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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Friday, January 26, 2001 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES EDUCATION RELIGION SPORTS LOCALChamber Banquet A High Ceremony Chamber Banquet A High CeremonyBy LOUISE ABERCROMBIE News Business Editor High achievements, high hopes and high jinx highlighted the Chamber banquet at the full house at the Conoco Atrium, which was highly decorated in red, white and blue. A political theme was used in honor of keynote speakers Burns Hargis and Mike Turpen from the “Flashpoint” television program, which has a political bent with a humorous twist. Making a return appearance, Turpen and Burns, both unsuccessful gubernatorial candidates, kept the audience in stitches as they panned national and state politicians. However these two performers had some competition early in the evening from the comical trio of Larry Murphy, master of ceremonies; Barry Bickle, outgoing Chamber chairman, and Dan Gilliam, incoming chairman. The evening dispelled any myth that the Chamber is a stuffy organization and proved that the jobs can get done without anyone taking anything too seriously. It was a “feel good” evening from beginning to end — and could be serious competition for the annual “Taste and Tasteless” community roast. At the top of the leader board for the politicos for the evening was Congressman Ernest Istook, who along with Sen. Don Nickles, was honored for his efforts in securing first phase funding for the Ponca City bandwidth project. Nickles was tied up in Washington but Istook was on hand to receive a resolution from the Oklahoma Board of Regents for Higher Education, presented by Bill Shafer on behalf of Hans Brisch, chancellor of Higher Education. Also signing was Chairman of the Regents Leonard Eaton and Ponca Citian and regent Carl Renfro. Jan Jarrett, Chamber CEO, and Economic Development executive, presented Istook a statuette of the Pioneer Woman, a Standing Bear bust and medallions of the Marland Mansion for his Washington office. On the serious side, former Mayor Marilyn Andrews was honored with the “Outstanding Citizen Award,” presented by last year’s recipient Barry Bickle. Mike Fretwell, general manager of the Mid Continent Business Unit of Conoco, accepted the Industry of the Year Award from Ricky Flak, chairman of the Economic Development Advisory Board. A newly created Business of the Year Award went to United Supermarkets and was accepted by the president of the Oklahoma grocery chain, Jay Snell, who lives in Ponca City. Another Conocoan, James York, was honored with the Community Achievement Award. The Larry Hughes Leadership Award was presented to Gary Denny and Lowell LeFebvre for the Character First Program. Lana Jones presented the award on behalf of the Hughes’ family. Russ Parker received the Ambassador of the Year Award, presented by Debbi Weatherly. (See Page 6A for more pictures and stories from the banquet.) Ponca Playhouse Does Number On Salute To Charles SchulzBy JOYCE NEWMAN News Staff Writer Charlie Brown is in town and he’s singing at the Ponca Playhouse. In a salute to cartoonist Charles Schulz the Playhouse will perform the musical comedy, “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”, written by Clark Gesner and directed by artist-in-residence Morris McCorvey, tonight at the Poncan Theatre. The play will run Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 26-28 and Friday and Saturday, Feb. 2-3. All performances begin at 8 p.m. except the Sunday matinee which begins at 2 p.m. The depth of talent on the Ponca Playhouse bench of players runs deep and plentiful. So plentiful, in fact, that each week-end of performances and the Sunday matinee will have it’s own cast. “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” taps heavily into the talented “rookie” members of the Playhouse while using a handful of veteran players to lead the way. If you are looking for a way to spend an evening where you can kick back and enjoy good music, good humor, and some down home life truths all rolled into one, and at the same time see some of the exceptional talent that Ponca City has to offer, then you will probably find yourself at the Ponca Playhouse production of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”. Robin Maril’s Lucy might have been Charles Schulz’ prototype, so true is her performance. Eric Peeples, as Charlie Brown, has found the precise balance for the wishy-washy, loveable character. In a Milky Way of stars, the versatile Angela Owen shines in her role as Snoopy. The real Linus couldn’t have been more attached to his blanket than Michael Machada. He does a fine job as the backward, insecure, and sometimes “astute” brother of Lucy. Heather Brown is another good fit in her portrayal of Peppermint Patty as is Lucas Connally as Schroeder. The chorus includes Kristin Dugan, Chrissie Senseman, Stephanie Powers, Adam Lake and Kimberly Evans. For the Sunday performance, cast members are: Snoopy, Angela Owen; Charlie Brown, Eric Peeples; Linus, Michael Machada; Schroeder, Caleb Allison; Lucy, Chrissie Senseman; and Patty, Stephanie Powers. The chorus includes Robin Maril, Heather Brown, Lauramily Fonesca, Kristin Dugan and Adam Lake. Under the direction of Denise Jones, the orchestra performs the intricate tunes of this musical with the ease that comes from talent and practice. The perfect timing between the music and the on-stage action is evidence of the hard work and dedication that has gone into this production. The orchestra includes rehearsal/performance conductor, Denise Jones; rehearsal/performance pianist, Suzanne Sumpter; flute, Lisa Hermes; clarinet, Al Summerfield; trumpet, Commie Ausland and Stan Barraclough; trombone, Wade Tisdale; percussion, J. Hudson; violins, Adam Mulligan, Kent Dennis, Cassie Neahring and Charley Hermanson; cello, Marlene Montenegro; and bass, Sarah Todd. The long hours of work and practicing done by the behind-the-scences crew is more than evident in the results of Thursday’s dress rehearsal. The production staff includes stage manager, Max Berry; assistant stage manager, Larri Ann Halbrook; producers, Scott Pittman and Annette Hunt; music director, Denise Jones; choreographer for group numbers, Suzanne Kem; lighting, Stephanie Williams; sound, Matt Cowley; set construction, Scott Pittman, Annette L. Hunt, Gary Owen, Larri Ann Halbrook, Keith Hunter, Michelle Roberts, Marta Maril, Robin Maril, Kristin Dugan, Sydney Dugan, and Max Berry. Properties are provided by the cast and crew; costumes, Annette Hunt, Ann Jester and Nadine Owen; publicity, Linda Cowley; program editor, Annette Hunt, Michelle Roberts, Linda Cowley and Scott Pittman; photographer, Annette Hunt; and cover design, Christina Rich-Splawn. To make reservations for “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” call the Playhouse box office at 765-5360. The office is located at 301 South First Street. Office hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Tickets are also available one hour prior to show time at the Poncan box office. Corporate sponsors for “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” is Boettcher, Ryan and Martin. Further funding is provided through the State Arts Council. (Note: The News will review performances of both week-ends.) Chamber Event One for RecordsBy LOUISE ABERCROMBIE News Business Editor The 2001 Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce is in the record book, but might be better recorded in the funny book. From beginning to end it was a laugh filled evening. Even incoming Chairman Dan Gilliam had some comical remarks for outgoing chairman Barry Bickle. Turning serious, Gilliam challenged the Chamber audience, as he had challenged board members and committee chairmen, saying, “If you want to hit a home run, first you’ve got to get a bat and then step up to the plate to make new and exciting things happen to make Ponca city a better place.” Gilliam said, “It is important to work hard with the mayor and city commission to make Ponca City better.” Gilliam lauded the Big Blue Band for taking the challenge and raising $84,000 to make the trip instead of saying it couldn’t be done. Bickle told about some of the many Chamber activities including handling calls for tourism and organizing the Ponca City Summit. He said there was a lot “let the chamber do it” requests that come to the organization. He recognized the staff — Jan Jarrett, Lisa Coy, Lois Payne, Betty Cutler and Grace Brooks. With Larry Murphy, master of ceremonies, singer Mike Mott sang a tribute to Bickle, entitled “The Perfect Barry Bickle Song.” While Bickle rocked in the chair given to him by Chamber, they sang, while a video played on a king-size screen showing aspects of Barry’s life. Lighter Side P.S. Mott, as always, sang well. Now for Murphy — advice from “Aunt” Louise — stick to being master of ceremonies, leave the karoke to Mott, and don’t quit your day job. Seriously, Murphy has the ability to make the event fun, even when he is making fun of someone — and the audience loves it. Turned into the lost and found department was a Groucho Marx mask with glasses, nose and eyebrows with the initials LM. Industry of Year Award Presented to ConocoThe recipient of the Industry of the Year Award is Conoco Inc. Making the presentation was Ricky Flak, chairman of the Economic Development Advisory, who said in part, “Conoco has been a pivotal part of the town’s past and once again renewed emotional equity in this community by establishing the carbon fibers plant.” He also commented on the company’s employees who work for the betterment of the community. Accepting the honor for Conoco was Mike Fretwell, general manager of the Mid Continent Business Unit. Fretwell, who is British, paraphrased Winston Churchill, who after World War II said, “This nation provided the Lion’s heart and I was given the opportunity to roar.” he said “I feel that way tonight. I’m fortunate to work for a splendid company in a splendid town. “The employees love this town. I have never lived in place where the employees or a company where there is such a mutual feeling, between the town and the company and it is a real pleasure.” He commented further about how the town had stepped up to the plate bringing in new business, improved education and improved the housing. Parker Top AmbassadorRuss Parker received the Ambassador of the Year Award, presented by Debbi Weatherly. Parker in accepting the award said, “It is a great group of adults that work together on the Ambassadors Club. The Ambassadors have a good time and work with a great staff at the Chamber. This is a great honor for me and I will continue to work with them.” Parker is employed at the Cherokee Strip Credit Union, as vice president of operations and marketing. Organizations Parker is involved in includes, Ambassadors, Tippers, Noon Lion’s Club, where he held previously held several offices including president, and he volunteers to help with other activities such as White Cane Day, Salvation Army Bell Ringer, eye glasses drive and others. He helped establish the Leo Club at the Ponca City High School in 1998 and continues to volunteer his time to help with it. This club is a high school version of the Lion’s club and promotes leadership and service projects in the community. James York Honored For Community ServiceThe Community Service Award was presented to James York by Barry Bickle. York in accepting the award said, “There are a lot of activities in Ponca City that I get sort of get assigned to but they do run past the clock. There are lots of activities that need a lot of help and a lot of volunteerism.” He encouraged the audience to volunteer. “You meet a lot of nice people and have a lot of fun.” Criteria for this award is designed to honor an individual who has made significant recent contributions to the community and is designed to acknowledge the hard work of individuals or those who have made distinguished accomplishments over a short period of time. York’s activities included; Po-Hi Great Escape; Po-Hi Career Day; Science and Math Teacher’s Workshop and Earth Day Environmental Fair. Also, United Way Parade and Hospice Chili Cook-off; Pioneer Woman Museum Dedication; Standing Bear Park Dedication; Cherokee Strip Parade; Marland Mansion Restoration. York, according to Bickle, brings unique skills to any project he works on. These are skills he uses on his paying job also so his employer likes to volunteer him for service. While his involvement may start during his work anyone who has worked with the 2000 Community Service Award winner will tell you that there are always lots of nights and weekends involved in all of these projects. Marilyn Andrews Outstanding CitizenBarry Bickle in making the presentation to the 2001 Outstanding Citizen award to Marilyn Andews, said, “When you think of the citizen of the year, a lifetime of service to Ponca City should come to mind. I have no doubt that you will agree with me that our recipient is deserving of a lifetime achievement award.” Upon receiving the award, Andrews said, “It isn’t difficult to think of what to say about this community. I love this community. You cannot believe the joy when you can gather a community together and do the things that we do without the people you see around you and they do it year after year and do it over and over. Thank you for this honor.” Mrs. Andrews was surprised as her family, including her father from Kansas City, joined her on stage as she accepted the award. The audience gave a standing ovation as she came on stage. Presenting the award, Bickle said, “Obviously, this year’s outstanding citizen has a long list of involvement. Here are some of the major ones: Ponca City Main Street Authority; Poncan Theatre; Ponca City Tourism Authority; United Way; Edwin Fair Community Mental Health Center; Friends of Education; Child Development Center; Community Concert and Ponca Playhouse; Ponca City Planning Commission. “That is a pretty impressive ‘breadth’ of involvement. This year’s recipient is known also for contributions outside our fair city — Academy of State Goals; Leadership Class of Oklahoma; Oklahoma Department of Commerce; Oklahoma Municipal League and State Inspection Board. “Our recipient is credited with bringing 911 to Ponca City; she is one of the founders of Ponca City’s Main Street Program; she led organization of the Child Development Center; she is active in her church; she is a certified dental assistant.” Bickle said, “She is the only Oklahoma Mayor of the Year I know. Please welcome the 2000 outstanding citizen, Marilyn Andrews. United Supermarkets Win Newest AwardThe newly created Business of the Year Award was presented to United Supermarkets. Accepting the award was Jay Snell, president, who resides in Ponca City. Barry Bickle in presenting the award, said that United supports Ponca City through not only its contribution dollars but with the involvement of their employees. In accepting the award Snell said, “It is an honor, I really feel it is because of the hard work of our employees that we are able to participate like we are.” United participates as a model partner in education; sponsors youth activities including Boy Scouts, FFA, 4-H, Girl Scouts, Po-Hi Science Club; supports Po-Hi band and Po-Hi Athletics, that is the weight room construction and equipment scoreboards in Robson Fieldhouse. Other organizations they support are VFW and American Legion; Domestic Violence; Opportunity Center; Poncan Theatre; Literacy Council; Animal Welfare Society and Friendship Feast. United Supermarket has been in operation for 85 years in Oklahoma. They came to Ponca City 15 years ago. Statewide they have about 1,500 employees in 26 stores and about 120 in Ponca City. “Last year they opened a second location here in Ponca City on South Avenue. The people in the south side of the City are thrilled they didn’t lose their neighborhood grocery store,” Bickle said in presenting the award. There was a standing ovation for United. DEATHSDempsey Hibbs Greer Dempsey Hibbs GreerTONKAWA — Dempsey Hibbs Greer, resident of Tonkawa, died Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2001, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 92. The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 27, in the First Assembly of God Church with the Rev. Ray Paschen officiating. Burial will be in the IOOF Cemetery at Tonkawa under the direction of the McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home of Tonkawa. Dempsey Hibbs Greer was born Nov. 23, 1908, in Curryville, Ga., the son of Caro Dolphus and Nellie Catherine Bell Greer. When he was 10 years old, the family moved to Oklahoma, residing in Leflore County. As a teenager, he left home and worked in the Permian Basin oil fields in Texas. He later returned to Red Oak and married Bessie Neal on Nov. 4, 1933, in Wilburton. While farming and working custom wheat harvest, he came to Tonkawa and decided to move there, in part because of the college. He worked as a machinist for the city of Tonkawa and for Williams Oil Tool before retiring in 1973. He enjoyed reading, gardening, fishing, traveling and discussing politics with friends. He also enjoyed listening to audio tapes and attending the Sweetheart Nutrition Center. He was a former member and president of the IOOF Cemetery. Survivors include a daughter, Sharon Greer of Graham, Texas; one son, Frank Greer of Yukon; two sisters, Thelma Tripp of Ward, Ark., and Kathryne Duke of Smithville; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; a daughter, Barbara Nell Bobeck; two sisters; a brother, Lindsey Greer; and two infant brothers. Otis MurrayOtis Murray, I-hen-do-buh (four wings) of the Bear Clan, Ponca City resident, died Thursday, Jan. 25, 2001, at his home. He was 39. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27, 2001, at the Ponca Indian Baptist Church with the Rev. Ted Freeman, pastor, officiating. Burial will follow at Ponca Indian Cemetery under the direction of Trout Funeral Home. An evening service will be held at 7 p.m. on Friday at the Ponca Indian Baptist Church. Otis Murray was born April 13, 1961, in Fairview, the son of Robert Sr. and Virginia Waters Murray. He moved with his family as a young child to Red Rock and attended Red Rock public schools, graduating in 1979. He was a fancy dancer from 1972 to 1977. He was employed as a roofer and did beadwork for the Ponca Indian tribe. He enjoyed playing basketball, baseball, softball, and shinney. He also was a feather maker, fan maker, and made baby moccasins. He was a member of the Ponca Indian Baptist Church and was a member of the Southern Iowa Indian tribe. He is survived by his mother; three brothers, Robert Murray Jr. of Newkirk, Donald Frank Murray of Ponca City, and Kirvin Allan Murray of Ponca City; three sisters, Sandra Sue Murray of Houston, Lori Ann Franklin of Perkins, Virene Alice Murray of Ponca City; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father and one sister, Ida Sue Murray. Casket bearers will be Bob Murray Jr., Don Murray, Kirvin Murray, Roger Kihega, John D. Waters, and James Terry. Honorary bearers will be Garland Kent Jr., John Desjarlay, Troy Warrior, Alan Waters and Tommy Kent. Dolphus Sylvester WolfvoiceSKIATOOK — Dolphus Syl-vester Wolfvoice, resident of Skiatook, died Tuesday afternoon, Jan. 23, 2001, in the St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa. He was 52. The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 27, in the New Hope Christian Fellowship Church with the Rev. Mary E. Fish of Pawhuska officiating. Burial will be in the Grayhorse Cemetery under the direction of Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home of Fairfax. Military honors will be given by a Broken Arrow Marine Corps unit. Dolphus Sylvester Wolfvoice was born Aug. 1, 1948, in Pawnee, the son of Dewey and Gloria Patricia Cox Wolfvoice. He graduated from Fairfax High School in 1965. He attended Northeastern State College in Tahlequah and Oklahoma University. He was known for his woodcarving and playing football. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1967 to 1969. Survivors include his wife Connie of the home; two daughters, Ashley Wolfvoice Carson of Broken Arrow and Shaunna Wolfvoice of Skiatook; a son, Dakotah Wolfvoice of Tulsa; parents, Patricia and John Tallchief of Fairfax; two brothers, Max and Huey Wolfvoice, both of Tulsa; sister, Tess Willie of Fairfax; stepsister, Cecelia Lemon of Santa Fe, N.M.; one grandson; and numerous other relatives. He was preceded in death by his father; grandparents; a son, Dolph Wolfvoice Jr.; and a stepbrother, Charlie Tallchief. Casket bearers will be David Palmer, Eddie Moses, Jeff Tucker, Wilson Willie, Jimmy Harris, Joe Harris, Charlie Harris and Jeff Lunsford. Honorary bearers will be Dustin Park and Clarence Haynes. The family will be at the funeral home to receive friends and family. ObituariesJoe BurgertJoe Burgert, longtime Ponca City resident, died Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2001, at his home. He was 80. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, Jan. 29, 2001, at 10 a.m. with the Rev. John J. Michalicka, pastor, presiding. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery under the direction of Trout Funeral Home. Joe was born Oct. 18, 1920, in Foss, Okla., the son of Leopold and Josephine (Merz) Burgert. He entered the U.S. Navy in May 1942 and served primarily aboard the battleship USS Washington during World War II. He was discharged in August of 1945. After graduating from the Fort Smith Auction School in Fort Smith, Ark., Joe came to Ponca City and established Ponca Furniture Auction. In 1950, he married Nina Cook in Booneville, Ark. They made their home in Ponca City and continued to own and operate the real estate and furniture auction company. Joe retired in 1988 after 40 years. Following his retirement, he continued to work at flea markets. Nina preceded him in death Jan. 8, 2001. Joe was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the American Legion. During the last years, he developed an interest in computers. He is survived by two brothers, George and John Burgert, both of Foss; two grandchildren, Melanie Playford of Ponca City and Josh McMahan of the home; and one great-grandchild, Miranda Playford. Additional survivors include three stepsons, Danny Bright of Missouri, Lloyd Bright of Tonkawa, and Ronnie Bright Sr. of Carrolton, Ky.; and one stepdaughter, Norma Spratt of Waverly, Tenn.; 12 step-grandchildren; and several step, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and wife, a daughter, Linda Waller, and two sisters, Sister Mary Burgert and Sister Justine Burgert, preceded him in death. Casket bearers will be Darren Playford, Gary Waller, Ronnie Bright Jr., Mackie McMillan, Larry Lake and Lewis Becke. Contributions may be made in his memory to the American Heart Association, Kay County Chapter, P.O. Box 1151, Ponca City, OK 74602. paid obituary Services PendingWilliam F. HowellWilliam F. “Bill” Howell, longtime Ponca City resident, died Thursday, Jan. 25, 2001, at Comanche County Memorial Hospital in Lawton. He was 96. The funeral will be held Monday, Jan. 29, 2001, at 3 p.m. at First Free Will Baptist Church. Other arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home. FuneralsTuesday Margaret Jo SlimpMargaret Jo Slimp — Graveside service at 1:30 p.m. at the James W. Roberts Memorial Chapel at the Blackwell Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home. NEWS BRIEFSArt Association — Art competition registration will be 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 3. A Ponca City Art Association reception and critique will be Feb. 4. For more information call 765-9746. Court Allen Construction. Brick, flagstone, concrete, walkway’s, patios and planters. Call 765-2720. adv. Rescheduled — St. Joseph Regional Medical Center’s “For Women, By Women” educational program scheduled for this Saturday has been rescheduled for Saturday, Feb. 10, from 9 a.m. - noon. Bluelite open at noon on Superbowl. Also Dart Tournament at 2 p.m. adv. Burglary — A business in the 3000 block of North Fourteenth Street reported an overnight burglary to Ponca City police at 8:16 a.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Sale! 20%, 50%, 70% savings. Kids/Her Review. adv. Gas Drive-Off — A clerk at Citgo Short Stop No. 1, 400 East South Avenue, reported a $6 gas drive-off to Ponca City police at 9:39 a.m. Thursday. A description was given of the suspect and vehicle. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. 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. Subject Held — An officer in the 1700 block of Sykes Boulevard reported a 61-year-old man was taken into custody on a Cowley County felony warrant at 1:18 p.m. Thursday. Kids Club - Victory Mountain Kids Club will meet from 10:30 to noon on the second and fourth Saturday of each month to learn and understand the Bible. It will include songs, Bible stories and puppet shows for children six to 12 years. Located at 815 South Ninth Street, it is a ministry of the Mission. For further information contact Anna at 765-0605. adv. Accident — A man reported a hit-and-run accident near the intersection of East Grand Avenue and Third Street to Ponca City police at 1:34 p.m. Thursday. Someone had hit a planter box with their vehicle. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Accident — A minor accident in the 1500 block of East Prospect Avenue was reported to Ponca City police at 4:02 p.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Subject Held — A Ponca City booking officer reported a 34-year-old woman was court committed into police custody on two Kay County warrants for fraud and falsely reporting a crime at 2:54 p.m. Thursday. 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. Intoxicated Subject — A resident reported seeing an intoxicated man behind a building in the 900 block of East South Avenue to Ponca City police at 3:42 p.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and a 38-year-old man was taken into custody for public intoxication. 1981 20 year class reunion meeting. Saturday, January 27 at the Poncan Theater, 2-4 p.m. Anyone interested please come. adv. Fire Run — An employee with the Army Corps of Engineers at Kay Lake reported a grass fire on the south side of the dam to the Communications Center at 3:47 p.m. Thursday. The Ponca City Fire Department was informed and handled the call. Winter Blow out. New and used children’s and maternity. Spring is being put out. Bearly New. adv. Accident — An accident at the intersection of West Central Avenue and South Franklin Street was reported to Ponca City police at 4:13 p.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Kids Review now accepting children’s spring/summer consignments. adv. Fire Run — A grass fire in the 4300 block of Quail Ridge Road was reported to the Communication Center at 5:12 p.m. Thursday. The McCord Volunteer Fire Department was advised and handled the call. Head Country Saturday night special. All you can eat beef brisket with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $7.49. All day. 1217 East Prospect. adv. Suspicious Persons — A woman reported seeing two males trying to light a fire on the east side of a building in the 1400 block of West Grand Avenue to Ponca City police at 4:25 p.m. Thursday. Two officers responded to the scene and two juveniles were taken into custody. The juveniles were later released to their parents. Suspicious Person — A clerk at a business in the 600 block of West Highland Avenue reported to Ponca City police at 11:25 p.m. Thursday a customer had been banned from the business and a second customer believed he may have a weapon. Two officers responded to the scene and advised the 28-year-old man did not have a weapon, but was taken into custody for public intoxication. Jim Bowen Construction Custom homes, room additions and remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv. Subject Held — An officer at the intersection of North Pine Street and West Summit Avenue reported a 28-year-old woman was taken into custody after a traffic stop for public intoxication at 2:31 a.m. Friday. Dougan's Bar-B-Q Friday special from 4-8 p.m., all you can eat ribs with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $8.49. 215 South 14th, 765-7979. adv. Accident — A two-vehicle, non-injury accident at the intersection of West South Avenue and South Waverly Street was reported to Ponca City police at 5:33 a.m. Friday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Pauline’s Steak and shrimp dinner. $11.95. Friday 26th. For reservations call 765-5460. adv. RELIGIONSchacher Comes on Board As Presbyterian Minister Schacher Comes on Board As Presbyterian MinisterAfter a one-year search effort, the congregation of First Presbyterian Church has called the Rev. Tom Schacher to be their next pastor. Schacher had been serving as pastor of Unity Presbyterian Church in Cambridge, Ohio. He was born on October 21, 1963, in St. Louis, and raised in Springfield, Mo. He graduated from high school in Springfield and joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1981. Upon his discharge, he entered Southwest Missouri State University in Springfield where he earned his bachelor’s degree in religious studies and sociology in 1989. During his undergraduate work he ministered in churches of several denominations in the area, mostly with the youth. Schacher began his theological training in 1990 and, in 1994, received his master of divinity from Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky. He was ordained as a Presbyterian minister of Word and Sacrament on July 17, 1994. Schacher's wife is the former Jane Cupp. They were married in Flemingsburg, Ky., on March 1, 1993. Jane graduated from Southwest Missouri State University with a bachelor of science degree in horticulture. Jane has also been active in the church, teaching Sunday school and junior church, serving on various committees and participating in women's groups. She also does community volunteer work with the Salvation Army and United Way. On May 30, 1994 (the day Rev. Schacher graduated from seminary), the Schachers’ daughter, McKenna, was born. She is in first grade and enjoys art, swimming, her cat Snuggles and playing outdoors. Schacher began his ministry as a pastor at the First Presbyterian Church in Yellville, Ark., in July 1994. In January 1996, he moved to Mansfield, Ohio as an associate pastor at the First Presbyterian Church. In November 1999, at the request of his Presbytery, he was asked to be the organizing pastor for Unity Presbyterian Church in Cambridge, Ohio. This was a new church formed by the re-unification of two churches. Having concluded his role as the organizing pastor, he’s looking forward to becoming a pastor of his own established church. Schacher has also been quite active in his Presbytery and community. Since 1996, he has served on the committee on Preparation for Ministry and the committee on Ministry. He is a member of the Cambridge Area Council of Churches, a board member for the Salvation Army, the chaplain for the Rotary Club and very active in the Stephens Ministry. The Schacher family arrived in Ponca City in early January. He will conduct his first worship service Sunday at 10 a.m. Everyone is welcome to attend the Rev. Schacher’s message. Jewish Temple Members Enjoy Little Klezmer BandOn Friday evening members of Temple Emanuel had the opportunity to visit with the Best Little Klezmer Band in Texas. Before the Ponca City Arts and Humanities Council free concert, Temple members served a traditional Jewish meal for the band members as well as the congregation. The meal was replete with brisket, noodle kugel (pudding) Challah or twisted egg bread and mondel brodt (biscotti). Friday night is the beginning of the Jewish Sabbath and band member Cantor Marilyn Ladin lit the Sabbath candles and sang the traditional blessing. Candle lighting signifies the start the Sabbath that begins at sundown on Friday and continues until sundown on Saturday. Temple Emanuel lay leader, Dr. Perry Gethner, sang the prayer over the wine, a blessing generally recited before meals. After dinner, the congregation joined Cantor Marilyn and bandleader Marcia Sterling in Sabbath songs before the members were driven to the Poncan Theatre for their performance. After a short Sabbath service, members joined the community for a wonderful evening of incredibly talented musicians performing Yiddish music and songs. Yiddish is a combination of Hebrew, Slavic and about 70 percent German. Several members of the Temple were very familiar with Yiddish as it was spoken in their homes while growing up. Leaving the Poncan, Ida Levy, a matriarch of the Temple, was singing the wedding song. When asked about it, she said, “I know that song well — they sang it at my wedding 73 years ago.” Thanks to the Ponca City Arts and Humanities Council, a good time was had by all. Asbury Methodist Sets UMW DayOn Sunday, Feb. 18, Evelyn Phyffer will speak on “Sowing Seeds of Bounty” at Asbury United Methodist Church United Methodist Women’s Day. Prior to becoming a United Methodist, Phyffer was ordained as a deacon and then an elder in the Presbyterian Church. She has been active in her church choir and United Methodist Women, serving as a study leader and retreat leader on numerous occasions. In October of 1998, she was elected Oklahoma Conference UMW coordinator for Social Action and reelected to that position in 1999. Having served on four mission teams, three of which were to the continent of Africa, Phyffer is active in Volunteers-in-Mission. She is preparing to lead a team to South Africa in September. She serves on the Conference Volunteers-in-Mission Committee and the Committee on Mission Personnel. Phyffer is a tax policy analyst with the Oklahoma Tax Commission in Oklahoma City. She received a bachelor of arts degree in 1971 from Cameron University in Lawton and did graduate work at the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond and Arkansas State University of Jonesboro, Ark., before receiving a juris doctor degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Law in 1981. She is a member of the Oklahoma Bar Association. She is an Attorney-in-the-Classroom through the Bar Association and serves on its Law-Related Education Committee. She has served as a judge in the statewide We the People competition and has served as a judge for Oklahoma City University’s appellate advocacy classes. She has served as a volunteer with the American Red Cross, the Salvation Army, the Oklahoma City Food Bank, the Children’s Miracle Network and United Way of Metro Oklahoma City. She is currently serving as vice chairman of United Way’s Allocations Committee. The public is invited to hear Phyffer speak at Asbury UMC, 700 West Liberty, on Feb. 18 at 10:45 a.m.. Secretary Who Served St. Luke’s Is Stepping DownAfter seven and one-half years, Marlyn Ronan is stepping down as secretary of St. Luke’s Church of Nazarene. During that time, she has served under three pastors — Ira Brown, Will Bonee and Terry Barker. The congregation will come together for a dinner after church Sunday to honor her. A native of Ronan, Mont., she was reared and educated in Ronan and Pablo, Mont. She was the youngest of 13 children. When she was nine years old, she was invited to attend Vacation Bible School — that changed her life. Since that time, church has been a part of her life. Ronan and her husband Tom, after getting married in 1956, have lived in parts of the states of Washington, California and Kansas before moving to Ponca City in 1971. They have been members of St. Luke’s Church of Nazarene since 1975. Before becoming St. Luke’s secretary in June of 1993, she was employed part time for Action Machine Shop, McDonald’s, Horst Music Co., Wal-Mart and The Brick House Fine Jewelers. The Ronans had five children, Nora Jean, Kathleen, Walter, Michael and Trish. Nora Jean, Walter and Michael have died. Kathleen and her family will be at the dinner Sunday and Trish and her husband send their greetings. The Ronans have six grandchildren. The community is invited to attend the service and dinner Sunday. The church is located at 1715 East Prospect. Souper Bowl Of Caring SundayThe national organization of Souper Bowl of Caring is a nonprofit faith-based group which, since 1990, heads a crusade against hunger. This crusade is led by young people on Super Bowl Sunday. Last year, more than 11,000 congregations from 50 states and 50 denominations raised more than $3 million to fight hunger across the country. It is a grassroots movement, and all monies stay in the community where collected. Last year, five churches raised over $1,000 locally. The Souper Bowl of Caring has no full-time staff, has donated office space and homemade letterhead. National organizers do not touch the money collected; they only ask that totals be reported so that a national aggregate can be calculated. The youth will collect a can of food upon leaving the sanctuary; offerings will also be accepted. Church BriefsPrince of Peace Lutheran Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, ELCA at 2800 Turner Rd., will celebrate the fourth Sunday after the Epiphany. A lesson from the 13th Chapter of I Corinthians reminds us that God gives us many gifts through the Holy Spirit, but the greatest of these is Love. Sunday is "Bring A Friend Sunday.” A new adult Sunday school class will begin on Sunday entitled “Jesus; The One & Only.” The congregation is urged to attend a workshop on Saturday at 9 a.m. to develop a new Mission Statement. Sunday school is at 9 a.m., and worship service is at 10 a.m. followed by fellowship. Any good used clothing should be brought to church by Sunday to be donated to the Salvation Army. The church’s website is www.princeofpeacechurch.net. John Michael Talbot Concert Nationally acclaimed Catholic recording artist John Michael Talbot will appear in concert on Sunday, Feb. 4, at 5 p.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Talbot, whose career has spanned 25 years and has 45 recordings, also is an author of 14 books. He has founded a community called The Brothers and Sisters of Charity. Admission is free, but a free-will offering will be taken. FOCAS The Fellowship of Christian Anglers Society of Northern Oklahoma invites all fishing lovers to its first chapter meeting to be held at Glad Tiding Assembly of God, 1 1/2 miles east of Ponca City on Highway 60. The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. Saturday. Call David Rush for more information about this new fishing chapter. CDC Chili Supper The Chili Supper to benefit the Child Development Center is this evening, Friday, in the Fellowship of the First Christian Church. It will start at 4:30 p.m. and continue to 7:30 p.m. Local churches are busy baking pies and cake for this event. For $5 for adults, $2 for children, the meal will include chili (or hot dog), homemade bread, pie or cake and a drink. The community is urged to attend, and tickets are available at the door. Hartford Avenue Church of Christ Members of the Hartford Avenue Church of Christ, 1905 Joe Street, invite the public to share God’s Word each week. Sunday Bible classes are at 9:30 a.m. followed by worship service at 10:30 a.m. Sunday evening worship is at 6 o’clock and Wednesday worship is at 7 p.m. There are classes for all ages. Visitors are invited for lunch in the fellowship center following worship service. Watch the Search program Sunday at 8 a.m. on Channels 5 or 8; this week’s topic is A Prescription by the Great Physician. Bible thought for the week from James 4:14 “Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away.” International Gospel Hour The Newkirk Church of Christ is sponsoring the International Gospel Hour each Sunday that can be heard on KSOK 95.9 FM at 8:30 a.m.. the speaker is Winford Claiborne and the program is heard each week on many stations across the U.S.A. Eastern Heights Christian Church Leland Griffin of Hutchinson, Kan., is serving as interim pastor at Eastern Heights Christian Church while the Pulpit Committee continues the search for permanent pastor following the retirement of Hap Prough who retired Dec. 17 after 33 years. On Saturday, men of the church will come together at 8:30 a.m. for breakfast followed by a workshop lead by Griffin with discussions regarding the male role in the home, church and community. Friends and visitors are welcome. To make breakfast reservations, call Mark Berry at the church, 765-3956, or home, 767-1967. Southern Gospel Quartet To Perform at Hutchins March 2Legacy Five, one of southern gospel’s finest quartets, will be in concert at Hutchins Auditorium March 2 at 7 p.m. Legacy Five is a relatively young quartet with a heritage in southern gospel music. Its founders, Roger Bennett and Scott Fowler, were both with the Cathedral Quartet for many years before the Cathedrals retired in late 1999. Bennett and Fowler spent most of 1999 preparing to launch the new quartet to continue the legacy of the Cathedrals. Bennett and Fowler looked for men with talent and a strong Christian testimony on and off stage. Members of the quartet include Fowler singing lead, Tony Jarmon singing tenor, Scott Howard singing baritone and Glenn Dustin singing bass. The group makes its home in Franklin, Tenn., a suburb of Nashville. Legacy Five has an array of new songs, which are recorded on their first project, known as “Strong in the Strength,” which spawned the group’s first Top Ten hit, “I Stand Redeemed.” Its latest recording, known as Heritage Volume I, is filled with some of the favorite songs of southern gospel music. Tickets are on sell at Master’s Touch, 115 North Fourth, and are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. If buying 20 tickets, two additional tickets are free. For additional information, call Phil Carroll at 767-1497. Valentine Salad Luncheon Slated For February 8The First Lutheran Women’s Guild will sponsor their annual Valentine Salad Luncheon on Thursday, Feb. 8, from 11 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. in the First Lutheran Church fellowship hall. Tickets will be $5 for adults and $1.50 for pre-school aged children. Funds from the luncheon will be used for repairs and equipment in the church kitchen. Hot chicken salad will be served along with a variety of vegetable, fruit and dessert salads. Tickets are available from Guild members, in the church or school office, or at the door. The Women’s Guild is a service organization for the church providing assistance in altar care, funeral and fellowship meals, and in visiting the sick and homebound. Locally, the Guild has supported the Golden Villa, Peachtree Landing, Helpline, Lifeline and CASA. Shoe Leather Christians Needed At First Lutheran“Needed: Shoe Leather Christians” will be the title of the Rev. Tom Ramsey’s sermon at both the 8:30 and the 11 a.m. services at First Lutheran Church on Sunday. In honor of the year-long celebration of the 75th anniversary of the church, the liturgy for the day is one used many years ago. The Senior Choir will lead the congregation in the singing of the liturgy, and the School Choir will sing the anthems “Simple Trust” and “Open Our Eyes, Lord.” Singing as an aspect of prayer is the discussion topic for the 6:30 p.m. Sunday service. Appropriately, the Praise Band will lead the singing. The evening services serve as a training session for improved prayer life. Anyone interested in this topic is urged to attend the service. EDUCATIONMedia Centers, Moving Sixth Graders Discussed at Meeting Media Centers, Moving Sixth Graders Discussed at MeetingMembers of the Ponca City Board of Education Curriculum Committee met Jan. 12 and discussed the district libraries. Those in attendance were Chris LittleCook, Vicki Graves, Bill White, John Scroggins, Linda Powers and Lowell Lefebvre. District libraries came before the committee to report on the Library Media Centers. Pam Hunter, Library Media Specialist at Trout, handed out research from three different states showing the impact of the Library Media Specialist on student achievement. Dorothy Buck, Library Media Specialist from East Middle School, informed the committee that the middle school librarians are teaching the three Rs; Research Skills, Readers for Life and Reading Renaissance. Betty Pronneke, Library Media Specialist at Po-Hi, reported that their facility is primarily a research library for both students and faculty. At this time there are four computers for student Internet access. There is room for 16 more computers when the funding is available. The Library Media Specialists would like to have all libraries in the district on the network for inter library loans. The librarians, in keeping with the district’s emphasis on literacy, are working towards having each student read at grade level and become readers for life. Moving the Sixth Graders Superintendent Dr. Bill White wanted input from the committee on how to move sixth graders to the middle school. In order to move all of the sixth graders at once to the middle school, five more classrooms would need to be built. Dr. White suggested to first move some sites to the middle school for the school year 2001-2002 and the remaining sites when capital improvement funds are available to build the additional five classrooms needed to house all of the sixth graders. Discussion was held on which of the sites would best be served to move to the middle school for the coming school year. The options include moving Liberty, Washington, Roosevelt and Woodlands to the middle school for the 2001-2002 school year. Middle School Restructuring The Alternative Education Focus Group has concluded their part of the study and now needs to compile and write a proposal for presentation. The Time and Organization Focus Group did not meet because of weather conditions. The Professional Development Task Force continues to look at Professional Development Processes and Procedures and address the needs at district level and individual levels. They will discuss a Research Based Plan at the next meeting. The Elementary Restructuring Committee has been divided and expanded into two groups. Each group is to develop a recommended solution and present that recommendation to the Elementary Restructuring Committee. Dr. Powers reported that out of the 25 at-risk eighth graders who went to the high school as ninth graders, 10 to 12 seem to be doing okay. Out of the 25, the district has lost five of them. Better than half are hanging in and seem to be making it as ninth graders, according to Powers. Dr. Powers also announced that the 21st Century Grant proposal that East Middle School CAT (Collaborative Action Team) submitted has been approved. Originally, the district did not receive the grant. Money was added to the grand funds and Ponca City was given the grant totaling $867,000 over the next three years. The grant is for after school academic and enrichment programs at the middle school. Chad Cargill presented a four-hour ACT workshop to 113 students on Jan. 8. Friends of Education funds helped with scholarships for the students. Bad Weather Days Dr. White told the committee that the district could technically miss in excess of 10 days and meet state requirements. So far this school year, Ponca City students have missed two days in the middle trimester. The committee suggested if students have to miss more than three days of school because of bad weather, it needs to be made up. Future Renovations At Lincoln School Discussed by BoardThe Property Committee of the Ponca City Board of Education met on Jan. 15. Attending were board members Don Nuzum, Norris Frederick and John Young, and staff Dr. Bill White, Dr. John Scroggins, Dr. Joe Surber, Jeff Denton and Bret Smith. The two-hour meeting discussed the 90 percent completion drawings of the Lincoln Elementary classroom addition and cafeteria project. Bids will be opened for the project on Feb. 15 with the board to approve the low bidder at the Feb. 19 board meeting. The project was suggested to have two substantial completion dates. The cafeteria/multi-purpose room addition of 3,027 square feet is projected to be substantially completed by Aug. 15, 2001, and the classroom additions substantial completion date is projected to be Oct. 12, 2001. The Aug. 15 date for the cafeteria/multi-purpose room was selected to address the concern with the east side traffic flow. There will be an alternate to bid an additional five classroom on the west side of the building. The cost of the project is estimated to range from $717,000 to $813,000. Dr. Surber discussed the Architect’s Building Progress report. The East project is still projected to be completed by Feb. 23 but the entire second floor, west side is projected to be given to the district at the end of the first week in February. The West project has been slightly delayed because of the weather. Soil tests for the Lincoln project were completed. Dr. Surber discussed the use of facility request by the Ponca Masonic Lodge #83. The Lodge would like to use West Middle School Auditorium and Commons Area on Nov. 24, 2001, for an installation ceremony. The committee did not have a problem with the request, and will discuss it at a later meeting. The committee also agreed that the Hampton Heights Neighborhood Watch association could install a sign on school property at Waverly and Chestnut Avenue as per the conditions. The district will advertise again for sealed quotations on the old Activity Bus as per Jerry Lee’s recommendation. There was some discussion of the increased utility costs and the impact on the district’s utility budget. Additional funds will be designated from the general fund to be placed in the Operations budget. NOC To Offer Prep WorkshopTONKAWA — Area junior and senior high school students as well as others wanting to prepare for the ACT Test may enroll in the one-day ACT Prep Workshop offered by Northern Oklahoma College Saturday, Feb. 3 on the Tonkawa campus. According to Northern Director of Counseling Sue Ann Rodgers, the workshop will meet from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Crowder Science Building Room 108 on the Tonkawa campus. Veteran Northern faculty will present tips on test taking and give trial tests to familiarize students with the ACT Test experience. Participants should bring two Number 2 pencils, paper and a calculator to the workshop. Enrollment is through the Northern Registrar's Office, located in the Vineyard Library-Administration Building. Cost is $30, payable at the time of enrollment. For information, contact the Registrar's Office at 628-6220. Superintendent’s CornerBy Doug Major Pioneer Technology Center Superintendent January is the traditional time of the year for making resolutions to do better in the upcoming year. However, it can also be the perfect time to reflect on the positive things from the previous year. For Pioneer Technology Center, I feel that we have had many positive accomplishments that could not have been possible without the support of our business partners, community leaders, faculty and staff, and most importantly our students and clients. The following is a list of what I would like to call PTC's 2000 Highlights. • Received the Gold Star School award for the 6th consecutive year. Presented by the Oklahoma Vocational Technical Education Council, this is the highest honor that a Technology Center can receive. • Upgraded instructional technology in all programs through the purchase of equipment including an additional Cincinnati Dart 500 VMC Computerized Numeric Control Machining Center in the Machine Tool program, and a Dynometer in the Automotive Technology program. • Provided BID Center clients with assistance which allowed them to be awarded $3.5 million in contracts. • Increased enrollment in our 15 full-time career programs by 10%. • Full-time students had an 88% job placement rate. • Beth Frantz, Practical Nursing Instructor, received Outstanding Teacher of the Year award. • Received Partners for Progress award for safety training partnership programs with Conoco. • Served 3,147 students through our short-term evening classes. • Trained 3,674 people through PTC's Safety Training program. • Provided customized training to 925 people through Industry Training and Development. • Served 143 people through PTC's client-based training programs (SET, SBM, ABM, BID). • Offered 15 Full-time Career Programs Reflection is good as it helps to serve as a benchmark for continued success in an organization. At Pioneer Technology Center we have had a very successful year! As we continue our 27th year in serving the district, we will remain committed to working hard by providing the training and educational opportunities that are in demand. Through the input of community focus groups, future facility and equipment goals have been identified. We hope to accomplish the following goals in 2001: • Continue to upgrade instructional technology in existing programs • Expand program offerings in high-skill, high-wage areas such as: Information Technology (Computer Repair/Networking, Cabling, Digital Media, etc.), Mechanical Maintenance Technology Traditional and Emerging Health Occupations Craft Trades • Renovate existing facilities to better meet the changing technological needs of existing programs and add space as necessary to accommodate new programming. • Expand the use of online and distance education offerings I would like to say thank you to this district for its support over the past 27 years. We are excited and are looking forward to meeting the needs of this district in 2001! Wetzel Wins School BeeEvan Wetzel, a sixth grade student at Washington Elementary, won the school-level competition of the National Geographic Bee on Jan. 5 and a chance at a $25,000 college scholarship. Evan is the son of Bill and Bonnie Wetzel. His grandparents are Bill and Ruth Wetzel and Sally J. Villines, all of Ponca City. School winners, including Wetzel, will now take a written test; up to 100 of the top scorers in each state and territory will be eligible to compete in their State Geography Bee on April 6. LIFESTYLESNOC Event To Fete Local Artists NOC Event To Fete Local ArtistsPonca City artists Guy and Maxine Warren will be honored at a reception from 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27, in the Eleanor Hays Gallery of the Northern Oklahoma College Performing Arts Center. As well as meeting the artists, patrons will enjoy live music by the “For Arts’ Sake Trio,” composed of Dr. Michael Moore, trumpet; Larry Hammitt, guitar; and Dr. Victor Rooke, bass, during the afternoon. Gallery Director Audrey Schmitz invites the public to attend for “visual stimulation, edible temptations, arresting conversations and musical vibrations.” The Warrens’ joint exhibition “Parallel Visions” is currently on view in the Hays Gallery through Feb. 24. Subtitled “Two Faces of Reality: Spacetime and Light, the 70 sculptures and paintings “address a consciousness toward a new world view and symbolizes how we are ultimately connected to every part of the Universe and our responsibilities to the spirit of every living thing,” according to the husband and wife team. “As visual poetry of Reality, the connections of two seemingly disparate perceptions of nature and reality are presented in our works.” “Imbedded in the paintings and sculptures of Guy and Maxine Warren is a powerful philosophical reference to humanity’s relationship with nature,” Schmitz says. “My intuition insists that I deal in my painting with both the joy of Life, and the pain of societal issues and the Earth,” according to Maxine Warren. She is an active painter and printmaker with experience in many media. Her work has been in national and international juried exhibitions for many years. Working in welded steel sculpture since the 1960s, Guy Warren is an Oklahoma artist whose works in many media reflect his formal mechanical engineering design background. His sculptures are said to suggest a “synthesis of nature and technology, the search for better equilibrium between man and nature.” Gallery hours are 1 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and during evening and weekend performances in the NPAC Auditorium. Admission is free. Miriam Class Meets at ChurchMembers of the Miriam Class of the First Baptist Church met in the Williamsburg Parlor for the regular monthly meeting. Verna Wilson, Fellowship Leader, presented the program from the text of “Things Missing in Heaven” and a prayer offered at the opening session of the Kansas Senate. She also told a joke. Other “funnies” were given by Odell Watson and Vivian Davis. Refreshments were served by Bea Perry and Vivian Davis. Announcement was made that Nadine Laughlin was assistant hostess for the Christmas party. The next meeting will be at 1:30 p.m. Feb. 19 at the church. All members are urged to attend and bring a guest. Little NewsKylie Christine Hopkins John and Robin (Stark) Hopkins of Loyal announce the birth of a daughter, Kylie Christine, Jan. 19, 2001, in the Renaissance Women’s Hospital in Edmond. She weighed 7 pounds, 12 ounces, and measured 19 inches long. She has a sister, Kierstyn, 8, and brothers, Kameron, 5, and Kody, 4. Maternal grandparents are Dean and Janet Timmerman of Lake Charles, La. and Kenneth and Dixie Stark of Ponca City. Paternal grandparents are John and Gladys Hopkins of Kingfisher. Great-grandparents are Clyde and Marilyn Robins and Elsie Stark of Ponca City, Esther Hopkins of Kingfisher, and Velma Timmerman of corning, Iowa. Matthew Neal Otto Alan and Kathleen Otto, 2708 Canterbury, announce the birth of a son, Matthew Neal, at 3:46 p.m. Dec. 30, 2000, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He weighed 9 pounds, 12 ounces, and measured 22 1/2 inches long. He has two sisters, Meredith, 6, and Breanne, 3. Maternal grandparents are Bert and Sandra Blanton, and paternal grandparents are Neal and Joan Otto, all of Ponca City. Maternal great-grandmother is Lillian Jentgen of Albuquerque, N.M., and paternal great-grandparents are Marie Luis of Marland and John Otto of Ponca City. SPORTSPo Hi Swimmers Turn Tables on Enid Po Hi Swimmers Turn Tables on EnidENID — Enid’s high school swimming pool is an antiquated 20-yard, four-lane pool. Ponca City’s Wildcats are used to practicing and swimming in the six-land, 25-meter Community Pool. On Thursday, the Enid pool was just the right size for the Po-Hi swimmers. The Wildcats won 49-43 while the Lady Cats, ranked No. 10 in the state, tied the Pacers, 47-47. It was only the second time in a decade the Enid girls have not won in their own pool. The Lady Cats, usually outnumbered by bigger teams in bigger pools, used the small Enid pool to full advantage and nearly came away with a major win. “Several races were just this close,” Ponca City coach Dave Strah said, holding his thumb and forefinger just an inch apart. “We won a couple of those and Enid won a couple. One place, one way or another, would have made the difference. “Being in a four-lane pool really helped us out last night,” Strah said. “Each team can swim only two swimmers per event, The points are 4 for first place and then 3, 2 and 1 for individual events and 6-3-1 for relays. Third place becomes very important. The Wildcats won 10 of the 11 events, the Lady Cats won 7-of-11. According, to Strah there were several surprise, and key, races for the Ponca City girls. The first came when senior Andra Nuzums won the 100-yard butterfly and qualified for the state meet. “Andra has not been under 1:09 all year, Last night, she swam a 1:07.01, three-tenths of a second under the cut (for state qualifying). It was a come-from-behind win.” The second surprise came from junior Anita Bilyeu, who took second in the 500 free style event. “It was a surprise for Bilyeu, too,” Strah said. “I made a change in the lineup right before the meet. Anita usually swims the 50 and 100, but she handled the change well.” A third pleasant surprise came from sophomore Lindsey Mersman, who placed third in the 50-yard freestyle. “That came at a crucial point,” Strah said. “She out-touched the Enid swimmer by .08 of a second. It was also her first individual state cut by .03 of a second.” In the boys’ swims, Eric Whitebay qualified for state in the 100 butterfly. Ben and Matt Dickey, along with Ashton Herbert, had wins. “The boys really took it to Enid,’ coach Strah said. “We really swam well. This is right where we need to be at this point in the season.” The Wildcats are 9-3 in duals this season while the Lady Cats are 7-4-1. The Poncans’ final dual of the season will be at home next Thursday against Shawnee. Cat Matmen Getting Test Of RankingPonca City’s Wildcat wrestlers broke into the top 10 of one high school poll this week and is likely to be rated even higher in another. The Wildcats are ranked No. 8 in the Daily Oklahoman Dual poll just days after upsetting Class 3A’s No. 2 Blackwell. Ponca City will get a test of the new-found ranking today and Saturday in the Big Four-Plus Four Tournament at Blackwell. Three of the Big Four teams are ranked — Blackwell, Ponca City and Perry (No. 1 in Class 2A) Two of the Plus-Four teams — Bristow (No. 1 in Class 3A) and Tuttle (No. 3 in 2A) — are also ranked in the state. Arkansas City is one of the top rated teams in Kansas. The other teams. — Stillwater and Tonkawa — are not ranked, but have some outstanding individuals. The tournament, which was revived last year at Ponca City and will rotate between the Big Four sites, started today at noon with the second session at 3 p.m. and tonight’s session starting at 6. Saturday’s action starts at 10 with another session at 1 and the championship finals slated to start at 6. Lady Wildcats Stumble In Tournament OpenerBy DAVID DAVIS News Sports Writer LAWRENCE, Kan. — The Ponca City Lady Wildcats fell to Kansas City-Schlagle, 47-33 in the first round of the Lawrence Free State Firebird Winter Classic Thursday. KC-Schlagle, the No. 5 team in Class 5A, features Marchele Campbell and Tamara Cobbins, who average 24.8 and 20.0 points per game respectively. The Lady Cats held the two to eight points each in the first half. But, Cobbins scored 16 points in the second half. She scored eight points in the third quarter that came exclusively off fast breaks that resulted from Ponca City turnovers. The 22 turnovers committed by the Lady Cats were instrumental in spoiling a gutsy effort by point guard Courtney Birdsong. Birdsong was assisted from the court after suffering a potentially serious knee injury Tuesday in the conference win at Owasso. KC-Schlagle didn’t do much better. The Lady Stallions turned the ball over 17 times. Cobbins scored eight more points in the fourth quarter. Her first two points of the final period came from the field. The other six came in the waning minutes of the game when Ponca City was forced to foul. Overall, Cobbins shot 8-of-10 from the free throw line. For the first time this season, missed free throws did not contribute to a loss. It was the lack of free throw attempts. Jamie Prado was the only player to draw a foul. The Lady Cats, who average 51 percent from the foul line, went to the line twice. Jamie Prado was fouled in the act of shooting two times. She converted 1-of-4 attempts. The Lady Stallions shot 12-of-16 from the line. Neither team shot very well. The Lady Cats made 10-of-33 two point baskets and 4-of-19 three pointers for 28.8 percent. The Lady Stallions shot 38.6 percent by making 16-of-36 two point baskets and 1-of-8 three point baskets. Still the Lady Cats only trailed 6-8 after the first quarter. KC-Schlagle got around the smothering Ponca City defense in the second period and opened the lead to eight, 22-14. The Lady Stallions came out more aggressive in the third quarter and scored 17 points. Cobbins scored eight and Campbell scored her six second half points. The Lady Cats struggled to score seven points. Jena Birdsong hit a 3-pointer with four minutes remaining in the third. Janna Green and Courtney Birdsong scored two apiece later in the period. Ponca City finally came to life with four minutes gone in the fourth period when Prado scored a two-point basket. Janna Green hit a three pointer and Jena Birdsong hit two more three’s. The Cats out-scored the Lady Stallions 12-8 in the final period to reduce a double digit lead to nine points with about two minutes left in the game, but the gap never narrowed beyond that. The deficit widened again as the Lady Cats went into foul mode. Cobbins was not their first choice, but she was the ball handler. The Lady Cats were forced to foul the Lady Stallions’ best player and she responded by converting 6-of-8 free throws down the stretch. Jenna Birdsong led the Lady Cats with nine points. Jamie Prado put in seven and Janna Green pitched in five points. Lyndsi Frederick, Tara Cries For Ribs, Amanda Summers, Courtney Birdsong and Ann Ziegenhain each scored two points. The Ladies play Wyandotte, which lost its first round game to the host school, Free State. Game time is 5:30 p.m. Lady Mavs Impress In Conference WinBy TED ATCHLEY NOC Sports Information SEMINOLE — With the Þrst round of conference play coming to an end, Northern Oklahoma College Lady Maverick Basketball Coach Greg Krause said even he was impressed with what he saw last night as his team rang up the Seminole Belles to improve to a 9-1 conference record and 18-2 overall. The Lady Mavs downed the Seminole squad by a margin of 81-62. “I think we made it pretty clear that we have recovered from the NEO loss last week,” Krause said. “The team is better now than they were before that loss. That’s a sign of great effort. When you can come back from a loss like that and continue to improve, then you have a team.” Krause said his team played well down the roster last night in Seminole, taking a commanding 35-point lead at one point in the second half. “Everyone stepped in and did their job,” he said. “BJ Homer and Lindsey Shiever were powerful from three-point range,” he said. Homer downed seven treys in the game on her way to 23 points, and Shiever had four three’s to add to her total of 16. The team also tallied a three-point bucket from freshman Ashley Hewitt. Sophomore LaQueisha Dickerson powered her way inside for 10 points on the night and several key rebounds. Sophomore Tia Andrew continued to dominate the inside game on both ends of the court, racking up eight blocked shots and eight points. Freshman starter Erin Goss didn’t let up on her inside game, adding nine points on the night. Hewitt had a total of nine as well. “Goss and Hewitt continue to come through for us in a big way. Their play has really come up over the past few weeks,” Krause said of the freshmen. The Lady Mavericks will face Northark on Monday night for a homecoming match-up. The games start at 6 pm in Foster-Piper Fieldhouse but fans can head to the game early and enjoy a barbecue dinner in the East Gym served up by the Lady Mav Softball Team. The Maverick Mardi Gras Homecoming 2001 Queen will be crowned during halftime of the men’s game Monday. Homecoming festivities kick off Saturday night at the Northern Performing Arts Center with a free Roustabouts show beginning at 7:30 pm. Mavericks Waste A Career EffortBy DAVID DAVIS News Sports Writer SEMINOLE — The Seminole Trojans put on a good dunking show during pregame warm-ups. That, along with their No. 7 ranking in the National Junior College Athletic Association poll might have given the jitters to the NOC Mavericks. Seminole won the game 80-67, but the Trojans won it in the first half. Seminole was the biggest challenge to date for the Mavericks who saw their three game win streak come to an end Thursday. It was also sophomore Richie Myers’ biggest challenge. Myers was paired against Ermal Kuqo, a 6-foot-10-inch, 275-pound sophomore from Tirana, Albania. Former Tulsa head coach Bill Self originally signed Kuqo. After Self took the Illinois job, Kuqo went to junior college. Illinois is still looking at the Albanian, but now, the universities of Connecticut and Kansas have shown interest in him. The Big East, Big 10 and Big 12 powerhouses might want to look at Myers, a 6’-8” sophomore from Edmond, who set new career highs of 39 points and 15 rebounds. Myers made 13 points in the first half, but doubled it in the second by scoring 26. NOC assistant coach Greg Shamburg said the Mavericks spread the floor in the second half and played four guards with Myers in the middle. He kept getting open and his teammates kept feeding him the ball. “He took them one-on-one to the basket and they couldn’t stop him,” Shamburg said. “He fouled-out two of their players.” Kuqo, who is said by some to be destined for the NBA, scored seven points and five rebounds. In spite of Myers’ performance, Shamburg said the Mavericks didn’t play well in the first half. “We were down by thirteen at the end of the first half,” he said. “But we came out more aggressive in the second half.” The Mavericks were down 44-31 at the half. After the break, the Mavs missed four of their first five shots. “They were easy shots,” Shamburg said. “We had a lot of opportunities to win the game. We were up by four with three minutes left.” Then, NOC was called for intentional foul on a layup and suddenly, the Trojans were up by three with 1:30 to go in the game. “The score is not indicative of the kind of game it was,” he said. “We had to start fouling.” The Trojans converted 25-out-of-27 foul shots. In the first half, Seminole made 7-of-10 from the three point line. In the second half, the Trojans went 0-for-5. Turnovers were about even 10 miscues by Seminole and 11 by NOC. The Mavericks pulled down 14 offensive rebounds while the Trojans only collected five. The Mavericks play Northark Monday at Foster-Piper Field House. JVs Win Three Duals In NewkirkPonca City’s Wildcat JV wrestlers won three of seven dual matches in the two-day Newkirk Dual Team Tournament recently, then placed five in the round-robin portion of the tournament. Donnie McMillian placed first at 145 pounds, Thomas Kelly was second at 113, Dexter Morin was third at 103, Joe Oswald fourth at 120 and Justin Roland fourth at 171. In the team tournament, the JVs beat Chandler, 44-36, Woodland, 54-29, and Enid 42-39. The Poncans lost to the varsity teams of Newkirk (51-19), Winfield (58-18), McLoud (54-20) and Woodward (46-29). McMillian also won all of his matches in the duals. Morin had five wins while Oswald, Roland and Nash all had four, Oatman and won three matches, Eighth Grade BasketballEnid Waller 31 PC Red Boys 27 Enid Waller was a little too much for the eighth grade Red varsity and junior varsity on Tuesday. The eighth grade Red varsity lost 31-27 to drop the team’s record to 8-5. The boys played hard on defense but had trouble getting their shots to fall in the first half. The junior varsity dropped to 3-4 after losing its game, 25-22. Waller out-scored the Red varsity team in each of the first two quarters 11-8, and 4-3. The first half deficit was the final difference in the game. The second half was even. Both teams scored nine points in the third quarter and seven in the fourth. Zack Frederick scored 14 points for the Red team. Sam Rogers and John Wheeler each scored four points. Kyle Upchurch hit a three point shot and Josh Williams added in two points. The junior varsity boys were down by one at the half, 10-11, after taking an 8-3 lead in the first quarter. Ponca City took an 18-13 lead going into the fourth period. But, that’s where everything unraveled for Ponca City and Waller scored 12 points while limiting the junior varsity to four points. Rick Cordova scored five ooints for Ponca City. Chad Carroll and Arthar Morris scored four each. Sabino Reyes, Blake Hamrick, Ben Gelhert and Josh Hacker each scored two points. ——— Enid Waller 24 PC Red Girls 20 The Ponca city eighth grade girls Red basketball team lost a close one to Enid Waller, 24-20, Tuesday. Waller has one girl who averages 25 points, but the Red girls held the whole team to less than 25. The Waller coach commented that Ponca City’s defense was the toughest his team had faced all year. Savanah Morin led the team with 10 points. Nicole Overman scored 6, Laci Starnes, 3, and Cari Lehman, 1.
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