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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Wednesday, January 13, 1999 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES SPORTS LOCALMcVeigh Interrogation International Example McVeigh Interrogation International ExampleJERUSALEM (AP) — Israel is a ‘‘light unto the nations’’ in its interrogation of Palestinian prisoners, a government lawyer told the Supreme Court Wednesday. Attorney Yehuda Schaeffer was responding to a petition against the use of ‘‘moderate physical force’’ against Palestinians believed to possess information which the authorities need to prevent acts of terrorism. Schaeffer cited a ruling of the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg that methods used by the British authorities in Northern Ireland against suspected IRA guerrillas do not constitute torture. ‘‘In this as in other matters we are still a light unto the nations,’’ Schaeffer said, referring to a utopian slogan coined by Zionist thinkers about a century ago, and based on a prophecy of Isaiah. Schaeffer said the British methods include deprivation of food and drink, and subjection to ‘‘white noise’’ — and are harsher than those permitted by Israel’s Shin Bet security service. The British methods — used on 14 suspects in 1971 — were described by the European court in a controversial 1978 ruling as ‘‘inhuman or degrading treatment,’’ but not torture. The British, severely embarrassed by the case, have long since sworn off the methods. The Shin Bet has never spelled out its methods, but testimony by security agents in court hearings has indicated they include sleep deprivation and tying up suspects in painful positions for several hours at a time. The United Nations has defined such methods as torture, and human rights groups have said that at least 10 detainees have died in the past decade as a result of interrogation. Standards of interrogation in Western countries appeared likely to dominate the proceedings. The petitioners submitted an affidavit from a lawyer for Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh, saying that interrogators never questioned his client unless lawyers were present, even though they ‘‘feared that similar attacks in other cities were planned or contemplated.’’ Robert Nigh Jr.’s statement was provided at the request of the Public Committee against Torture in Israel. ‘‘We submitted the affidavit to show that even the case of a very dangerous terrorist, responsible for the deaths of scores of civilians, can be investigated without resorting to force,’’ said spokeswoman Hannah Friedman. McVeigh is appealing his death sentence for the 1995 bombing of a federal building in Oklahoma City that killed 168 people and injured more than 500 others. In addition to the Public Committee, the petitioners include a civil rights group and four Palestinians who claim to have been tortured by the Shin Bet. When the petition was submitted last May by two human rights groups and four Palestinian individuals, the Supreme Court agreed for the first time to consider the over-all policy of using physical force. At that time, the court indicated that it was likely to refer the matter to the Knesset for legislation. The petitioners hope for a ruling that would allow for the prosecution of alleged Shin Bet torturers. In earlier individual cases, the court consistently upheld the right of the Shin Bet to use ‘‘moderate physical force’’ to extract confessions. The vague term was coined over a decade ago by a commission investigating the Shin Bet. Counsel for the state, Shai Feldman, cited cases in which he said it was established beyond doubt that the methods used by the Shin Bet had prevented suicide bombings, saving large numbers of lives. No decision was handed down Wednesday. The court is to convene again at a later date to hear the arguments of the petitioners. Human rights groups have also accused the Palestinian Authority of routinely torturing detainees during interrogation, and nearly a dozen prisoners have died in Palestinian jails in the past four years. State Tax Collections On TargetOKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — State tax collections for the first six months of the fiscal year were $79 million higher than the previous year in spite of a sharp decline in oil tax revenues, the Office of State Finance said. General Revenue Fund collections for the first half of the fiscal year were $1.96 billion — a 4.2 percent increase over collections during the same period last year. ‘‘Despite significantly lower than estimated gross production tax revenues, General Revenue Fund collections essentially are on target for this point in the fiscal year,’’ Doug Enevoldsen deputy director of the Office of State Finance, said Tuesday. ‘‘That’s because the gross production tax collection declines have been offset by growth in other areas, notably individual income tax collections which are substantially ahead of last year, up by 10.2 percent,’’ Enevoldsen said. Combined individual and corporate income taxes produced $893.7 million during the first half of the fiscal year, exceeding last year’s collections by $71.4 million, or 8.7 percent. The state sales tax produced $575.7 million for the period — $17.1 million above the prior year. But gross production taxes on oil and gas yielded $54.9 million during the six-month period — a 34.8 percent drop from the prior year’s revenues. ‘‘Fortunately, Oklahoma’s economy is large and diversified and that is reflected in our General Revenue Fund,’’ Enevoldsen said. ‘‘When we experience some weakness in one revenue source, it is often offset by strength in another.’’ Although collections are up from the prior year, they are $1.3 million below the Office of State Finance’s estimate. Deposits are made to the Constitutional Reserve or ‘‘Rainy Day’’ Fund when General Revenue Fund collections exceed the revenue estimate. The last year the state did not make a ‘‘Rainy Day’’ Fund deposit was 1995. County Bridge To Be ReplacedThe replacement of the Bois D’Arc bridge over the West Highland Avenue extension west of Ponca City will force the closing of the road to public use until further notice. Kay County Emergency Director Pat Zehr said the road will be closed to public use between Flormable and Ranch Drive Road. A detour route will be from Flormable to South Avenue extension, and west to Ranch Drive Road. PTC Board Extends ContractBy KRISTI HAYES News Education Editor A three year contract extension, which will replace the existing contract, was awarded to Dr. Sally Downey, superintendent, at Tuesday night’s regular meeting of the Pioneer Technology Center Board of Education. Dr. Downey said, “It’s a pleasure and a delight to work with a board of professionals. When we all work together it enhances the outcome for everyone, particularly the students.” Kevin Waddill reported on the year 2000 status report. He said he is 90 percent through with testing the current systems. The hardware, server software and web server have all been checked out and are compliant. Brenda Bennett, instructor for Health Technology, gave a brief report on the health programs at PTC. She said the programs are geared more toward high school students, but they also serve a lot of adult students. She also reported that the current enrollment is about 65 students, up 20 from last year. The upcoming open house on March 7 at PTC was the highlight of the Superintendent’s Report. The event will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. with the cafeteria being open from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. PTC will be taking reservations for lunch for the first 200 people. Several events will take place during the day including car shows, a celebration with the original and present board members, fire trucks and other activities. The board also took the position to sign a proclamation with OSSBA to oppose Charter Schools. A total of $255,994.56 was collected in the general fund and $21,967.31 was received in the sinking fund. PTC has four CD’s with two maturing in February. Contracts for Randy Hoesier, electronics instructor; and Barbara Wright, learning consultant; were approved. The resignation of Justin Beard, assistant in machine tool; was also accepted. Local Author Not Related To Truman Smith on TVTruman Smith, local author of the aviation book “The Wrong Stuff” has been receiving inquiries: “Are you the Truman Smith mentioned on C-SPAN 2 “Book TV”?” The answer is, “No, not even related.” The Truman Smith spoken about on “Book TV” was the Air Attache’ in Berlin in the 1930s. Not being an aviation expert, U.S. Army Major Truman Smith arranged to bring Charles Lindbergh to Germany six times to evaluate the prewar German Air Force, because Lindbergh, “The Lone Eagle” was held in high esteem by the Germans. So much so that Air Marshall Goering, on behalf of Adolf Hitler, presented both Lindbergh and Smith the Silver Cross of the German Eagle medal. This honor backfired on both Lindbergh and Smith, as they were labeled Nazi sympathizers by President Roosevelt for their position of “America First” and their efforts of isolationism until the U.S. could build an Air Force superior to Germany. In his autobiography “The Wrong Stuff,” about flying combat against the German Air Force, Truman Smith, using “Berlin Alert,” “The Memoirs and Reports of (the other) Truman Smith,” details this interesting and important part of history. It was A. Scott Berg, the biographer of “Lindbergh,” who appeared on “Book TV” and mentioned (the other) Truman Smith. The Ponca City Truman Smith’s book “The Wrong Stuff” was the best selling book at Brace Books in 1997. His book has also been a best seller at Air Museums in England and the U.S., including the National Air-Space Museum at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. It is a reference book at the U.S. Air Force Academy; the Air University; the Air War College and the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum and Heritage Center, and is currently being reviewed by the Eisenhower Center at the University of New Orleans. Another Resolution Will Save EnergyBy now, many people have made their New Year’s resolutions, but there is one more resolution that could be considered. Make 1999 the year to trim energy costs. “Many people don’t understand how taking just a few simple steps can provide significant savings,” says Rusty Edwards, General Manager of Electric Utilities for the Ponca City Utility Authority. “You can save one percent of your heating bill for every degree the thermostat is set back overnight and when you’re not at home.” Ponca City Utility Authority offers these other tips for saving money on the electric bill: *Turn off lights and appliances when not in use. *Replace incandescent light bulbs with energy-saving compact fluorescent bulbs. *Check your home’s level of insulation. *Use caulk and weather stripping to stop drafts around windows and doors. *Direct warm where you want it by closing heating vents in unoccupied rooms. “We’re working to help our consumers conserve energy and save on their electric bills,” Edwards said. EDAB Approves Impact Model To Determine Future IncentivesBy LOUISE ABERCROMBIE News Business Editor Economic Development Advisory Board (EDAB) voted Tuesday to expend $4,500 for the development of an impact model to be developed from the Economic Impact study, which can be used for future incentives for companies locating in Ponca City. EDAB will contract with Mark C. Snead, Department of Finance, Oklahoma State University, to do the work. The model will link incentives, sources and uses of development funds, economic impact estimates, City fiscal impacts and an overall cost-benefit analysis. According to Snead’s proposal, the model would provide an economic impact analysis with detailed estimates of the impact on employment, personal income and employee compensation, as well as an estimate of the impact of any initial construction expenditures. Both direct and indirect impacts are to be estimated. The model would include the estimate on the impact on City tax revenue. This would provide estimates of sales tax revenue attributable to new industry plus a source breakdown on local/non-local, new industry and existing residents. Also the study would estimate the impact on the City Utility Authority, by estimating the electric, water, waste water and solid waste operations. Also estimated would be the total gross margin accruing to the PCUA from utility usage of new industry. A framework would be provided for economic development costs, accounting for all sources and uses of development funding in one location and also for a multi-year analysis and inflation-adjusted estimates. The cost-benefit analysis would be linked to accounting frame work, the impact analysis, the Utility impact analysis and City tax revenue projections. Other applications of the model, according to Snead, would be to perform a “what if” analysis to evaluate the incremental impact of the City of various incentive offerings. Also to provide an estimate of the per-job costs of economic development. This will also furnish an estimate of the purchasing inter-relationships between newly attracted industry and existing industry. Other uses for the model would be to provide an estimate of the respective number of City residents, County (but non-City residents), and non-County resident who will comprises the labor force of a new firm. Also to estimate the economic impact of tourism events in the City, the impact of local construction and infrastructure projects, the impact of changes in the size/activities of local government. Jan Jarrett, EDAB executive, had mentioned it would be a useful tool for strategically planning the recruitment of new firms. It would also evaluate the relative impact of various industries on the local area. Certain industries offer significantly large economic impacts, (petroleum, food processing etc.). According to Snead, the output is suitable for use as either a stand-alone economic impact evaluation (which can function as a comprehensive public disclosure statement) or as input for an exhaustive report more descriptive in nature. Gemstone Artist Creates Unique SculpturesBy KATHY ZEHR News Staff Reporter BLACKWELL — “Gemstone Carvings by Morgan,” reads the placard on a new and exciting exhibit now showing at popular gemstone and mineral shows across the United States. The creator of those new intricate and breathtaking gemstone sculptures is former truck driver Morgan Norris of Blackwell. The unique carvings have been valued by people in the gemstone business up to $65,000 in the right market and some have been judged as “museum quality” art. Morgan, who created several of the works in a makeshift workshop in the back of his 18-wheeler while on the road, is awestruck at his success. He credits God with a phenomenal artistic vision that comes from “somewhere inside.” With no art training, and relying only his experiences with wildlife on a remote farm in New Mexico where he grew up, Morgan has an unusually perceptive eye for realistic detail. His most prized works are carved in one piece from a single gemstone, geode or man-made fiber-optic stone. Friends and gemstone collectors now bring Morgan unique rock, stone, and geode formations for his one-of-a-kind talent. A short time ago, he was handed a large rare stone from Africa, containing various types of gemstones including a glowing green zoisite with blood red ruby inclusives, all welded together over millions of years. After much study for the best use of the rare and colorful gemstone; hundreds of hours of carving with minute diamond drills and various other drills; and some frustration with breakage; he completed what he considers his best work yet. The exotic 10-12 inch carving of a glowing green mermaid surrounded by ruby sea plants and a seahorse has been adjudicated as ‘museum quality” art by experts. According to observers, the face of the mermaid seems to have a life of her own, her delicate features changing from smiles to frowns as she is turned in a lighted display case. As usual, Morgan completed the carving in one piece. “The challenge in a multi-gemmed stone is that each stone has a different degree of hardness and the sculptor must know how to carve each one differently,” says Norris. Morgan first began his hobby of stone carving at age 14. He and his “rock hound” older brother collected numerous rocks and stones on their remote farm near Hobbs, N.M., as they grew up. Morgan carved his first creation into a duck, but threw it away. His mother salvaged it and Morgan cherishes it today as the beginning of a very enjoyable hobby. At this point in his life, he has just about turned that hobby into a full time avocation. The modest Norris began to realize the extent of his talent when he recently entered his first adjudicated show. It was an eye-opener when his carvings won all top honors. He will be attending shows in New Mexico this month and another in Lubbock, Texas, in June. He is awed that professional gemstone collectors and dealers are excited about his talent and have priced his sculptures far above his best expectations. Almost all of Morgan’s creations are available for purchase, but what interests him even more is passing along his self-taught craft to others. He hopes to interest clubs or organizations to sponsor classes in gemstone carving for youth or adults in the area. Area CalendarJanuary 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. For 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. 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 23 1999 Eagle Viewing “A Day in Kay County,” 10 a.m., Kaw City Community Center, proceeding to north side of Kaw Lake, ends at Kaw Hydroelectric Plant, 11:30 a.m., with historic presentation and refreshments and more eagle watching south of Kaw Dam. 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. Child Development Center Chili Supper, 4:30-7:30 p.m., First Christian Church, North Fifth Street and East Cleveland Avenue, Ponca City, chili (or hot dog), home made bread, dessert and drink, adults $5, children $2. February 6 Fourth Annual Ronnie Kay Sock Hop to benefit Kay County Council for the Opportunity Center, 8 p.m.-midnight, Elks Lodge, Ponca City, tickets from 765-6782. February 23 The Ponca Area Chamber Orchestra and the Ponca City Civic Choris combined concert, conducted by Dineo Heilmann and Marie Beyer, 8 p.m., Poncan Theatre, Ponca City. DEATHSHarold Franklin Shoffner Harold Franklin ShoffnerBRAMAN — Harold Franklin Shoffner, lifelong Braman resident, died Monday evening, Jan. 11, 1999, at his farm in Braman. He was 77. The funeral is set for 2 p.m. Thursday at the Roberts Funeral Home Chapel in Blackwell, with the Rev. Don Martin, Braman United Methodist Church, officiating. Burial will be in the Braman Cemetery. Harold Franklin Shoffner was born May 18, 1921, in Braman to Isaac Franklin and Mary Lenice (Austin) Shoffner. He grew up in the Braman area and attended Lowe Center Rural School and Braman High School. Following his schooling he began farming and working with livestock. On Dec. 19, 1941, he was married to Margie Marie Kincaid in Wichita, Kan., and the couple established their home in Braman. During World War II he served in the U.S. Army in England. Following his discharge he returned to Braman and continued his farming and livestock operation. Survivors include his wife Margie Shoffner of Braman; three daughters, Betty J. Schowalter of Halstead, Kan., Donna J. Stucky of South Haven, Kan., and Sherry Willingham of Altus; two brothers, Bill and Wayne, both of Braman; and six grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Vernon Dale Shoffner. Casket bearers will be Dr. Richard Shoffner, Don Shoffner, Ron Shoffner, Fred Southern, Carl Parcher, Dana Richards and Lonnie Ingram. Honorary bearers will be Dale Wooderson, Bob Kaupke, Jack Orr, Ivan Grell, Orvan Grell, Don Turvey, Jim Kincaid, Tom Forbeck and Kenneth LeValley. Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Shoffner’s name to Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Diabetes Research, c/o Roberts Funeral Home, 120 West Padon, Blackwell, OK 74631. Roby Ola LinnBLACKWELL — Roby Ola Linn, former Blackwell resident, died Tuesday morning, Jan. 12, 1999 at Southwest Memorial Hospital in Houston, Texas. He was 86. The funeral will be held graveside at 10 a.m., Friday, at the Blackwell Cemetery with the Rev. Charles Ryser, Blackwell First United Methodist Church, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home, Blackwell. Members of the Blackwell American Legion and VFW will conduct a Flag presentation. Roby Ola Linn was born May 29, 1912, in Chickasha to Thomas H. and Fannie Amanda (Carter) Linn. At age three, he moved to Blackwell with his family, where he grew up and graduated from Blackwell High School. He married Lucille Fulton on Aug. 6, 1931, in Enid and the couple lived in Oklahoma City, Chickasha and Shawnee, before he entered the U.S. Navy. Linn served in the SeaBees during World War II. After his discharge on Dec. 8, 1945, the couple established their home in Houston, Texas. Lucille Linn preceded him in death on Oct. 29, 1978. On Jan. 17, 1979, he was married to Lucille Milligan Coe in Houston, Texas, where the couple made their home. He was a communicant member of the Park Place Lutheran Church in Houston; the Park Place Masonic Lodge No. 1172, where he had received his 50-year Masonic Grand Lodge Award in August 1996; and the American Legion Post No. 7. Survivors include his wife, Lucille Linn of Houston, Texas; several nieces and nephews including Mona Haney of Blackwell. In addition to his first wife and parents he was preceded in death by a sister, Carmel Strother. Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Linn’s name to a charity of choice. FuneralsThursdayGeorge Wilson BrienFuneral at 2:30 p.m. at the Masham (Okla.) Baptist Church. Burial will be in Highland Cemetery in Pawnee under the direction of Poteet Funeral Home, Pawnee. Cleota Mae Pingry Horn — Memorial service will be held graveside at 2 p.m. at the Blackburn (Okla.) Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Poteet Funeral Home, Pawnee. Services PendingMary K. Cline-WelchMary K. Cline-Welch, Ponca City resident, died Tuesday, Jan. 12, 1999, at St. Francis Medical Center in Wichita, Kan. She was 56. Survivors include her husband, Mark, of the home. Arrangements are pending with the Watson Funeral Home in Galesburg, Ill. Local arrangements will be announced later by Trout Funeral Home, Ponca City. NEWS BRIEFSDemocrats To Meet — Ponca City Commissioner Chris Hand will address the regular meeting of the Kay County Democrats at 7 p.m. Thursday. All Democrats are invited to the meeting at the O.C.A.W. Hall, 1202 West Ponca Avenue, Ponca City. For more information contact County Chair Andrea Morriss, 765-6260. Court Allen Construction. Concrete and flagstone walkways, pa- tios and yard curbing. Call 765-2720. adv. Legion Auxiliary to Meet — The American Legion Auxiliary will meet Thursday at 1:30 p.m. in the Auxiliary Room at the Legion building on South Avenue. Patterns for ditty bags will be available and members will work together in making the bags. Please bring scissors and bright colored materials. 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. Tutor Training Workshop — Ponca City Area Literacy Council will offer a 10-hour tutor training workshop Jan. 21, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., Jan. 23 from 9:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., and Jan. 26 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Ponca City Library Programming Room. For additional information call 767-0351. Jim Bowen Construction Custom homes, room additions and remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv. CWU Set Board Meeting — The Church Women United board meeting and installation of 1999 officers will be held Friday, Jan. 15 at 9:30 a.m. instead of the time announced earlier. The meeting is scheduled for St. John Baptist Church, meeting in the small building next to the main church building. Used Carpet. A good selection available at Floorcraft. Fifth and Hartford. adv. Local Airman Completes Assignment — Navy Airman Terry L. Burge, son of Keith Burge, 1713 North Osage, recently complete a six-month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea and Arabian Gulf aboard the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, home ported in Norfolk, Va. While deployed, Burge’s ship participated in numerous large-scale military exercises, including Matador Livex and Dynamic Mix ’98. During these exercises, Burge and crew members worked with military flexibility and mobility of multi-national forces. In addition, Burge had the opportunity to visit France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey where crew members participated in community relations projects in the host countries. The 1997 graduate of Ponca City Senior High School joined the Navy in August of 1997. Clean Carpet. Top of line equipment. Best trained people. Quality service. Reasonable prices. Call Floorcraft. 762-8383. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 1500 block of South Ninth Street at 1:21 p.m. Tuesday that an 18-year-old man was being held on a city warrant for failure to pay. WCW/NWO Souled out coming to Pay Per View. Sunday, January 17th at 7 p.m., $29.95. Call Cable ONE at 762-6684 and get ready to rumble!!! adv. Unexpected Rent Money — A man from the 600 block of West Grand Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 1:23 p.m. Tuesday that he had received money in the mail for rent on property he does not own. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. 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. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of East Alma Avenue and South Fourth Street at 1:56 p.m. Tuesday that a 45-year-old man was being held on a Kay County warrant for failure to appear, and not wearing a seat belt. Local Marine Completes Basic — Marine Pvt. Richard L. White, son of David and Susan White, 4311 East Coleman Road in Ponca City, recently completed basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego. White, who successfully completed 12 weeks of training designed to challenge new Marine recruits both physically and mentally, began training at 5 a.m., by running three miles and performing calisthenics. He also received instruction on the Marine Corps’ core values — honor, courage and commitment, and what the words mean in guiding personal and professional conduct. The recruits ended the training phase with The Crucible, a 54-hour team effort, problem solving evolution which culminated with an emotional ceremony in which the recruits were presented the Marine Corps Emblem. He is a 1994 graduate of Ponca City High School. 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. Legion Meeting — The American Legion, Post 14, will meet at 7:30 p.m. Thursday at 407 West South Avenue. On the agenda will be discussion of the World War II Memorial Fund and other upcoming activities and projects. Windshield Chips repaired professionally. Guaranteed and insurance approved. Ponca Glass, 762-6522, 762-7957. adv. Window Broken — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 7:15 a.m. Tuesday from the 400 block of North Birch Street that a window had been broken out of a vehicle. The information was logged. Tyson is back! World Heavyweight event, Tyson vs Botha coming to Pay Per View. Saturday, January 16th at 8p.m., $45.95. Call Cable ONE or your ring side seat 762-6684.adv. Vehicle Burglarized — An employee at Honest John’s, 3212 North Fourteenth Street, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:49 a.m. Tuesday that a CD player had been stolen from a vehicle. Two officers were assigned and a report was taken. Jueschke Carpet Cleaners. For professional carpet cleaning, call the professionals. Jueschke Carpet Cleaners. 765-3421. adv. Gas Drive-Off — A clerk at Sav-A-Trip, 501 West Highland Avenue, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:55 a.m. Tuesday that a subject had driven off without paying for gas. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. 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. Tire Slashed — A man from the 800 block of North Elm Street was at the Ponca City Police Department at 10:36 a.m. Tuesday to report that a tire on his pickup had been slashed. An officer was assigned and the information was logged. Harassment — A man was at the Ponca City Police Department at 11:34 a.m. Tuesday to report a subject had harassed him Sunday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Grass Fire — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 11:37 a.m. Tuesday that a grass fire was burning north of Prospect Avenue on North Union Street. One unit from the Ponca City Fire Department responded to handle the situation. Accident — An accident at the intersection of Donahoe Drive and East Hartford Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:53 a.m. Tuesday. Two officers were assigned and a report was taken. Accident — A minor accident at the intersection of North Union Street and Hartford Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 12:06 p.m. Tuesday. Information was exchanged by the parties involved and the information was logged. Abuse — A woman reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 8:14 p.m. Tuesday that she had been physically abused by a man. An officer took a report. Vehicle Vandalism — A man from the 1600 block of Cookson Drive reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 12:19 p.m. Tuesday that a vehicle had been vandalized and another vehicle burglarized. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Stolen Bicycle — A woman was at the Ponca City Police Department at 12:20 p.m. Tuesday to report a stolen bicycle. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Subject Held — A man was at the Ponca City Police Department to turn himself in at 2 p.m. Tuesday. An officer took into custody, a 20-year-old man on a city warrant for assault and battery, illegal entry, and destruction of private property. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 1000 block of North First Street at 2:01 p.m. Tuesday that an 18-year-old woman was being held on a city warrant for failure to pay. Check on Fire Alarm — Units from the Ponca City Fire Department responded at 3:29 p.m. Tuesday to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center to check on a fire alarm. Officials from the fire department reported that a machine had overheated and smoke had filtered into the air vent system, but there was no fire. Grass Fire — A woman from the 5600 block of Higgins Road reported a grass fire 1.5 miles eat of Peters School at 5:31 p.m. Tuesday. The McCord Volunteer Fire Department responded and handled the situation. Grand Larceny — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 6:40 p.m. Tuesday that a grand larceny report was taken while at the Ponca City Middle School at 5 p.m. Tuesday. Tires Slashed — A man from the 2100 block of North Fourteenth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 8:20 p.m. Tuesday that three tires of his vehicle had been slashed. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. 30-50-75% Off winter clothing. Currently buying spring/summer. Bearly New. 1804 North Fifth. adv. Accident — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported to at 8:27 p.m. Tuesday that a private property accident had occurred at Ponca City High School. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Items Missing — A woman reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:08 p.m. Tuesday that someone had taken a portable CD player and CDs out of an unlocked vehicle while at Union School between 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The information was logged. Power Line Sparking — A man from the 1300 block of West Cherry Avenue reported to the Communications Center at 9:14 p.m. Tuesday that a tree in a power line behind the residence was sparking. A unit from the Ponca City Fire Department responded and an electrical trouble shooter from the Ponca City Utility Authority responded to handle the situation. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 700 block of North Pine Street at 9:29 p.m. Tuesday that a 43-year-old man was being held on a city warrant for failure to pay delinquent fines. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 300 block of West Hartford Avenue at 1:28 a.m. Wednesday that a 35-year-old man was being held for domestic assault and battery. Hit and Run — A man from the 2100 block of Joe Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 1:50 a.m. Wednesday that a hit-and-run accident had occurred. An officer was assigned and the information was logged. Bridge Replacement — Kay County will be replacing the Bois D’Arc bridge over West Highland Avenue extension between Flormable and Ranch Drive Road, and the road will be closed until further notice. Detour from Flormable south to South Avenue back to Ranch Drive Road. LIFESTYLESLittle News Little NewsEllie Irene Hodges is the name selected by Todd and Jennifer Hodges of Fort Collins, Colo., for their daughter born Dec. 1, 1998. She weighed 7 pounds, 7 ounces, and was 20 inches in length. Grandparents are Grant and Deanna Hodges and Harold and Marcy Bass of Ponca City. Great-grandparents are Irene Hodges, Ira and Mary Brown, and Marcella Gooch of Ponca City, and Fred and Ruth Bass of Pinellas Park, Fla. Cliff and Heather (Hopkins) Cannon of Ponca City announce the birth of a daughter, Caitlin Cersi Cannon, born at 10:19 a.m. Dec. 7, 1998, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She weighed 9 pounds, 4 ounces, and was 21 1/4 inches in length. Grandmothers are Lisa Hopkins, Kay Cannon, and Donna Cannon, all of Ponca City. Grandfathers were the late Charles “Sonny” Cannon and the late James “Jim” Hopkins. Great-grandparents are Charles and Eddie Jean Cannon of Ponca City; J.C. and Gwen Leake of Ponca City; former Ponca City residents Jack and Janice Hopkins of San Benito, Texas; and Dora Lorwins and the late Franklin “Pink” Lorwins of Osceola, Ark. Sean David Lipps is the name selected by Alan and Lorry (Newsom) Lipps of Fort Collins, Colo., for their son born at 10:25 a.m. Dec. 30, 1998. He weighed 7 pounds, 8 ounces, and was 20 inches in length. Maternal grandparents are Dave and Lee Sears of Newkirk and Larry Newsom Sr. of Edmond. Paternal grandparents are Leonard and Estella Lipps of Edmond. Maternal great-grandparents are the late Leo and Ora Lee Blubaugh of Newkirk and Margaret Newsom of Edmond. Stacy and Juan Diaz Cortez of Blackwell announce the birth of a daughter, Rosabella, on Jan. 15, 1999, at Blackwell Regional Hospital. She weighed 6 pounds, 14 1/4 ounces, and measured 19 inches in length. Grandparents are Clifford and Suzanne Mills of Ponca City and Emma Cortez and Marcelino Diaz of Juarez, Mexico. Great-grandparents are John and Virginia Miller of Newkirk, Dorothy Mills of Webb City and Tomasa Lopez of Durango, Mexico. Wilma Rezar Celebrates 75Wilma Whitaker Rezar will be celebrating her 75th birthday Sunday, Jan. 17, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Ranch Drive Fire Department, 3454 South Ranch Drive. Wilma was born to Robert W. and Clara Hawkins Whitaker Jan. 18, 1924, in Ponca City. She graduated from the Ponca City schools. She went to Washington, D.C., where she was employed by the Veterans Administration, and then by the Pentagon until she retired. She married Nick Rezar, and they resided in the Washington, D.C., area until his death in 1983. Shortly thereafter, Wilma returned to Ponca City to be with her family. SPORTSLady Cats Come Up Short Lady Cats Come Up ShortBy MATTHEW KOENIG News Sports Writer Despite an All-conference caliber showing from Desiree Cries For Ribs, who finished with 26 points, the Lady Cats succumbed to the Owasso Lady Rams, Tuesday, 54-45. Cries For Ribs connected on four 3-pointers, hit 4-of-7 free throws and had six rebounds to lead the Lady Cats, who managed just 28 percent (16-of-58) from the field. The 5-8 senior is currently sixth in the conference in scoring, at 10.7 points per game. “Desiree had a great game. She was driving the lane, hitting her 3’s — she played lights-out,” said Lady Cat coach Dana Pulley. “But we gotta get more out of our starters.” Alana Smith was the Lady Cats’ second leading scorer, with seven, but it was scoring on the other end — mostly from an incredibly benevolent charity stripe — that propelled the Lady Rams to victory. The Lady Rams (2-4, 3-6) nailed 22-of-24 free throws, including 12-of-14 in decisive fourth quarter. After three quarters, the Lady Cats trailed by just two, 34-32, but the Lady Rams went on a 10-5 run (making six free’s) to open the fourth, stretching their lead to seven. A run by the Lady Cats (0-6, 2-7), however, including a layup by Laura Sudbury and six straight points from Cries For Ribs brought the Lady Cats back to within one, 44-43, with 3:39 left to play. The Lady Rams got the calls from there, however, dumping in 6-of-8 from the line and adding a pair of layups to take the win. The Lady Cats went 0-for-4 from the field in that same period, and went to the line just twice. For the game, the Lady Cats took just 13 trips to the line, hitting nine. “In an even game it comes down to those calls,” said Pulley. “The fouls mean we are playing hard, but we had no movement (on offense) at the end. I thought we were just standing.” As a contest of equals, who share nearly identical stats in the Frontier Conference, the game proved to be a close battle. Cries For Ribs pounded out 10 straight points in the first quarter to give the Lady Cats a quick, 14-8 lead, and hit one from long range to put the Poncans up, 19-12, midway through the second quarter. Owasso’s Ellen McElrath hit consecutive 3-pointers before halftime, however, to pull the Lady Rams back to within one, 19-18. Sudbury and Aleena Ames had 4 each for the Lady Cats, while Gina Hile and Jennifer Caughman had 2 each. Sudbury again led the team in rebounds, with 7. Kelly Scott had 14 points to lead a balanced scoring attack from the Lady Rams, while Tammy Rohrer had 10. The Lady Cats will host Bartlesville, Friday. The Lady Bruins won their first conference game on Tuesday, pounding Sapulpa, 44-29. Game Notes — Owasso was 15-of-44 from the field, for 34 percent...both teams were equal on turnovers, with a surprisingly low, 13 apiece...the Lady Cats were out-rebounded 32-26...it was indeed a sad mood that prevailed in Robson Fieldhouse after the twin losses, and the emotions were running high for the Lady Cats. Though they remain winless in league play, a teary post-game display provides conclusive testimony to their desire to win. Too Little Payne For WildcatsBy MATTHEW KOENIG News Sports Writer Ponca City’s Jeremiah Payne unleashed a reign of terror from the 3-point arc, but it wasn’t enough to overcome a brilliant shooting effort from the Owasso Rams, Tuesday, as they dropped the Wildcats in the closing minutes, 74-68. Payne’s pleasure came by dropping in five 3-pointers on nine attempts to lead the Cats with 15 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome an 11-of-20 shooting effort by the Rams from long range. The Cats (3-3, 4-5) finished with another busy, but unproductive night from the field, hitting just 22-of-74 shots for 31 percent. The Rams (1-5, 3-6) went 21-of-46, for 47 percent, and got a 30-point performance from 6-5 junior Richard Hardman. “We were unconscious,” said a distressed coach Ron Arthur, whose team has lost three of their first four games since Christmas break. “We can’t give up 74 points to anyone and expect to win. When we’re not hitting shots we have to play defense. “Not to take anything away from Owasso; they’re a good team. It wasn’t so much what we didn’t do, it’s what they did to us.” Down by 11 with three minutes left, the Cats pieced together a 7-0 run. After a put-back by Scott Larrison, two consecutive turnovers off the Poncans’ steely press led to five unanswered points, and the Cats closed to within four, 64-60. The Rams answered with six trips to the line in 46 seconds, however, hitting five, with two of those coming off a rebounding foul on the lone miss. Despite a put-back on the other end by Ponca City’s Jeff Furnas, the Rams reassumed control, 69-62, with a minute left to play. Hoping for a miracle, Payne came through again with a 3-pointer to drag the Cats back to within four. With 39 seconds remaining, however, Owasso’s Wisdom Ledgerwood hit a pair of free throws, and after a long-range miss on the Poncans’ end, Hardman broke open for a slam-dunk, putting the game away. “We weren’t patient enough, offensively,” said Arthur. “We were playing like we wanted to in the fourth quarter, but it all comes down to a couple of missed shots, and fouls.” After seven lead changes in the first half, the Rams broke to a 33-27 lead at intermission, then opened the second half with an 8-4 run to go on top by 10. The Cats roared back with a 7-2 run of their own. Craig Thilsted nailed a short jumper, and Larrison knocked down 5-of-6 from the line after getting fouled on three consecutive trips in the paint. Payne then hit two 3’s to end the third quarter, pulling the Cats to within four, 50-46. Paul Broome had 13 points for the Cats, Larrison had 12, Tom Engle had 9, Nathan Zimmerman had 7, Kris Shores had 6, Thilsted had 4, while Furnas had 2. Furnas had nine rebounds, while Engle had another impressive defensive effort, nabbing four steals. Wisdom Ledgerwood had 22 for the Rams, followed by Grant Polk, with 16. The Cats will be at home again on Friday, taking on Bartlesville, 60-43 losers to Sapulpa on Tuesday. Game Notes — The Cats did force 17 turnovers from the Rams, while giving up just nine...the Cats were 13-of-21 from the charity stripe, while Owasso was 21-of-34...the Wildcats’ bench accounted for 46 percent (31 points) of their points. Wrestlers Pop WolvesBy FRED HILTON News Sports Editor EDMOND — Ponca City’s Wildcat wrestlers breezed to a 59-18 district win over Edmond Santa Fe Tuesday night in what coach Todd Steidley hopes is a good warm up for upcoming action. The Wildcats visit Bartlesville for what will be a much tougher dual Thursday, then take part in the power-packed Sand Springs Tournament Friday and Saturday. Ponca City piled up points against the out manned Santa Fe Wolves. The Cats had eight falls and a technical fall to go along with one forfeit. However, the Poncans also gave up two falls in its four losses. “We came out a little lackadaisical” Steidley said. “We really didn’t have time to warm up very well. We got here in plenty of time but there wasn’t a dressing room available.” Steidley also admitted the Cats probably didn’t take the much weaker Wolves too seriously, “but we did wrestle better than we did at Enid.” The Wolves came out of the gate quickly, gaining a pin in the first match of the night. But the Wildcats regained control quickly with falls by Phillip Brotherton at 112 pounds, Shawn Lee at 119, Josh Bailey at 125, Clint Stafford at 130 and a forfeit to Jacob Bailey at 135 to go up 30-6 in the team scoring. Santa Fe delayed the tide with a 7-3 decision at 140, but the Poncans took off again with an 18-2 technical fall by Matt Littleton at 145. That was followed by three more pins, by Michael Osborn at 152, Blaine Empting at 160 and Toby RedLeaf at 171. By that time the dual was out of reach for the Wolves, 53-9. Santa Fe got a fall at 189 pounds, but the Poncans countered with Jason Neurenberg’s pin at 215. Santa Fe won the heavyweight match, 6-2. Santa Fe’s two decisions and Littleton’s technical were the only matches that reached the third period as the dual was over in a little more than an hour. Mat NotesPonca City’s wrestlers are now pretty locked into the weights they will wrestle in the regional tournament. The new rule adopted by the National Federation states that wrestlers are required to establish a minimum weight by Jan. 15. To wrestle at a lower weight in the post season, a wrestle must have weighed in at that weight at least one half of his matches during the season. Also, wrestlers can not bump up more than one weight. The wrestlers also get a break in making weight on Thursday when the two-pound growth allowance goes into effect. Ponca City 59, Edmond Santa Fe 18 103 — Jeffries (E) p. Swindall 1:28 112 — Brotherton (PC) p. Stole, 3:08 119 — Lee (PC) p. Dohn, 1:27 125 — Bailey (PC) p. Harroz, 2:43 130 — Stafford (PC) p. Prossley, 1:23 135 — Bailey (PC) fft 140 — Upton (E) d, Steichen, 7-3 145 — Littleton (PC) tf Torska, 18-2 152 — Osborn (PC) p. Hardwick, 3:07 160 — Empting (PC) p. Moody, 2:50 171 — RedLeaf (PC) p. Cardwell, 1:06 189 — Cutberth (E) p. Leavitt, :57 215 — Neurenberg (PC) p. Lamont, 3:06 Hwt — Bryant (E) d. Burns, 6-2 Mat StatsTakedowns — Ponca City 17, Edmond 6. Escapes — Edmond 6, Ponca City 4. Penalty Points — Ponca City 4, Edmond 0. Reverses — Ponca City 4 , Edmond 1. 2-Near-Falls — Ponca City 4, Edmond 0. 3-Near Falls — Ponca City 6, Edmond 1. Falls — Ponca City 8, Edmond 2. Forfeits — Ponca City 1, Edmond 0. Technical Falls — Ponca City 1, Edmond 0 Decisions — Edmond 2, Ponca City 0. Sooners Spoil Cowboys’ PartyBy OWEN CANFIELD AP Sports Writer STILLWATER (AP) — Oklahoma came to Stillwater and did a good job of busting up Oklahoma State’s party. On a day when groundbreaking was held for a new basketball arena and athletic complex, the Sooners silenced the packed Gallagher-Iba Arena crowd with a stifling 54-43 victory over OSU Tuesday night. Oklahoma used a variety of zones to take away the Cowboys’ limited inside game, then contested just about every perimeter shot. And it worked to perfection. Oklahoma State shot 28 percent, a season low by far. The Cowboys (11-4, 3-1 Big 12) scored their fewest points since a 57-42 loss to Oklahoma in 1976, and their fewest at home since a 45-41 loss to Kansas in 1969. ‘‘We just didn’t allow them to get going,’’ coach Kelvin Sampson said. ‘‘I thought we did a very, very good job of tempoing the game. ‘‘I felt like if we controlled the tempo and took away certain guys, that other guys would have to beat us. It was just a smart game. We played a smart game tonight.’’ Adrian Peterson came in averaging 18 points, but the Sooners (13-3, 4-0) held him to two, his lowest total since scoring that amount against OU in Norman two years ago. Peterson was 1-of-8 from the floor, 0-of-5 from 3-point range. Desmond Mason, coming off a career-high 32 points against Baylor, had seven on 3-of-12 shooting. Joe Adkins was 3-of-12. ‘‘It was frustrating,’’ Mason said. ‘‘We got our shots, but we didn’t hit our shots. They pushed us out on the floor and there was a lot of room to try, but it’s just the fact we didn’t hit the shots they gave to us.’’ Oklahoma State set season lows in field-goal percentage, field goals made and points by a leading scorer. The Cowboys had had a 20-point scorer in each of the past nine games, but no one reached double figures Tuesday. ‘‘That was probably about as poorly as I have had a team play offensively, certainly since I came to Oklahoma State,’’ said coach Eddie Sutton, in his ninth year with the Cowboys. Michael Johnson scored 15 for Oklahoma and did a nice job controlling the game. The Sooners led from the outset, then patiently worked the shot clock on just about every possession. ‘‘It’s good to be able to play this disciplined on the road because if you don’t, they’re good enough to embarrass you in this gym,’’ Sampson said. Eduardo Najera had 13 points and nine rebounds for Oklahoma. Ryan Humphrey didn’t score, but he grabbed seven rebounds, blocked two shots and altered several drives to the basket that turned up empty. Oklahoma State missed 17 of its first 19 shots and fell behind 19-5. While the Cowboys struggled, Oklahoma got 3-pointers from Johnson, Eric Martin and Alex Spaulding to build its lead. A brief 7-0 run by Oklahoma State got the Cowboys within 19-12 with 4:05 left before halftime. But with the shot clock winding down, Johnson hit a 3-pointer from the top of the key to start a 9-0 run and the Sooners went to the break with a 28-16 lead. The lead was 34-21 four minutes into the second half before Adkins made three 3-pointers and Glendon Alexander hit two, bringing Oklahoma State to within 39-36 with 10:22 remaining. But two free throws by Martin, a jumper in the lane by Johnson and a 3-pointer by Tim Heskett pushed the lead to 10 with six minutes remaining. Oklahoma State got no closer than seven after that. ‘‘This is a very gratifying win,’’ said Sampson, who then made mention of the late Henry Iba, for whom the building is named. ‘‘He’s a guy that I have unbelievable respect for, and I think Mr. Iba would have been proud of the Sooners tonight,’’ he said. Oklahoma 54, No. 22 Oklahoma St. 43 Oklahoma (13-3) Najera 5-12 2-3 13, Humphrey 0-3 0-0 0, Stone 1-2 0-0 2, Johnson 5-9 2-3 15, Spaulding 2-5 2-2 8, Heskett 1-2 0-0 3, Martin 2-7 4-4 9, Avila 1-1 2-2 4. Totals 17-41 12-14 54. Oklahoma St. (11-4) Mason 3-12 0-2 7, Webber 1-5 4-4 6, Peterson 1-8 0-0 2, Adkins 3-12 0-0 9, Gottlieb 2-5 1-2 6, Alexander 3-7 0-0 9, Jonzen 1-1 0-0 2, Montonati 1-3 0-0 2. Totals 15-53 5-8 43. Halftime—Oklahoma 28, Oklahoma St. 16. 3-point goals—Oklahoma 8-19 (Najera 1-4, Johnson 3-5, Spaulding 2-5, Heskett 1-2, Martin 1-3), Oklahoma St. 8-29 (Mason 1-4, Peterson 0-5, Adkins 3-10, Gottlieb 1-4, Alexander 3-6). Fouled out—None. Rebounds—Oklahoma 30 (Najera 9), Oklahoma St. 34 (Mason, Webber, Peterson, Adkins 6). Assists—Oklahoma 8 (Humphrey, Stone, Martin 2), Oklahoma St. 9 (Gottlieb 4). Total fouls—Oklahoma 14, Oklahoma St. 13. A—6,381. OSU Starts Work on Revamped ArenaBy OWEN CANFIELD AP Sports Writer STILLWATER (AP) — Oklahoma State University has taken the first step toward construction of a $51 million complex that will include a new basketball arena and major improvement of other athletic facilities. The university broke ground Tuesday for the OSU Athletic Center, which is scheduled for completion at the end of 2000. When it’s finished, the center will include a basketball arena that seats about 13,000 — more than double its current capacity — along with an academic center, a new wrestling practice facility, an expanded football locker room, a new strength and conditioning facility, and new administrative and ticket offices. ‘‘This is going to touch upon the lives of every student-athlete we have,’’ athletics director Terry Don Phillips said. ‘‘I can honestly say that in less than two years, we will open the doors on one of the finest athletic facilities in the Big 12 Conference, if not the country.’’ Phillips spoke at a ceremony that included university President James Halligan and some of his predecessors, university regents, several coaches and about 200 fans. The project calls for the east end of Lewis Field to be connected to the west side of Gallagher-Iba Arena. The new structure will stand three stories taller then the current football coaches’ office. The first two floors will be used for football, with the third floor to be a stadium club to be used to entertain people at football and basketball games. The building also will house basketball and wrestling offices, which will be topped with skyboxes that can be used for football and basketball. The new Gallagher-Iba Arena will stand as tall as the current football press box. The new structure will be built over the present building. In March 2000, the roof and floor of the current arena will be taken out and the offices inside the new building will be completed. Gallagher-Iba Arena opened in 1938 as Gallagher Hall, and was renovated and renamed in 1987. ‘‘There’s a saying we use in the athletic department, talking about what we’re trying to do and the sense of our presence and where we’re going,’’ Phillips said. ‘‘The saying is, ‘You don’t just enter the future, you create the future, and that’s what this project is all about.’’ Manhattan Construction of Tulsa has been awarded the project. There is a $100,000 bonus if finished ahead of schedule and a $10,000-per-day penalty if not. Lady Cats Have Good Sister ActSetting the stage for her older sister, sophomore Tara Cries For Ribs scored 12 points to lead the Lady Wildcat junior varsity over Owasso’s junior varsity, 33-26, Tuesday. Senior Desiree Cries For Ribs had 26 points in the varsity game a few hours later. Though Owasso came back to within two, 28-26, with 2:50 left to play, the Lady Cats buried 5-of-6 from the line — including four straight from Cries For Ribs — to pull away. For the game, the Lady Cats took 29 trips to the line, but hit on just 13. At halftime, the Lady Cats held a narrow, 14-13 lead. “(Tara) played really well. She’s gonna be something to watch,” said coach Brad Larimer. “It wasn’t a pretty win, but we won, and that’s what counts.” Jena Birdsong had 7, Brooke Hines had 6, Aubrey Kelley had 3, Lyndsi Fredrick and Nikki Stuemky had 2 each, while Cara Cusick had 1. The junior varsity will host Bartlesville, Friday. Geubelle Winner As CoachPo-Hi junior Blake Geubelle made an impressive coaching debut on Tuesday, leading the Wildcat junior varsity past Owasso’s junior varsity, 31-29. “I sat down and let him coach the whole game,” said easy-goin’ head coach Joe Matlock. “He did a good job.” Geubelle nearly came out on the losing end, however, as the Rams nearly overcame a late, 30-22 deficit in the second half, hitting five straight free throws to make the game close. The Cats held a narrow, 15-14 lead at half. For the game, the Rams were 14-of-20 from the free throw line. “They hit a 3, and we made a few too many fouls, but we held on,” said Matlock, of the Rams’ run. Coach Geubelle wasn’t available for comment. Billy Broughton had 11 points for the Cats, Jared Brashears, John Abel, and James Anno had 4 each, Jason Beguin had 3, Derek Colvin had 2, while Tim Frick had 1. The junior varsity will host Bartlesville, Friday. Soph Girls Rally to WinBARTLESVILLE — The Lady Wildcat sophomores (2-3) shut out Bartlesville in the fourth quarter, Monday, coming from behind for a thrilling, 27-24 win. Jena Birdsong scored 10 points in a 12-0 run in the final 10 minutes, as the Lady Cats overcame a 24-15 deficit to take the win. Birdsong also hit a 3-pointer with no time left to keep the game from going to overtime. “It was amazing,” said coach Mark Huster. “It was a great win, and a total team effort.” The sophomores got off to a slow start, falling behind 15-9 at halftime. The Lady Cats had just eight turnovers, while Cara Cusick grabbed six rebounds. Birdsong finished with 13 points, Jessica Plagman had 6, Lyndsi Fredrick had 4, while Aubrey Kelly and Abbie Gehlert had 2 each. The sophomores will travel to take on the Frontier junior varsity, Thursday. Sophomores Win AgainBARTLESVILLE — Ponca City’s sophomore boys continued their New Year’s winning ways Monday by topping Bartlesville, 57-43. “We started a little slow,” said coach Jerry Orr, “but by pressuring full court the entire game we finally forced some turnovers in the third quarter. “We also had very good effort from our players off the bench. This was a very good team effort.” Ponca City trailed 27-21 at halftime, but blitzed Bartlesville 20-10 in the third quarter to gain the lead. Billy Broughton poured in 17 points, 13 in the second half, to pace the Wildcat scoring. Tim Frick also finished in double figures with 11. John Abel finished with 8 points while Anthony Dewberry had 7, Jared Brashears 6, James Anno 6 and Kris Upchurch 2.
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