LOCAL

Oil Industry Tax Cut Special Session Topic
Death of Area Man Under Investigation
Castro Scheduled To Die Early Thursday Morning
Former Pioneer Award Winner Could Be Shooting for Top Job
Apartment Units On City Agenda
PCAA Membership Show Set
Bluestem Girl Scout Council Asks for Help
UCO Benefits Handsomely From Two Plunkett Sisters
Planning Panel Recommends Raising Fees
Governor Ball Encore Saturday at Mansion
1998 — Do Not Forget the Occasional Ecstasy
Area Calendar

Oil Industry Tax Cut Special Session Topic

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — The Oklahoma Legislature will convene in special session Jan. 20 to consider a tax cut for the slumping oil industry.

Gov. Frank Keating’s special session announcement on Tuesday and a partisan fight over rules punctuated a usually mundane official first day of the 1999 Oklahoma Legislature.

The regular legislative session is in recess until Feb. 1, but lawmakers will be coming back early to get the ball rolling on a tax-cut plan approved earlier Tuesday by a task force that has been studying the oil industry’s financial problems.

‘‘Our energy industry is in very real jeopardy,’’ Keating said as he called for a special session just 12 days before the first session of the 47th Oklahoma Legislature is scheduled to reconvene.

The bipartisan task force recommended a three-tiered tax-cut plan to help the oil industry during times of low prices.

In other developments Tuesday:

* Republicans in the House and Senate tried unsuccessfully to amend legislative rules they said are a detriment to open government. A House official said it was the first time at least since 1957 that votes were held on anything other than routine matters on the first day of a legislative session, when House and Senate leaders are elected and general election results are affirmed.

* Senate President Pro Tempore Stratton Taylor, D-Claremore, said an analysis of state revenue estimates and previous spending commitments by lawmakers will force budget cuts of $150 million to $175 million.

* Taylor and House Speaker Loyd Benson, D-Frederick, were re-elected as leaders of their respective bodies. Taylor begins his third two-year term and Benson his second two-year stint.

Under the task force plan announced earlier, the gross production tax rate would be the current 7 percent if crude oil prices were greater than $17 a barrel.

If prices drop to between $14 and $17 a barrel, the tax rate would drop to 4 percent. If the price is less than $14, as is currently the case, the tax rate would decline to 1 percent.

Rep. Larry Price, D-Pryor, co-chairman of the task force, said the cut would give the oil industry a one-time shot in the arm. He said the long-term solution is a change in national energy policy.

One estimate was that the tax-cut impact on the current state budget would be $26 million.

‘‘It’s really a small investment to make to preserve one of the all-time workhorses of the Oklahoma economy,’’ said Sen. Kevin Easley, D-Broken Arrow, task force co-chairman.

Keating later estimated that the tax cut could be from $30 million to $70 million, depending on when it was enacted.

Taylor said he wanted budget cuts identified prior to the Legislature enacting the oil tax cut.

He said he doubted whether lawmakers could ‘‘just come in and enact in a few days’’ the task force’s recommendations.

‘‘I can envision a situation where we might convene briefly on the 20th and then recess until all the behind-the-scenes budget details are ironed out. We’re already laying the groundwork necessary for a special session, but procedurally, it’s going to take a while to get all our ducks in a row.’’

The Senate leader, referring to budget problems facing lawmakers this year, said ‘‘the sky is not falling, but there are a few cracks in it.’’

In addition to having less revenue than a year ago, according to Equalization Board estimates, Taylor cited financial commitments in such areas as pay raises for law enforcement and other state employees, higher education improvements and road building.

He said the $150 million to $175 million does not count whatever the oil tax cut would cost.

Keating, who was re-elected in November to a second term, is delaying his state-of-the-state speech until Feb. 1, when the Legislature reconvenes to begin considering bills in the regular session.

In his remarks Tuesday, Keating recounted accomplishments of his first term and praised lawmakers for working in a bipartisan fashion to improve Oklahoma.

Keating had been scheduled to speak at 2 p.m., but his remarks were delayed several minutes as Democratic House and Senate leaders discussed how to deal with three written motions on rules changes that had been placed on the desk by Rep. Odilia Dank, R-Oklahoma City.

One called for measures to be produced in writing before consideration on the floor of the House or Senate; another called for a 24-hour delay on considering such proposals and another proposed enforcing a provision in the Constitution where all bills must be read aloud before floor action.

The first two rules changes were rejected along partisan lines. The third proposal was not considered.

Some lawmakers questioned the timing of the GOP-sponsored rules fight during the usually ceremonial opening day.

On Monday, Benson said the Republican proposals would be considered in the House Rules Committee. He said House rules already require a 24-hour layover, except in the frantic final two days of the session.

Rep. Fred Morgan, R-Oklahoma City , the newly elected House minority leader, defended the GOP effort to initiate the rules debate on the first day of the session.

‘‘This was our organizational day to move forward and start business so it is an appropriate time to consider those rules changes,’’ Morgan said.

‘‘The real catalyst for this was last year when we were required to vote on eight bills on the last day without having written copies.’’

‘‘We have a responsibility to know and a right to know what are in these bills,’’ said Mrs. Dank.

Larry Warden, chief House clerk and administrator, said a check with Richard Huddleston, his predecessor, showed that at least since 1957, there had never been votes taken on items other than routine matters on the first day of a legislative session.

Death of Area Man Under Investigation

By MARK GALVIN

News Staff Writer

Authorities continued an investigation this morning into the death of a 66-year-old Kay County man who was found unconscious Monday night outside a bar in the Bois D’Arc community southwest of Ponca City.

Chief Criminal Deputy Buddy Thomas of the Kay County Sheriff’s Department said Lonnie D. Thorp died Tuesday evening after sustaining severe head injuries and a broken neck Monday night and spending several hours on a life-support system at Baptist Medical Center in Oklahoma City.

Thomas said employees at Cookie’s Bar called an ambulance at approximately 9 p.m. Monday and ambulance attendants found Thorp just outside the front entrance of the establishment.

Emergency technicians transported Thorp by ambulance to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Ponca City, then he was flown by helicopter to the Oklahoma City hospital.

Thomas said Thorp had been inside the bar Monday night, but whether he was injured inside or outside the bar was still part of the investigation, he said. The investigation was being conducted by Sheriff’s Deputy Ian Ewing and district attorney’s investigator Russell Busby.

“As far as the investigation goes, there’s a lot of work to do on it yet,” Thomas said today.

Thorp reportedly was a resident of the rural area near Bois D’Arc. Cookie’s Bar is a new establishment near State Highway 156 east of the Marland “Y” on the Tonkawa/North Avenue.

Castro Scheduled To Die Early Thursday Morning

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Up to 20 witnesses representing John Walter Castro Sr. and the two women he killed could be present when the twice-convicted killer is put to death early Thursday.

Department of Corrections spokesman Jerry Massie said Castro has asked five people to attend the execution as witnesses, none of them family members.

Gerald Adams, spokesman for the state Attorney General’s office, said relatives of both women Castro killed have asked to attend the execution. He said up to 15 of their family members could be present.

Castro is scheduled to be executed by injection early Thursday at the State Penitentiary in McAlester. He would become the third killer executed in Oklahoma in two months, and the 14th executed in the state since the death penalty was reinstated in 1977.

The U.S. Supreme Court rejected an appeal on Castro’s behalf about 60 days ago and his lawyer, Robert Jackson of Oklahoma City, said there apparently are no additional motions to be filed.

‘‘The appeals, as far as we can determine, are exhausted,’’ Jackson said.

In a hearing last month, Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board members voted 4-0 to deny clemency. Castro appeared at the hearing, where he admitted killing Beulah Grace Sissons Cox and another woman and apologized.

Former Pioneer Award Winner Could Be Shooting for Top Job

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Staff Writer

With the possibility of Elizabeth Dole throwing her tiara into the presidential ring for the year 2000, the Pioneer Woman Award she accepted here becomes more significant.

In 1987, Mrs. Dole, Oklahoma’s Kansas neighbor, then Secretary of Transportation, accepted the award here at the Marland Mansion Renaissance Ball.

The award was presented by Oklahoma Republican Gov. Henry Bellmon. Bellmon and his wife Shirley, were hosts for the event. Mrs. Bellmon would later be the recipient of the award, having served two stints as First Lady of Oklahoma. Another prominent Republican of the times at the awards was Congressman Mickey Edwards.

Master of ceremonies was John Raley, chairman of the E.W. Marland Estate, who served as mayor of Ponca City and eventually as an U.S. district attorney appointed by Republican President Ronald Reagan and reappointed by Democrat President Bill Clinton.

Other Renaissance Ball awardee nominations have had political overtones. In the beginning Democrat Gov. George Nigh and his wife Donna, hosted the event for a number of years.

Early on Nigh was heavily involved in selecting the winners. Two who come to mind immediately are Miz Lillian Carter, mother of then Democrat President Jimmy Carter, and Mabelle Kennedy. Mrs. Kennedy was assistant secretary of the U.S. Treasury appointed by Democrat President Harry Truman. She also served as National Democratic chairman from Oklahoma.

That same year, 1980, a young governor from Arkansas, Bill Clinton, current president of the United States, was here for Renaissance Ball and the Pioneer Woman and Petroleum Hall of Fame Awards. Also here that day was Democrat John Carlin, governor of Kansas. Nigh and Clinton were co-chairmen of the Ozarks Regional Commission, and had invited the governors for the meeting.

History was made at the Marland Conference Center with the regional meeting when a large portion of Texas was added to the region that had consisted of Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas and Louisiana.

In later years Mrs. Nigh, who had served as hostess for the awards on numerous occasions would be an honored Pioneer Woman recipient for her legislative work in the area of mental health.

Liz Accepts

When Elizabeth Dole was the awardee, she was chosen of course for being Secretary of Transportation and the fact that she was married to Sen. Bob Dole of Kansas, didn’t hurt anything either. Making the contact on behalf of the Marland Estate Commission, which sponsored the event, was Ponca City’s own Republican U.S. Sen. Don Nickles, as well as Congressman Edwards.

Always a charming speaker, Mrs. Dole said in accepting the Pioneer Woman Award a dozen years ago said, that she drew inspiration from the example of past pioneers and felt “more than a passing kinship with any woman who challenges a new frontier.”

Should she succeed in her quest to be the Republican nominee and eventually elected the first woman president of the United States she would be challenging those two frontiers.

Mrs. Dole’s theme throughout her years as Secretary of Transportation, and head of the Red Cross has remained the same. She says, “I have tired to focus my efforts on those issues where I can make a positive difference for people.” A statement she continues to make these days.

Apartment Units On City Agenda

A special session of the Ponca City Board of Commissioners will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday in the Otoe Room of Hutchins Memorial Auditorium, Fifth Street and Overbrook Avenue.

The session will be used to consider a resolution to support a proposed apartment development to be located east of Fourteenth Street on Princeton Avenue.

The session will also allow communications from the mayor and commissioners, a city manager’s report, and a city attorney’s report. Time will also be allowed for citizens comments on other items of interest.

PCAA Membership Show Set

The Membership Art Show for the Ponca City Art Association is scheduled for Feb. 7 through Feb. 28 at the Ponca City Art Center, 819 East Central.

The event commences Sunday, Feb. 7, with judging by Carole Ranney, a known artist and teacher. A reception is scheduled from 1:30 to 4 p.m. that day.

Registration is Wednesday, Feb. 3, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. only and open to paid members of the PCAA who are 18 or older. Entry fee is $4 per entry, and only three entries of a maximum size of 24 by 36 inches are allowed. All three entries may be in different mediums or of the same medium.

Three entry levels will be judged — student, advanced and professional.

Students are considered those with less than two years of art instruction. Original work is strongly recommended; however, class work or copied work is accepted, but must be clearly identified as such. Student artists who have been awarded a first place in a previous show must enter the advanced level.

Advanced artists are those with more that two years instruction. Classroom paintings, workshop paintings, or any work done under supervision will not be accepted in this category.

Professional artists are those who sell their work, exhibit, or give art instruction. Original work only will be accepted.

Categories are two-dimensional art work in oil/acrylic, watercolor/acrylic, and graphics, and three-dimensional work in pottery/sculpture.

Other specifics are as follows.

All work must have been completed in the past two years and not previously exhibited in an annual PCAA competition, unless special permission is obtained from the curating committee.

All two-dimensional work must be framed and ready for hanging, using wire and eye screws. No metal hangers will be accepted.

Each entry must have a label placed on the back with the artist’s name, entry level, title of work, size and price, or marked not for sale.

Awards will be given for best of show, first place, second place, third place and honorable mention.

All work must be left for the duration of the show, unless special arrangements for early removal have been made with the curating committee.

There will be a 20 percent commission charged on all sales.

For additional information, contact the Ponca City Art Center at 765-9746.

Bluestem Girl Scout Council Asks for Help

Bluestem Girl Scout Council is in the process of finalizing its 1999 goals and invites the community to become more involved.

To that end, the Council is having a half-day discussion on how Girl Scouting can be more effective in the Native American community. Other area Girl Scout leaders, several representatives and board members from Girl Scouts of the USA, and others from the Native American community will participate.

The meeting will be held at the Girl Scout Camp Wah-Shah-She near Bartlesville from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 27.

Girl Scouting spends considerable time developing a young girl’s self confidence in who she is and how her uniqueness is an important asset in solving problems, forming dynamic teams and building strong communities. It feels the need for citizen to work together effectively, and that understanding different cultures is essential for successful teamwork. Bluestem Girl Scout Council is looking to establish a communications link with those it serves to assure it is addressing the needs of the young girls in the Native American community.

For additional information, the agenda, a map to the area, and any input on the agenda, contact the local Girl Scout office at 762-9616.

Area Boy Scouts Are Planning Old West Event Jan. 23

The Will Rogers Council of the Boy Scouts of America will sponsor “A Night in the Old West” at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 23, at the Poncan Theatre.

The evening entertainment will feature three renown area western performers — local balladeer Les Gilliam, recording artist Johnny Western from Wichita, Kan., and humorist and storyteller Sky Shivers.

Chuck Rager, council scout executive, noted that tickets for the evening fund raiser are available through the Will Rogers Council Scout Service Center, 412 South Fourteenth, or by calling 765-6669 or (800) 478-2563. Visa and MasterCard are accepted. Tickets for the performance are $8 for adults and children 12 years of age and older. Scouts and children under 12 will be admitted at no charge.

“Proceeds from the sale of tickets will help support scouting throughout the eight counties of the Will Rogers Council,” Rager said. “We encourage everyone to join us in supporting local scouting and have a great evening of fun and entertainment at the same time.”

Ponca City’s Gilliam is known as The Oklahoma Balladeer. A native of Gene Autry, he is regarded as one of the most talented country and western entertainers in Oklahoma.

“In fact,” Rager said, “on April 29, 1998, Gilliam was officially designated as ‘The Oklahoma Balladeer’ by the Oklahoma State Legislature.”

In 1998, the Western Music Association based in Tucson, Ariz., voted Gilliam as one of the top five male performers in western music, and he was finalist for Male Performer of the Year at the WMA’s annual convention in November. His latest CD is titled “Western Country” and features classic cowboy songs plus original material including a meaningful patriotic song, “What’s Right with America.”

Western’s country and western music career dates back to the late 1950s. He is best known as the composer of “The Ballad of Paladin,” theme song for the television show “Have Gun Will Travel” that starred Richard Boone. With 10 record albums recorded, Western’s other musical credits include film music such as “Bonanza,” “Geronimo,” “Johnny Yuma” and “Dodge City.”

Raised in southern Oklahoma, western poet-storyteller Shivers is a seasoned performer who entertain his audiences with true stories and tall tales about colorful cowboy life. Shivers was recently awarded the Will Rogers Award for Storyteller/Humorist of the Year by the National Academy of Western Artist. He has appeared at the National Cowboy Symposium in Lubbock, Texas, and the Western Heritage Classic in Abilene, Texas.

BSA’s Will Rogers Council was chartered in 1948 following the merger of Cimarron Valley Council of Stillwater and the Northern Oklahoma Council of Ponca City.

Additional information can be obtained by calling the Will Rogers Scout Service Center in Ponca City at 765-6669 or (800) 478-2563.

UCO Benefits Handsomely From Two Plunkett Sisters

By PATTI CARMACK

News Lifestyles Editor

EDMOND — The University of Central Oklahoma scholarship funding is the recent beneficiary of the estates of a local teacher and her sister. The combined estates of Josephine and Emma Plunkett has resulted in $800,000 worth of investments and an appraised art collection worth $200,000. Josephine, who taught mathematics at East Junior High School here, died Oct. 26, 1996. Her sister, Emma, retired physical education teacher at UCO, died Feb. 14, 1997. She had resided in Ponca City since retirement. Due to a lengthy legal process, including probation of wills, the monies only recently were received by the university for scholarship funds.

Scholarships

According to Dr. Virginia Peters, personal representative for the sisters, the estates of both Plunketts stipulated that the money be used for female student scholarships in the fields of health, physical education, recreation and dance. The largest award is a graduate fellowship, named in honor of Emma, in the amount of $10,000 for two years.

There will be four undergraduate scholarships in the amount of $3,000 a year, one for a freshman and one for a sophomore, each in Peters’ name, and one each for a junior and senior in Emma’s name according to an article in the Edmond newspaper. Dr. Peters said “this is a real boost for the physical education department” and is a “wonderful recruiting tool.” Various smaller scholarships have also been established as the result of the Plunketts’ will.

All of the scholarships are for health, physical education, recreation or dance majors who are training to be teachers said Dr. Peters, retired chairwoman of the UCO Physical Education Department and a former student of Emma’s. A committee has formulated the criteria for the various scholarships according to the requests made by the sisters.

Art Collection

The monetary investments were begun primarily by Josephine and the fine art collection, including china, crystal, and framed prints, were acquired mostly by Emma. Portions of the collection will be on permanent display at the school. Monies designated in the will for such purpose has been used to build lighted display cases said Dr. Peters Tuesday. These are located in the Heritage Room at the University Center.

Some of the collection, gathered by Emma during travels around the world, is featured in the International Student Office. Dr. Peters said the personal china, crystal and silver belonging to the Plunketts is now being used in the university president’s dining room.

During an interview this week with Dr. Peters, she said the Josephine Plunkett Mathematics Scholarship Fund at the University of Central Oklahoma, is still accepting donations and memorial contributions. Those wishing to contribute may contact the university or Dr. Peters.

Josephine Plunkett

Josephine Plunkett was often called a master teacher and a model for teacher excellence. Born in Augusta, Ga., she graduated from Augusta Tubman High School and the Augusta Junior College, and received a bachelor of science degree in 1932, and a bachelor of arts degree in 1933 from Central State College (UCO) in Edmond. She held teaching certificates in English, French, Social Studies, Mathematics and Science. Her master’s degree was earned in 1939 at Oklahoma State University. She taught for one year at Tonkawa before embarking on a 43-year teaching career in Ponca City. Miss Plunkett retired in 1977 from East Junior High School.

Emma Plunkett

Emma Plunkett graduated from George Peabody College in Nashville, Tenn. in 1928, and received her master’s degree from Oklahoma A&M College in 1934. She took post-graduate work at the University of Oklahoma, New York University, Boston University, Columbia University, and the University of Washington. She joined the faculty at Central State College in 1928, retiring in 1966 after a 38-year career teaching and being chairman of the Department of Health and Women’s Physical Education. An avid sports fan, she was well-known to many.

Neither woman ever married, and both, according to Dr. Peters, were devoted to the children of Oklahoma.

Planning Panel Recommends Raising Fees

Ponca City Planning Commission Tuesday evening gave the green light to raising rezoning application fees from $25 to $150, following the recommendation of Planner Todd Kennemer. The matter will now go to the City Commission for final action.

The main item listed on the agenda, a rezoning application for property south of Bradley, east of railroad tracks, one half block west of Jane and north of Young Street had been tabled earlier at the request of the developer. Apparently this rezoning matter, which is for a Planned Unit Development (PUD), will be heard later.

The request is for the present zoning of R-1, Agriculture District, to a new PUD zoning and also R-2C, condominium/townhouse. Alice Souligny is the property owner. Previously announced plans for the PUD were for medical offices, medical support buildings, a restaurant and some retail. The R-2C apparently would be for condominiums or townhouses.

Governor Ball Encore Saturday at Mansion

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Staff Writer

A Mardi-Gras atmosphere will prevail over the Marland Estate Complex Saturday night as the Inaugural Celebration gets under way for Oklahoma Gov. Frank Keating and his family.

Keating, recently elected for a second four-year term as governor of Oklahoma, has had a national presence since the bombing of Murrah Building in Oklahoma City. Keating, using his skills as former FBI agent, U.S. District Attorney, and as Associate Attorney General, helped pull together a disaster team that has become known as the “Oklahoma Standard.”

While an FBI agent, Keating investigated terrorist activities and bombing on the west coast. In 1986 he was asked by President Reagan and subsequently by President Bush, to serve as the highest ranking Oklahoman in both administrations.

During his stay in Washington, Keating supervised more than 100,000 employees while he served in three important posts — first as Assistant Secretary of the United States Treasury, where he directed the U.S. Customs Service, the Secret Service, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms; then as the Associate Attorney general, where he presided over the U.S. Prison System, the U.S. Marshals, the Immigration and Naturalization Service, and all 94 U.S. Attorneys; and third as Acting Deputy Secretary and General Counsel of Housing and Urban Development under Secretary Jack Kemp.

With his wife Cathy, Frank made numerous appearances on national and international television during the time of crisis and afterwards. Keating invited President Bill Clinton to the memorial service in Oklahoma City and Clinton accepted.

Another national presence has been Keating’s chairmanship of the Governor’s Conference. A good friend of Ponca City the Governor has been here several times during his first administration. One of the occasions was for the dedication of the Standing Bear Memorial. He also brought his entire cabinet here in July 1998 to meet with the public.

Mrs. Keating has been here for numerous events from Girl Scout events to the dedication of the Domestic Violence facility and a Main Street Authority visit. Mrs. Keating, in helping to put together a scrapbook of “Life in the Governor’s Mansion,” sought information on E.W. Marland for the book. She also published a book on Governors' Mansion across the nation.

There has been some speculation that Keating could be a candidate for a high level political post in 2000, such as vice president or even president.

Wouldn’t that be a coup, if Ponca City hosted an inaugural ball for a future president? But whether this happens or not, it is still an honor for the community to host the Keatings and their family here for this historic occasion.

Most of the evening will be devoted to just celebrating, with the exception of a few brief remarks by Keating about 8 p.m. As a tribute to the Keatings, the Chameleon musical entertainment group will do a special performance.

A legacy left to the Marland Mansion by the Keatings, is the public awareness raised by the publicity generated for this event and the 1995 inaugural ball, reminding everyone of the significance and beauty of the National Historic Landmark.

The Celebration

Heading up the black-tie-optional Inaugural Celebration as they did four years ago are Ponca City banker Carl Renfro and his wife Carolyn. Much of the same team that put together the 1995 Inaugural Ball came back to assemble this event.

Other inaugural events are being held in Oklahoma City, Tulsa and Lawton. Renfro said, “There is no doubt that Ponca City was so honored because of the tremendously successful event that was held here four years ago. Our out-of-town guests were overwhelmed with the hospitality, warmth and the friendliness of our citizens and the beauty and elegance of the Marland Mansion.”

Decorations

As always when Decorator Patty Allen and her merry crew of helpers put their heads and hands together for an auspicious event such as the Inaugural Celebration — the Mansion will sparkle.

Last year the Mansion was voted the best attraction in Oklahoma. Built for E.W. Marland, tenth governor of Oklahoma, the historic building, often touted as “The Palace on the Prairie” is a perfect setting for an historical event such as the Inaugural Celebration for Keating as both the 25th and 26th governor of Oklahoma.

Using multi-colored balloon bouquets, balloon arches, curly ribbon, greenery swags, center pieces and floor arrangements, Allen and her balloon designer Pam Wright have transformed “the palace” into a Mardi-Gras wonderland.

The festive atmosphere also prevails in the Chapel of the Conference Center, where the popular “Galaxy Band” of St. Louis will be playing for dancing pleasure. The contemporary band has played in Ponca City for two Cherokee Strip Golf Classic events at the Ponca City Country Club.

Entertainment

Gackstatter & Durham

Singers-songwriters Gary Gackstatter and Tim Durham, (acoustic guitars/mandolin) bring together their varied musical backgrounds with original songs which reflect their personal interests and lives.

From songs about this area's history, to relationships, to modern life, their songs reflect the times and place we live in. Always creative, always entertaining, these two musicians are always full of humor and surprises.

Gackstatter and Durham, together with Atlanta violist Julie Rosseter, have released two CDs of original material and are preparing for a third.

Gackstatter is the Director of Instrumental Music at Cowley County Community College, the Winfield Regional Symphony, and the Arkansas City Community Band. He has premiered and -arranged works for John

See INAUGURAL, Page 3-C McCutcheon, Tom Chapin, Paul Winter, Three Dog Night and Kansas.

Durham, a long-time Arkansas City resident, is presently the head of Family Life Services. Tim is a widely respected musician and has played extensively in this area on a wide variety of instruments including guitar, piano and mandolin.

Gackstatter & Durham will be performing in the “coffee house” setting of E.W.'s Restaurant throughout the evening.

BROCADE

The recorder group BROCADE is made up of Mandy Hudgins, Bethany Bowen, Sarah Bowen and Gael Hancock. Their repertoire features old French and English folk music and dances, plus baroque and renaissance music.

Ms. Hudgins has played the recorder for more than nine years and is also accomplished on the piano and hammered dulcimer. Bethany and Sarah Bowen have played for nine years and play the piano, mountain dulcimer and psaltry. Hancock has played the recorder for more than 13 years and also plays the piano and guitar.

BROCADE will be playing in the lower level of the mansion as guests arrive at 7:30 p.m.

The recorder, a wooden flute-like instrument, came into being around the 13th century and was one of the main instruments of the royal court. It was rescued from total extinction early in this century and is again popular with the growing interest in medieval and early music.

Grady Nichols & Moments Notice

Grady Nichols and Moments Notice, a five-piece jazz band, will be playing on the lower level of the Marland Mansion. Nichols was featured this summer on the cover of Tulsa People Magazine which tagged him as “Tulsa’s smooth jazz virtuoso.”

A jazz saxophonist, Nichols musical career began early as he began playing the sax in the sixth grade. Nichols is also a television and radio personality.

In addition to playing, Nichols has written his own music. He has recorded two CDs with sales of over 5,000 units. The CDs are “Between You and Me,” and “Mysterious Intentions.” Nichols had performed form Oklahoma City to South Bend, Ind., to Washington, D.C.

Estelle Russom

Harpist Estelle Russom has a music degree from Texas Christian University where she studied harp under Sydney Wilson Howell. She has performed professionally since 1973. Her appearances have included hotels, restaurants, country clubs, churches, theaters, and orchestras in several states.

She has played for governors of Oklahoma on various occasions since the mid-1980s. She traveled to Europe twice under the baton of John Giordano when he was conductor of the Youth Orchestra of Greater Fort Worth.

Russom holds degrees in German literature (TCU) and geology Oklahoma University. In May of 1998 she was awarded an associate degree in nursing from Northern Oklahoma College and in July 1998, passed the R.N. licensing exam for the state of Oklahoma. Presently, she combines her music and nursing with activities as a harp therapist.

Her harp music will greet guests as they enter the mansion. She will then be playing throughout the evening in the Mansion Ballroom.

Donnie Record

Donnie Record, pianist, guitarist and vocalist, has performed across the United States and Europe to a variety of audiences with his diverse musical styles.

In the ski resorts of Vail and Aspen, Colo., or up and down the California Coast, Record plays his unique blend of New Age-Folk Rock styles to cheering fans. Whether in small clubs or massive music halls, Donnie Record's music with his warm and personable interpretation rings clear and bright.

Record has written songs for Swedish National Television and radio, as well as movie soundtracks and compositions for various artists. A former music professor, Record currently plays keyboard in the locally popular rock band, Poverty's Children.

Record will be entertaining with piano and vocals in the Mansion Ballroom.

Security

With the governor and lieutenant governor in attendance at the prestigious event, security is tight. Burnett Security is working with Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Governor’s Security team to make the event safe for everyone. The Ponca City Police Department will assist also.

1998 — Do Not Forget the Occasional Ecstasy

By MATTHEW KOENIG

News Sports Writer

Like most years, 1998 was a year of agony and ecstasy for local sports teams. In the agony department — well, forget the agony. Ecstasy is what it’s all about, and lest anyone forgot:

— The Lady Wildcat tennis team took second at state.

— There were seven All-state athletes named at Po-Hi.

— The Wildcat baseball team pulled out some whopping upsets in the regional tournament.

— The NOC basketball team had their greatest season in school history.

And that’s not all.

For all the quantitative feats, however, there’s no accounting for the bounty of personal milestones and team bests, or the often overlooked rewards of personal growth, teamwork and sportsmanship.

Also, this list is definitely not all-inclusive and it details (mostly) the accomplishments of Ponca City High School athletes. Sorry for the exclusions. For example, this reporter shot a 92 at Lew Wentz Golf Course over the summer, a personal best. That won’t be included.

February

Twins’ Try at Twin Two-Peat Falls One Short — Po-Hi grapplers Matt and Mark Dodgen, both with a state championship to their name (Mark in ’96, Matt in ’97), head to the state meet looking to stamp the name Dodgen in the record books. As expected, both roll to the final round. However, after Mark defeats Jeff Wilson of Midwest City, Matt falls in a controversial, 8-6 decision to Brian Elgin of Muskogee.

The Dodgens’ accomplishments garner them All-state recognition. Phillip Gelino and Nick Steichen also qualify for state off the Cats’ squad.

Slippery When Wet — Both Po-Hi swim teams finish fifth in the Frontier Conference Championships. At state, Rory Peterson notches fourth and fifth place finishes in the 500 and 400 freestyle, respectively. D.J. Nuzum finishes 13th in the 500 free, while the 400 free relay team of Peterson, Nuzum, Chris Kana and Greg Dunham records the fastest time by a Wildcat team since 1985. Eric Chambray picks up a fifth place finish in diving in his first year of competition.

The Lady Cats finish sixth in the 200 medley relay, fifth in the 200 free relay and 11th in the 400 free relay. Sunita Chahar gets the best finish for a Lady Cat, finishing 16th in the 100 breast.

New Kids on the Court — Young, eager, hard-working coaches Ron Arthur and Dana Pulley conclude their first season at the reins of the Wildcat and Lady Wildcat basketball teams. Though highlighted by the birth of Pulley’s fourth child, McKenna Lynn, the Lady Cats’ frustrating, 7-16 season comes to a close with a 68-44 loss to Broken Arrow in the regional playoffs. The 8-15 Wildcats, though they double the number of wins from a year earlier and win three straight to finish the regular season, fall in the first round of regional competition to powerhouse Tulsa Memorial, 75-58.

Home Games, Away — For the first time since 1973, NOC fields a baseball team. Coached by Terry Ballard, and containing within its ranks three talented graduates of Po-Hi’s 1997 record-breaking squad — Jason Ross, Josh Shafer and J.R. Fry — the Mavs patch together an arduous 12-win season. However, ongoing construction of a new field leaves the Maverick baseballers homeless all season, prompting several games to be played at Tonkawa High School and the Po-Hi field.

March

Going to Towns — After finishing 7-3 in conference play, the NOC Maverick basketballers go on to win the Bi-State West crown, the Region II Championship and take their first-ever trip to the NCJAA Finals in Hutchinson, Kansas. Though they win just 1-of-3 in the “little dance,” and fall out of contention in the consolation bracket, the Mavs prove to be the greatest team in the school’s 87-year history, and their final record of 28-8 represent the most wins ever by a Maverick team.

Led by second team All-American Marlon Towns (now a starting guard for the 10-2 Murray State Raiders), the Mavs place nine players in NCAA Division I programs. “A remarkable feat,” says NOC coach Mick Weiberg.

April

Criteria Comes Through for Cats — Despite a 2-11 record in District 7 play, the Wildcat soccer team squeaks into the playoffs with a 4-0 win over Stillwater. Due to a 3-way tie between Stillwater, Enid and Ponca City, the tie-breaker formula favors the Poncans. Meanwhile, the Lady Cats, with a 4-6 record, see their year end in the regular season. The Cats, however, fall 3-1 to Sapulpa in regional competition.

The Poncans do net a pair post-season honors, with Natasha Anderson and Jared Colvin each getting named to the All-state squad.

Nimmo Chips In — With a 392 stroke total, the Lady Wildcat golfers miss the state team cut by a scant 20 strokes in the Regional Tournament. All-conference Jenni Nimmo, still just a freshman, does make the cut as an individual, and finishes with a respectable 194 total over 36 holes in the state tournament at Edmond’s wind-whipped Oak Tree Golf Course. The Wildcats finish ninth at Regionals, missing the state cut.

May

Story of the Year! — As the overwhelming choice for Local Sports Story of the Year, the Lady Wildcat tennis team’s second-place finish in state competition garners all (1) of the votes in balloting of News Sports Writers.

After cruising through the regular season with a near-perfect record, the Lady Cat netters sweep up the Frontier Conference title, winning in both No. 1 and No. 2 doubles and placing second in both No. 1 and 2 singles. In the state tournament, Romi Foreman and Melissa Collogan win the Big One in No. 2 doubles, staying up past 1 a.m. to topple Reddy-Williams of Enid, 2-6, 6-3, 6-0. Natalie Lindsay and Abby Frick take fourth in No. 1 doubles, while No. 7 seed Ashley Roussel prevails for a fifth place finish. Foreman, Collogan and Lindsay each walk off with All-state honors. At last count, the Lady Cats are just two points from winning the state crown.

The Wildcat tennis team, though laboring all season in the Lady Cats’ long shadow, also have a measure of success, taking third in the regional tournament. Matt Stuemky and Jason Nigh finish second in No. 1 doubles, while Micha Alexander and Tim Frick finish second in No. 2 doubles.

Musta Been the Moon — Though tough competition in a conference overflowing with Division I prospects leads to a mediocre record for the home team, the youthful Wildcat baseballers put a massive exclamation point on their somewhat declarative season.

In the regional tournament, Jay Bentley pitches the Cats to a 3-2 win over defending state champion and No. 2 ranked Jenks. A day later, the Cats get a 3-run homer from J.T. Thomas and a command performance from pitcher Chris Koenig to blow past No. 6 Muskogee, 6-3, in 8 innings.

Gunning for a consecutive trip to the state tournament, however, the Cats lose two straight to Muskogee, 12-9 and 7-0, in the final round, to finish their season 16-25.

It’s Like Getting Hired, In Reverse — Baseball and softball coach Roydon Tilley, girls tennis coach Don Lambring, wrestling coach Pat Young and football coach Rick Sodowsky all tender their badges at the end of May. Stepping in to fill the holes are Jenks’ Mike Krehbiel in softball/baseball, Todd Steidley in wrestling, Todd Kimrey in football, and in tennis, assistant lay coach Stan Wheeler takes over.

September

Help! — The Lady Wildcat softballers, after losing almost all their starters from last year’s regional championship team, grind through a disappointing season and finish 14-26.

October

Running Away — The No. 10 ranked Wildcat harriers qualify for the state meet as a team, logging a 6th place finish in Regionals. Looking for his third straight All-state nod, Paul Paschal — after waking up with a crick in his neck the morning of the race — finishes out of the Top 10. Chris Buck and Nathan Zimmerman finish in the 53rd and 54th spots, respectively, while Jessica Jorgensen, who qualified as an individual for the Lady Cats, finishes 33rd. Point-wise, the Cats finish as predicted, in 10th place.

Bump, Set, Spike — Though composed primarily of freshmen, the Lady Cat volleyballers come within one match of a trip to the state tournament, falling in the regional finals to Jenks, 15-5, 15-3. The Lady Cats finish with a mark of 12-21, including a 7-4 mark over the last 10 days of the season. Stay tuned.

Help Again! — Undersized, overpowered, outmatched, outgunned — taking on the likes of nationally ranked Tulsa Union, the determined but outclassed Wildcat footballers finish their season a forgettable 1-9.

The Cats’ one win comes in their home opener against Tulsa Memorial, a 35-14 blowout in which the Poncans rack up 472 yards of offense.

Near to home, however, both the Newkirk Tigers and the Tonkawa Buccaneers have memorable seasons. The No. 4 ranked Bucs (12-1) conclude their third straight undefeated regular season and hurdle into the quarterfinals of the Class A finals where they fall in a heartbreaker to Colcord, 13-12. The unranked Tigers (10-4) surprise everyone but themselves, knocking off three favored teams before falling to Tishomingo, 42-10, in the Class 2A semifinals.

Looking Ahead — Though far from over, the Wildcat basketball team’s season is off to a grand start. After a 1-point win over Stillwater, and a pair of 3-point wins over Broken Arrow and Sand Springs, the Cats went into the winter break with a 3-2 record — their best mark in four years. The Lady Cats, despite a high-octane defense, are struggling, at 0-5. Both teams resume their seasons Thursday, Jan. 7, in the Ada Tournament.

The NOC Mavericks’ basketball team, despite a completely new look, is off to a raging start, at 11-3, and remains as possibly the best sports show in town. Of course, it’s in the town of Tonkawa, but if you haven’t seen a game at Foster-Piper Fieldhouse, go. For basketball affectionados, the quality of play and the fervor of the student fans is a thing to behold.

Area Calendar

January 6

Ponca City Council of Garden Clubs, program “Growing Begonias as a Hobby,” by Gene Salisbury, 9:30 a.m., Cann Garden Center.

Health Awareness/Blood Pressures, 1:30 p.m., Senior Center, 319 West Grand Avenue, Ponca City.

January 7

Kay-9 Dog Training Club, 7 p.m., Ponca City Library, public welcome.

January 8

Cards and Games, 1:30 p.m., Senior Center, 319 West Grand Avenue, Ponca City.

January 12

Rural Water District No. 1 Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m., Enterprise School on Lake Road.

McCord Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., McCord School Library.

Osage Cove Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., Fire Station at Keeler Road and U.S. 60.

January 13

Bingo! Bring a Friend! 1:30 p.m., Senior Center, 319 West Grand Avenue, Ponca City.

Rural Water, Sewer and Solid Waste Management District No. 3 (Braden), 7 p.m., Braden Community Center.

January 14

Agrarian Club, 6 p.m., Southwest meeting room, Western Sizzlin’, Ponca City.

January 15

Gospel Music Community Christian Church, 1:30 p.m., Senior Center, 319 West Grand Avenue, Ponca City.

January 16

Martin Luther King Jr. community-wide celebration, includes appearances of Garfield Academy students, Keith Norris and the Workshop Chorale from Wichita, 6:30 p.m., First Baptist Church, refreshments served, all residents and families invited, more information, contact Laura 765-3873.

January 18

Multiple Sclerosis Support Group, 6:30 p.m., Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm Street, Ponca City.

Kaw City Area Chamber of Commerce Banquet, 7 p.m., Community Center, a tribute to Jerry Webber, 580-269-2276 or 580-269-2662.

United Ostomy Association, Stillwater-Ponca City Chapter, 7 p.m., program “Have Pouch, Will Cover,” presented by Alice Bowman and other chapter members, Conference Room B, St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Ponca City.

January 19

Standing Bear Educational Committee, 11 a.m., Pioneer Bank Drive-in, Ponca City, interested citizens encouraged to attend the meeting.

Dessert Banquet for Spring Youth Crusade, 7 p.m., Grand Central Station, Ponca City, sponsored by KLVV 88.7 FM Christian radio and Impact Tour, call 767-1400 for information.

January 20

Cards and Games, 1:30 p.m., Senior Center, 319 West Grand Avenue, Ponca City.

January 27

Bingo Bash, 1:30 p.m., Senior Center, 319 West Grand Avenue.

January 28

Alzheimer’s Support Group, 7 p.m., Conference Room A, St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Ponca City.

January 29

Crafts, sign up if interested, 1:30 p.m., Senior Center, 319 West Grand Avenue, Ponca City.

DEATHS

Kenneth Lee Hines
Leslie Elaine Psikal
Melvin Buffalohead

Kenneth Lee Hines

Kenneth Lee Hines Sr., Ponca City resident, died Monday, Jan. 4, 1998, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 67.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home.

Mr. Hines was born Feb. 9, 1931, to Mose and Lena (Harris) Hines in Ponca City. He attended Ponca City schools and joined the U.S. Navy in March 1949, serving one year. After his tour of military service he returned to Ponca City and worked as a route deliveryman for a magazine distributor.

He married Ramona Oakley on April 4, 1952, in Tahoka, Texas. Hines was transferred to Charleston, S.C. in 1968 where he and his wife lived for many years. They moved back to Ponca City in 1982 when he retired. He enjoyed fishing, playing Bingo, and gardening.

He is survived by his wife Ramona and his son Kenneth Lee Hines Jr., both of Ponca City. He was preceded in death by his parents. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 North Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, Ok. 74601.

Funerals

Thursday

Leslie Elaine Psikal

Funeral to be graveside at 2 p.m. at Mt. Olive Cemetery in Nardin. Arrangements are under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home, Blackwell.

Friday

Melvin Buffalohead

Funeral at 2 p.m. at the Ponca Indian Full Gospel Church at White Eagle. Prayer services conducted at 7 p.m. nightly through Thursday at the church. Burial will follow at the Ponca Indian Cemetery. Other arrangements will be announced later by Grace Memorial Chapel, Ponca City.

NEWS BRIEFS

Indian Taco Sale — An Indian Taco sale is being conducted Thursday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at the Florence Cole residence, 1 1/2 mile south on U.S. 177 (Carbon Black area). A taco dinner is $3 and frybread is $1. Call in orders at 580-718-9074. Proceeds will benefit the Social Development Center.

Book House going out of business sale. Huge discounts on all

books, fixtures, and shelving. All used paper backs .50, Thursday,

Friday, Saturday, 9-4, 114 North 3rd Street. adv.

CWU Board to Meet — The Church Women United Board meeting will be held Monday, Jan. 11 at 9:30 a.m. at St. John Baptist Church, 1009 South Eleventh (in the building just south of the church building). Installation of the 1999 officers is scheduled.

Carpet Need cleaning? Confused about who or what to use?

Call Floorcraft 762-8381, let us help you make the right choice.

Call Mr. Clean at Floorcraft.adv.

Royal Neighbors — The Royal Neighbors will meet at 1:30 p.m. Jan. 13 at Community Christian Church. An election of officers is planned.

Windshield Chips repaired professionally. Guaranteed and

insurance approved. Ponca Glass, 762-6522, 762-7957. adv.

Stolen Flags — At 7:26 a.m. Tuesday police were notified of some flags that had been stolen from the Lew Wentz Golf Course. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Free Dryer with wash. Union North. Tuesday thru Sunday, 7

a.m.-9 p.m. Grand Opening. 1904 N. Union. 762-7124.adv.

Accident — A two-vehicle, non-injury accident at East Cleveland and Avenue and North Fifth Street was reported to police at 7:46 a.m. Tuesday.

Youth Bowling League beginning Fri., Jan. 8th, 4 p.m. and Sat.,

Jan. 9th, 11 a.m. All ages welcome. Win awards and patches.

Scholarship program. 2000 Lake Road. 762-3333.adv.

Accident — At 8:29 a.m. Tuesday an accident at North Elm Street and West Highland Avenue was reported. An officer was assigned.

New Location - 3rd and Grand.Back on the Rack!adv.

Theft — At 8:31 a.m. Tuesday police were alerted of a television stolen from the Four Winds Motel, 116 South Fourteenth Street, reportedly by a guest. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Jueschke Carpet Cleaners. For professional carpet cleaning, call

the professionals. Jueschke Carpet Cleaners. 765-3421. adv.

Forgery — A forgery at Citgo, 400 East South Avenue, was reported at 8:41 a.m. Tuesday.

“Clubby” Retires (beanie baby) in February. Get your Club Mem-

bership at Christy’s and send off for him. Before February 15th.

Christy’s 3005, North 14th. Open everyday. adv.

Gas Drive-Off — At 9:04 a.m. Tuesday a gas drive-off at the Triple T, 201 West Hartford Avenue, was reported to police. It was reported that the suspect steals a tank of gas a week. An officer was assigned to the case.

Being Relocated, or in town for a short time? We have homes

available by the month or longer. All homes are full furnished with

appliances, furniture, linens, pots and pans. Inclusive of cable,

local phone, and utilities. Please call 580-762-7980 or 580-718-0681.

adv.

Arrest — A 50-year-old man was arrested at 9:36 a.m. Tuesday from the Pardons and Parole Office, 406 South Fourteenth Street, on a Osage County warrant for failure to appear.

Head Country, One half bar-b-q chicken with choice of vegeta-

bles, $3.95, Thursday, 4-? p.m. 1217 East Prospect. 767-8304. adv.

Break-In — At 1:56 p.m. Tuesday a man reported to police that his rental house in the 800 block of North Peachtree Street had been broken into.

Court Allen Construction. Concrete and flagstone walkways, pa-

tios and yard curbing. Call 765-2720. adv.

Arrest — Police arrested a 35-year-old man at 2:28 p.m. Tuesday from South Thirteenth Street and East South Avenue on a city warrant for failure to pay.

Half Off green tag sale, 15% off new clothes. Bearly New, 1804

North 5th.adv.

Assault — At 3:08 p.m. Tuesday a woman reported that she had been assaulted in the 100 block of Warwick Road.

Broken Window — A window in the Ponca City Library, 515 East Grand Avenue, was reported broken at 3:13 p.m. Tuesday.

Arrest — An 18-year-old man was arrested at 3:15 p.m. Tuesday from Wal-Mart, 1101 East Prospect Avenue, for petit larceny.

Arrest — A 40-year-old man was arrested at 3:16 p.m. Tuesday from Kay County on a city warrant for failure to pay.

Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential.

Hours: Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and Thursday, 6-

8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. adv.

Juvenile Arrest — A 17-year-old boy was arrested at 4:02 p.m. Tuesday from Wal-Mart, 1101 East Prospect Avenue, for petit larceny and possession of marijuana.

Arrest — A 20-year-old man was arrested at 11:44 p.m. Tuesday from South Sixth Street and East Walnut Avenue for driving under suspension.

Shining Light — At 7:59 p.m. Tuesday police were called to the area of Prospect Avenue and North Union Street for a report of red laser light being shined at people. An officer was assigned.

Jim Bowen Construction - Custom homes, room additions and

remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv.

False Alarm — At 8:37 p.m. Tuesday fire units were called to the 3400 block of Meadow Lane for a report of a “strong smell of smoke.” However no problem was located.

Arrest — At 11:39 p.m. Tuesday police arrested a 24-year-old man in the 2900 block of North Fourteenth Street on a city warrant.

Arrest — Police arrested a 32-year-old man at 9:30 p.m. Tuesday from South First Street and Central Avenue for driving under suspension, no insurance, no seat belt and failure to stop for a stop sign.

Arrest — A 37-year-old man was arrested at 11:26 p.m. Tuesday from the 2400 block of North Fourteenth Street for driving under the influence and no driver’s license in possession.

Arrest — Police arrested a 51-year-old man from South Eighth Street and East South Avenue at 11:56 p.m. Tuesday for driving under the influence, left of center, no insurance and possession of marijuana.

Arrest — At 12:14 a.m. Wednesday a 20-year-old man was arrested for no driver’s license, failure to turn off auxiliary lights and no insurance.

Assault — An assault and battery report was taken by police at 1:24 a.m. Wednesday in the 1400 block of East Bradley Avenue.

Martin Luther King Celebration — Make plans to attend the community-wide celebration of the life of Marting Luther King Jr., at First Baptist Church, Jan. 16, at 6:30 p.m. Appearances are expected from Garfield Academy students as well as Keith Norris and the Workshop Chorale, from Wichita, Kan. Refreshments will be served.

LIFESTYLES

Couple Observes 50 Years
Keatings To Make a Sentimental Journey To Ponca City Mansion
Little News
Rho Chapter Meets
Event To Fete Newlyweds
Pi Beta Phi Meeting

Couple Observes 50 Years

Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas Larchey are observing their 50th wedding anniversary today. The couple resides east of Newkirk. Nicholas Larchey and the former Elva Hayes were married Jan. 6, 1949, in Washington, D. C.

Their six children are Nicholas Larchey Jr. of Memphis, Tenn.; Richard Larchey of Seattle, Wash.; Mike Larchey of Newkirk; Mary Dewitt of Braman; Marie Montgomery of Newkirk; and Jean Williams of Alvord, Texas.

Mr. and Mrs. Larchey have nine grandchildren: Nicholas III and Bekah Larchey of Newkirk; Thomas Larchey of Seattle, Wash.; Amy, Katy, Eddy and Timmy Dewitt of Braman; and Sally Mae Montgomery of Newkirk.

Keatings To Make a Sentimental Journey To Ponca City Mansion

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Staff Writer

In a way it will be a sentimental journey for Gov. and Mrs. Frank Keatings as they return to Ponca City and the Marland Mansion for the Inaugural celebration Saturday evening.

“Frank and I really do have a strong connection with Ponca City. We have developed special relationships that draw us back,” Cathy Keating told The News as she spoke of her excitement for the upcoming event.

Oklahoma’s First Lady recalled that the first political exposure Frank had was when he spoke to the Kay County Republican Women when he launched his bid for the governorship

For those wondering how Mrs. Keating will be dressed Saturday evening, she plans to be attired in a black velvet gown lined with “hot pink” which shows through at a kick pleat. A coat of the same material, also lined with “hot pink,” finishes the fashion statement.

She mentioned the Ponca City event will be special as it kicks off the inaugural activities. Mrs. Keating has kept secret the description of her “ball dress” for the Monday Inaugural Ball at the Cowboy Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City, but hinted that the frock will have ties to Oklahoma.

The Keatings, who have strong family ties, are to be accompanied here by their children and respective dates. Their son Chip is a freshman in college. Their daughter, Kelly, has recently graduated from college and is working for a New York designer, who just happens to have designed Mrs. Keating’s Monday ball gown. Their other daughter, Carrie, is a freshman law student at Oklahoma University.

Mrs. Keating said she is excited about Frank's second term in office “as he will be the bridge from Oklahoma’s first century to the second century.”

She talked about the historical significance of Gov. E.W. Marland and the beautiful architectural treasure of the Marland Mansion. Mrs. Keating said when they first talked about the inaugural party here they were just thinking of a “low-key” reception, and that it has grown, with the entertainment and food, to a full-blown celebration.

She mentioned that the fact that Carl and Carolyn Renfro had asked them to come back was one of the deciding factors to having another inaugural event in Ponca City.

Four years ago the Marland Estate hosted an Inaugural Ball for the first Inauguration of Keating as the 25th Governor of Oklahoma. Keating was reelected and becomes the 26th governor.

It is fitting that the kick-off of the inaugural activities take place in the home of E.W. Marland, who was 10th Governor of Oklahoma.

The event has all the makings of a joyful celebration. A Mardi Gras ambiance has been created by decorator Patty Allen and her team.

However, one doesn’t have to wear a costume to attend. And don’t even think of wearing a mask, such as is the fashion at the New Orleans Mardi Gras, because there will be tight security and anyone doing so would be “suspect.”

Amid an array of colorful balloons, silken bows, and twinkling lights, guests will dance to the big band sound of Galaxy from St. Louis. This band has entertained for many corporations, private and public events throughout the United States and Canada for over 13 years.

A broad spectrum of other entertainment has been selected to please a cross section of guests locally and from across the state. Carl Renfro, inaugural chairman, says, “This is another opportunity for Ponca City to show the state and the nation our wonderful community.”

The Renfros are a part of the Inaugural Team, which has assumed the task of putting together another memorable event for Ponca City.

Apple Cart Catering, which is located in the Marland Conference Center, is in charge of the hors d’oeuvres and refreshments for the evening.

Tickets are still available for those who wish to be a part of history by attending the event here honoring Gov. Frank Keating and Mrs. Keating.

The black-tie optional celebration tickets can be purchased locally at Pioneer Bank, NationsBank, Home National Bank and the Marland Conference Center.

Little News

Jeff and Jennifer Knittel, 827 North Third, announce the birth of twin daughters Dec. 17, 1998, in Stillwater.

Madalyn May Knittel was born at 7:54 a.m., weighed 5-pounds, 6 1/2-ounces, and measured 19 1/2-inches long. Abigail Kay Knittel was born at 7:56 a.m., weighed 5-pounds, 6-ounces and measured 19-inches long.

Maternal grandparents are Jim and Chris Beguin, and paternal grandparents are Ross and Reita Knittel, all of Ponca City.

Joshua Ryan Pruitt is the name selected by Steve and Ellen Pruitt for their son born at 1:05 p.m. Dec. 4, 1998, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He weighed 11-pounds, 2-ounces, and measured 22 1/2-inches long. The baby has a sister, Kim, 12, and a brother, Chris, 9.

Grandparents are Ralph and Connie Pruitt of Ponca City, and Jim and Juanita Wittmer of Boerne, Texas. Ralph D. Pruitt of Ponca City is the great-grandfather.

Rho Chapter Meets

Members of Rho Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority met Dec. 9 at the home of Bambi Correll. The meeting followed a Thanksgiving feast. Jan Leach read the minutes and Debbie McClaskey gave the treasurer’s report. Teri Fry presented the gifts purchased to go with a food basket to be given to a family.

The hostess gave the City Council report, stating that the Valentine Ball would be Feb. 13 at the Elks Lodge, with Dave May as the DJ. Rho Chapter will be responsible for the queen’s backdrop and chair. Founder’s Day will be April 20 at the Country Club.

Debbie McClaskey received the traveling basket and Trish Dilbeck won the mystery gift. The group also exchanged Christmas gifts. The next meeting will be at 7 p.m. Jan. 13 at the home of Diana McKinnis.

Event To Fete Newlyweds

An open invitation is extended to friends and family to attend an event Thursday honoring Amelia and Brian Walters, who were married Dec. 23, 1998 in Salt Lake City.

The open house is planned for 7-8:30 p.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Relief Society Room, east entrance, 2408 East Hartford. For more information contact Maurine Barker, 765-2337.

The bride is the daughter of Janet Harrison, a teacher at Roosevelt School, and the bridegroom is the son of Steve and Claudia Walters of Mesa, Ariz. Amelia attends the American University in Washington, D.C., and Brian attends George Washington University.

Pi Beta Phi Meeting

The local Pi Beta Phi alumnae club’s annual “Collegiates and Moms” brunch is scheduled for Saturday at 10 a.m. All area Pi Beta Phi alumnae are invited to attend. The meeting location is 1304 Quail Lane, the home of Sue Helton. For more information, call Kathleen Thomas, president, 762-9566.

Special guests will be local Pi Phi actives, home on Christmas break from Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma, and their mothers. The students will provide updates on collegiate Pi Phi activities.

SPORTS

Poncans Overcome Early Deficit
Cagers On Yearly Pilgrimage to Ada
Sophomores Prevail Over Guthrie, 55-34
Junior High Basketball

Poncans Overcome Early Deficit

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

ENID — Ponca City’s Wildcats won the district wrestling dual against Enid Tuesday night but the 45-30 score was closer than coach Todd Steidley thought it should have been.

“We didn’t wrestle very well tonight,” Steidley said following the dual. “I think we may have been looking ahead to Blackwell and the Geary Tournament.”

With help from a forfeit at 135 pounds, the Wildcats won eight of the 14 matches, six by falls. But the Cats gave up four falls and lost the only two close matches. They also lost a team point on a thrown headgear.

Coach Steidley is still trying to find the right wrestler for the right weight and is having some problems with the fit in some cases.

Running into Enid’s strong light weights, the Wildcats spotted the Plainsmen a 12-0 lead on a fall and two close decisions in the first three matches.

A 2:47 fall by Josh Bailey at 125 pounds started the Wildcat comeback. Clint Stafford won a 20-8 major decision at 130 and the forfeit to Jacob Bailey put the Poncans in front, 16-12.

But Enid went in front one more time, 18-16, with a fall at 140.

However, the Poncans the rolled through four straight falls to put the dual away.

Still the finish was ragged for the Wildcats as Enid won falls at 189 and 215 pounds before Po-Hi heavyweight Justin Burns finished off the fall-a-thon with a 1:04 pin.

With all the bonus points flying around, the two more exciting matches came at 112 and 119 pounds where the Poncans lost to heavily favored Plainsmen by close decisions.

Phillip Brotherton, up to 112 after Christmas, fell behind Enid’s first state qualifier in a number of years, Shawn Isaacs, 4-0, through the first two periods. Brotherton reversed out midway through the final period, but couldn’t get a takedown against the fast-tiring Isaacs.

Sophomore Shawn Lee fell behind Enid’s Billy Hart, 7-2, in the first period, but he also showed better shape, roaring back in the second period and collected a takedown in the final seconds of the match to lose an 8-7 decision.

Josh Bailey had Enid 125-pounder Derek Podolney on his back three times in the first two periods before giving the Poncans the bonus points in 2:47.

Clint Stafford played takedown-letup with Enid’s Rudy Barnes for a 20-8 decision at 130 pounds.

The Wildcats gained full control of the match in the middle weights with four back-to-back falls by Matt Littleton, Michael Osborn, Blaine Empting and Toby RedLeaf.

Littleton (145 pounds) and had an exercise in takedowns before finishing off Jon Shreck with just 19 seconds left in the match.

Osborn (152) and Empting (160) collected second-period falls, finishing off their opposition in 3:14 and 2:44.

RedLeaf didn’t wait that long, pinning 171 pounder Russ Choate in 37 seconds.

Enid got come-from-behind falls at 189 and 215 and the Cats lost a team point when Po-Hi 215-pounder Jason Neurenberg threw his lead gear to the mat in disgust.

However, Burns gave the Poncans a high-note finish with a 1:04 fall.

The Wildcats get a much tougher test at home Thursday as they host Class 3A’s highly ranked Blackwell in a renewal of that classic rivalry.

That dual match is scheduled to start early, 6 p.m., in Robson Fieldhouse.

Then the Cats are off to the Geary Tournament Friday and Saturday.

Ponca City 45, Enid 30

103 — Seals (E) p. Swindall, :57

112 — Isaacs (E) d. Brotherton, 4-2

119 — Hart (E) d. Lee, 8-7

125 — Bailey (PC) p. Podolney, 2:47

130 — Stafford (PC) md. Barnes, 20-8

135 — Bailey (PC) fft.

140 — Craig (E) p. Steichen, 2:58

145 — Littleton (PC) p. Shrech, 5:41

152 — Osborn (PC) p. Smith, 3:44

160 — Empting (PC) p. Waugh, 4:44

171 — RedLeaf (PC) p. Choate, :37

189 — Brumfield (E) p. Leavitt (1:49)

215 — Jenkins (E) p. Neurenberg, 2:49

Hwt — Burns (PC) p. Hunter, 1:04

Mat Stats

Takedowns — Ponca City 28, Enid 7. Escapes — Ponca City 6, Enid 18. Reverses — Ponca City 4, Enid 2, Penalty Points — Ponca City 0, Enid 2. 2-Near Falls — Ponca City 1, Enid 1. 3-Near Falls — Ponca City 5, Enid 1.

Forfeits — Ponca City 1, Enid 0. Falls — Ponca City 6, Enid 4. Major Decisions — Ponca City 1, Enid 0, Decisions — Ponca City 0, Enid 2

Cagers On Yearly Pilgrimage to Ada

By MATTHEW KOENIG

News Sports Writer

ADA — So long, Sandites, toodle-loo, Tigers, adios, Pioneers.

Hello, um, Wampuscats. Nice kittie.

The Po-Hi basketballers will get a refreshing reprieve from the all-too familiar foes of the Frontier Conference, Thursday through Saturday, traveling into alien territory to face a few rarely seen creatures (what is a Wampuscat, anyway?) in the East Central Oklahoma Classic.

Both teams take a stab at Broken Bow on Thursday. The boys will tip off at 12:20, while the girls play at 1:40. WBBZ’s Phil and Craig will be providing coverage for each and every Ponca City game.

Lady Wildcats

“We can’t win at home, and we can’t win on the road. We don’t know where else to play,” says Lady Cat coach Dana Pulley, borrowing a phrase from an equally distraught conference coach. “That’s how I feel sometimes.”

Maybe what the Lady Cats (0-5) need is a home away from home — Ada’s Holiday Inn, for example.

Last year, the Lady Cats had relatively good success in Ada, sailing past Broken Bow and Idabel before falling to the No. 9 team in the state, Carl Albert, in the tournament final.

While Pulley and the Lady Cats are hoping for another good showing this year, they’ll have to overcome several early season bugaboos to get there. Shooting remains the Lady Cats’ Achilles Heel, as they’ve averaged just 30 percent from the field and a nightmarish 40 percent from the free throw line. Turnovers, too, are a problem. Though a scrappy defense has forced an average of 21.6 from the opposition, the Lady Cats have given up 22.0 of their own.

All is not lost, however, and the season is far from over. The Lady Cats scrimmaged both Pawhuska and Newkirk over the holidays, and Pulley was delighted by the refreshing sound of those little vinyl nubbies swooshing through the net. Included in those scrimmages was a tremendous, 30-point effort in one quarter against Newkirk.

“We were definitely in the zone,” says Pulley. “Dez (Cries For Ribs) was hitting her 3’s, the guards were hitting their 3’s, and we were driving in the lane and making shots. It was definitely a confidence booster.”

Pulley and Lady Cats are hoping for that kind of performance against Broken Bow, currently 4-5 on the year. Though they average an imposing 50.0 ppg, the Lady Savages surrender more than they dish out, giving up 54.1 ppg. Also, even though the Poncans scraped by, 38-34, in last year’s win, the Lady Savages have just one player back who scored in that game, 5-10 senior Lana Woods, who came away with six points.

Hopefully, all that will translate into a cracked goose egg on the left side of the Lady Cats’ record.

“There’s a lot of pressure on these girls — and on me,” says Pulley. “We’re not going in just expecting to win; we’re going in expecting to play hard. If we play hard the win will come.”

Though the Lady Cats are currently last in the Frontier Conference in scoring (40.0 ppg), and second to last in defense (51.4 ppg), it’s not by much. Offensively, the bottom four teams are all within four points of one another, while on defense, the bottom four are within six points. Cries For Ribs is currently a leading scorer in the conference, with 9.8 ppg. Alana Smith is second in scoring for the Poncans, with 7.4 ppg.

Joining the Lady Cats and Lady Savages on the top side of the bracket are Ada and Atoka, while Mustang, Mid-Del Christian, Idabel and Moore — the 5A state runners-up last year — are on the bottom half.

Lady Cat Notes — Cries For Ribs and Gina Hile both came through for the Lady Cats last year in Ada. Cries For Ribs averaged 11.7 ppg, including a season-high 27 points against Idabel, and was named to the All-Tournament Team, while Hile averaged nine ppg. . . Smith required stitches to her upper lip last year after getting knocked to the floor on a rebound against Broken Bow. . . Jennifer Caughman is currently skewing the Lady Cats’ dismal shooting averages, banging down 45 percent from the field and 67 percent from the line.

Wildcats

All is well with the Wildcats. Though picked to finish last, the 3-2 Cats are in sole possession of fourth place in the 9-team Frontier Conference and lead the league in offense, with 60.6 ppg. They’re understandably riding high, and hope that emotion will pay dividends this weekend in Ada.

“We’re expecting to go in and win it,” says coach Ron Arthur. “It’s one of our season goals, and we’re approaching it with a business-type attitude. Anything other than the first place trophy is going to be a disappointment.”

With a championship in Ada, the Cats would return home 6-2. From there, their next two match ups in conference play are against early season pushovers, Bartlesville and Owasso, which have a combined record of 1-6. Two more wins would make the Cats 8-2, equaling — in the second week of January — their total number of wins last year.

Projection is fun, isn’t it? Let’s back up a little.

The Cats face Broken Bow on Thursday. The Savages (6-3) are currently ranked No. 10 in Class 4A, lead a talent-laden Eastland Conference, and rack up an average of 72.4 ppg, enough to give any prolific team — like the Poncans — a thoughtful pause. Conference scoring leader, 6-1 senior Roman Crenshaw, has been dumping in buckets at a 22.3 ppg pace, followed by senior Cam Williams, with 14.1 ppg. The Savages also return all but two players from last year’s squad.

Arthur knows it will take more than confidence and momentum to counteract that kind of talent.

“This isn’t a po-dunk tournament; don’t go down thinking that. If we’re not careful, we’ll be coming home on Friday,” he says. “(Broken Bow) is athletic and quick. They’re streaky shooters, but when they’re on, they’re on, and if we’re not ready to play we’ll get run out of they gym.”

One big downer in the Wildcats’ season thus far is a last-place ranking in the Frontier Conference defensive standings. In five games, they’ve given up an average of 68.2 ppg, well off Sapulpa’s first place pace of 43.8 ppg.

“We’re where we want to be (offensively), but we’d like to chop 13 points or so off that defensive average,” says Arthur.

Joining the Cats and Savages on the lower half of the bracket are Latta and Lawton, while the upper half has Ada, Idabel, Atoka and Carl Albert.

Wildcat Notes — By the Tulsa World’s standard, both Tom Engle and Paul Broome are conference scoring leaders, at 11.2 and 11.0 ppg, respectively — though they’re not listed. . . Kris Shores averaged 10.3 ppg in last year’s tournament. . . the Cats have been averaging 64 percent from the free throw line, up from 56 percent a year earlier. . . the Cats lost in the consolation finals to Broken Bow last year, 59-50.

Wampuscat Note — A wampuscat, Atoka’s mascot, is just a hillbilly term for any feral cat — sort of like an uneducated wildcat.

Sophomores Prevail Over Guthrie, 55-34

Practice over the Christmas Break apparently paid off for the Wildcat sophomores as they defeated Guthrie 55-34 Monday in the first game back at Robson Fieldhouse.

“We played much better than before Christmas,” said coach Jerry Orr after the sophomore went 0-4 during December. “Our defensive technique was much better, plus we had balanced scoring from our offense.

John Able and Tim Frick paced the Ponca City scoring with 12 and 10 points, respectively. But 10 players reached the score book during the game.

The Wildcats broke to a 12-6 first period lead, saw Guthrie cut the margin to 24-21 at halftime, but then went on an 18-2 scoring spree in the third quarter.

The sophomores are back in action Jan. 11 at Bartlesville.

Ponca City 55, Guthrie 34

Guthrie 6 15 2 11 — 34

Ponca City 12 12 18 13 — 55

Ponca City — John Abel 12, Tim Frick 10, Billy Broughton 8, Thad Cardwell 5, Anthony Dewberry 5, Josh Pitts 4, Billy Struble 4, Jared Brashears 4, Jame Anno 2, Michael Martin 1.

Guthrie — Preston Eaton 14, Terence Miller 7, Sam Morgan 6, Brandon Pierson 4, Doug Derr 3

Junior High Basketball

9th grade boys Red 52, Bishop Kelly 33

Muskogee 63, 9th grade boys Red 59

9th grade boys Red 38, Enid Waller 27

SAND SPRINGS — The 9th grade varsity Cougars came within four points of the tournament championship in Sand Springs, recently, falling in the finals to Muskogee, 63-59. A day earlier, the Cougars prevailed over Bishop Kelly, 52-33 to launch into the final round.

Though tied with Muskogee in the final 15 seconds, the Cougars failed to get a rebound after Muskogee missed the front end of a 1-and-1 free throw. After Muskogee scored, the Cougars threw the ball away on the ensuing inbounds pass and Muskogee scored again to put the game away.

Despite the loss, however, coach Brad Parent was impressed with his team’s play.

“Muskogee was the best team we’ve played all year, the most athletic,” he says. “They had good shooters and they could jump out of the gym.

“But we hung in there. We got off to a slow start and we were a little intimidated, but we picked it up. These guys really hustled and they got in their face.”

Kyle Geheb had 17 points to lead all scorers, Jeremy DeNoya, Drew Shelton and Trevor Viljoen had 8 each, Joe Rower and Lucas Hudson had 6 each, Robert Bushaw had 4, while Colby Payne had 2.

A day earlier, the Cougars ran over Bishop Kelly, going up by eight, 27-19 at halftime, then poured it on in the second half to outscore their foes, 25-14.

“I don’t want to say we dominated in the second half, but that was the best we’ve played all year,” said Parent. “We played very solid defense.”

Geheb had 17 to lead all scorers, DeNoya had 14, Bushaw had 10, Rower and Matt Ellis had 5 each, while Shelton had 1.

On Tuesday, despite a slow, post-holidays start, the Cougars picked things up in the second half to get past Enid Waller, 38-27.

After falling behind by three, 17-14 at halftime, the Cougars finally found their stride, outscoring Waller 24-10 in the second half.

“We were lucky to be down by three at halftime,” says Parent. “It was nasty, a coach’s nightmare. But these kids hate to lose and they sucked it up and finally started to play well.”

Ellis led the way for the Cougars, with 12, Geheb had 9, Rower had 6, Shelton had 5, Hudson had 3, Viljoen had 2, while DeNoya had 1.

The Cougars, now 5-2 on the year, play again Jan. 14, hosting Stillwater.

The Red junior varsity also pulled out an impressive win on Tuesday, sailing past Waller’s Jv, 45-20.

After blasting to a 20-6 first half lead, the junior varsity continued their rampage in the second half, outscoring Waller 27-14.

Joe Oswalt had 8, Byron LeClair had 6, Kyle Soutter, Robbie Trant, Matt Whitmer and Jeremy Luis had 4 each, Steven Wolff, Kiel McCall, and Jared Leon had 3 each, while Jeremy Roland, Aaron Jones, Nick Hartman and Peter Hightower each had 2.

8th grade girls Blue 37, Enid Waller 13

Enid Waller 27, 8th grade girls Blue JV 17

Despite playing their second game in two days, the 8th grade Lady Cougars’ Blue team dug down deep to prevail over Enid Waller, 37-13, at the Mid-High, Tuesday.

Though they could manage just an 11-6 lead after one half, the Lady Cougars poured it on in the second half to race to the lead.

“We were just trying to get it together in the first half,” said coach Calvin English. “I’d say that was due to playing back-to-back games, and, not jet-lag, but bus-lag.”

Jamie Prado and Kelli Wedd had 10 each, Chelsea Hill had 7, Laura Sprehe and Brittany Cook had 3 each, while Sarah Adams and Melissa Fore had 2 each.

The Lady Cougars play again on Thursday in the Edmond Tournament.

In the junior varsity game on Tuesday, Stacy Murray had 5, Halli Martin and Cassandra Coldiron had 4 each, Rebecca Bernard had 2, while Carrie Robinson and Katie Emmons had 1 each.

Boys Red JV 52, Boys Blue JV 36

In an intersquad matchup played recently, the Red JV Boys blasted past the Blue JV Boys, 52-36.

After falling behind 15-3 in the first quarter, the Blues did make up some ground before halftime, outscoring the Reds 18-12 in the second quarter. The Reds poured it on from there, however, winning the second half 25-16.

The Reds were led by Jonthen Chambrey with 13, Shannon Rodgers with 12, Jacob Martin had 7, Matt Bone had 6, Jamie Kay and Jacob Behara each had 4, while Chris Scarbrough, Ron Galcather, Davis Corn and Anthony Fansler each had 2. Chad Tiede and Nick McKee also played for the Reds but didn’t score.

The Blues were led by Michael Martin with 8, AJ Viadya, Kyle Correll, Jeremy Hingtgen, Matt Allen, Josh Gilliland and Jeff Rabel with 4 each, while Brad Dexter and Josh Bohon had 2 each.

The Red JV go back into action Jan. 26, traveling to Enid Waller, while the Blue JV play again tonight, hosting Enid Waller.

8th grade boys Blue 40, Enid Waller 31

Enid Waller JV 35, 8th grade boys Blue JV 31

Woodward 63, 8th grade boys Blue 30

After a humbling loss to Woodward on Monday, the 8th grade boys blue team (5-4) came back to sail past Enid Waller on Tuesday, 40-31.

After hanging with their foes through three quarters, and down by one, 28-27, heading into the final stanza, the Cougars finally put it all together, outscoring Waller 12-3 in the fourth quarter to take the win.

Chance Hunt had 13, Matt Dexter had 12, David Sikes had 6, Kyle Megenity had 4, Chance Coldiron had 3, while Michael Naden had 2.

In the Woodward game, Sykes had 10, Dexter had 9, Naden had 4, Coldiron had 3, while Hunt and Megenitty had 2 each.

In the JV game, Brad Dexter had 9, Dusty Day had 6, Michael Martin had 5, Brad King ahd 3, while Kyle Correll, Jason Kasson, and Jeremy Hingtgen each had 2.

The Blues play again on Thursday in the Edmond Tournament.

9th grade girls Red 31, Enid Waller 13

Ponca City’s ninth grade Red girls went scoreless in the fourth period, but really didn’t need the points in a 31-13 win over Enid Waller Tuesday in Enid.

The Poncans blew to a 23-9 halftime lead, shutout Enid in the third quarter to go in front 21-9 but then the well ran dry for the Lady Cougars.

“We substituted quite a bit in that fourth quarters and somehow didn’t communicate on what we were trying to do. The shots just didn’t fall,” said coach John Maddox.

“We were scoring pretty well in the first three periods. The offense was working well and the defense was good.”

Amanda Summers, Janna Wedd and Mallory Hodge paced the Lady Cougars’ scoring with 8, 7 and 6 points, respectively.

The Ponca Citians, now 7-0,. are back on the practice courts until Jan. 13. That’s when they face rival Stillwater.

Ponca City 31, Enid Waller 13

Ponca City 12 11 8 0 — 31

Enid Waller 3 6 0 4 — 13

Ponca City — Amanda Summers 8, Janna Wedd 7, Mallory Hodge 6, Jamie Neal 2, Monica Sawyers 2, Vickie Hadley-Howe 2