be held Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. in the Ponca Indian Baptist Church. The traditional funeral feast will be held at noon on Sunday, Jan. 14, 2001, followed by the funeral at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Ted Freeman, pastor of Ponca Indian Baptist Church, officiating and the Rev. Toby A. Blackstar, Victory Tabernacle, assisting. Burial with military honors by L.S. Buffalo Post 38 will follow in the Ponca Tribal Cemetery under direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.

Aaron Gordon Gayton was born Dec. 16, 1932, in Ponca City, the son of Dick and Mary (LeClair) Gayton. He attended Ponca City schools and was employed all of his life as a general laborer. He married Sally Overland on April 16, 1955. He was a member of the Ponca Tribe and had attended the Ponca Indian Baptist Church.

Survivors include seven daughters, Shirley Nazario of Chicago, Ill., Mary Gayton of Dallas, Texas, and Marjorie Sanchez, Sara Morales, Theresa Gayton, Joyce Gayton and Augustine Harsh, all of Cleveland, Ohio; two sons, Alex Michael Gayton and Wheeler Gayton, both of Cleveland, Ohio; one sister, Ivy Banner of Washington; two brothers, Everett Gayton of Ponca City and Sam Gayton of Sallisaw; 22 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and many other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Helen Ruth Salinas; one son, Aaron John Gayton; and one brother, Wheeler Gayton.

Casket bearers will be Adolphus Warrior, Wheeler Gayton, Alex Gayton, Kenneth Kemble, John Overland and Garland Pappan.

Honorary casket bearers will be VFW post 9145 and L.S. Buffalo Post 38.

Edward Leroy Russell

WHEATLAND, Wyo. — Edward Leroy Russell, former resident of Ponca City, died Thursday, Jan. 11, 2001, at Platte County Memorial Hospital in Wheatland, Wyo. He was 72.

The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 15, 2001, at the First Christian Church in Wheatland with the Rev. Andy Gudahl, minister, officiating and participation by the Veterans of Foreign Wars and eulogists, Fred Phifer and Clayton Unger. Burial will be in the Resthaven Cemetery in Ponca City at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Platte Funeral Chapel of Wheatland, Wyo.

Edward Leroy Russell was born May 15, 1928, in Wheatland, Wyo., the son of William Harold and Doris Louise Marley Russell. He was reared and educated in Wheatland, graduating from Wheatland High School in 1948. He was employed on local ranches as a young man.

He served in the United States Navy from 1948 to 1952 and was a veteran of the Korean Conflict.

He went to work for Conoco in 1952 and continued to work for them for 38 years. He married Carol Annette Stebar in June 18, 1955, in Wheatland. He coached little league baseball for 12 years, was active in Future Farmers of America, was a life member of the VFW Post 3558, and a member of the American Legion in Ponca City.

He enjoyed woodworking, reading, fishing, camping, playing pinochle, rodeos and was a jokester.

Survivors include his wife of the home; two sons, William Russell of Ponca City and George Russell of Houston, Texas; a daughter, Kathryn Bush of Ponca City; and three grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Denice; a son, Larry Russell; a grandson; and two sisters.

Honorary casket bearers will be all of his friends.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the American Diabetes Association, 4910 South Ash, Casper, Wyo. 82601 or to the charity of choice.

Gary E. Magner

WICHITA, Kan. — Gary E. Magner, former resident of Ponca City, died Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2001. He was 64.

The funeral will be held 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 15, 2001, at the First Baptist Church of Haysville, Kan. Burial will be in the Resthaven Gardens of Memory in Wichita, Kan., under the direction of Resthaven Mortuary.

Gary E. Magner was born June 15, 1936, in Ponca City, the son of Carlton Earl and Frances Wooley Magner.

Survivors include his wife, Phyllis of the home; two sons, Gary L. Magner and Robert H. Magner, both of Wichita; a daughter, Teresa L. Rosendale of Houston, Texas; two brothers, Ronald W. Manger of Drumright and Duane N. Magner of Ponca City; a sister, Sharon C. Drake of Ponca City; 14 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Nancy Geneva Jenkins Davis

ARKANSAS CITY, Kan. — Nancy Geneva Jenkins Davis, resident of Arkansas City, Kan., died Thursday, Jan. 11, 2001, at the Presbyterian Manor Health Care Center. She was 90.

The funeral is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Monday, Jan. 15, 2001, at the Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home with the Rev. James Newman officiating. Burial will be in the Riverview Cemetery.

Nancy Geneva Jenkins Davis was born Sept. 8, 1910, in Kay County, the daughter of Thomas E. and Myrtle C. “Lottie” Gregory Jenkins. She was reared and educated in the Kay County and Bixby areas. On Sept. 2, 1930, she married Samuel F. Davis in Newkirk. The couple made their home in the Newkirk area for a short time before moving to Arkansas City in 1931. She was a homemaker and a member of the First Assembly of God Church.

Survivors include two sons, Gary Jenkins of Arkansas City and Tom Jenkins of Jennings, La.; two daughters, Delores Guilinger of Olathe, Kan., and Jollene Hunt of Arkansas City; 10 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband in 1993, a brother and sister, and one grandchild.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First Assembly of God Church, c/o Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home, 100 E. Kansas Avenue, Arkansas City, Kan. 67005.

Obituaries

Latita Ann Held

Latita Ann “Ty” Held, resident of Bartlesville, died Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2001, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 75.

The funeral will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 13, 2001, at the Trout Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Dr. Michael Kear, pastor of Friendship Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will follow at Longwood Cemetery. A memorial service will be held 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2001, at the 55 Plus Activity Center in Bartlesville.

Ty was born Jan. 17, 1925, in Ponca City to John Wesley and Cora Ell (Merrick) Wittmer. She graduated Ponca City High School in 1943. She married Edward Carlisle Held Jr. on June 17, 1943, in Fort Smith, Ark. She worked as a “Rosie the Riveter” during World War II. They lived in Ponca City, Norman and Okeene in Oklahoma; Kansas City, Kan.; Borger and Waco in Texas and moved to Bartlesville in 1958.

She was a homemaker and fine seamstress who enjoyed refinishing antique furniture, collecting different items, tap dancing, line dancing, clogging and square dancing. She loved being active in the community, teaching aquacise at the Bartlesville YMCA and assisting at the Bartlesville 55 Plus Activity Center. Her group of dancers were known as Ty’s Tappers. They performed for senior citizens in the northern Oklahoma area. She was a member of the Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church in Bartlesville.

Survivors include her friend and companion Martin Cines of Bartlesville; two sons, Steven E. Held and his wife Gail of Hot Springs Village, Ark. and John D. Held and his wife Carolyn of Bauxite, Ark.; two daughters, Jennifer L. Knode and her husband Steven of Gering, Neb., and Karen L. Held-Daniel of Plano, Texas; six grandchildren, Elizabeth Amanda Gernand, Melissa Clayton, Rebecca Knode, Lindsey Daniel, Evonda Wingfield and LouCindy Held; three great-grandchildren, Whitney Gernand, Landon Gernand and Taylor Gernand; two sisters, Ynette Stevens of Ponca City and Linda Harney of Ponca City; two brothers, Keith Wittmer of Ponca City and Harold Wittmer of Springfield, Ill.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Edward Carlisle Held Jr. on July 28, 1987; and one brother, Ralph Wittmer.

Memorials may be made to the Bartlesville YMCA Aquacise Program, 101 North Osage, Bartlesville, Okla. 74003 or to the American Cancer Society, Kay County Chapter, P.O. Box 1151, Ponca City, Okla. 74602.

paid obituary

Services Pending

Thelma Maupin

NEWKIRK — Thelma Maupin, longtime Newkirk resident, died Friday morning, Jan. 12, 2001, in the Newkirk Nursing Center. She was 91. Survivors include her son, Gary Maupin of Newkirk. Arrangements are pending with Miller-Stahl Funeral Service.

Albert Struble

Albert Struble, 8817 Fields Road, died Friday, Jan. 12, 2001, at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 82. Survivors include his wife Maxine of the home. The family will be at 2808 Avon. Arrangements are pending with the Trout Funeral Home.

Jewell Baker

TONKAWA — Jewell Baker, resident of Tonkawa, died Thursday morning, Jan. 11, 2001, in the Willow Haven Nursing Home. She was 88. Arrangements are pending with McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home.

NEWS BRIEFS

Training Session — Are you interested in teaching someone to read? Come to the tutor training session on Jan. 15 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Library Programming Room. Contact the Ponca City Area Literacy Office at 767-0351 for more information.

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Ponca Bowl Saturday night

glow bowl will begin at 10 pm on

January 13th and 20th due to

men’s city tournament. adv.

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Women’s Luncheon — All area women are invited to come to the “SPECtacular” luncheon on Jan. 17, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., at the Ponca City Country Club. Sponsored by the Ponca City Christian Women’s Club, cost is $8.50. Call Jeanette, 580-765-8427, for reservations for the luncheon and complementary childcare. It is necessary for reservations to be honored, canceled or used by a friend.

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Jim Bowen Construction­ Cus-

tom homes, room additions and

remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv.

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Burglary — A city employee reported to Ponca City police at 7:53 a.m. Thursday a lock had been broken on a gate at Ponca City’s Animal Control, 2501 East Central Avenue. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

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Sale! 20%, 50%, 70% savings.

Kids/Her Review. adv.

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Accident — An accident at the intersection of East Brookfield Avenue and North Fifth Street was reported to Ponca City police at 11:54 a.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

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Free Pregnancy test. Birth

Choice cares. Confidential.

Hours: Monday 1-3 p.m., Tuesday,

6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and

Thursday, 6-8 p.m. 700 West

Broadway. 765-9689. adv.

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Subject Held — A Ponca City booking officer reported a 30-year-old man had been court committed to city jail on a Kay County warrant at 2:36 p.m. Thursday.

Accident — A Ponca City booking officer reported an 18-year-old man was being transferred into the city jail from the Tonkawa Police Department on city warrants for failure to appear and failure to obey at 12:15 p.m. Thursday.

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Bicycle repairs at Parkside Bi-

cycles. 765-3230. adv.

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Burglary — A man in the 300 block of South Birch Street reported his vehicle had been broken into to Ponca City police at 1:44 p.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

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Kids Review now accepting

children’s spring/summer con-

signments. adv.

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Child Abuse — An employee at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center reported to Ponca City police at 12:09 a.m. Friday the hospital was treating a 1-month-old baby with bruises. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. A Department of Human Services worker also responded to the scene.

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Valentine Special. Manicures

$13, pedicures $25. Call Michelle

at Hair Etc. 762-4247. adv.

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Subject Held — A Ponca City booking officer in the 400 block of West Emporia reported a 29-year-old woman was booked into city jail for injury to a minor child at 3:50 p.m. Thursday.

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Dougan's Bar-B-Q Friday spe-

cial from 4-8 p.m., all you can eat

ribs with beans, potato salad and

coleslaw, $8.49. 215 South 14th,

765-7979. adv.

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Gas Drive-Off — A clerk at Citgo Short Stop No. 1, 400 East South Avenue, reported a $23 gas drive-off to Ponca City police at 7:14 p.m. Thursday. A description was given of the vehicle and suspect. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

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Cheryl (Red) has moved from

Barney’s to South Avenue and

14th. Arney’s. adv.

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Gas Drive-Off — A clerk at Ronny’s Westbury Market, 2911 North Union Street reported a $34 gas drive-off to Ponca City police at 7:33 p.m. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

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Court Allen Construction.

Brick, flagstone, concrete, walk-

way’s, patios and planters. Call

765-2720. adv.

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Theft — A woman in the 300 block of West Fresno Avenue reported a stolen dog house to Ponca City police at 9:04 p.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

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Pauline’s Steak and shrimp

dinner. $11.95. Friday 12th. For

reservations call 765-5460. adv.

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Accident — A two-vehicle accident at the intersection of Bradley Avenue and North Fourteenth Street was reported to Ponca City police at 9:19 p.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

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Head Country Saturday night

special. All you can eat beef bris-

ket with beans, potato salad and

coleslaw, $7.49. All day. 1217 East

Prospect. adv.

RELIGION

Newly Elected Officers Installed at First Lutheran
Upgrade Marriage Workshop Offered At Asbury Church
Church Briefs

Newly Elected Officers Installed at First Lutheran

The worship theme for the month of January at First Lutheran Church is “kindness.” At both the 8:30 and 11 a.m. services Sunday, the Rev. Tom Ramsey will utilize that theme in his sermon entitled “Kindness in the Ordinary.”

The Senior Choir will amplify the focus with its anthem “For the Fruits of His Creation.”

A special aspect of the service will be the installation of the newly elected officers of the congregation for 2001. The officers who served last year will also be recognized. Following is a list of the officers and their positions: Brad Brunkow, president; David Mueller, vice president; Marcella Matthews, recording secretary; Carla McGregor, assistant recording secretary; David Krottinger, treasurer; Aaron Gard, assistant treasurer; Glen Hildebrand, chairman of property administration; Eric Kurtz, chairman of the church foundation; Marilyn Laramy, chairman of the school foundation; and Richard Laramy, parliamentarian.

The board of elders will be A. Lloyd Gelmers, David Helton, Anthony Peters, Ron Wells, Glenn Bacher, Earl Krieg, Jim Stigge, Floyd Treiber, A.L. Anderson, Hoe Bates, Ellwyn Thomas and Don Young.

Board of stewardship is comprised of Jay Hibbs, Herb Hinkle, Jim Hinton, Glen Hoecker and Jack Rawlins.

Board of evangelism consists of Kathleen Chambers, Angela Correll, Bob Deitrick, Linda Groth, and Darla Turney.

Don Kelle, Jana Krottinger, Dave Cashon, Jane McKinzie, Ron Roehl and Curt Wilson make up the board of parochial education while Cheryl Danek, Barbara Mayer, Paula McDaniel, Tonya Crawford, Cynthia Wilson and Renee Young make up the board of parish education.

Marilyn Bacher, Lloyd Brown, Bambi Correll, Lisa Mena and Diana Vaughan are on the board of youth ministry, and Don Matthews, Beverly Roedel, Mildred Treiber, Janet Ebbesson and Marilyn Laramy are on the board of care ministries.

The evening service at 6:30 will continue the topic of prayer with discussion on intercession. This informal service is an excellent opportunity to share cares and needs with fellow Christians. All are welcome at athe services.

Upgrade Marriage Workshop Offered At Asbury Church

An Upgrade Your Marriage workshop will be held at Asbury United Methodist Church on Friday and Saturday, Jan. 19 and 20, and will be led by Dr. Mel Whittington. The workshop is limited to 20 couples with a $50 fee; scholarships are available.

This workshop is for all couples who wish to improve their marriages whether young or old couples, married or pre-marriage. This workshop is designed to give help to all couples by providing tools that will enhance and upgrade their marriages.

Whittington points out that Oklahoma has the third highest divorce rate in the nation, falling behind only Nevada and Arkansas.

“The reasons for this are many and complex,” Whittington continues. “Nevertheless, the answers for the thousands who choose to abandon their commitments to a marriage are relatively simple. ... These answers are provided in private marriage/relationship counseling with good results.”

Some of the tools used in the workshop are knowing the purpose of marriage, understanding the impact of the family of origin, realization of the truths about conflicts, and finding freedom in taking responsibility for oneself — only. Other tools include being aware of the barriers to intimacy, knowing what their partner’s needs are, and being aware of the power patterns in marriage.

In a group setting, learning from each other and other couples without risk, these tools are given, explained and illustrated.

Over the last several years, Whittington has focused on researching, designing, and successfully implement preventative programs for families and various organizations. He is a licensed professional counselor in clinical practice and a consultant to businesses, churches and schools.

He has been a researcher/ instructor at the University of Minnesota, University of South Carolina, Oklahoma Baptist University and Tulsa Community College. . Currently, he is the minister of equipping ministries at Will Rogers United Methodist Church in Tulsa.

The workshop is from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturday. To reserve a space, call 762-2062.

Church Briefs

Women’s Aglow

Women’s Aglow, a network of caring women from all church denominations, extends an invitation to all women to hear guest speaker Pat Sullivan from Spoken Word Ministries from 9:30 a.m. to noon Saturday. The event will be held at High Impact, 309 S. Magnolia, in Newkirk. Its mission is to lead women to Jesus Christ and to provide an opportunity for growth in faith and ministry to others.

Hartford Avenue

Church of Christ

Members of the Hartford Avenue Church of Christ, 1905 Joe Street, invite the public to share God’s Word each week. Sunday Bible classes are at 9:30 a.m. followed by worship service at 10:30 a.m. Sunday evening worship is at 6 o’clock and Wednesday worship is at 7 p.m. There are classes for all ages. Watch the Search program Sunday at 8 a.m. on Channels 5 or 8; this week’s topic is No Miracles in the 20th Century Church? The Bible thought for the week is from Psalm 37:18 — “The Lord knows the days of the blameless; and their inheritance will be forever.”

Dr. Bob L Blackburn to Speak

Dr. Bob L. Blackburn, executive director of the Oklahoma Historical Society, will be the speaker for the First Presbyterian Church’s Midweek program Wednesday evening. A covered dish supper will be served at 5:30 p.m., followed by the program at 6:20 p.m. Blackburn will speak about the New Historical Building to be located near the state capital and will share some historical facts about Oklahoma. The public is invited to join the members for the Midweek dinner and program.

Celebrate the Legacy

The First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), 210 North Fifth Street, will participate in the annual pulpit exchange in celebration of the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by exchanging with New Life Baptist Church. The Rev. James Williams, pastor of New Life Baptist Church will preach at both the 8:30 and 10:30 services at First Christian while the Rev. Kent Dorsey will preach at the 11 a.m. service at new Life Baptist Church, 301 South Waverly. It is hoped that there will be some “pew exchanging” as well as the pulpit exchange Sunday.

Prince of Peace Lutheran

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, ELCA, at 2800 Turner Rd., will celebrate the second Sunday after the Epiphany. The gospel lesson will be from the second chapter of John which tells of Jesus’ first miracle — turning water into wine and revealing God’s presence and power in and through Jesus. Sunday school begins at 9 a.m. and worship service is at 10 a.m. During the worship service, new members will be received and the newly elected church council will be installed. Visit the church’s website at www.princeofpeacechurch.net.

International Gospel Hour

The Newkirk Church of Christ sponsors the International Gospel Hour heard each Sunday on KSOK 95.9 FM at 8:30 a.m. The speaker is Winford Claiborne and the program is heard on many stations across the country.

EDUCATION

New Programs To Debut This Fall at Pioneer Tech
Federal Program To Benefit Local Public School Students
Finch Receives Doctorate Degree
Director’s Corner
School News

New Programs To Debut This Fall at Pioneer Tech

Pioneer Technology Center (PTC) Board of Education held its regular scheduled meeting Tuesday and discussed the future of PTC.

After establishing a quoram, a special presentation was given by Arlene Stauffer from the Career Counseling Center (CCC). Stauffer's presentation began with details of the upcoming Sophomore Tour Day scheduled for Jan. 26. Approximately 600 area high school students are expected to tour the 15 PTC daytime programs.

In addition to the tour, special activities are also scheduled for the students. Other activities planned in the CCC include a Counselor Luncheon for all sending school counselors scheduled for Jan. 18.

After approving all routine items, which included minutes from the December 12 meeting, encumbrances, treasurer's report, and activities fund report, Board members approved the employment of Darin Killough as Curriculum Specialist and Pam Wilson as Part-time Nursing Instructor. The Board voted five to zero to renew the contract for Dr. Doug Major as Superintendent/CEO for the 2001-2002 school year.

“I am pleased to have the full support of the PTC Board,” said Major. “I feel this is a reflection of the confidence that the Board has in the PTC staff and the direction we are headed.”

In the Superintendent's Report, Major discussed two new programs proposed for PTC next fall. These two programs are Information Technology and the Industrial Technology with a Mechanical Maintenance emphasis.

The Information Technology program will have an initial emphasis on network administration and troubleshooting and web design. Through the completion of the IT program, students will have the opportunity to obtain certification from CompTia, Novell, and Microsoft.

The Industrial Technology program is currently being developed through a partnership between industry and education. This program will lead to an Associates Degree that will allow students to specialize in Print Reading, Welding, Metallurgy, Mechanical Equipment, Machining, Hydraulics, and Electricity and Electronics. Major stated that additional information on both programs will be presented at the next PTC Board meeting.

Other items approved were short-term and temporary contracts and purchases over $5,000 for instructional materials to incorporate the teaching of Power Products in the Vocational Career program. The Power Products program will allow students to gain skills in small gas repair.

The meeting adjourned at 8:47 p.m. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Feb. 13.

Federal Program To Benefit Local Public School Students

A federal program called GEAR UP is making possible many programs and activities in Ponca City Public Schools that will help students better prepare for college.

GEAR UP stands for Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs and its primary goal is to prepare, encourage and make it possible for students to pursue and succeed in their post-secondary education.

In August 1999, the U.S. Department of Education awarded the state of Oklahoma a five-year GEAR UP grant totaling 20.5 million. Thirty Oklahoma school districts were selected by the State Regents to participate in the GEAR UP program for year one and Ponca City was one of these school districts.

Many efforts are being made to reach the goals of GEAR UP in Ponca City’s Public Schools. Strategies have been devised to address the needs for academic intervention services, school staff training, information about post-secondary preparation, and for student career exploration opportunities at Ponca City Senior High, West Middle and East Middle School.

One strategy that is currently being implemented at Ponca City Senior High, East Middle and West Middle, to address the need for academic intervention services, is the creation of tutoring programs at these schools.

A variety of tutoring services will be provided for students through this program such as group tutoring and one-on-one tutoring primarly int he subject areas of math, English and reading.

Tutoring services will be available during the school day in specific classes and possibly after school. GEAR UP is looking for volunteers to provide these tutoring services to students at these schools.

Training is provided for all volunteers.

Also, if qualified, volunteers can take advantage of a program called Smart Start, which is an AmeriCorps program that helps support programs that promote educational success. Smart Start allows its members to receive an Education Award for doing community service for a program in Oklahoma that promotes educational success.

A minimum of 425 hours must be served in one calendar year to receive an Education Award for $1,181.25 and a minimum of 900 hours must be served in one calendar year to receive an Education Award for $2,362.50. Education Awards can be used towards current college costs, student loans, graduate or professional school.

If interested in volueering as a tutor or for more information about GEAR UP or Smart Start, please contact Patricia Salyer, AmeriCorps VISTA/GEAR UP Local District Coordinator, at 767-9500, ext. 234.

Finch Receives Doctorate Degree

Mary Beth Finch, a 1984 graduate of Ponca City High School, has received a doctorate degree from American University in Washington, D.C. She lives in Arlington, Va. Previously, she has graduated magna cum laude from Rice University in Houston with a double major in psychology and behavioral science. She also received a master’s degree in social psychology from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, a master’s degree in international communications and a doctorate degree in international relations, both with a concentration in China studies, from American University.

Finch lives in Arlington, Va., with her husband Paul and two sons Nicholas and Ethan. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Finch of Ponca City.

Director’s Corner

by Dr. Brenda Stacy. Director University Learning Center of Northern Oklahoma

Happy New Year from the University Learning Center of Northern Oklahoma. We wish you a prosperous new year in 2001 and the services offered by the ULC can help ensure that it is.

Service 1

Most of our students are working adults who have family and job responsibilities and who may have some anxiety about going back to school. We often hear people say, “I just want to take a class or two to see if I can still learn.” So, we try to help as much as possible with the enrollment process — getting transcripts for students, connecting them with advisors, completing applications and following up on the enrollment process at the various institutions.

If we don’t offer the class or program a student needs, we will search the Internet and other resources in an effort to locate what is needed.

Service 2

The degree programs and classes delivered to the ULC are in response to needs identified by employers or citizens within Ponca City or the surrounding communities. These needs are identified through surveys, ULC Advisory Council input, and one-on-one discussions with employers. If you have a need, you can let us know by calling the ULC at 762-2856.

When specific classes are available that might be of special interest to local businesses, we advertise these through the newspaper, radio, our website or personal faxes to businesses. Two such courses are available for college credit for the spring semester:

Elementary Spanish on Monday and Wednesday from 5 to 6:20 p.m., and Fundamentals of Supervision on Wednesday from 5:45 to 8:30 p.m.

Students may still enroll in these courses by calling 762-2856.

Service 3

The CEO “Executive” Computer Classes are confidential classes designed for the executive who would like to become more comfortable in the use of a computer. Classes are two hours per session and the group decides the topics and number of sessions. Beth Purvis with Pioneer Technology Center coordinates and provides instruction for these classes.

Service 4

The ULC is again partnering with Pioneer Technology Center to offer the Computer Mini-Sessions this semester. Monday classes will meet from 6 to 8 p.m. beginning Jan. 15 and Friday classes will meet from 9 to 11 a.m. starting Jan. 19. Each class runs for 10 sessions for $50. Class size is limited to 12 students.

Service 5

Employers may provide up to $5,250 per employee per year for the employee to take undergraduate courses and the employer will receive a tax break for the same amount. The student receives the assistance as non-taxed income. This is a WIN-WIN situation for the employer and the employee! More information and Educational Assistance Plan Templates are available at the ULC!

For more information about any of our programs or services, give us a call at 762-2856. We are located in the North Tower of the Conoco Complex. Enter Gate F from South Avenue in Ponca City.

School News

Chambray Makes Honor Roll

Eric Chambray, a 2000 Po-Hi graduate, was recently named to the President’s Honor Roll at the University of Central Oklahoma. Eric’s motehr is Beverly Chambray of Ponca City.

Parker Graduates

D. Graham Parker recently graduated from Oklahoma State University with a bachelor’s degree in science. His parents are Suzanne Williams and Tom Williams of Owasso and David Parker of Ponca City. Grandparents include Mary Jo Goins of Ponca City, Mr. and Mrs. Rick Parker of Stillwater and the late Bush Goins Jr.

Weber Interns

Tricia Laine Weber, daughter of Dr. Randy and Jana Weber of Ponca City, has graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a bachelor’s degree in English. She is served as an intern teacher last fall.

Franseen Named Scholar

Desiree Franseen, a student at Po-Hi, has been named an All-American Scholar. Desiree is the daughter of Karen Franseen and Craig Franseen of Ponca City.

UCO Honor Roll

Cara Kem, daughter of Bill and Suzanne Kem, has been named to the President’s Honor Roll from the University of Central Oklahoma.

White Graduates

Kerri Kathleen White recently graduated summa cum laude from Oklahoma Baptist University. Kerri received a bachelor’s degree in mathematics education.

No School

School will not be held in Ponca City on Monday and Tuesday, Jan. 15 and 16 for Strand Days.

LIFESTYLES

Laureate Phi Chapter Meets, Supports Funding Requests
Xi Gamma Sigma Chapter Meets
Little News

Laureate Phi Chapter Meets, Supports Funding Requests

Laureate Phi chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority members held their first meeting of the new millennium in the home of Virginia Starks with Roberta Streeter presiding. Cohostess for the meeting was Velma Case.

Members were asked to vote on the six requests for funding for the next three years. International Beta Sigma Phi has been asked to fund Alzheimer’s Research, St Jude’s Research, A. T. Children’s Research, Breast Cancer Research, Scholarship Fund, and Disaster Fund. Laureate Phi approved all six funds for the next three years . Chapter members also voted to contribute to the Endowment Fund this year.

Secret sisters names were drawn for the new year with each member receiving a new secret sister for this year. Alice Beman was chosen as the Valentine Queen for the chapter.

The program was given by Virginia Starks on “Breast Cancer: myths and Realities.” A quiz was given to the members to test their knowledge about breast cancer. She said, “Breast cancer is the most common cancer in U. S. women. Every woman is at risk. Doctors agree that when it come to fighting the disease prevention should be emphasized over treatment.” It was also noted that rising estrogen levels may facilitate this disease after it has developed.

Members engaged in an enlightening discussion regarding their experiences with this disease. One member remembers a program given 25 years ago by this same chapter on the same topic and a professional was in attendance to show how to do the self exam. She felt this had been of great service to her family, and now a granddaughter is also being made aware of the importance of monthly self examination due to that program.

The next meeting will be held at Elsie Rosenbaum’s home on Jan 22. It is slated as “The Real Millennium Party.”

Xi Gamma Sigma Chapter Meets

Xi Gamma Sigma Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority met Jan. 8 in the home of Donna Ross with 16 members present. The business meeting was conducted by Lynda Voss, president, who led the members in the opening ritual, which was followed by roll call.

Ms. Voss reported that the Valentine’s Dance will be held Feb. 10 at the American Legion. Xi Gamma Sigma chapter will be in charge of printing and distributing invitations and arranging for a photographer. Pam Sober volunteered to print the invitation and Sue Waggerman will contact a photographer.

Betty Jones, owner of Hummingbird Studio, presented the program, telling about her work as an artist, and showed examples of her work. Members were reminded to collect toiletry items to be donated to the Domestic Violence Shelter.

The Jan. 23 meeting will be held in the home of Barbara Ashlock at 6:30 p.m. The social committee will provide a soup and salad supper preceding a White Elephant exchange.

Little News

Somiah Racshel Lugo

Jovanni and Lee Lugo, 542 North Eighth, announce the birth of a daughter at 9:43 a.m. Dec. 22, 2000, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. Somiah Racshel Lugo weighed 5 pounds, 3 ounces, and measured 19 inches long. She has a brother, Xavier Joshua Lugo.

Maternal grandparents are Antonio and Josephine Conchos of Ponca City, and paternal grandparents are Charlie and Carrie Cude of Jones. Great-grandmother is Maria Aguilar of Wichita Falls, Texas.

SPORTS

Cat Matmen Pound Bruins
Swimmers Take On Norman
Lady Mavs Rating May Be Rising
Poor Shooting Hurting Mavs

Cat Matmen Pound Bruins

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

BARTLESVILLE — Perhaps the best thing about the Wildcat wrestlers’ 53-20 win over Bartlesville Thursday is that Bartlesville is closer for their trip to Sand Springs.

The Cats entered the Sand Spring Tournament today, or at least some of them did. Po-Hi coach Todd Steidley said he was sending some of his varsity grapplers to a tournament at Grove.

“They are guaranteed five matches at Grove,” he said after the pounding of the Bruins. “That will give them more experience.”

He is sending 14 Wildcats to Grove while the remainder of his group will tackle some of the toughest teams in the Tulsa area at Sand Springs.

That tournament started at 1 p.m. today with another session at 6. Saturday’s rounds will be at 12:20 and 6:30.

Steidley said he has his team down to weight, but the effort has taken its toll. Both Shawn Lee and Toby RedLeaf sat out Thursday’s dual with Bartlesville.

They weren’t really needed as the undermanned Bruins gave up four forfeits. Ponca City added three falls and two major decisions to the bonus points.

“These kids have beaten Bartlesville so often its hard for them to get up for this match,” Steidley said. “But they wrestled hard.”

Bartlesville forfeited three of the first four matches and with Brian Womble’s 10-2 major decision at 112, the Poncans were off to a quick 22-0 lead.

Barlesville won a fall at 130 pounds and got a forfeit at 140 to sandwich most of their points around a 3-0 decision by Aaron Brooks at 135.

Matt Littleton got 1:19 fall at 145 and the Poncans received their forth forfeit at 152 to stretch the lead to 37-12.

The Bruins won a major decision at 160 before Jason Leavitt won a 15-7 major decision at 171 and Joey Childers pinned on a fall at 189..

Bartlesvilel got its final points with a major at 215 but Ponca City heavyweight Tyler Fezer added the Wildcats punctionation mark with a fall.

RESULTS

103 — Davis (PC) fft

112 — Womble (PC) md Wilson, 10-2

119 — Kelly (PC) fft

125 — Miller (PC) fft

130 — Mattix (B) p. Oswalt, 5:14

135 — Brooks (PC) d. Conditt, 3-0

140 — Benson (B) fft

145 — Littleton (PC) p, Nagele, 1:19

152 — Lockett (PC) fft

160 — Remington (B) md Pappan, 11-1

171 — Leavitt (PC) md Bloxon, 15-7

189 — Childers PC) p. Williams, 3:45

215 — Raymond (B) md Arbetha, 15-5

Hwt — Fezer (PC) p. Cantrell, 2:45

Swimmers Take On Norman

The Ponca City Wildcats’ swim team took to the water in a dual meet against Norman and Norman North high schools here Thursday. The boys won their meet, while the girls lost to Norman North, the No. 6 team in Oklahoma but beat Norman.

Coach Dave Strah said both teams swam well. He said the last dual meet was Dec. 1. In the past, he has been a dual in mid-December, but this year, the coach opted to concentrate more on training than meets.

“I think it worked out good,” Strah said. “This was probably the best they’ve swam so far.

The Wildcats improved to 6-3. The Lady Cats are 4-6, losing to teams ranked first, fourth and sixth in the state.

The Wildcats beat Norman, 61-6, and Norman North, 44-31. The Lady Wildcats beat Norman, 64-16, and narrowly lost to Norman North, 47-39.

The final meet at home is set for Feb. 1, which will be Senior Day.

Lady Wildcat Meet Results

200 Meter Medley Relay (2:15.59)

2 — PCHS-A 2:18.21 SQ

Kayla Mills, Andra Nuzum, Sunita Chahar, Catherine Sonnichsen

4 — PCHS-B 2:31.79

Elizabeth Tucker, Sarah VanArsdale, Erin Goddard, Anita Bilyeu

200 Meter Freestyle (2:20.55)

2 — Kayla Mills 2:24.48 SQ

4 — Lindsey Mersman 2:37.65

200 Meter IM (2:41.49)

1 — Marie Brown 2:41.49 SQ

3 — Sarah VanArsdale 3:21.64

50 Meter Freestyle (29.40)

1 — Catherine Sonnichsen 29.40 SQ

5 — Elizabeth Tucker 32.05

100 Meter Butterfly (1:13.41)

4 — Andra Nuzum 1:24.50

5 — Erin Goddard 1:27.58

100 Meter Freestyle (1:06.23)

1 — Catherine Sonnichsen 1:06.23 SQ

4 — Lindsey Mersman 1:10.48

10 — Linda Mena 1:37.02

500 Meter Freestyle (1:06.49)

2 — Marie Brown 6:26.41 SQ

4 — Erin Goddard 7:12.45

200 Meter Freestyle Relay (2:05.45)

1 — PCHS A 2:05.45

Catherine Sonnichsen, Marie Brown, Lindsey Mersman, Kayla Mills

2 — PCHS B 2:07.68 SQ

Andra Nuzum, Elizabeth Tucker, Sunita Chahar, Anita Bilyeu

100 Meter Backstroke (1:12.81)

2 — Kayla Mills 1:14.86 SQ

3 — Andra Nuzum 1:23.51

100 Meter Breaststroke (1:22.90)

2 — Sunita Chahar 1:27.15

5 — Sarah VanArsdale 1:45.55

400 Meter Freestyle Relay (4:31.12)

2 — PCHS A 4:46.37 SQ

Marie Brown, Erin Goddard, Lindsey Mersman, Anita Bilyeu

Wildcat Race Results

100 Meter Freestyle (1:00.46)

1 — Matthew Dickey 1:00.46 SQ

4 — Michael Gamble 1:14.58

500 Meter Freestyle (6:14.31)

1 — Ashton Herbert 6:14.31

3 — Bryce Dotson 7:07.29

200 Meter Freestyle Relay (1:54.65)

2 — PCHS A 1:55.89 SQ

Ben Dickey, Eric Whitebay, Daniel Robertson, Matthew Dickey

100 Meter Backstroke (1:11.17)

1 — Ben Dickey 1:11.17 SQ

2 — Michael Gamble 1:31.46

100 Meter Breaststroke (1:17.45)

3 — Ashton Herbert 1:22.89

5 — Daniel Robertson 1:33.80

200 Meter Medley Relay (2:09.81)

1 — PCHS 2:09.81

Ben Dickey, Ashton Herbert, Matthew Dickey, Eric Whitebay

200 Meter Freestyle (2:14.50)

1 — Eric Whitebay 2:14.50 SQ

3 — Bryce Dotson 2:35.57

50 Meter Freestyle (27.44)

1 — Matthew Dickey 27.44 SQ

4 — Daniel Robertson 30.82

100 Meter Butterfly (1:08.47)

Eric Whitebay 1:08.47 SQ

400 Freestyle Medley (4:22.85)

2 — PCHS A 4:22.85

Ben Dickey, Bryce Dotson, Daniel Robertson, Ashton Herbert

Winning times in parentheses next to event. SQ indicates State Qualifying time.

Lady Mavs Rating May Be Rising

MUSKOGEE — The Northern Oklahoma College Lady Mavericks should be closer to finding itself among the top 25 teams in the nation after defeating No. 26 Bacone, 66-50.

NOC extended its record to 13-1 overall and 5-0 in conference play. Bacone is 5-2. Northeast Oklahoma is the other team to beat Bacone.

The Lady Mavs travel to Miami Jan. 20 for a huge game against NEO, which is also undefeated in the conference.

“Bacone is a tough ball club,” coach Greg Krause said. “This was a big win for us.

“I thought our girls protected the ball and used the shot clock well.”

He said the Lady Mavs led most of the game, but let Bacone hang less than 10 points behind.

“It was a close game until the last four minutes,” he said. “We opened the game up in the last three or four minutes”

He said Bacone began pressing as the clock ticked down to zero in the second half. However, the pressing defense didn’t work against the Lady Mavs and Bacone was forced to foul.

“We hit 14 out of 16 free throws and that really made the difference,” Krause said. “They really shot well from the free throw line.”

NOC led 34-31 after the first half, then held Bacone to only 19 points in the second.

“Any time you hold the other team to less than 50 points, the defense is playing good,” Krause said.

Krause said sophomore B. J. Homer hit four 3-point shots for the bulk of her 19 points. Sophomore LaQueisha Dickerson followed close behind with 16 points. Freshman Ashley Hewitt was perfect from the line and made six of her points 11 points the hard way, one at a time.

Another freshman, Erin Goss, scored six points. Krause said, “... she did a good job defensively and on the boards.:

Sophomore Lindsey Shiever scored five points and Angela King, another freshman, put in four.

Sophomore Andrew only made three points, but she played the entire game with no fouls. Krause had not reviewed the film and figured statistics, but said Andrew “ ... had a ton of blocked shots. Homer and Andrew played their normal good game that we depend on.”

Poor Shooting Hurting Mavs

By TED ATCHLEY

NOC Sports Information

MUSKOGEE — The Northern Oklahoma Mavericks dropped a Thursday night game against Bacone by a score of 71-55 after being down by two at the half. “We can’t shoot the basketball when it counts,” said head coach Mick Weiberg.

“What really kills us is the freethrow line.” The Mavericks were 12 of 22 from the foul line Thursday, one of several elements of the Mavericks’ game that has plagued them all season.

The Mavs turned the ball over 12 times.

“We had eight unforced turnovers in the Þrst half,” Weiberg said. “Dumb mistakes.

“Bacone played a hard game and they deserved to win on the basis of how we played.

“But are they a better team? I don’t think so.”

Weiberg said his team has been struggling with the little things. The free throw line has been an obstacle, as well as offensive rebounds.

“We’re struggling to keep teams off the boards.”

The Mavericks only downed one 3-pointer, compared to Bacone’s seven treys.

“In our hearts I don’t know if we have the drive to pick it up and do it,” Weiberg commented. “We’re making too many non-conÞdence errors, which leads to a lack of concentration. That’s where the little things sneak up on you and pull you down.”

Weiberg said that his defense tends to play well for the Þrst 20 seconds on the shot clock, but breaks down in the Þnal 10.

“We can’t give it up like that and expect to stop anybody.”

Edmond sophomores Richie Myers and Scott Prater were the only Mavericks in double Þgures. Myers had 17 points on the night and found himself on the bench with foul trouble for nearly 11 minutes in the Þrst half. He fouled out late in the game. Prater earned 18 points on the night.

The Mavericks will face off at home on Monday against Connors State, a match-up that the Mavericks have won nine times out of the last 10 meetings.

“They are big and shoot the ball well,” Weiberg said of the Cowboys. “It will be interesting to see if we can face up to the challenge of this rivalry.”

The Lady Mavericks will open things up Monday at 6 pm in Foster-Piper Fieldhouse in Tonkawa with the Mavericks taking the court at 8 pm for the conference contest.