LOCAL

Juvenile Boys Arrested For Slashing Tires
Stieber Top Officer for 2000
Leonard Files For Re-election
Nearly News
Po-Hi Orchestra Concert Tonight
Lincoln Elementary Expansion Receives Unanimous Approval
Eagle Watchers View Majestic Birds
Flu Vaccine Is Available In Kay County

Juvenile Boys Arrested For Slashing Tires

Two juvenile boys were taken into custody Monday night in connection with a string of tire slashing in Ponca City, according to police.

The boys, a 10-year-old and a 14-year-old, were taken into custody after the boys were “caught-in-the-act” by a local resident in the 2600 block of North Fifth Street. Police were called at 8:25 p.m. in reference to the ensuing argument that took place at the scene.

Police notes reflect that the boys may have been responsible for as many as 27 other tire slashings over the last two nights. Because vandalism is a misdemeanor and because of the age of the suspects involved, the case will be referred to the city’s juvenile court. If found guilty, restitution will likely be sought on behalf of the victims.

According to Sherry Bowers, police information officer, police were called to the scene after receiving a call about a fight in progress at the Windsor Apartments, 2600 North Fifth Street.

“When Police arrived, it was discovered that an altercation had taken place between the victim of a tire slashing and one of the suspects in a string of vandalisms,” said Bowers. The other suspect, who had fled the scene, was later found by police. The suspects were transported to the police department, then released to their parents.

The investigation is continuing.

Stieber Top Officer for 2000

Lt. Bob Stieber, a 16-year veteran of the Ponca City Police Department, was named Officer of the Year for the year 2000 at Monday night’s city commission meeting.

Stieber, who was selected from a list of four other nominees at the department, was selected for his work in leading last July’s double homicide investigation, which resulted in five arrests, and for his consistent dedication and loyalty to the Ponca City Police Department, detective unit and the citizens of Ponca City.

Other officers nominated for the award were Capt. Carl Porter, Master Patrolman Earl Watkins, Sgt. Rod Tavanello and Patrolman Chad Cunningham.

“Lt. Stieber was recognized among his peers for this award,” said Sherry Bowers, department information officer. Many of those peers were on hand to see him receive the award, presented by Mayor Tom Leonard and to congratulate him during the meeting, added Bowers.

“This nomination stems, in part, from the role Lt. Stieber played in the double homicide investigation which began July 6, 2000,” wrote Detective Division Capt. Dwaine Vincent in his nomination letter. “Lt. Stieber was the lead investigator in this case, but was also the detective unit supervisor during my absence throughout a crucial part of this investigation.

“His diligence and persistence as an investigator, combined with his skills to guide the unit in the proper direction, brought a sudden conclusion to what is certainly one of the most heinous crimes ever perpetrated in the city of Ponca City.”

Stieber joined the department in April of 1984 and was first assigned to the patrol division. In January of 1995, he was assigned to the investigation division, and in June of that year was promoted to sergeant. In April of 2000 he was promoted to his current rank of lieutenant.

Leonard Files For Re-election

NEWKIRK — One candidate has officially filed for the office of mayor of Ponca City with the Kay County Election Board, according to officials.

Mayor Tom Leonard, who is running for his second term of office, filed his intentions with the board late Monday morning. Two other announced candidates, Brett Carter and Estle Lampe, have yet to file their declarations.

Candidates must file their official candidacy declarations with the board before 5 p.m. Wednesday to be eligible for the March 6 municipal election.

Nearly News

A reminder for all parents of high school students. Six-week grade cards were distributed last Friday at Po-Hi. Parents can pick them up in the main office for juniors and seniors and the guidance office for freshmen and sophomores.

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Virginia Mair called The News this morning to say she was thrilled the Po-Hi Marching Band laid wreaths at the Arlington National Cemetery on their recent trip to Washington, D.C. Mair said they weren’t too far from her son Eugene Waugh’s grave in the cemetery. She said her son played the French horn for three years at Po-Hi.

Po-Hi Orchestra Concert Tonight

The Ponca City High School Symphony Orchestra will present its Oklahoma Music Educators Association Honor Group Concert tonight at 7:30 p.m. in the Howell Auditorium.

Dan P. Larson, director of High School Orchestras, and Valarie Huffman, assistant director, will conduct this special performance. There will be no admission charge.

Opening the concert will be the “Die Fledermaus Overture” by Johann Strauss II (1825-1899). “Die Fledermaus” is the classic operetta, or “little opera” — refers to a piece of musical theater that is light and tuneful with a strong romantic interest or a comical subject. The characters usually speak their lines between musical numbers, as in straight theater, rather than singing them.

Johann Strauss II (The Waltz King) in Vienna and Jacque Offenbach in Paris were the two grand masters of operetta. This opera was first performed on April 5, 1874, and is considered to be the masterpiece of Strauss’ 15 operettas.

Like all the greatest comedies, it has beneath its surface a serious theme: When do we mean what we say, and how often do we know what we are feeling? Most of the characters spend most of the time being insincere, and some of it in disguise.

The title “Die Fledermaus” hangs on the operetta by no more than a thread. “Fledermaus” (literally “flying mouse”) is German for “bat.” As the story unfolds, it transpires that the character Eisenstein left his friend Dr. Falke asleep at a costume party, obliging Falke to make his way home in broad daylight dressed rather absurdly in a bat’s costume. In actuality, Falke is never seen on stage as a bat in the operetta.

Next on the program will be “Adagio for Strings” by American composer Samuel Barber (1910-1981). This piece was originally the slow movement of Barber’s “String Quartet” (1936), but within a year Barber wrote this famous arrangement for string orchestra.

This version has become one of the most popular classical compositions of the 20th century and possibly the most familiar of Barber’s music. It is based on a restrained but lyric theme with elements of plainchant. The work was first performed in New York on Nov. 5, 1938, by the NBC Orchestra, under the baton of Arturo Toscanini. Its mood of heartfelt sadness has made the “Adagio” a very suitable accompaniment for the state funerals of two American Presidents, Franklin D. Roosevelt and John F. Kennedy. It has also been used in film to suggest the desolation of war at the end of “Platoon” and to express the inner desolation of the deformed John Merryck in “The Elephant Man.”

“Carmen Suite No. 1” by Georges Bizet (1838-1875) will be up next with Valarie Huffman conducting. The opera “Carmen,” considered by some music historians as “a French opera imbued with Spanish gypsy motifs ... a Spanish reflection of a moment in French history,” was an initial failure by opera audiences.

“Carmen Suite No. 1” extracted from the opera following Bizet’s death was premiered March 3, 1875, in Paris. The suite contains the orchestra settings of the more famous passages from the opera.

To complete the concert is Richard Meyer’s “An American Rhapsody.” Exciting, lyrical and highly dramatic, this bold new showcase, published in 1999, has it all. Richard Meyer has fashioned an overture that explores the various sounds of American music. The piece has challenging parts for every section. This work was originally written for Thomas J. Forbes and the Arcadia High School Orchestra.

The Ponca City High School Symphony Orchestra has been selected as an honor group at the 2001 Oklahoma Music Educators Association (OMEA) Convention. The group will perform on Friday, Jan. 26 at 8 p.m. in the downtown Doubletree Hotel. Admission is $5 at the door in Tulsa and everyone is welcome.

Again there is no admission charge for tonight’s performance. However, if you would like to make a donation to defray costs for the overnight trip to Tulsa, those will be accepted.

Lincoln Elementary Expansion Receives Unanimous Approval

By KRISTI HAYES

News Education Editor

Renovation work and expansion at Lincoln Elementary moved to the final stage following Monday night’s regular meeting of the Ponca City Board of Education.

In unanimous approval, the board approved the 90-percent drawings and specifications for the Lincoln Elementary addition. This approval will allow for bids to be received by Feb. 15 for the contract work at Lincoln.

Bids will be received by 4 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 15. The architects will discuss the low bid at the Feb. 19 board meeting for approval. The target date for substantial completion of the cafeteria addition is Aug. 15, 2001, and Oct. 12, 2001, for the classroom addition. Part of the project is for four additional kindergarten classrooms on the west side of the building, with an alternate for a fifth classroom.

Architects Bob Wright and Rusty MeGee of Iwpb Architects and Planners of Oklahoma City are in charge of the renovation and expansion work.

Another part of the project is the addition of some 3,027 square feet for a new cafeteria/multi-purpose area on the east side of the building. The projected cost is between $717,000 to $813,000, including the alternate.

School Calendar

The 2001-2002 school calendar received final approval. During the next school year, students will have a total of 174 student contact dates. The kids will also be out four days for Professional Days, two days for School Improvement, three Teacher Work Days and two Parent/Teacher Conference Dates.

School will start on Wednesday, Aug. 15 and end on Thursday, May 23.

E-Rate Proposals

Several contracts/agreements for e-rate proposals were approved. They included:

— Services for basic telephone services with American Telephone. The district applied for $46,233 from e-rate monies.

— Services for Internet service provider with OneNet for $9,600 in e-rate money.

— Services for leased T1 lines with Southwestern Bell Telephone. The district applied for $28,000.

— Services for long distance carrier, which was awarded to AT&T. The long distance carrier is paid for with funds from the Operations Department budget. The amount sought for e-rate monies are $13,430.28.

— Services for server operating software: This contract was awarded last year to Novell. This contract provides Netware, Zen Works, BorderManager and ManageWise. The district applied for e-rate monies for reimbursement for $10,270.56.

— Services for paging services with Metrocal. It will provide paging services for 15 units for a cost of $1,789.20.

— Services for Lincoln Elementary with network cabling to the new classrooms, the new multi-purpose room and the gym office at Lincoln. The low bid was submitted by Younger Electrical Contractors, Inc. and was for $12,978.

Also approved during Monday’s meeting was a renewal agreement with Union Central Insurance to provide life insurance for all support employees of the Ponca City School District.

The policy provides a $5,000 life insurance policy for all support employees. The premium will be $377 per month.

Because of the City Commissioners meeting Monday night, the entire board meeting can be seen tonight starting at 6:30 p.m. on Cable Channel 11.

Eagle Watchers View Majestic Birds

KAW LAKE — Spotting an eagle was easy even for the casual eagle watcher at the Kaw Lake Eagle Viewing held Saturday. This was because there were more than 168 migrating American Bald Eagles wintering at the lake this year, according to a park ranger count.

Counters believe there may be significantly more eagles in the lake vicinity. The count is triple the number usually recorded at the lake.

Some 300 visitors from across the state attended the one-day event, which offered eagle lovers the opportunity to see the American symbol in its native environment.

Kaw Lake is one of the primary locations in Oklahoma for eagles, according to Mark Howery, a biologist with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation/Wildlife Diversity Program. He indicated Kaw Lake’s size and location is what made the lake popular among eagles.

The day began with guided tours culminating at the Kaw City Community Center for three presentations, during the eagle viewing. Erich Langer, public outreach coordinator for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service began the program with brief remarks on the laws governing eagles and other endangered or threatened species. This included the penalties on everything from killing an eagle to transporting one across state lines.

In the next portion of the lectures was a presentation by Alan Jenkins, assistant director of the Sutton Avian Research Center in Bartlesville. He showed slides describing how they had worked to breed eagles and ended his remarks by bringing in Sequoyah, a resident eagle at the center, to the excitement of young and old alike.

The final presentation during the lectures was given by Howery, who gave a slide presentation on eagles with an informative demonstration by some of the children in attendance to help the audience visualize the enormous wingspan of an eagle.

During the afternoon, presentations moved to the Kaw Hydroelectric Plant at the Kaw Lake Dam. Further guided tours were provided at noon and 2 p.m.

The mission of the Kaw Lake Association is to develop and market the Kaw Lake area with the goal of economic growth for area communities. Individuals who would like to become involved with the Kaw Lake Association should call Kathy Tippin at (580) 762-9494 or e-mail at kawlake@kskc.net.

Flu Vaccine Is Available In Kay County

Even though flu is not as widespread in Kay County as it was last year at this time, the Kay County Health Department says the flu bug still has time to bite. “With the, delay of the delivery of flu vaccine this winter, we have held our breath while working to make sure Kay County citizens were vaccinated in time before the flu season peaked, “ said Mike O’Connor, health department administrator. “We’ve been lucky so far because reported flu cases are still sporadic.

“We urge people to take advantage of this ‘window of opportunity’ to get their flu shot if they haven’t already.”

The Kay County Health Department will offer additional flu clinics on Thursday, January 25, 2001, from 8:30-11 a.m. or 1-4 p.m. at Kay County Health Department, 1201 East Hartford Avenue, Ponca City and Monday, January 29, 2001 from 1-4 p.m. at the Tonkawa, Library, 216 N. 7th, Tonkawa.

O’Connor said the Kay County Health Department focused early in the season on making sure available vaccine supplies went to vaccinate those persons at high risk from health complications from influenza. Vaccine is now available so that healthy adults and children 6 months of age and older can get the flu shot, as well as anyone at risk for complications from influenza. Persons at high risk include those over the age of 65, persons with chronic illnesses, pregnant women in their second or third trimester, and health care workers who provide care to at-risk patients.

Although it takes 10 to 14 days to reach full immunity from influenza after getting the flu shot, some immunity does begin shortly after receiving the shot. The Oklahoma State Department of Health’s statewide flu surveillance system is reporting two influenza strains thus far: Influenza A (MNI) and Influenza B/Yanianashi. This years’ vaccine provides coverage for both of these strains.

O’Connor said the Kay County Health Department can also provide pneumococcal vaccination to protect against pneumococcal pneumonia, the most common form of hospitalizations for pneumonia. For more information about flu clinics, call the health department at 580-762-1641.

DEATHS

Mable Dorothea Smith
Martha Lou Winningham
Joyce Marie Jones

Mable Dorothea Smith

RALSTON — Mable Dorothea Smith, longtime resident of rural Ralston, died Sunday morning, Jan. 21, 2001, at the Fairfax Memorial Hospital. She was 97.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2001, at the Riverside Cemetery of Ralston with the Rev. Bob Shoemake of First Baptist Church in Ralston presiding. Arrangements are under the direction of the Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home.

Mable Dorothea Smith was born Nov. 2, 1903, the daughter of John Ireland and Mattie Louella Richards Ireland. She was married to Alfred Smith. She helped raise an adopted son, Charles Smith. She was a caregiver that had helped with several people. Her enjoyments were gardening, raising chickens, turkeys and cattle.

She is survived by several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, one son, eight brothers and sisters.

Martha Lou Winningham

Martha Lou “Peggy” Winningham, former Ponca City resident, died Thursday morning, Jan. 18, 2001, at her home in Sun City, Calif. She was 69.

The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 25, 2001, at Grace Memorial Chapel.

Martha Lou Nichols Winningham was born Feb. 3, 1931, in Ponca City, the daughter of Alvis Nichols and Jettie “Nicky” Evans. She attended the Ponca City schools. She married Millard W. Winningham on March 17, 1956, in Wichita, Kan. She was a homemaker and enjoyed traveling and shopping.

Survivors include her husband of the home; four daughters, Judy Clemons, Jean Doster and Beverly Mulder, all of Memphis, Tenn., and Glenda Fowler, Santa Rosa, Calif.; one son, Mike Morris of Ponca City; one sister, Grace Jeannette Hatch of Moore; eleven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a step-father, John Evans; and two brothers, Clyde Adward Nichols and Donald Nichols.

Obituaries

Joyce Marie Jones

Joyce Marie Jones, longtime resident of Ponca City, died Sunday morning, Jan. 21, 2001, at the Bass Memorial Health Center of Enid. She was 60.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2001, at the Longwood Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.

Joyce Marie (Love) Jones was born Oct. 30, 1940, in Blackwell, the daughter of Percy R. Love and Wilma Lee (Bushman) Love. She was a graduate of Ponca City High School. She married Loran V. Patton and out of this union two daughters were born, Yvonne D. Corbin and Jennifer L. Sentel. Later in life she married Charles L. Jones and out of this union were born daughters, Joyce Ellen Jones and Carrie K. Carter. Mrs. Jones lived most of her life in Ponca City but for a short time lived in Waukomis, Okla. She very much enjoyed her grandchildren with her other enjoyments being gardening, antiques and collectibles, her beloved dogs, flower gardening as well as her house plants. She also was a NASCAR racing fan. She was known for her willingness to help those in need. She was a very active church member until her illness would not allow her the freedom of mobility.

She is survived by her four daughters, Yvonne D. Corbin and husband, Randy of Glencoe, Jennifer L. Sentel and husband, Lonnie of Ponca City, Joyce Ellen Jones and husband, Orlando of Ponca City and Carrie K. Carter and husband, Brandon of Enid; 11 grandchildren; two sisters, Carmelita Carpenter of Texas and LaDonna Thompson, Burns Flat; one brother, Alvin “Butch” Love of Ponca City; numerous nieces and nephews; two great aunts, Louise Hembre, and Garnett McGaha, both of Tonkawa; as well as numerous cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Casket bearers will be her grandchildren, Russell Sentel, Kirk Humble, Roger Sentel, Shaun M. Jones, Drukota Williams, Evan Lee Carter, Laura Sentel, Katelynd Corbin, Kyla Corbin, LeighAn Sentel and Elizabeth Williams.

The family has requested that in lieu of flowers memorial contributions be made to the Longwood Cemetery Association, 6651 West South Ave., Ponca City, Okla. 74601.

paid obituary

BUSINESS

Location of MEA Rep Big Plus for P.C.
Murphy Master of Ceremonies For Annual Chamber Banquet
Train Buffs Picking Up Steam In Seeking Return of Amtrak
Cotton Becoming Big Kay County Crop
Newkirk Main Street Makes Nominations
Former Ponca Citian Now With Dept. of Commerce

Location of MEA Rep Big Plus for P.C.

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Business Editor

A plus for Ponca City businesses and surrounding areas is that Charles Shaver, Manufacturing Extension Agent (MEA), for the Oklahoma Alliance for Manufacturing Excellence, is stationed here.

In another example of public/private partnership Shaver is sponsored here by the Economic Development Advisory Board, with Conoco furnishing the office space.

Shaver has been here for almost a year. There are 24 field representatives in Oklahoma and the manufacturing extension agent is patterned after the agriculture extension agent, according to Shaver.

“The concept is to provide assistance to small businesses and industries to help them become or remain competitive in a global market,” Shaver said.

Many of the field reps are stationed in metro areas, and along with Kay County, Shaver covers 13 other counties. He began here by going door-to-door, using the Manufactures Alliance data base, to call on local businesses and industries to see if there was any assistance he could provide.

Sometimes the business community is skeptical because the service is “free.” Shaver’s job is to add value to the bottom line of the company, whether is in the area of human resources, finances, marketing or collaboration with other Oklahoma firms. “We do a lot of that — helping companies to work with other companies. We like to keep it all in Oklahoma. We use Oklahoma resources as well as working with the companies,” Shaver said.

Not a Government Agency

Although the Manufacturing Alliance has access to federal, state and local funds to assist business, it is not a government agency. It is a non-profit agency, Shaver explained. The U.S. Department of Commerce has allocated money to the state of Oklahoma. The money from the states comes from the Oklahoma Center for Advancement of Technology. Each MEA is sponsored locally.

The Ponca City office is unique because most other sponsors are educational facilities, where here Conoco and EDAB are the sponsors.

The Manufacturing Extension Alliance is working hand and glove with the Technology Accelerator at Conoco. Anita Newton is heading up this operation, which is seeking start-up technology companies.

Shaver’s role, once technology clients are located in the Accelerator, is seeing to the day-to-day activities. “I would be looking out for their needs making sure they have everything they need.”

Currently there are several possible clients within Oklahoma and others outside of the state. Newton is working closely with the clients.

Almost all of the companies need venture capital. There are some grants available, but angel investors are always needed. As far as established businesses or industry, one of the main issues is a stable workforce.

Shaver said the problems with workforce are often the working environment, wages, benefits, recognition and respect. He said whether the problems are personnel, finance or otherwise the information is confidential and there is no charge.

Meanwhile Shaver will continue to call on local companies and companies in the counties of Beaver, Woodward, Ellis, Cimarron, Garfield, Texas, Woods, Grant, Harper, Noble, Major counties, as well as the western part Osage county.

For more information or to set up an appointment with Shaver for business or industry assistance call Shaver at (580) 767-6545.

Murphy Master of Ceremonies For Annual Chamber Banquet

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Business Editor

Larry Murphy, Ponca City insurance man, is expected to add sparkle, sizzle and levity to the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce Banquet Thursday evening as he reprises his role as master of ceremonies.

The 107th annual event is to be staged at Conoco’s Atrium, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Murphy was a hit at the 2000 banquet, as master of ceremonies when his friend Sen. Don Nickles was the guest speaker, and Barry Bickle, another baby boomer, received the “Outstanding Citizen Award.”

Always witty and sometimes zany, Murphy will fit into the scheme of things, as Flashpoint’s television political pundits and analysts Mike Turpen and Burns Hargis are slated as the program.

The popular owner of Murphy Insurance Agency, Larry is a graduate of Ponca City High School, Northern Oklahoma College, and the University of Central Oklahoma, where he received a BBA in Marketing.

Some of his civic activities include, St. Joseph Medical Foundation, board member; Westminster Village, past chairman and board member; Youth Crisis Prevention Task Force, past co-chairman; First Christian Church, deacon and youth Sunday School teacher.

Also, Hospice of Ponca City, fund raising volunteer; charter member of the Ponca City Public School Foundation; “Friend of Education” Award; past president Trout Elementary PTA; Paul Harris Fellow of Ponca City Rotary Club and officer of the American Red Cross.

Murphy and his wife Nancy have three children, Kelly, Leslie and Bradley.

Train Buffs Picking Up Steam In Seeking Return of Amtrak

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Business Editor

Train buffs from across Oklahoma and Kansas picked up steam here Monday afternoon as they united to promote the return of the north-south Amtrak train.

The group’s collective goal is to promote the return of the Amtrak passenger train from Oklahoma City to Newton, Kan.

Newton is an important hub, where train travelers could catch trains in going west, east and north.

Mary Livingston, of government affairs for Amtrak out of Chicago, said “Partnership is a key strategic in Amtrak’s business plan.”

Judy Elsworth chairman of the Heartland Flyer Coalition from Ardmore told how the partnership was formed there and how the train benefits Ardmore and the surrounding area.

The train was expected to generate 25,000 riders the first year and it logged 75,000. She assured the crowd that they were ready to help promote the train on to Newton.

Message for the Oklahomans from Paul Adams of the Oklahoma Department of Transportation was to support House Bill 1173, which would provide three percent of the funds allotted to the Transportation Department for a rail program. This is not a new tax but a reallotment of the gasoline tax. The bill seeks 10 percent for transportation and the three percent would come out of it.

Most powerful speaker of the day was Matthew Weaver, representing the Oklahoma Department of Commerce and Oklahoma Mainstreet. He touted that the train means economic development and more tourism.

He urged the Oklahomans to keep U.S. Senator Don Nickles informed as he helped get funds for the Heartland Flyer between Oklahoma City and Fort Worth and that more funds are needed for the north-south route.

Train supporters include representatives from Perry, Enid, Blackwell, Tonkawa, Guthrie, Ponca City, Chickasha, Ardmore and other Oklahoma locations, as well as, a contingent from Kansas.

Sen. Paul Muegge was master of ceremonies and introduced the guest speakers. Muegge, along with Rep. Joe Shriver of Kansas,

has helped organize a number of meetings promoting the return of Amtrak to Oklahoma and Kansas.

Mayor Tom Leonard gave the welcome. Leonard thanked Muegge and those attending for their work on the project and pledged Ponca City’s support. Also in attendance were former Ponca City mayors Carl Balcer and Marilyn Andrews, the mayor of Arkansas City and the former mayor of Guthrie. Ponca City Chamber of Commerce, Main Street, City of Ponca City, and Congressman Istook’s office and other organizations were among those represented.

Cotton Becoming Big Kay County Crop

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Business Editor

TONKAWA — Cotton is becoming one of the crops grown in northern Oklahoma and southern Kansas with some measure of success.

Recently officers of the Great Plains Cotton Gin of Blackwell presented a seminar at the First National Bank annex in Tonkawa on Cotton 101- Raising cotton in Kansas and Oklahoma.

Participating from the Great Plains Cotton Gin were Monty Kahle, president, Paul Regier, manager, and John Sanders, sale representative.

Interesting statistics were that cotton does well most years and can hit a home run about one out of five years. Cotton has the ability to make 800 to 1,000 pounds per acre. At 1,000 pounds, it can return $300 per acre.

The gin offers services which include crop consulting; crop input requirements; proper ground preparation; fertilizer and herbicide needs; the right seed selection for the ground type; possible insect controls needs; boll opening and defoliation of leaves; timely harvesting and marketing alternatives.

The high tech gin opened last year and is located one mile south of McDonalds in Blackwell at the I-35 exit 222.

Newkirk Main Street Makes Nominations

NEWKIRK — Newkirk Main Street manager Karen Dye and assistant Janet Williams met recently in Perkins, with Oklahoma Main Street staff, Perkins Main Street and Cushing Main Street regarding the awards nomination for OMSP.

Slides, nomination format and categories were all reviewed during the meeting.

Newkirk Main Street committees and board plan to send in nominations for Premier Partner - Northern Oklahoma College, Best Volunteer Development — Operation Clean Sweep, Outstanding Image Promotion — Experience Newkirk — CD-ROM; Premier Special Event— Millennium Celebration; Best Public Improvement — Courtroom A&B; Best Interior Design Project — Muffin Tin; Best Building Facade Renovation Under $10,000 — Kay & Kaw and Masonic Building; Outstanding Design Efforts — Newkirk Main Street Design Committee; Main Street Business of the Year - Eastman National Bank; Best results in Strengthening Business — Breakfast on Main Street/Business Newsletter; Best Community Education/Public Awareness — The Main Event.

Former Ponca Citian Now With Dept. of Commerce

Former Ponca Citian Grayson Bottom is currently with the Oklahoma Department of Commerce as a regional director.

He recently was awarded a national designation after completing a three-year course of study, designating him as a certified community developer.

There are less than 150 people in the United States who are certified as community developers, according to Commerce’s Executive Director Ron Bussert.

The course of study was with the University of Central Arkansas, which contracts with the Community Development Council of the United States.

Bottom was president and chief executive officer of the former American National Bank here in 1983. He is a graduate of Cordell High School and holds a master’s degree from Southwestern Oklahoma State University, Weatherford.

Prior to coming to Ponca City he had banking experience in Cordell and Guthrie.

NEWS BRIEFS

Closed Thursday — Cobb’s Cafe on South First Street will be closed Thursday from 10 a.m., to 4 p.m., for the filming of a commercial for Conoco.

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.

Military Graduate — Army Pvt. Sabrina K. Burkert has graduated from basic military training at Fort Sill, Lawton. During the training, the trainee received instruction in drill and ceremonies, weapons, map reading, tactics, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, and Army history and traditions. Burkert is the daughter of Barbara J. Herr of W. Padon Ave., Blackwell.

Mel’s, 2008 N. 14th. Mel’s 50% off sale on entire stock. Only happens twice a year. Early birds get best selection. adv.

Subject Held — A Ponca City booking officer reported a 14-year-old girl was taken into custody for the unauthorized use of a motor vehicle at 9:39 a.m. Monday.

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

Subject Held — An officer in the 400 block of East South Avenue reported a 25-year-old man was taken into custody on a Kay County warrant for vandalism at 11 a.m. Monday.

Want To start your own business? Pioneer Tech’s Self-Employment training program can show you how to start for less cash. This program can also help you determine the feasibility and legal requirements of starting your business. Evening classes begin February 8. Call 762-8336, Ext. 262 for enrollment information. adv.

Accident — A hit-and-run accident in Wal-Mart parking lot, 1101 East Prospect Avenue, was reported to Ponca City police at 11:23 a.m. Monday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Burglary — A man in the 2200 block of North Fourteenth Street reported to Ponca City police at 11:24 a.m. Monday his vehicle had been burglarized overnight. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Subject Held — A Ponca City booking officer reported a 24-year-old man was taken into custody on a city warrant for failure to obey at 1:07 p.m. Monday.

Fire Run — A grass fire in the 100 block of Jamison Road was reported to the Communications Center at 3:49 p.m. Monday. The Osage Cove Volunteer Fire Department was advised.

Fight in Progress — A clerk at a business in the 2200 block of North Fourteenth Street reported two men and a woman were fighting at a pay phone to Ponca City police at 4:27 p.m. Monday. Three officers responded to the scene. A 51-year-old woman was taken into custody for public intoxication.

Burglary — A woman in the 3500 block of North Union Street reported to Ponca City police at 7:59 p.m. Monday returning home and finding her residence had been burglarized. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Burglary — A woman in the 1100 block of North Pine Street reported some items had been taken from her residence to Ponca City police at 4:46 p.m. Monday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Accident — A motorist reported a semi-truck had hit a horse in the 2500 block of West Industrial Boulevard to Ponca City police at 7:40 p.m. Monday. An officer was assigned and stood by until the Oklahoma Highway Patrol arrived.

Theft — A woman in the 100 block of West Prospect Avenue reported the theft of three scooters to Ponca City police at 4:56 p.m. Monday. She also told police she believed she saw three juveniles riding them on Prospect. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. The juveniles were located and citations were issued.

Theft — A man in the 600 block of North Fourteenth Street reported a stolen go-cart to Ponca City police at 6:30 p.m. Monday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Disturbance — An employee of a business in the 3000 block of North Fourteenth Street requested a Ponca City police officer in reference to an irate customer at the business. Two officers responded to the scene. A 36-year-old woman was taken into custody for obstructing an officer and resisting arrest.

Theft — The owner of Burger King Restaurant requested a Ponca City police officer in reference to an employee handing out free food at 7:09 p.m. Monday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Disturbance — A subject at the intersection of North Fourteenth Street and East Hartford Avenue reported being involved in a domestic argument to Ponca City police at 10:52 p.m. Monday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. A 25-year-old woman was taken into custody for public intoxication and on a city warrant for failure to pay.

Disturbance — A woman in the 500 block of South Osage Street reported to Ponca City police at 1:21 a.m. Tuesday a 22-year-old man had assaulted her and her child and left with another man toward the intersection of South Fourth Street and East South Avenue. Three officers responded to the scene. The man was located and taken into custody for domestic assault and battery.

LIFESTYLES

The Neighborhood Chef
Little News
Unit II Members Meet

The Neighborhood Chef

By Sherry Muchmore

Bite-Size Confections

Cookies are quick fixes for satisfying that craving for something sweet. And, yet they are more than that. They fondly bring back many a childhood memory of wonderful smells, special treats and sitting in the kitchen helping Mom drop sweet tasting dough by the spoonful onto cookie sheets; taking that first bite when the cookie comes hot from the oven. And, who can forget that special cookie jar that miraculously stayed full.

During the holidays, Betty made these crisp little refrigerator cookies. Not only did I like them but begged for the recipe. She told me they were husband Tom’s mom’s favorite also. They have a nice simple flavor that goes well with coffee or milk, not too sweet. Guess you could say, I couldn’t eat just one.

Betty’s Brown Sugar

Refrigerator Cookies

Betty Rains, PC, OK

2 cups brown sugar

1 scant cup butter, room temperature

2 eggs, beaten

2 teaspoons vanilla

4 cups flour

1 teaspoon soda

1 teaspoon cream of tartar

2/3 cup pecans

Cream butter and brown sugar - add beaten eggs and vanilla. Sift dry ingredients and add to creamed mixture. Mix in nuts and shape into l-l/2 inch thick logs. Refrigerate over night. Cut logs into about l/4-inch slices and bake 8 to l0 minutes at 375 degrees.

I found the following recipe in an old magazine while researching peanut butter cookies. I was always trying to find a recipe that was like the one I remembered from high school. Though this is not like the one I remembered, it was interesting due to its simplicity. And, since I’m always looking for a short-cut that tastes good too, this little recipe has come in handy.

Peanut Butter Cookies

(In A Snap)

1 cup peanut butter (creamy or extra chunky)

1 cup sugar

1 large egg, slightly beaten

1 teaspoon baking soda

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and grease baking sheets. In a mixing bowl, beat peanut butter and sugar until blended. Beat in egg and baking soda.

Roll level teaspoons of dough into balls and arrange about 1 inch apart on prepared cookie sheet. Flatten balls to about 1-1/2 inch diameter with a fork dipped in flour making a criss-cross pattern.

Bake until puffed and golden, about 10 minutes. Cool cookies on baking sheet for about 2 minutes and remove to racks. Makes about 70 cookies.

There are some memories that are just too good to forget, like those high school peanut butter cookies I mentioned above. They were so good, a lot of time was spent trying to find a recipe that tasted like those great cookies. I ended up adding a dash of this and a little of that and came up with my own. They may not be exactly what I wanted but they came pretty close. If you like peanut butter, you’ll love these.

Sherry’s Peanut

Butter Cookies

1 cup butter, room

temperature

2 cups chunky or creamy peanut butter

1-1/2 cups granulated sugar

1 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar

2 tablespoons milk

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 eggs

1-1/2 teaspoons baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking powder

2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

In a large mixing bowl, cream butter, peanut butter, sugars, milk and vanilla together. Beat in eggs and blend in salt, baking soda and baking powder. Add flour and mix well.

Drop by rounded tablespoon 2-inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Flatten in a criss-cross pattern with a fork dipped in flour. Bake in a 375 degree oven for 8 to 10 minutes. Cool for several minutes and remove to wire racks.Makes around 4-dozen 2-1/2 inch cookies

These rich bites are melt-in-your-mouth good. No one can resist these sweet little cookies. Perfect for any occasion.

Chocolate Buttersweets

Betty Durkee, PC, OK

Cookie Dough:

1/2 cup butter, room

temperature

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla

1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour

Cream together butter, sugar, salt and vanilla. Gradually add flour. Shape by teaspoonfuls into balls. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet. Press a hole in the center of each ball for the filling. Bake at 350 degrees for 12 to 15 minutes until delicately browned.

Creamy Nut Filling:

6 ounces cream cheese, room temperature

1/4 cup flour

2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

2 teaspoons vanilla

1 cup pecans, chopped

1 cup flaked coconut

Cream the cheese, flour, sugar and vanilla together. Add and blend pecans and coconut. While the cookies are still warm, fill each center with about a tablespoon of the creamy nut filling.

Frosting:

1/2 cup chocolate chips

1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons water

Combine frosting ingredients over low heat in a small saucepan, beating until smooth. Spoon over filled cookies. Cool until set. Yields approximately 36

Little News

Jordan Karmel Taylor

Roderick and Antoinette Taylor, 4219 North Pleasant View Road, announce the birth of a son at 5:55 p.m. Dec. 21, 2000, in St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. Jordan Karmel Taylor weighed nine pounds, 1 ounce, and measured 23 inches long. He has a brother, Qwintezz, 4.

Maternal grandparents are Joe and Jessie Shields of Ponca City, and paternal grandparents are William and Rita Taylor of Texarkana, Texas. Great-grandparents are Ed and Juanita Swygert of Ponca City.

Unit II Members Meet

Members of Unit II of Ponca City Mother’s Club met Jan. 5 at the Western Sizzlin’ restaurant for lunch and fellowship. Martha Stover served as hostess, and co-hostesses were Roberta Ford and Marge Robb.

There were 21 members present, and Virginia Brown won the door prize. The Feb. 2 meeting will in the home of Sandy Bishop. Jayne cooper and Pat Morahan will serve as co-hostesses.

SPORTS

Wildcat Wrestlers Now Expecting to Win Duals
Lady Mavs Back on Track
Mavericks Build a Win Streak
Freshmen Tip Emerson In Marathon

Wildcat Wrestlers Now Expecting to Win Duals

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

Expectations are high for the Wildcat wrestling team, and getting higher. It showed Monday night in its 50-19 win over Jenks in Robson Field House.

If every a situation was ripe for the Wildcats to let down, this was it.

The dual with Jenks was a makeup of a dual that had been snowed out in December. It was the last of the vital district duals for the Cats, but the Ponca Citians had long-ago wrapped up the district title and a berth in the Dual State Tournament.

It was sandwiched between to duals against highly ranked teams — Sand Springs on Saturday and Blackwell tonight. With four duals in seven days, the wrestlers were physically tired. Some are battling their weight, which is wearing physically and mentally.

And with Jenks giving up forfeits in the two heavy weights, no one would have been surprised if the Cats had sluffed this one off.

They didn’t.

“This team has matured a lot this season. They are no longer a young team,” coach Todd Steidley, who admitted to being worried his team would be flat against the Trojans. “Now they expect to win.”

And win they did, taking eight of the 12 matches wrestled and gaining three falls and a technical fall along the way.

And several Wildcats picked up individual wins that will be important in the regional seedlings.

“MiMi Miller’s win was very important,” Steidley said. “He was going against a defending regional champion (Jenks’ Dustin Hughes). If they had both gone into the regional tournament equal, the coaches might have given Hughes the top seed because he was a regional champion.”

Wins by Shawn Lee (119 pounds), Steven Windler (135), Roman RedLeaf (140) and Matt Littleton (145) will also go a long way toward improving their seeding.

Plus, there was at least one sentimental victory as 189-pounder Joe Childers, a first-year senior, collected a win in front of the home crowd.

Jenks came out strong, taking a 7-0 lead after the first two matches, before Lee pinned Russell Friska in 3:07 and Miller topped Hughes 9-4.

A victory at 130 pounds moved the Trojans in front 13-9 in the team scoring.

But the Wildcats then won the next four matches in a row with Windler getting a fall at 135 pounds, RedLeaf winning 12-7 at 140, Littleton chalking up a 16-1 technical fall at 145 and Jasper Lockett flattening Jake Ballard in 1:56 at 152 pounds.

Jenks won its final points at 160, but by that time the Wildcats were in front 29-19.

Jason Leavitt closed the door on the Trojans with a fall at 171 pounds and Childers won 3-1 at 189.

Now, it back to the rugged schedule the Wildcats are use to as they host arch rival Blackwell tonight. The high school and junior high JV matches start at 6 with the varsity Wildcats and Cougars going side-by-side at 7 in Robson.

This will be the Wildcats’ fourth dual with a top 5 team. They have lost to Broken Arrow, Perry and Sand Springs, but have come progressively closer to breaking through.

The Cats would love to break that string against the Maroons.

Following tonight’s dual, the Poncans get a couple of days to relax somewhat before jumping into the Big Four-Plus Four Tournament at Blackwell Friday and Saturday.

Besides the Big Four — Blackwell, Perry, Ponca City and Stillwater — the tournament teams include, Bristow, Tuttle, Tonkawa and Arkansas City,

Results

Ponca City 50, Jenks 19

103 — Gibson (J) d. Davis, 7-4

112 — Conan (J) md Womble, 16-2

119 — Lee (PC) p. Friska, 3:07

125 — Miller (PC) d. Hughes, 9-4

130 — Davis (J) p. Oswald, 4:21

135 — Windler (PC) p. Sewell, 5:59

140 — RedLeaf (PC) d. Douglas, 12-7

145 — Littleton (PC) tf Brock, 16-1 (5:46)

152 — Lockett (PC) p. Ballard, 1:56

160 — Lay (J) p. Pappan, 3:33

171 — Leavitt (PC) p. Yandle, 2:39

189 — Childers (PC) d. Calvert, 3-1

215 — Alburtha (PC) fft

Hwt — Frezer (PC) fft

Lady Mavs Back on Track

By TED ATCHLEY

NOC Sports Information

TONKAWA — The Lady Mavericks of Northern Oklahoma College rallied around the home crowd Monday night to power their way to a 74-64 win against visiting Western Oklahoma College.

The ladies showed some lingering effects from Saturday’s loss to Northeast Oklahoma College. The second loss of the season did knock NOC from the National Junior College Athletic Association’s top 25. The Lady Mavs landed in the top 25 at No. 20 on Jan. 16. In the poll released this morning, NOC was dropped from the list.

“We started off strong,” said head coach Greg Krause about his team. At one point in the first half the Lady Mavs were up by 20. “But then we ran out of defensive effort.” The Lady Mavs finished the first half with a slim three-point lead, 37-34.

“There was only one reason for that,” Krause said. “It’s pretty obvious to us that Tia Andrew is a force that keeps our defensive effort fired up.” Andrew and the Lady Mavs held Western to just 23 points in the second half. Andrew was also a key player on the offensive end of the court as well. Andrew had a season-high 16-points on the night from inside. She also earned 13 rebounds and had four blocked shots and a pair of steals.

Freshman Erin Goss led Northern scoring with 17 points on the night. Guard BJ Homer dropped in three treys for 9 points, Lindsey Shiever had 8, Ashley Hewitt 8, LaQueisha Dickerson dropped in 8 points and had 6 rebounds, and Denise Jake and Angela King each added 4.

“We showed some after effects of the NEO game,” Krause said about his team giving up such a strong first-half lead. “Hewitt gave us some energy and life and we pulled together to fight back. Erin Goss played a good game,” he said.

Krause said that in the second half of the NEO game on Saturday both Hewitt and Goss graduated from freshmen to key players for the Lady Mavericks. “They’re play has stepped up considerably,” Krause said. “You can see it in the intensity and in their confidence.”

The Lady Mavericks will travel to face off against Seminole on Thursday for another conference showdown. The Lady Mavericks stand at 17-2 on the season with an 8-1 conference record.

Mavericks Build a Win Streak

By TED ATCHLEY

NOC Sports Information

The Northern Oklahoma College Mavericks earned their third win in a row when they downed the Western Oklahoma State Pioneers on Monday night in Tonkawa.

The Mavericks put together what head coach Mick Weiberg called, “a complete” game. The Mavs led by four at the half and managed to stretch that lead to a 94-79 margin in the closing minutes.

“When we get something out of all ten players it really makes a difference,” Weiberg said of his team. “We have ten men who really stepped up and played tonight. I’m very proud of this team. That was one of the best games you could ask for in basketball.

“Each team punched and countered, punched and countered. It was like a well-fought boxing match out there. It was intense on both ends.”

Weiberg said some important events helped keep the game in Maverick hands, including a tip-in at the buzzer by Akil Gay, that ended the first half.

“I couldn’t be more proud of his effort,” Weiberg said. “That’s what it takes out there.”

Gay finished the game with 9 points several key rebounds. He was three of four from the field and hit three of four from the free throw line.

“His intensity is a big help when he comes in to give Prater or Myers a chance to rest,” Weiberg said.

He said the play of freshman guard Merrill Andrews was exemplary as well. “Andrews played hard tonight. He had a great game and fought well,” Weiberg said.

Andrews finished with a season-high 27 on the night, including 11 free throws.

Sophomore Scott Prater earned 20 points and 9 rebounds, Richie Myers had 15 points, JR Regnier seven, Greg Wilson and Matt Hall four, and Ryan Newby and Phillip Knowlton each sank key treys for 3-points each.

“Both Knowlton and Newby came in and hit some key shots when we needed them,” Weiberg said. “They helped fire us back up when we had to have some spark.”

The Mavericks now stand at 9-8 on the season with a 5-4 conference record. They travel to face Seminole on Thursday and will be home on Monday for the Homecoming game against Northark. The women lead off at 6 p.m. in Foster-Piper Field House in Tonkawa.

Maverick Mardi Gras is the venue for the annual Northern Oklahoma College Homecoming on the Tonkawa campus.

The Roustabouts Homecoming Show opens homecoming festivities on Saturday. The world-traveling musical show troupe brings its fast-paced, colorful presentation of contemporary popular music to the Northern Performing Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free.

During the Roustabouts show Homecoming Queen finalists Megan Coates, Tonkawa; Amanda Hogan, Guymon; BJ. Homer, Moore; Mindy Johnson, Blackwell; and Lindsey Shiever, Morrison, will be introduced. Coronation of the Homecoming Queen and introduction of her court will take place at halftime of the men’s game.

Ending the activities, students will dance to the music of the Stillwater band Rolling Thunder in Memorial Student Union. The Student Senate will host the Homecoming Dance following the men’s basketball game until midnight.

———

The Lady Mav softball team is sponsoring the second annual Homecoming Barbecue Dinner at 5 p.m. Monday, Jan. 29 in the East Gym of Foster-Piper Field House. Tickets for the catered meal are $5 per person at the door, in advance from team members or by calling 580-628-6774. Dine in or carryout.

Souvenir Maverick Mardi Gras T-shirts are available at $13 each from members of the Maverick Baseball Team and from Terry Ballard, assistant dean of student activities, 580-628-6218.

Freshmen Tip Emerson In Marathon

ENID — Ponca City ninth grade varsity boys and Enid Emerson ought to be tired of each other after their Thursday marathon. It took two full games, or one regulation game and four overtime quarters, but Ponca City finally won the game 61-56.

It seemed like no contest for the first three quarters. Emerson led the entire game and was ahead by 10 points, 29-19, after the third period.

Ponca City tied the game at 37 with an 18-8 fourth quarter to send it into overtime.

“We dug a huge hole four ourselves and probably should have gotten beat,” coach Brad Parent said. “Turnovers and missed shots should have gotten us beat, but somehow, we won.”

Both teams scored 5 points in the first overtime, three in the second and six points each in the third.

In the fourth overtime, Ponca City finally won by outscoring Emerson, 10-5.

“I’ve been in some overtime games before, but never, have I been in four overtime,” Parent said.

The difference was free throws.

“Free throw shooting has been awful this year. We have shot 63 percent from the free throw line this year and that’s not good,” he said. “But it was sweet that night.

“You’re always told free throws make the difference, well, it’s true.”

Both teams made 18 2-point baskets and six points on two 3-point shots. Ponca City made 19 free throws. Emerson hit 14.

Scott Hartman led the team with 14 points. He was followed by Matt Drouhard with 13 and Jeremy McConnell scored eight. Antwon Moore and Erek Stone scored six. Antoine English and Whit Theobald each put in six and Jonathan Waterloo contributed with four points.

Harry Blueback and Todd Gingerich did not score, but contributed to the team effort in ways that don’t appear in record books.

The freshman record is now 9-2.