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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Wednesday, January 24, 2001 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES SPORTS LOCALRepair of Main To Alter Traffic Repair of Main To Alter TrafficWork to repair a broken 12-inch water main on East Prospect Avenue is expected to begin Thursday morning, according to officials of the City of Ponca City. While repairs are in progress, traffic will be reduced to two lanes in the 1200 block of East Prospect. Immediately following repair of the broken main, the Street Division will move in to make needed repairs. It is anticipated that all work will be finished within 48 hours and full traffic access restored in time for weekend traffic. Questions may be directed to Charlie Hargraves, Utility Maintenance Superintendent, at 763-2436, or Charles Kelly, Street Superintendent, at 763-8032. Two More File For Mayor RaceNEWKIRK — Two more candidates have filed to run for mayor in the Ponca City municipal election, assuring there will be a race for the position. Filing Tuesday afternoon was Bret Carter while Estle Lampe filed this morning, according to Kay County Election Board officials. Mayor Tom Leonard filed for re-election Monday. Carter is employed at Conoco, Lampe is owner of Lampe Heating and Air Conditioning and Leonard is an attorney. The filing period closes at 5 p.m. today with the election set for March 6. Nearly NewsApologies go to Virginia Mair, who called to tell NN about her excitement over the Po-Hi band being involved with the wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. Unfortunately, NN misunderstood part of the information. It is her brother who is buried at Arlington, not one of her sons, who, she says, “are both alive and very well.” NN apologizes for the error. -—— All members and those seeking membership in the Ponca Gourd Dance Society are reminded to attend the final planning meeting for this year’s annual dance. The meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at the Ponca Tribal Cultural Center. Chamber Banquet Set Thursday NightBy LOUISE ABERCROMBIE News Business Editor For some places the big events are the Golden Globes, the Emmys or the Academy Awards. However, for Ponca City the annual Chamber banquet’s “show and tell” is the “large” happening. Staged at Conoco’s Atrium cafeteria, the evening features show business personalities Mike Turpen and Burns Hargis of the popular Oklahoma television show “Flashpoint.” Showman and master of ceremonies for the 6:30 p.m. Thursday event Larry Murphy is expected to keep the “show on the road” throughout the evening as “stars” are introduced and the winners awarded. Five main categories are included in this year’s program. Lori Marks, daughter of the late Larry Hughes, is to present the Leadership Award in memory of her father. Some changes have been made in the award system this year. Instead of a large industry and a small industry award,” the powers that be” have opted for a “Business of the Year Award” and an “Industry of the Year Award.” Outgoing Chamber Chairman Barry Bickle is to presented the new business award, while Ricky Flak, chairman of the Economic Development Advisory Board, will recognize the industry of the year. Bickle, the 2000 recipient of the Outstanding Citizen Award, is to be the presenter for this year’s citizen recognition, as well as the Community Service Award. Apparently there will be at least one surprise during the evening, as Chamber Executive Jan Jarrett is on the program for a “special presentation.” As is the tradition of the Chamber banquet, Bickle, 2000 chairman, is to install the 2001 chairman Dan Gilliam. Gilliam is expected to make remarks about the Chamber and the coming year. The antics of Hargis and Turpen will follow and with the presidential election finally over it is expected they will have plenty of funny material to draw upon. Ushers for the event are members of the Chamber’s Presidents and Ambassadors clubs. Dinner is to be served by Marriott Food Service. Decorating committee for the banquet is Lois Bickle, Lanita Chapman, Lana Jones, Lee Little and Verleen Johnstone. Grips handling the technical stuff and other details are Greg Brown, Jerry Fox, Larry Goodno and James York. Invocation is to be by Father John Michalicka, St. Mary’s Catholic Church. NOC To Celebrate HomecomingTONKAWA — Maverick Mardi Gras is the venue for the annual Northern Oklahoma College Homecoming on the Tonkawa campus. Festivities open Saturday, Jan. 27 with the Roustabouts Homecoming Show. 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; B.J. Homer, Moore; Mindy Johnson, Blackwell; and Lindsey Shiever, Morrison, will be introduced. The Lady Mav and Maverick roundballers face the Northark Lady Pioneers and Pioneers of North Arkansas College, Harrison in Foster Piper Fieldhouse Monday, Jan. 29. Tipoff for women is 6 p.m., followed by the men at 8 p.m. Coronation of the Homecoming Queen and introduction of her court will take place at halftime of the men's game. Preceding the basketball games, the Lady Mav Softball Team will serve a catered barbecue dinner in the East Gym of the fieldhouse. Tickets are $5 per plate. 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. 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. Mike Boettcher Guest Speaker At Tonkawa EventTONKAWA — Mike Boettcher, CNN correspondent, is slated to be the guest speaker for the Tonkawa Chamber of Commerce’s 85th banquet set for Feb. 3 at the Northern Oklahoma College Cafeteria, announces Divina Love, president. Boettcher is a native of Ponca City and graduated from Ponca City High School in 1972. He continued his education at the University of Oklahoma, where he earned a bachelor of arts degree in journalism in 1976. Tickets for the event are $15 and may be purchased at the Chamber of Commerce office, 100 East Grand, Suite A, or tickets may be reserved by calling (580) 628-2220. An RSVP is requested by Jan. 29 to ensure tickets. Letters to the EditorProud of the Band I have just gotten home from a fantastic trip to Washington, D.C., with the Ponca City High School Band. I would like Ponca City to know that you can be proud of this group that represented Ponca City and the state of Oklahoma last week in the Presidential Inaugural Parade. I was very proud to be a sponsor, parent and Oklahoman on this trip. Not only did they do an excellent job during the parade, they conducted themselves wonderfully everyplace we went. I also need to praise our High School Band staff who did a great job preparing the kids for the event and planned a wonderful experience for them. They had very little sleep during the trip and I know they are exhausted but I do appreciate them as I know all the other parents do. Even when we were tired, irritable, snowed in, and then again when the bus broke down, they kept things going and kept all of us safe. Thank you! A thank you to Mr. and Mrs. Winkle and Dr. and Mrs. Scroggins who came along on the trip and helped out. The kids enjoyed getting to know you outside of the school walls. I also want to thank everyone who donated money, food and buses. Without you we would not have been able to go. Thanks to your support we arrived there and came home safely. I have heard complaints that the band has now taken all the businesses’ donation money and left nothing for the athletic organizations still trying to support this year’s teams. I hope this is not true as I know they need the support, too. The band received financial support from all over the state and I know Ponca City will not now turn its back on the sports still needing support this year. These organizations rely on those sponsors and advertisers to help fund their teams. Those donations are used to fund equipment, field maintenance, uniforms, tournament fees, awards and more. So please continue to support Ponca City High School students, they deserve it, they are great! A proud Po-Hi mom, Donna Hingtgen Proud of the Band, II I watched with much pride on Saturday afternoon, the Ponca City Big Blue Band marching in the Presidential Inaugural Parade. I just wanted to say what a fantastic job these kids did. I have always loved a good marching and concert band. Our daughter was part of this band program when she was in junior high and high school. It is a program to be very proud of. Big Blue you not only made Ponca City proud, but the State of Oklahoma. Jim and LaDonna Reed New Bridges Planned for CountyBy KATHY ZEHR News Staff Writer NEWKIRK — Kay County Commissioners met in session Monday and reviewed a tentative five-year plan for bridges and roadways with Oklahoma Department of Transportation engineer Marvin Beyer. Plans for replacement of five bridges in Kay County were included in the ODOT plans for construction by county commissioners over a period of five years. Two bridges on the list to be replaced in the Newkirk area included one located two miles east and 2 and 1/2 miles north of Newkirk and a second located six miles south and 1.8 miles west of that city. Also included in the plans is replacement of a bridge located one mile east and one mile north of Blackwell and a bridge two miles north and 4.6 miles east of Braman. The fifth bridge discussed was the old river bridge across the Arkansas River southeast of Ponca City, which may be replaced in about five years. Commissioners and the ODOT representative agreed the smaller bridges would be replaced first. Other business conducted by commissioners included depositing grant money from the State of Oklahoma into the Emergency Management fund in the amount of $10,000 for safe room rebates and other miscellaneous small deposits. Eastman National Bank representative Tom Smith discussed banking proposals submitted for handling financing for the new Kay County Health Department building. Commissioners said banks which had submitted proposals by Jan. 16 would be eligible to submit a final proposal after the low bidder for construction of the building was selected. Construction bid proposals should be mailed out in the next few days, said Commissioner Leven. Sealed bids will be probably be opened in about two months, he said. Commissioners approved a grant request through the NODA Rural Economic Action Plan for funding a repeater station and generator to be installed at the KIXR radio station tower. River Road Rural Fire Department has agreed to act as managers of the station. The repeater radio system will allow wide area transmission on emergency radio bands in the event of a possible disaster. Emergency and law enforcement radio bands are limited to a short range without the repeater station. Requests for bids for F250 or equal pickups will be posted this week with bids due from interested vendors on Feb. 5. Further details may be obtained from the Kay County Clerk’s office. Area Literacy Council Sets New ProgramThe Ponca City Area Literacy Council (primarily an adult focused program) has collaborated with United Way of Ponca City’s Learn and Serve Program (birth to 6), America Reads Challenge (K-6th) and the Ponca City Public Schools GEAR-UP program (7th-12th grade) to bring a collaborated effort to literacy needs in our community. The goal of the newly formed “Literacy Connection” is to provide easy access for individuals looking to volunteer as well as those in need of literacy services. “This effort will give volunteers an opportunity to learn about all the available services and choose the best match for them,” says Rebecca Barker, Ponca City Area Literacy Council director. Presently the coalition is utilizing the services of Garland McWatters of Quantum Living to help the group with presentation skills. McWatters is donating his expertise to help the group make clear, concise and effective presentations to community groups. For more information about volunteering to help someone learn to read, call 767-0531. Teacher Award Nominations Deadline ApproachingThe deadline for nominating Oklahoma teachers and professors to receive Oklahoma Heritage Awards is 5 p.m., Friday, Feb. 2, 2001, according to Lee Allan Smith, chairman of the board of the Oklahoma Heritage Association. The awards, to be presented during the Association’s Annual Membership and Awards Luncheon on March 23rd in Tulsa, honor teachers who excel as Oklahoma history instructors at the middle school, junior high, high school, and college levels. Two of the awards will feature $1,500 and a special plaque, while one of the awards will include $5,000 and a special plaque. The purpose of the awards is to focus on the importance of a strong Oklahoma history curriculum and to recognize outstanding teachers of the subject. The Gaylord Award, endowed by Edward L. and Thelma Gaylord of Oklahoma City, recognizes teachers from grades 6 through 12 in the portion of the state that was Oklahoma Territory prior to statehood, and consists of $5,000 and a special plaque. The Stuart Award recognizes teachers in the same grade range in the area of Oklahoma that was Indian Territory prior to statehood, while the McCasland Award recognizes excellent Oklahoma history professors at the college and university levels statewide. Both the Stuart and McCasland awards consist of $1,500 and a special plaque. All nominations should be submitted to the Committee on the Teaching of Oklahoma History, Oklahoma Heritage Association, 201 Northwest 14th Street, Oklahoma City, 73103. Letters of nomination should identify specifically why the teacher is being nominated and detail accomplishments. Newspaper clippings, scrapbooks, or other supporting material may be submitted. Individuals who are not certain which award pertains to a particular teacher are encouraged to submit the nomination and let the committee determine whether the award should be for the Stuart or for the Gaylord Award. Newkirk Chamber Challenged By Former Resident Ben HarrisBy KATHY ZEHR News Staff Writer Dollie Testerman was named “Newkirk Citizen of the Year” at the annual Newkirk Chamber of Commerce banquet Monday evening. She was introduced by Citizen of the Year 2000 Jack McCarty, who described Ms. Testerman as “being committed to others, an inspiration, and always willing to help in any way possible.” Testerman accepted the prestigious walnut and brass Citizen of the Year 2001 plaque as she wiped tears from her eyes and thanked chamber members for the honor. The coveted award was presented following an informative talk by former Newkirk resident, Ben Harris, now CEO and president of Advanced Academics Inc., a successful internet educational service. “We are seeing a growing demand for flexible education,” said Harris. In the past, most students could not take all of the classes they would like because of time scheduling, but with our internet teaching service they can take a class anyplace, anytime, anywhere. They can take regular classroom courses, hold down a job, play sports, and take the internet classes at home at night or on weekends.” Harris told the group his business was especially valuable to small rural schools. “We can provide classes in subjects that the school cannot offer on a regular classroom basis with limited amount of teachers,” he said It’s great for parents too, since daily progress reports are posted on the computer and not have to wait for a 9-weeks report card. The internet classroom even suggests how to study better and where errors are being made, he said. “Internet classes work for a lot of students who fall through the cracks. Some do not fit well in a formal classroom setting and drop out of school.” He cited a case where a teen dropout held down a job during the week and did all his class work on Saturday online — making above average grades. He also talked about seeing a greater need in the future for the internet classes since a dramatic decrease in teachers is predicted in the near future. It also makes available an excellent service for more than two million students who are now home-schooled. Harris advised Newkirk citizens to keep internet providers accessible to all citizens, and keep up their highways so they could remain progressive. He also suggested the formation of a local venture fund group who could help local high-growth businesses mature and bring young college graduates back into business in Newkirk. In closing Harris quoted former First Lady Barbara Bush, who said her formula for success involved seeking joy in life, cherishing relationships, and getting involved in something greater than self. “Get involved in your local Chamber of Commerce,” he said. McCarty, who also acted as emcee for the large gathering of more than 200 chamber members and guests, expressed his appreciation for serving as Newkirk’s leading citizen in 2000. He said “it is important in a small town for citizens to wear many hats,” citing Newkirk bankers who could be found along the highways picking up trash and other examples. McCarty said to be successful, “it is important for everyone to serve on several committees — not just one, and to work as a team member.” In closing he quoted a favorite teacher who said, “Don't forget who you are — and always remember where you came from!” Outgoing chamber president, Mike Landis reviewed several projects accomplished by the chamber during 2000, thanked Ambassador Club members and recognized officers, directors and staff. Incoming president, Maryln Springer challenged all Chamber of Commerce members to be actively involved in activities and help find tools to keep Newkirk growing. Entertainment for the evening was provided by 10-year-old Britney Zarth, an Oklahoma Kids performer from Newkirk, who sang “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” and a medley of “Happy Days” and “Bye-Bye Blues.” The Rev. Jim Hollifield, pastor of First United Methodist Church, offered the invocation and benediction, asking for “heart and minds to be turned to responsible stewardship of everything.” The dinner, held at the Newkirk Elementary School, was catered by Smith Country Restaurant and served by Newkirk High School STEPPUP members. DEATHSEvelyn Violet Knepper Evelyn Violet KnepperEvelyn Violet Knepper, wife of former St. John’s Lutheran minister, the Rev. Theodore Knepper, died Monday, Jan. 22, 2001, in the Point Lookout Nursing Village in Hollister, Mo. She was 77. A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 24, in the First Lutheran Church in Harrison, Ark. The funeral has been scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 26 in St. John’s Lutheran Church in rural Blackwell with the Rev. Frank Zirbel of Harrison, Ark., and the Rev. Ernest Quillen of St. John’s Lutheran Church officiating. Burial will follow in St. John’s Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Miller-Stahl Funeral Home of Newkirk. Evelyn Violet Knepper was born July 7, 1923, in Bronx, N.Y., the daughter of Charles Carl and Violet May Pink Mirr. When she was almost three, her mother died and she and her sisters went to live with an aunt for a time. While a teenager she went to live with her older sister in Astoria, Long Island and graduated from high school there. After graduation she attended a beauty school. In June 1953, she became employed by the Atlantic and Pacific Food Company in the finance department. She married Theodore Charles Knepper Aug. 21, 1954, in Baltimore, Md., and they established their first home in Springfield, Ill. While in Springfield she was employed at the Illinois State Capitol as a key punch operator. They then moved to Indian Head, Md., and then, in February of 1962, to Swissvale, Pa. where they lived until 1964. They moved to Oklahoma City until 1967, where she worked with the ladies at the state fair, and then to the Chickasha and Apache area. In 1970 they moved to Kay County, where he was the pastor for Newkirk and rural Blackwell St. John’s Lutheran Churches. In 1978 they moved to LuVerne, Iowa; in 1980 they moved to Forbes, N.D.; and in 1989 they moved to Diamond City, Ark., where they have since resided. She was a member of the Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League. She was active in the PTA while her children were in school. During the time she lived in the Blackwell-Newkirk area, she was a member of the Kay County Home Extension Club and earned several ribbons at the fairs in the arts and crafts division and for sewing. She enjoyed crocheting and quilting. She also enjoyed knitting dresses for the Victorian dolls she made. Survivors include her husband of the home; one son, Paul Mark Knepper of Altmar, N.Y.; one daughter, Kimberly Ann Lorg of Blackwell; 10 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters. A memorial fund has been established with the First Lutheran Church in Harrison, Ark., for their building fund, c/o Eastman National Bank, Box 468, Newkirk, Okla. 74647-0468. Marguerite Nancy ClarkBLACKWELL — Marguerite Nancy Clark, resident of Blackwell, died Monday, Jan. 22, 2001, at the Blackwell Nursing Home. She was 89. The funeral will be on Thursday, Jan. 25, 2001, at 2 p.m. in the Roberts Funeral Home Chapel. The Rev. Wesley Miller of the First Church of the Nazarene will officiate. Burial will be in the Braman Cemetery. Marguerite Nancy Clark was born Feb. 28, 1911, in Pittsburg, Kan., the daughter of Arthur Eugene and Louise Jameson Johns. She grew up in Pittsburg, Kan. and Collinsville until she was 17 years old. She then moved to Blackwell to live with her aunt and uncle, Ewing and Elsey Smith. There she employed with the J.C. Penney department store. She married Harold Norman Clark on March 15, 1929, in Enid, then settled in Jacksonville, Texas. They returned to the Nardin area where they farmed the Bates place, and later moving to the Wolf place. In 1943 they moved to the Western District, living there until 1945 when they moved to Blackwell and operated the Nova Hotel. In September of 1946, they moved to Longview, Wash., where they lived for five years, and was employed with J.C. Penney store. They returned to Blackwell in 1951 and she began work for Hunt’s Department Store and Fey’s IGA. They left Oklahoma in 1956 and moved to Orofino, Idaho, where they lived until 1959 when they moved to Reno, Nev. Working in the office of the Nevada State Hospital, they lived in Reno for 14 years. Retiring in 1973, they returned to Blackwell to make their home. Her husband preceded her in death on May 20, 1984. She entered the Presbyterian Manor Nursing Home in Arkansas City, Kan. and came back to Blackwell in 1997 where she resided in the Blackwell Nursing Home, living there since. She was a member of the First Church of the Nazarene in Blackwell and was an avid red bird collector. Survivors include two daughters, Marion Frances Nolan of Jonesboro, Ark., and Sue Kathryn Kivett of Blackwell; two sisters, Anna Coleman and Georgia Mae Farrington, both of Blackwell; two brothers, David Johns of Blackwell and Edward Johns of Bison; eight grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and 13 great-great-grandchildren. Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband; two brothers, Eugene and Frank Johns; and one sister, Ruth Fearmonti. Casket bearers will be Ray Coln, Mike Coln, Clark McDaniel, Steven Hall, Derald Crow, and Charles McDaniel. Memorial contributions can be made to the Blackwell Nursing Home-Alzheimer’s Unit, 1200 West Coolidge, Blackwell, OK 74631. Leona June StoddardCUSHING — Leona June Stoddard, sister of Pat Heilman of Ponca City, died Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2001, at the St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa. She was 63. The funeral was scheduled for 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 24, at the Palmer Funeral Home chapel in Cushing with Clint Stoddard officiating. Burial was to follow in the Flynn Cemetery south of Cushing. Leona June Stoddard was born Jan. 27, 1937, in Austin, Colo., the daughter of Ollie and Flo Meyers Stoddard. Survivors include three brothers, Dorsey Stoddard, Clint Stoddard and Charles Stoddard, all of Bristow; and two sisters, Elvira Ralston of Cushing and Pat Heilman of Ponca City. She was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Nina Burton; and one brother, Elmer Stoddard. Opal L. SandersCUSHING — Opal L. Sanders, former resident of Ponca City, died Sunday morning, Jan. 21, 2001, in the Linwood Nursing Home in Cushing. She was 87. The funeral was 2 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 23, in the First Baptist Church with the Rev. Lonny Lee officiating. A private burial was held in the Drumright North Cemetery under the direction of Davis Funeral Home in Cushing. Opal. L. Sanders was born June 28, 1913, in Drumright, the daughter of I.H. Sanders and Mary Leann Snodgrass Sanders. She was reared and educated in the Drumright area. She later attended Oklahoma A&M College, later Oklahoma State University, graduating with a lifetime teaching certificate. She then received a master’s degree from Central State University. She taught in Drumright, Happy Valley, Ponca City and Cushing, retiring in 1976 after 39 years. She was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church, a member of the Payne County Teachers Association, Oklahoma Retired Teachers Association, Cushing Ex-teachers, American Association of University Woman, Kappa Kappa IOTA. She enjoyed traveling, working in her garden, cooking for her family and friends and mostly her teaching career. Survivors include a niece, nephew and many other relatives. FuneralsThursday Martha Lou WinninghamMartha Lou Winningham — Funeral at 10 a.m. at Grace Memorial Chapel. Friday Keith Clayton KriderKeith Clayton Krider — Memorial service at 2 p.m. at the First Lutheran Church. NEWS BRIEFSReception Planned —A reception will be held for St. Joseph Regional Medical Center President and CEO Bob Edwards and his family on Wednesday, Jan. 31 from 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. at the hospital. The event is also an opportunity for the community to meet Connie Watson, RN, SJRMC’s new vice president for patient services. The reception is open to the public and will be held in SJRMC’s board room, which is accessible from the main lobby. Refreshments will be served. 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. Reunion Plans — There will be a class of 1956 reunion planning meeting at 7 p.m. Jan. 25 at 302 South Seventh. Call 762-4444 if you can not attend. Don Sawyer “The Chimney Sweep”. In business for 26 years, no mess. 762-8883. adv. Deer Hit — A motorist reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 5:59 p.m. Tuesday from the intersection of Lake Road and Pecan Road that a deer had been hit. Two officers were assigned and handled the situation. Game Night — The Singles Connection game night will be 7-11 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27, at the Conoco Fourth Street Clubhouse. Singles can enjoy food, fellowship, and games, and should bring a snack or soda. For more information call 762-0578. Pioneer Woman 8 1/2” bronze statue for sale. JB8355 stamp, original documentation, mint condition. $1,500. 765-7349. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 900 block of South Fourth Street at 10:35 a.m. Tuesday that a 33-year-old man was being held on a Kay County warrant for failure to pay. OU Jewelry, cheerleader pin, earrings, money clip, and silver pen now at Carla’s Hallmark, Downtown. adv. Item Missing — A man was at the Ponca City Police Department at 10:42 a.m. Tuesday to report that a tag had been stolen off a vehicle while parked in the 1000 block of West Hartford Avenue. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Windshield Broken — A man from the 2400 block of North Fourteenth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 8:23 p.m. Tuesday that the windshield of his vehicle had been broken Saturday night. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Bicycle Stolen — A person from the 1700 block of Donahoe Drive reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:10 p.m. Tuesday that a boys bicycle had been stolen from the residence. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Jim Bowen Construction Custom homes, room additions and remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv. Subject Held — An officer reported from the 200 block of East Oklahoma Avenue at 3:50 p.m. Tuesday that a 31-year-old man was being held for failure to pay. Floorcraft pre-inventory reduction sale continues. Includes all in-stock carpet, vinyl. 5th and Hartford. adv. Warrants Cleared — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 5:05 p.m. Tuesday that three subjects had been taken into custody thus clearing city warrants of failure to pay. The three included a 21-year-old man, a 26-year-old man and a 27-year-old man. Mel’s, 2008 N. 14th. Mel’s 50% off sale on entire stock. Only happens twice a year. Early birds get best selection. adv. Fire Run — The Communications Center received a call at 5:32 p.m. Tuesday from a man in the 1000 block of Poplar Avenue that smoke was in the residence. Units from three Ponca City Fire Department stations responded to the scene but found no fire. Windshield Chips repaired professionally. Guaranteed and insurance approved. Ponca Glass, 300 W. Highland and Pine. 762-6522. adv. Subjects Treated — An employee at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 10:42 p.m. Tuesday that three subjects were being treated for injuries received from an assault that occurred in the south part of Ponca City. An officer was assigned and information was logged as to where the incident happened. Items Missing — A man from the 700 block of East Grand Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 10:58 p.m. Tuesday that while at the YMCA items had been taken, including clothing, keys and identification items. The information was logged. 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. Capt. Davis Promoted — Navy Capt. David A. Davis, son of Jackie A. Davis of Ponca City and David A. Davis of Perkins recently was promoted to Captain while serving at Naval Branch Medical Clinic, Marine Corps Logistics Base, Albany, Ga. Davis was promoted based on sustained superior job performance and proficiency in his designated specialty. Davis is a 1974 graduate of Ponca City High School of Ponca City and joined the Navy in July 1984. He is a 1976 graduate of Oklahoma State University with an associated degree and a bachelor degree. In addition, he is a 1983 graduate of University of Oklahoma with a MD degree. Court Allen Construction. Brick, flagstone, concrete, walkway’s, patios and planters. Call 765-2720. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 700 block of North First Street at 6:38 p.m. Tuesday that a man was being held on a Kay County warrant for failure to pay. Head Country, One half bar-b-que chicken with choice of vegetables, $4.25, Thursday, 11 am until gone. 1217 East Prospect. 767-8304. adv. Suspicious Activity — A man from the 1600 block of Cookson Drive reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:12 p.m. Tuesday that some suspicious activity had been occurring in the area. Three officers were assigned and information was logged on two subjects and the vehicle they were driving. LIFESTYLESEngagement Is Announced Engagement Is AnnouncedMr. and Mrs. William Brooks of Fort Smith, Ark. have announced the engagement and approaching marriage of their daughter, Amy Suzanne, to John David Ditmore, son of Jack and Bernadine Terry of Ponca City, and the late Mackey Ditmore. A private wedding ceremony is planned for Feb. 10 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Ponca City. Friends and family are invited to a reception in the couple’s honor on Saturday, Feb. 10, 4-8 p.m., at Marland’s Grand Home. The bride-elect is a graduate of Southside High School and is attending Oklahoma State University. Ditmore, a graduate of Newkirk High School, earned degrees from OSU, and is currently an environmental engineer for the Farmland Industries Inc. refinery. Little NewsJoshua Grant Fairbanks Jim and Mandy Fairbanks, 2704 Meadow Lane, announce the birth of a son, Joshua Grant Fairbanks, at 7:57 a.m., Dec. 20, 2000, in St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. The baby weighed 7 pounds, 14 ounces, and measured 20 3/4 inches long. He has two brothers, Scott and Dan Fairbanks. Maternal grandparents are Grant and Deanna Hodges, and paternal grandparents are Victor and Jeanette Fairbanks. Great-grandparents are Glenn and Betty Hunt of Tonkawa, Jewell Fairbanks of Tulsa, Ira and Mary Brown of Ponca City, the late Cecil Ferguson, the late Pete Fairbanks, and the late Vern and Irene Hodges. SPORTSWildcat Wrestlers Upend No 2 Blackwell Wildcat Wrestlers Upend No 2 BlackwellBy FRED HILTON News Sports Editor It finally happened. The Wildcats finally knocked off a top 5 team Tuesday, upending Class 3A’s No. 2 Blackwell, 32-28, in Robson Field House. Ever since getting popped by nationally ranked Broken Arrow early in the season, the Wildcat grapplers have set their sights on upsetyting an top-ranked team. They lost to Perry and Sand Springs, but each time the Cats moved a little closer to that goal. On Tuesday, the Wildcats took a big step over that hump. Ponca City won seven of the first nine matches and then held off Blackwell in the heavier weights. The Wildcats got bonus points from a fall by Jasper Lockett at 152 pounds, a forfeit to Matt Littleton at 140 and major decisions by Mimi Miller (125) and Roman RedLeaf (140) That was enough to offset two falls, a forfeit and a major by the Maroons. “We just didn’t wrestle well,” said Blackwell coach Scott Mattison. after seeing his Maroons lose a dual for only the second time this season. The key, according to the Blackwell coach came at 119 pounds where Ponca City’s Shawn Lee upset Blackwell’s Thomas Menki, 5-1 That tied the team score at 6-6. The Wildcats then ran off wins in five of the next six matches to take a 29-9 lead. Blackwell stormed back in the heavier weights, as expected, but the Poncans managed to blunt the Maroons’ comeback attempt. Ponca City coach Todd Steidley felt the win was more of a team effort, noting while the Wildcat winners, especially the ones who gained bonus points, were crucial, it was just as important the Cats give up as few bonus points as possible. “You win close duals and tournaments, by not getting bonused,” Steidley said. “This team has matured very quickly,” the Po-Hi coach said. “Right now they are expecting to win.” The Wildcats appeared to be in trouble after giving up a fall in the first match of the night, at 103 pounds. But freshman Brian Womble edged Blackwell senior Brent Gates, 10-8, at 112 pounds. Womble got a takedown in the final seconds of the second period to take a 9-8 lead. He rode Gates out in the third period, picking up a stalling penalty point along the way. “After losing at 112, we had to have 119,” Mattison said later; But Lee rode an early takedown to a 2-1 lead entering the third period. He quickly got a reverse to start the final stanza and he also picked up a penalty point in te final seconds. With that boost, the Cats went into high gear. Miller won 12-2 at 125 pounds, Steven Windler collected a takedown with 15 seconds remaining to post a 3-1 decision at 130, Blackwell’s Alex Huttoon won a close, 6-5, decision over Aaron Brooke at 135, but RedLeaf got the Cats started again with a 11-0 major. Blackwell gave Littleton a forfeit and Lockett started to put the icing on the cake with a 2:07 fall. Maroon Tyle McNamara collected an 18-8 major decision over Cody Pappan at 160, but the Blackwell state placer couldn’t get the fall the Maroons were looking for. Jason Leavitt pushed the Wildcats over the top at 171 pounds winning a 9-3 decision. That gave the Cats an unsurmountable 32-13 lead with three matches remaining. The Wildcats get a much deserved break — for two days — before entering the rugged Big Four-Plus Four Tournament at Blackwell Friday and Saturday. The teams scheduled for that tournament are Ponca City, Blackwell, Perry, Stillwater, Bristowm Tuttle, Tonkawa and Ark City. RESULTS Ponca City 32, Blackwell 28 103 — Wood (B) p. Davis, 5:50 112 — Womble (PC) d. Gates, 10-8 119 — Lee (PC) d. Minki, 5-1 125 — Miller (PC) md Cline, 12-2 130 — Windler (PC) d Courtney, 3-1 135 — Hutton (B) d. Brooke, 6-5 140 — RedLeaf (PC) md Alexander, 11-0 145 — Littleton (PC) fft 152 — Lockett (PC) p. Johnson, 2:07 160 — McNamara (B) md. Pappan, 18-8 171 — Leavitt (PC) d Sullivan, 9-3 189 — Ward (B) fft 215 — Ailey (B) d Childers, 7-3 Hwt — Tannehill (B) p. Fezer, :55 Wildcats Win Wild OneBy DAVID DAVIS News Sports Writer OWASSO — The Ponca City Wildcats defeated the Owasso Rams Tuesday in a thriller that wasn’t decided until the final buzzer. With 3 seconds remaining, senior Billy Broughton shot down the winning bucket. “These games aren’t supposed to be this exciting,” Ponca City coach Ron Arthur said after the game. He said the coaching staff encourages the players to push the ball up the court. “I wasn’t about to call timeout,” he said, referring to an incident in Kansas where Tim Frick drove the ball down court to score what could’ve, should’ve, would’ve been the winning basket. All the way down court, Arthur frantically signaled for a timeout. It wasn’t granted until several seconds later when Frick was in the act of shooting a layup. At Owasso, the Wildcats jumped out to a 10-4 lead early in the first, but the quarter ended in a tie, just as it began. The score was 14-14 entering the second period. Again, the Wildcats jumped out to an early quarter lead. Ponca City held onto the lead and led by five at the break, 28-23. In the second half, sophomore Ram Kyle Brady threw in 17 of his 19 points. “We tried to prepare them for Owasso,” Arthur said. “Their record is not indicative of the team they have. “They have a good team and have lost a couple of other games like this. You can’t take this team lightly.” He said it looked like they were off to the races, but Owasso hit their shots in the second half and the Wildcats didn’t. “It’s not because we were slacking. We were trying,” Arthur said. The third quarter ended with Owasso leading by one point, 40-39. At the 6:51 mark in the fourth, the score was 44-41. Momentum had slipped away from Ponca City and moved to Owasso’s bench. Then, as he does so often, senior Kris Upchurch came in and quietly hit a 3-point bucket to tie the game at 44. Momentum shifted back and forth. The Wildcats were ahead by five, 51-46 with 3:16 remaining. With 2 minutes left, the score was 52-51, in favor of Owasso. At the 1:05 mark, the score was 55-52, Ponca City. With 12 seconds to go in the game., Brady tossed in a three to tie the score at 55. The Wildcats inbounded the ball under Owasso’s basket. Broughton took the ball all the way down court. With three seconds remaining, he pulled up at the top of the key and shot. Broughton and Tim Frick led the Wildcats with 12 points each. Josh Pitts scored 9, Blaine Petrie, 8; James Anno, 7; Kris Upchurch, 6 and Jared Brashears, 3. The Cats shot 21 of 50 from the field, including 8 of 19 from the 3-point line. The team was 7 of 12 from the free throw line and committed 8 turnovers. The Wildcats pulled down 12 rebounds on offense and 13 on defense. The Rams shot 21 of 46 from the field, including 8 of 21 from 3-point land. The team was 5 of 8 from the free throw line and committed 12 turnovers. The Rams collected 7 offensive rebounds and 15 on defense. The Wildcats are now 6-5 in the Frontier Conference and 8-9 overall. Owasso is 0-6, 1-10). The Wildcats are off until Jan. 30, when Ponca City travels to Sapulpa. Lady Cats Get Costly WinBy DAVID DAVIS News Sports Writer OWASSO — The Ponca City Lady Wildcats may have won the war against the Owasso Lady Rams, but not without another devastating knee injury. Ponca City beat Owasso by 10 points, 39-29. Junior guard Courtney Birdsong injured her left knee only 4:30 into the first quarter. She’d just set the Lady Cats’ offense after a Lady Rams’ turnover when Owasso center Dacie Reutlinger committed a foul away from the ball. Birdsong set a pick on the left side at the top of the key, then went down holding her left knee. The Lady Cat offense continued for what seemed an eternity until game officials called an injury timeout. She walked off the court with assistance, but was taken later to a Tulsa hospital for x-rays. Coach Jamie Burtner said after the game that Birdsong may have ruptured the bursa sac behind her kneecap or tore a tendon. The score was 3-0 at the time of her injury. Her sister, senior forward Jena Birdsong scored the next basket to make the score 5-0. Sophomore Jamie Pado scored the only other first quarter point for Ponca City when she made one-of-two free throws with 38 seconds remaining. Owasso junior Christie Wilson converted two free throws with 11 seconds remaining in the first. The score was 6-2 going into the second period. Both offenses picked up, but not by much. The Lady Cats scored seven points. The Lady Rams doubled their first quarter output with four points. At the half, the score was 13-6. After junior center Jenna Wedd’s season ending knee injury, some people believed all hope for a successful season went with her. But, led by senior Tara Cries For Ribs, the girls’ stepped up to go 2-2 since returning to the court after the holiday break. This time it was senior Lyndsi Frederick and freshman Janna Green who stepped forward. Frederick collected 12 rebounds for the Lady Wildcats. Green came off the bench to replace Courtney Birdsong at point guard and scored all 11 of her points in the second half. She scored nine points in the third quarter to spark the Lady Cat offense to a 16-point third while the defense held Owasso to only 10 points. Burtner expressed sadness over the loss of Birdsong and Wedd to injuries. “You never want to see a player get hurt or go down with an injury,” Burtner said. “But it’s nice to have someone step up when someone does go down. “Janna got us off to a good start in the second half. She gave us a good spark after Courtney went down.” Ponca City entered the fourth period with a 31-16 lead. A double digit Lady Cat lead is almost insurmountable by any team when the defense works. Owasso managed to score 10 points in the final quarter, but so did the Lady Cats. Ponca City beat Owasso in both games this season. The Lady Rams are winless in Frontier Conference play. The Lady Cats are 5-6 (6-8). For Ponca City, Tara Cries For Ribs scored 10 points, Jamie Prado, 6; Jena Birdsong, 5; Ann Ziegenhain, 4; Kristina Huddleston, 2 and Courtney Birdsong, 1. For Owasso, Dacie Reutlinger scored 15 points. The Lady Cats travel north to Lawrence, Kan., for the Free State Invitational Tournament Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The games will be broadcast on WBBZ Radio (1230 AM). OutdoorsKay Game Warden HonoredKay County Game Warden Tracy L. Daniel of Ponca City has been named the National Wild Turkey Federation's Oklahoma Wildlife Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. To recognize the valuable contributions of Danieel and other wildlife law enforcement officers, the NWTF initiated an awards program to acknowledge top officers across North America. All nominees demonstrate a high level of professionalism and dedication. As Oklahoma's NWTF Wildlife Law Enforcement Officer of the Year, Daniel, along with other individual state nominees, is eligible to be named the NWTF National Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. "Our wildlife law officers have played a vital role in the comeback of the wild turkey. Their commitment to protect the resource is critical to restoration and wildlife management efforts today. Trap and transfer is one portion of the success story, protection is the other, " said Rob Check, NWTF CEO. "The NWTF established this award last year to give our wildlife law enforcement officers the thanks and recognition they deserve." Daniel has worked for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation as a game warden for more than 20 years and has been instrumental in the successful comeback of the wild turkey to his area, Daniel, as well as other state winners, will be recognized La Columbus, Ohio, at the NWTFs 25th Annual National Convention and Sport Show, Feb. 15-18, where the national winner will be announced. PC Bassmasters Net HonorPonca City’s Bassmasters had extra success in their season this past year as Jody Linder qualified to represent Oklahoma at the BASS Federation National Championship in Mobile, Ala., in April. Linder was one of four Ponca City Bassmasters on the 12-man Oklahoma BASS Federation team which competed in the Central Division Tournament on Lewis and Clark Lake in Yankton, S.D. Linder finished sixth among the 108 anglers from the region and was the top Oklahoma fisherman, thus qualifying for the national tournament. He is the first Ponca Citian to qualify for the National BASS tournament. The other Ponca City anglers on the Oklahoma team were Robert Cartlidge (who was the state runner-up), Dr. Bill Stuever and Don Linder. The Ponca City Bassmasters held eight tournaments during the year with an average catch of 69 pounds per event.. The top six finishers from those tournaments will represent the club in the 2001 state tournament. Don Linder was named Angler of the Year for the club after finishing first in total points (1,120) and total weight (73 pounds, 15 ounces. Paul Brooks, last year’s champion, was second with 1,032 points. Rounding out the top six finishers were Jody Linder (987 points and a catch of 70 pounds, 2 ounces), Robert Cartlidge (955 points and 69 pounds, Darrel Dye (873 points) and Al Jensen (775). Troney Lankston was the Newcomer of the Year. Jody Linder had the largest stringer of the season (27 pounds, 5 ounces), followed by Dr, Stuever (21-9) and Cartlidge (21-1). The anglers were honored at the Bassmasters annual banquet recently. The new officers for 2001 are President Dye, Vice-President/Tournament Director Don Linder, Secretary Shawn Lewis and Treasurer Dr. Stuever. The 2001 tournament trail begins in March and finishes in October. The Ponca City Bassmasters meet on the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Pioneer Bank Drive-in meeting room. Anyone interesting in joining should contact Dye (762-6827) or any other member. State Quail Can Withstand ColdOklahoma is experiencing a “good old fashion” winter, one with below normal temperatures and more snow and ice than the state has seen in years. The harsh weather has many quail enthusiasts concerned about how the birds are enduring the elements. Bobwhite quail have survived every conceivable type of weather event, and this year's bought with Old Man Winter is no exception, says Mike Sams, upland bird biologist for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. “Ice and snow can limit food availability for quail, and prolonged coverage can result in die-offs if food is not available to maintain the birds’ energy expenditures,’ Sams said. “But fat reserves can provide emergency energy during food shortages, and quail can fast for up to five days without experiencingsignificant problems. Proper land management becomes increasingly important to ensure the availability of protective cover so the birds can maintain their body temperatures. “While quail will generally reduce their activity levels during ice and snow cover, energy from food is in high demand to maintain body temperature. The birds are quite resourceful, and have been reported roosting in old abandoned cellars, armadillo holes, and culverts where temperatures are warmer. Quail may also shift their feeding from off the ground to shrubs and trees where seeds have yet to drop.” The bottom line is that hunters and landowners can best help quail populations by providing the best possible habitat. With proper habitat conditions, quail can weather almost any storm, including increased pressure from higher predator populations. Anyone wanting more information on bobwhite quail habitat improvement should contact the Department's Wildlife Division at 405/521-2739. The Department also offers a 40-page booklet entitled Bobwhite Quail in Oklahoma that is available for $5. Orders can be sent to Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, 1801 N. Lincoln, Oklahoma City, OK 73105. Outdoor CalendarJANUARY 2001 26-28 and Feb. 2-4: Oklahoma City Boat Show vvlww.okcboats.com 27: Hunter Education Course, Turner Rec Cntr, 3503 E 51h Place, Tulsa. 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Reg#: 918/ 744-1039. 27: Home Study Hunter Education Course, Midwest City Library. 10 a.m. -2 p.m. Reg#: 405/732-4828. 29-Feb. 4: Tulsa Boat, Sport & Travel Show. 31: Quail season closes. 31: Pheasant season closes. 31: Squirrel season closes. FEBRUARY 2001 3: Red River Limbhangers NNVTF Banquet, Marietta. Contact Billy Burge: 580/276-4146. 3: Edmond Chapter Ducks Unlimited banquet, Oak Tree Golf & Country Club, indoor tennis courts, 6 p.m. Contact Dan Eppler: 405/ 749-1855. 3: Hunter Education Course, Owasso Comm. Cntr., 301 S Cedar, Owasso. 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Reg#: 918/ 744-1039. 4: Second part Crow season closes. 5: Home Study Hunter Education Course, H&H Gun Range, OKC. 610 p.m. Reg#: 405/947-3888. 8&22: Home Study Hunter Education Course, Maxwell Rec Cntr., 5251 E. Newton, Tulsa. Feb. 8, 6-7 p.m., Feb. 22, 6-9 p.m. Reg#: 918/ 744-1039.
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