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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Friday, January 29, 1999 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES EDUCATION RELIGION SPORTS LOCALPonca City Native Appointed Assistant Secretary of State Ponca City Native Appointed Assistant Secretary of StateAUSTIN, Texas — Ponca City native, Jeff Eubank was recently appointed Texas assistant secretary of state by newly named Secretary of State Elton Bomer. Eubank, a 1980 graduate of Ponca City High School, is the son of George and Virginia Eubank of 28 Stoneridge. As assistant secretary of state, Eubank will manage the daily operations of the Office of the Secretary of State, implement agency policies, and serve as secretary of state in the secretary’s absence as statutorily directed, Eubank served as general counsel to former secretaries of state Tony Garza, now a Texas Railroad commissioner, and Al Gonzales, now a Texas Supreme Court justice. “Jeff brings to the position solid experience and a natural ability to work well with people,” says Secretary Bomer. “I am confident he is the best person for this job.” Eubank, son of Mr. and Mrs. David Eubank, Ponca City, received a bachelor of science in Journalism from Oklahoma State University in 1984 and a Law Degree from the University of Oklahoma in 1987. He then attended the University of Edinburgh in Scotland as a Rotary Foundation scholar, receiving a masters in international law in 1988. From 1988 to 1995, Eubank worked as a civil litigation attorney for the Houston office of Fulbright and Jaworski. In June 1995, he became general counsel to the Texas Department of Commerce, now known as the Texas Department of Economic Development, a position he held until becoming general counsel to the secretary of state in 1997. “I look forward to serving Secretary Bomer, Gov. Bush and the people of Texas in this capacity,” says Eubank. Eubank will replace Clark Kent Ervin, who served as assistant secretary of state until recently moving to the attorney general’s office where he now serves as deputy attorney general. Nearly NewsWork on the removing of trash racks below the Kaw Lake surface will continue through Saturday. Earlier efforts to complete the job prior to Saturday were hampered somewhat so the road over Kaw Dam will be closed on Saturday also, according to the officials at the site. Playhouse Production Becomes Nice Cure for Winter DoldrumsBy KATHY ZEHR News Staff Writer “The Sunshine Boys” is just what the doctor ordered for these wet, cold, gray January-February days in Ponca City. Full of laughs from beginning to end, the play, dubbed the “Dave Show,” by the cast, features Dave May (Willie), Dave Guinn (Ben) and Dave Hart (Al). The “Daves” kept the audience at Thursday night’s dress rehearsal laughing with abandon throughout the performance. The has-been Vaudeville comedians Willie and Al groused and growled at each other over everything from a word in a ‘TV routine’ to eating different kinds of crackers. About the only thing they agreed on was ogling “Nursey-Nursey” (Kim Veltman). The primary set is a feast for the imagination and so realistic in every messy detail from the dirty, photo-covered fridge - to the unmade bed and clothes everywhere - to the old newspapers and magazines in every corner. What great imagination for a run-down New York apartment for the aging Willie. Great job by the set construction and dressing crews! Lighting detail and sound is excellent and director Kenn Wessel has made sure the actors’ every word can be heard to the back row. Dave May (still my most favorite Ponca City actor) has the lion’s share of the script as he actually “becomes” the crotchety argumentative comedian “Willie.” Never missing a comic line, a cue, or a stage move, Dave puts heart, soul, and body into his moldy old character and keeps the comic patter and pace firing like an Uzi. Just simple routines like moving the furniture around in his apartment and drinking tea brings guffaws and giggles from the audience. Straight man for Willie is Dave Guinn as nephew “Ben.” All concern and business, Ben falls into every verbal trap set by uncle Willie The interaction between Guinn and May is smooth as silk. They never miss a line as they do a lot of busy household routines in the first act set in the 1970s in the decrepit old apartment. I first saw “The Sunshine Boys,” as a movie. It starred Walter Matthau and George Burns. I really didn’t care for it much even though Burns won an Academy Award for his performance. This live production by Ponca Playhouse is much livelier and more entertaining than that old movie. The only movement I can remember in that movie was made by Burns to remove the cigar from his mouth and Matthau to pace back and forth a lot. Dave Hart as “Al” does character parts especially well and is the perfect Mr. Milquetoast, for “Sunshine Boys,” except for his lethal weapon - his tongue! His comebacks are mild, quiet, but stir Willie into full-fledged reaction. The old Vaudevillians bring hoots of laughter as they forget or change lines in their routines and bring out old grudges. The rest of the Ponca Playhouse cast, including Allan Madden as the hapless “patient” in the Sunshine Boys’ doctor routine; Katherine Lawrence as Assistant TV Director; Vickie Hart as the hard-hearted, chocolate-gulping Nurse O’Neill, and the skeleton, “Bones” McCoy, as the late Bernie Melnick. All fit into the scheme of the production with professional skill and add the necessary ingredient - more fun - to this Neil Simon play. At least 50 Ponca Playhouse volunteers worked more than two months to build and dress this set, design and find the costumes, find a life-sized skeleton, write the publicity, sell tickets, take photos, and design and publish programs, create the proper lighting and sound and cover numerous other details. Others will serve as ushers and in the concession booth. We thank every one of those volunteers for a delightful evening of live entertainment. My hat is off to corporate sponsor Conoco for making it all possible. Special applauds go to guest director Kenn Wessel, a former professional actor and director. Kenn moved here about two years ago and now manages our own Poncan Theatre and serves on several boards for arts and humanities groups. This one’s a real winner, Kenn! Thanks! The production will be presented at 8 p.m. tonight and Saturday; at a 2 p.m. Sunday matinee; and again at 8 p.m. on Feb. 5-6. Ticket reservations are available by calling the Ponca Playhouse Box office at 765-5360 or may be purchased at the Poncan Theatre Box Office one hour before each performance until the house is sold out. DEATHSDonald L. Johnson Donald L. JohnsonLOCKPORT, Ill. — Donald L. Johnson, step-brother to Julia Hensley of Ponca City and former Tonkawa resident, died Tuesday, Jan. 26, 1999, in Largo, Fla. He was 82. The funeral will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 30, at the Goodale Memorial Chapel in Lockport, with the Rev. Laura Going officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Vernon Memorial Estates in Lockport. Donald L. Johnson was born in Tonkawa, the son of Edward and Myrtle (Stallsworth) Johnson. He was married to Helen Woodward and Georgina Smith, both of whom preceded him in death. Johnson was retired from Union Oil and had lived in Lockport for several years. He was a member of the Madison County Genealogy Society of Edwardsville, Ill., Sons of the American Revolution 136576, and The Magna Carta Barons. He was a former member of the Lockport First United Methodist Church. Survivors include his wife Doris (RayBonar); one daughter, Carol Sue Mann of South Lyon, Mich.; one son, Bruce Johnson of North Aurora, Ill.; 12 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; a daughter-in-law; and numerous other relatives and friends, including several in the Ponca City area. In addition to his first two wives and his parents, he was preceded in death by one son, Ronald M. Johnson; a sister, Vera; and a brother, Loren. O.Z. Riggs Jr.TECUMSEH — O.Z. “Zeke” Riggs Jr., relative to several Ponca City area residents, died Wednesday, Jan. 27, 1999, in Shawnee. He was 43. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 30, at the Cooper Funeral Chapel in Tecumseh. The Rev. Clint Dawkins of the Sharon Baptist Church will officiate. Burial will be in the Britton Cemetery. O.Z. “Zeke” Riggs Jr., was born July 8, 1955, in Edmond, the son of O.Z. and Emma (Denwalt) Riggs Sr. At age four, he moved from Edmond to the Tecumseh-Shawnee area where he attended schools and graduated from Tecumseh High School in 1973. Riggs was a mechanic with Williams Transmissions and for the last six months owned and operated Rick’s Alignment and Brake. He enjoyed water skiing, reading, and spending time with his children. He is survived by three daughters, Emmanda Potter of Stillwater, Miranda Riggs of Tecumseh and Britney Smith of Seminole. He was preceded in death by his parents. Carol Harjo HawkinsSEMINOLE — Carol Harjo Hawkins, who has several relatives in the Ponca City area, died Wednesday, Jan. 27, 1999, in Oklahoma City. She was 42. The wake service was set for today a 7 p.m. at the Smith Funeral Home in Ada with the Rev. Jeff Frazier officiating. The funeral will be at 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 1, at Snake Creek Baptist Church, north of Seminole. The Rev. Woody Fields and the Rev. Bill Hobia will officiate. Burial will be in the Cornelius Family Cemetery in Seminole. Carol Harjo Hawkins was born March 13, 1956, in Claremore, to Edmond and Lucy Cornelius Harjo. She graduated from Byng High School and attended East Central University in Ada. She was married to Jimmy R. Hawkins on Sept. 15, 1978 in Sasakwa, Okla. Mrs. Hawkins was a tutor at Byng Elementary School. Survivors include her husband, Jimmy R. Hawkins of the home in Ada; five sons, Jimmy E., Toby, Micah, Casey and Kelly; one daughter, Derekah Hawkins; one brother, Clifford Harjo and her father, Edmond Harjo. She was preceded in death by her mother, Lucy Harjo. Casket bearers will be Bear Roberts, Hard Head, Conjot Harjo, Big Moon, Estell Perry and Willy Stick. Mary StoneFAIRFAX — Mary Stone, former Fairfax resident, died Thursday morning, Jan. 28, 1999, at Hillcrest Medical Center in Tulsa. She was 75. The funeral will be held graveside at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Fairfax Cemetery with the Rev. David Reddick of Clarksville, Ark., officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home, Fairfax. Mary (Bonham) Stone was born Jan. 25, 1924, in El Dorado, Kan., the daughter of William Henry and Martha (Miller) Bonham. She attended Big Beaver and Kaw City schools. She married Raymond G. Stone on April 13, 1939 in Ralston and the couple celebrated 58 years of marriage before his death on Oct. 14, 1996. She had worked side-by-side with her husband in the restaurant business in California, Colorado and Arizona before returning to Fairfax in 1970, where they bought and operated the Silver Moon Cafe. Mrs. Stone moved to Oilton in November 1997. While living in California she and her husband played in a band. She played scrub board. Her favorite music was John Phillip Sousa marches, particularly “The Stars and Stripes Forever.” She also enjoyed playing the piano, decorating her home, collecting Oriental decorations, discussing politics and current events, and had a funny sense of humor. Survivors include one son, Ronald Stone of Tulsa; one daughter, Debbie Hase of Jennings; two grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and numerous other relatives and friends. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by six brothers and one sister. Ernest Edward CaudleErnest Edward Caudle, 5152 Lake Road, died early Thursday morning, Jan. 28, 1999, at his home. He was 70. The funeral service will be graveside, Saturday, 1 p.m. at the Odd Fellows Cemetery with the Rev. Dr. Larry Nigh, pastor, Northeast Baptist Church, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of the Trout Funeral Home. Born Dec. 12, 1928, at Okmulgee, he was the son of John Franklin and Florence Rebecca Caudle. He attended schools at Okmulgee and graduated from Ponca City High School in 1947. Caudle joined the U.S. Air Force and was honorably discharged in 1952. He worked for P.I.E. Trucking in Denver, Colo., as a dispatcher from 1953-1960; for Kirby Sales and Service in Ponca City and Enid; Sherm’s Service Station in Ponca City; and for the last 20 years at Hall’s Sports Center and later Odie’s. He enjoyed gardening, playing pitch, and sports. He is survived by his sister, Margaret Culp of Claremore; two brothers, Johnny and Jim Caudle, both of Ponca City; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister and a brother. Memorials may be made to Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, for Heart Research, 825 N.E. Thirteenth Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73104. The family will be at 5152 Lake Road. FuneralsSaturdayFlorence EsterFamily memorial service will be graveside at 2 p.m. at the Tonkawa IOOF Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Memorial Mortuary of Columbia, Mo. SundayJerry E. VanZantMemorial service at Hartford Avenue Church of Christ in Ponca City at 2:30 p.m. MondayWalter E. MobbleyFuneral to be graveside at 2 p.m. at the Fairfax (Okla.) Cemetery. Other arrangements will be announced later by Trout Funeral Home, Ponca City. NEWS BRIEFSSuper Bowl Party — Singles Connection Super Bowl Party, Sunday, 5 p.m., Village Greenhouse Apartments Clubhouse, 2700 North Fifth Street. If attending and your last name begins with A-F bring finger sandwiches; G-L bring chips; M-Q bring a two-liter bottle of soda; and R-Z some type of dessert. Plates, cups and napkins will be provided. For more information please call Diane at 765-4858, or Tammy at 762-7527. Bedroom Furniture sale. Pier 1 Imports. All bedroom collec- tions are 15% off regular price (including entertainment center/armoires), now through February 27. Just what you’ve been waiting for! adv. Announces Services — New Mount Olive Baptist Church, 520 North Pine in Newkirk will be holding the Fifth Sunday Mission Service Jan. 31 with a guest speaker, Mrs. Loreece Davis of Sweet Home Baptist Church, Fairfax. The service will begin at 3:30 p.m. and an invitation to attend is extended to everyone. 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. Taskforce to Meet — On Tuesday, Feb. 3, at noon, the Physical/Sexual Abuse Prevention Taskforce Committee will meet at the Ponca City Library in the Programming Room. 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. Meeting Scheduled — The Juvenile Crime/Crisis Center Taskforce Subcommittee will meet on Friday, Feb. 5, at 2 p.m. at the Lincoln Center, 700 West Broadway. Head Country Saturday night special. All you can eat beef bris- ket with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $6.95. 4-8 p.m. 1217 East Prospect. adv. Camp Fannin Reunion — Veterans or Cadre who trained at Camp Fannin, Texas are invite to a reunion in Tyler, Texas, March 24-27. World War II Veterans and guests will meet at the Radisson Hotel, 2843 Loop, 323 NNW, Tyler, Texas 75702. Write for reservations or call 903-597-1301. For more information about activities write CFA President A. David Wendt, P.O. Box 132024, Tyler, TX 75713. Dougan's Bar-B-Q Saturday special 4-8 p.m. All you can eat beef brisket with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $7.49. 215 South 14th, 765-7979. adv. USS Maddox Reunion — Veterans who have served aboard the USS Maddox destroyer are invited to a reunion in Norfolk, Va. Sept. 8-12,1999. Contact Cliff Gillespie at 215 Wichita Ave., Apt., 605, Huntington Beach, CA 92648 or call 714-960-5283 or e-mail at CGILLES@mail.arco.com., for more information. Pauline’s Smoked pork loin with homemade barbecue sauce, baked beans, baked potato, and salad for $9.25. Friday the 29th. For reservations, call 765-5460. adv. Work Session Canceled — The regularly scheduled work session of the Ponca City Board of Commissioners set for Feb. 1 at 2 p.m. has been canceled. Dougan's Bar-B-Q Friday special from 4-8 p.m., all you can eat ribs with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $7.49. 215 South 14th, 765-7979. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of West South Avenue and South Waverly Street at 10:32 a.m. Thursday that a 24-year-old woman was being held for driving under revocation and failure to pay. Jueschke Carpet Cleaners. For professional carpet cleaning, call the professionals. Jueschke Carpet Cleaners. 765-3421. adv. Accident — An accident on the North Seventh Street side of Ponca City High School was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 12:32 p.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Sale 20-50-70% savings, Kids/Her Review. adv. Subject Held — The Communications Center received a call at 6:20 p.m. from an employee at Wal-Mart that a trespasser was in custody. An officer of the Ponca City Police Department was assigned and a 20-year-old woman was held for trespassing. Items Missing — A woman from the 1500 block of Camary Drive reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:36 p.m. Thursday that some jewelry had been stolen from the residence. Nettie Bailey’s Candles finally arrived! Grand Olde Mercantile, 209 East Grand Avenue. adv. Abandoned Bicycle — An abandoned bicycle was reported in the 1000 block of North Union Street at 4 p.m. Thursday. Animal Control was notified and handled the situation. Jim Bowen Construction - Custom homes, room additions and remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv. Accident— A vehicle accident one-half mile south of Hubbard Road on North Waverly Street was reported to the Communications Center at 4:19 p.m. Thursday. Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department and two units from the Ponca City Fire Department responded. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol was notified that there were no injuries. Antique Shipment: Wales, Scotland, Europe and America. Roll front Lincoln desk, two door wardrobes, chests, Queen Ann drop leaf table with matching chairs. Christy’s, 3005 North 14th. adv. Bicycle Stolen — A man from the 100 block of North Lake Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:32 p.m. Thursday that a bicycle had been stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Kids Review accepting spring/summer items. Spring open, Saturday, February 13th. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 2900 block of North Fourteenth Street at 4:57 p.m. Thursday that a 19-year-old woman was being held on a Payne County warrant for failure to appear. Grand Larceny — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department took a report at 5:03 p.m. Thursday on a grand larceny from the 300 block of South Ash Street. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of South Tenth Street and East Otoe Avenue at 5:17 p.m. Thursday that a 40-year-old man was being held for public intoxication and a city warrant for failure to appear. Assault — A woman requested assistance from the Ponca City Police Department at 6:31 p.m. Thursday reporting the her youngsters had been assaulted while on a paper rout in the 700 block of Dalewood Lane. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of East Brookfield Avenue and North Fourth Street at 1:33 a.m. Friday that a 22-year-old man was being held on a city warrant for failure to appear on a driving under suspension charge. LIFESTYLESCecilia Roth Celebrating 90th Birthday Cecilia Roth Celebrating 90th BirthdayCecilia Roth is celebrating her 90th birthday today with a family dinner at the Ponca City Country Club, hosted by her daughter and son-in-law, Rachel and Basil Taylor. Mrs. Roth was feted with an “early 90th birthday celebration” on Nov. 27 hosted by her older daughter and son-in-law, Rose Marie and Donald Fischer of Chesterfield, Mo. Cecilia was born in Akron, Ohio on Jan. 29, 1909, a daughter of Joseph and Josephine Fichtner. She was the eighth child in a family of 10 children. Cecilia graduated from Sacred Heart Academy and on Oct. 12, 1929 she married Emil Robert Roth at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church in Akron, Ohio. The couple, and their two daughters, lived in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio until 1937, when they moved to Kenmore, NY, residing there until 1939. The family moved to Indianapolis, Ind. and lived there until 1942, when they moved to Fort Worth, Texas. Mr. Roth died on July 22, 1979, and on Oct. 3, 1996, Cecilia moved from Fort Worth to Westminster Village in Ponca City. Mrs. Roth has 12 grandchildren and 21 great- grandchildren. In addition to her daughter, Rachel Taylor, two of Cecilia’s grandchildren, Paul C. Taylor and Mary Taylor Gamble and families, live in Ponca City. Cecilia’s life revolves around her religion, her family, and playing bridge. Until the age of 80 Cecilia’s “delight” was making 144 dozen Christmas cookies to give to her family and friends, as well as preparing special family dinners. Little NewsChris and Deb (Rutherford) Jones announce the birth of their first child, a daughter, on Jan. 16, 1999. Ashton Layne Jones weighed 8 pounds, 10 ounces and measured 22 1/2 inches long. Maternal grandparents are Harley Joe and Barbara Rutherford of Ponca City. Great-grandmothers are Helen Colvin and Mae Rutherford, also of Ponca City. Paternal grandparents are Kay Jones and Tommy Jones of Newkirk. Great-grandparents are Merrell and Bernadine Goddard, and great-great-grandmother is Stella Goddard, all of Newkirk. RELIGIONLeland Petersen to be Honored Sunday Leland Petersen to be Honored SundayBy Marjorie Decker Religion Editor Life is full of new beginnings, and that’s on the mind of the Rev. Leland Petersen as he prepares to retire from the ministry on Sunday, Jan. 31, 1999. Petersen has been serving Woodlands Christian Church, 14th and Hartford in Ponca City, as assistant minister, since its creation on Oct. 1, 1981. Senior Minister, the Rev. Paul Krueger expresses his longtime admiration for Leland. “Leland will be greatly missed as a participating staff member of Woodlands Christian Church. He has been a member from the creation of Woodlands and is the heart of this church.” The Rev. Mr. Krueger invites everyone to share in the celebration of this “wonderful, giving man” by sending congratulatory messages to Leland in care of the church, 1400 East Hartford, 74604. Leland’s Pastoral Relations Committee invites all friends to attend a special worship service, in which he will be preaching for the last time as a staff member of Woodlands. Immediately following the worship, the committee will be hosting a luncheon in his honor with a short program to follow, it was announced. Leland, who has been married to the former Faye Hasselbring for over 53 years, retired from Nickles Machine Shop in May 1984. During his time as an assistant minister at Woodlands, he has served as moderator of District III, Christian Church DOC, and is a member of the State Regional Board, worked with the Ponca City Ministerial Alliance in leadership capacities, conducted monthly devotions at Westminster Village, served on the board of the Disciples of Christ Region and District 3, District Christian Men’s Fellowship, Central Oklahoma Christian Camp at Guthrie, and is considered by the Woodlands church community as “everyone’s friend.” Petersen has “done it all” in his capacity as a minister — preaching, baptisms, weddings, funerals, listening ear, teacher, home calls, hospital calls, food pantry helper, helper to hitchhikers, doing odd jobs around the church, providing hand crafted items for auctions, craft bazaars, etc., responsible for “Lights of Christmas” outdoor display, and “you name it, Leland does it if it’s helpful to the church and the community.” His impressions of “Olaf from Wisconsin” are always a “hold your side while you laugh” event at fellowship dinners at Woodlands — to put it in a few words , according to those who know him best — “Leland is everyone’s friend!” The community is invited to join with the folks at Woodlands Christian this coming Sunday and honor Leland Petersen at lunch, 12 noon. It’s a new beginning for Leland! Local Churches Observe ‘Souper Bowl’ SundayIt’s “Souper Bowl” Sunday! On Sunday, churchgoers can attend a different kind of Super Bowl, one that has nothing to do with football but everything to do with helping thousands of people. The First Presbyterian Church will be participating for the second year in the “Souper Bowl of Caring.” They realize that on this coming Sunday, as many enjoy the satisfaction of food and drink while enjoying the Super Bowl football game on TV, 34,000 young children around the world will die due to malnutrition and preventable diseases. In the United States alone, eight million young people under the age of 18 — each handcrafted by God — live in poverty. Together, the members of First Presbyterian, believe they can make a difference. They will be giving one dollar each and a can of soup at the end of worship Sunday. The Presbyterian youth will hold soup pots that these gifts will be donated into. The dollars raised will go directly to the Friendship Feast and the cans of food will go directly to the Ponca City Emergency Relief Fund. The skit, a minute for mission during announcements at the beginning of the church, bulletin inserts, and a bulletin board highlighted over the last three weeks the efforts by First Presbyterian to bring the monies and food to help those in need in the Ponca City community. CYF at Woodlands Christian is participating also in the national fund raiser by youth groups, pointing out that on Super Bowl Sunday millions of people will eat and drink while watching the biggest football game of the year, and they will be helping transform Super Bowl Sunday into the “Souper Bowl of Caring” by joining thousands of participants across the U.S. Their offering will go directly to The Mission and Friendship Feast. The Chi Rho at Woodlands will be repeating their performance of last year by preparing sandwiches for Super Bowl watchers. For only $3.50 per sandwich (meat, cheese and veggies of choice) you get a great 6” sub sandwich to be picked up at the church Sunday after worship, or delivered to your home for convenience. Order your subs through the church office, and the funds collected will go to help those in need here in Ponca City. At Ponca City’s First Christian, the youth will also be making sub sandwiches during Sunday School for distribution after church service. They plan also to come back to the church for a Super Bowl party in the gym, and watch the game on the big screen and celebrate Jesus at half time. Sunset Baptists will be observing Men’s Day at the church on Super Bowl Sunday and the youth will be participating in the Souper Bowl of Caring this Sunday. The Men’s Choir and the men from the church will be speaking during the morning service. The youth will be collecting funds in soup bowls for the Souper Bowl of Caring and the men will have a home-made soup contest at 5 p.m. Later they will have a Super Bowl Outreach Event as they watch the Super Bowl live in the Fellowship Hall, stopping to eat soup and other snacks during the game. A special emphasis and devotion at half-time of the game is scheduled. For more information contact the church at 765-8170. The Souper Bowl began in 1990 with the Youth Fellowship of a single church — Spring Valley Presbyterian in Columbia, S.C. Last year $1.7 million was raised by men, women, youth, and children across the country who joined in this act of caring. With everyone’s help, this year’s total will exceed $2 million! Visitors Sunday Set at Grace Episcopal ChurchVisitors’ Sunday will be observed at Grace Episcopal Church this coming Sunday morning at both the 8 o’clock and 10:30 services of Holy Eucharist, according to the Rev. Kenneth Armstrong, rector. “This is a good opportunity for those who have been interested in the Episcopal Church to take part in its worship and also to receive some instruction about the liturgy,” explained Fr. Armstrong. “We hope the people in the community will take advantage of this opportunity and will also attend the informal reception in the foyer of the new addition following our worship.” Deacon Steve Mallory will be preaching at both services, it was announced. The Evangelism and Church Growth Committee is hosting this observance, and leading the congregation’s welcome to those who will visit this Sunday. Information on the parish and the Episcopal Church will be available to visitors, and all Church School classes will welcome visitors. Sunday School is conducted in the new addition, facing Fourteenth and Grand, beginning at 9:30 a.m. The adults generally gather for coffee prior to Sunday School, before dispersing to either of two classes offered — one the traditional Bible study, led by Mike and Linda Lyons, and the other a biblical discussion group led by Dr. Jim Thomas. A nursery will be provided during the church school hour, as well as for the 10:30 Service. The nursery is located in the new educational wing. Parking is available across Thirteenth Street from the Church, and also on the north side of the new addition to the church, off l4th street. Following each of the services, coffee and cookies will be served in the gathering area, so visitors can be welcomed. POP Lutherans Tell ScheduleThe Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 2400 Turner Road, will be returning to one service beginning Sunday, Feb. 7. Sunday School for ages nursery through adult will begin at 9 a.m. followed by worship service at 10 a.m. Fellowship time will precede the service, it was announced. A nursery will be available during Sunday school and the church service. Holy Communion will be served at both services on Jan. 31. Jesus’ Little Seeds, a group for children ages two through five will meet monthly (watch for these announced times.) Jesus Little Sprouts, a group for children in grades 1 through 6 meet every Wednesday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the church. Bible lessons, songs and other worship on Sunday mornings. Pastor Keck is available for pastoral care calls by contacting the church office at 762-7698. First Lutherans Announce Plans“Wedded for Witness: Show ‘n Tell” is the title of Pastor Tom Ramsey’s sermon at both the 8:30 a.m. and the 11 a.m. services at First Lutheran Church on Jan. 31. The sermon is based on Micah 6:1-8 where God calls His people to a higher standard. The Epistle reading is from St. Paul’s letter to the Corinthians in which he contrasts the world’s ways to God’s ways. The Gospel reading tells of Jesus’ description of those who live as His disciples. All of these elements of the service show how God has chosen things that are foolish, weak, or unimportant to the people of the world to accomplish His work. The Senior Choir’s anthem “Forth in the Peace of Christ.” speaks also of our “showing and telling” the Gospel message in love and peace. The alternative service at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday will feature a Bible study on the “I am” statement of Jesus in which He says, “I am the Good Shepherd.” A prayer request time has become a very important part of these informal evening services. Even though it is Super Bowl Sunday, taking out half an hour or so to worship will not ruin the game, Pastor Ramsey pointed out. It will just show others your primary focus in life. Members of the congregation wish to invite you to one or all of the services at First Lutheran on Sunday. Public Invited To Hear Clary SundayThe Rev. Robert Johnson from The Tabernacle, located on the corner of First and Doolin in Blackwell, extends an invitation to the community to hear the Rev. Johnny Lee Clary from Operation Colorblind, Inc., on Sunday at 6 p.m. Johnny Lee Clary of Tulsa is a licensed, ordained minister, and a member of Victory Christian Center in Tulsa since 1990. As a child, Johnny Lee was taught racism and bigotry by his family and became involved in Ku Klux Klan activities when he was only 14. He was seduced into the cult by the teachings of David Duke and later served as his bodyguard. Eventually, Johnny Lee was elected Imperial Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan, and as one of the Klan’s national leaders, he appeared on the national TV talk show circuit, including those of Oprah Winfrey and Morton Downey Jr., advocating racism and violence. His sinful lifestyle eventually took its toll as the devil began to destroy the very man he had used so destructively, according to his testimony. Today, Johnny Lee Clary lives a life totally sold out to Jesus Christ, as a born again, spirit filled Christian, sharing the love of Jesus with all people of all races and denominations, according to his testimony. Never before has there been a testimony of this nature, and folks at The Tabernacle introduce Lee with the hope and expectancy that many wounds of racism existing in this area, can be healed. Church BriefsCWU Board Plans MeetingChurch Women United Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, Feb. 1, 1999 at 9:30 a.m. at the St. John Baptist Church, 1009 South 11th Street. Connor Chapel AME Church Sets Fellowship ServiceConnor Chapel AME Church will hold a fellowship service Sunday, Jan. 31, 1999 at 3 p.m. “Sharing Friendship And Love With Others” is the theme with the Rev. Floyd Coburn speaking. Musical selections will be given by Bro. Kenneth Roland, members of St. John Baptist Church, Johnson Temple and other local choirs. The community is invited to come and be a part of this fellowship service, invited Roland, Church Steward; the Rev. Thomas L. Webb, Pastor and the Rev. Elza B. Haynes, Associate Pastor. Attention: Area Pastor!Area pastors are invited to join fellow ministers for a weekly time of prayer on Tuesday mornings, 6 a.m. at the Ponca City Foursquare Church at Lincoln Center (700 West Broadway in Ponca City). “We have been meeting every Tuesday morning ofF 1999, so far, and have had some wonderful times of joint prayer,” says Pastor Blaine Herron. The purpose of these meetings is to offer up prayer for our city, to promote unity among the churches, and to provide fellowship for the pastors. “We hope you can make time in your busy schedules to unite with us this and every Tuesday morning,” Pastor Herron said. MACPAC Announces ConventionThe Mid America Regional Chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Magicians invites the public to the Mid-America Christian Performing Arts Conference (MACPAC) to be held in Wichita Friday and Saturday, April 23 and 24 at the Westside Baptist Church, 304 South Seneca. MACPAC features top Christian Performers in the fields of magic, puppetry, clowning, ventriloquism, ballooning and other performing arts disciplines. MAC PAC is a place to get specific training with over 5 workshops offered, training with an emphasis toward reaching people with the Gospel. For more information, contact Joe Shultz in Wichita at 316-687-6839. First Pentecostal Plans Super ServicePastor Rick A. Hughes of First United Pentecostal Church, 1921 East Hartford, announces that this Sunday, Jan. 31, the church will host a Super 5th Sunday Afternoon Service beginning at 2 p.m. The Rev. Randall Sholund, Pastor of Life Tabernacle UPC in Mustang, will be guest speaker. Come expecting to receive something from God in this exciting afternoon service, Pastor Hughes said, where you will find there’s more to shout about than the Super Bowl! Pastor Hughes explains “You will find apostolic Pentecostal fellowship to be fulfilling, the worship to be exciting, the preaching powerful, and the doctrine to be Biblically sound. Come see why the United Pentecostal Church is one of the fastest growing faiths in the world today. Experience your personal Pentecost!” First Pentecostal extends a warm welcome to the public to visit this special service. For more information, contact Pastor Hughes at 767-1482. St. Paul’s UMC Welcomes Richard SeveranceRichard Severance, General Manager, MidContinent Business Unit for Conoco, is coming to Weekly Wednesday Windows at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church for a special presentation, “Ponca City Community and School Update.” This is an excellent presentation, according to a spokesperson for the St. Paul’s group, and they are inviting all of Ponca City to attend the presentation on Wednesday, Feb. 3 at 6:15 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall of St. Paul’s UMC. Also, join us for dinner at 5:30 p.m., reads the invitation. The cost is $3 for adults, $2 for children, and $10 maximum per family. Please come to eat, meet new people, and learn more about the Ponca City community. ‘Come Let Us Reason Together’The Hartford Avenue Church of Christ invites the public to share God’s Word with them every week. Sunday Bible classes are set for 9:30 a.m., worship 10:30 a.m., Sunday evening 6 p.m. and Wednesday 7 p.m. There are classes for all age levels, nursery through adult. “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.” Deuteronomy 5:6. Throughout the Old Testament times and in spite of their sins, God graciously saved His people from slavery, exile, or hostile enemies. God did not first send Moses to Egypt with the Ten Commandments to say, “if all of you obey these for awhile, then I will free you from slavery.” First, God rescued them from the Egyptians, and showed them He could meet their every need — by feeding them in the wilderness and guiding them along the way. God wanted His people to understand that obeying His laws would bring them great blessings. Just like today. First Christian CWF Plan LuncheonThe Christian Women’s Fellowship at First Christian Church will hold a Covered Dish Luncheon on Thursday, Feb. 4 at noon in Fellowship Hall of the church. The program will be “What Do We Do Now That Christmas Is Over?” Ann Ryan from The American Red Cross will be guest speaker. Linda Wilson will lead the worship for the day. Child Development Center’s Chili Supper Tonight The annual Chili Supper supporting the Child Development Center is scheduled for this evening, Jan. 29 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Cost is $5 for adults and $2 for children. The meal consists of chili (or hot dog), homemade bread, pie or cake, and a drink. Tickets will be available at the door. Missionary Open House Set for Mormon ChurchA Missionary Open House will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 2408 East Hartford on Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. Events of the night will consist of a live broadcast from leaders of the Latter Day Saint Church in Salt Lake City, an opportunity to speak personally with members and missionaries about the various organizations, functions and beliefs of the church, as well as refreshments. For additional information contact missionary Elder Wilfert or Elder Hansen at 765-8433 or Sister Ostler and Sister Smith at 765-4157. We invite all to come and learn more about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Pastor Hinman to SpeakPastor Ed Hinman will be speaking on Wednesday, Feb. 3 at 7 p.m. at the Pentecostal Church of Ponca City, located at 523 South Waverly. The public is invited to come for a time of fellowship and praise. Brumley in Concert at Crestview BaptistAlbert E. Brumley Jr. will be in concert at Crestview Baptist Church at 6 p.m. on Feb. 7. Growing up in the music business with his father, Brumley began making regular personal appearances and singing professionally on radio and television as a boy. He served in the Navy, later doing a daily TV show in California. He also recorded for Capitol Records and worked with country stars, eventually moving to Nashville where he performed with Ernest Tubb, Loretta Lynn and others. He now performs at “Precious Moments,” birthplace of the popular gift shop figurines and a tourist attraction near Interstate 44 at Carthage, Mo. He is dedicated to preserving the famous songs written by his late father. The public is invited to join members at Crestview Baptist to hear Brumley. EDUCATIONUCO’s Apartment-Style Living Caters to Students UCO’s Apartment-Style Living Caters to StudentsEDMOND — Beginning with the fall 1999 semester, students attending the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond will be living in style — apartment style — as the university offers them fully-furnished and equipped residential apartment units for the first time in its history. Phase I construction of the “University Commons” project will begin later next week on a site just north of the Chambers Library. The $15 million first phase will increase the university’s residential housing space by approximately 35 percent, adding 384 beds to the university’s current count of 1,100 beds in three dormitories. “These new residential units will add a lot to campus life, and to the community,” said UCO President W. Roger Webb. “They’re just another example of the exciting things that are happening at UCO.” Phase I of the three-story, brick-veneer complex will include 48 four-bed units, 96 two-bed units, and a 3,000 square-foot clubhouse with lounge and gameroom. All apartments will be fully furnished, and will include full-size beds, washers and dryers, stoves, refrigerators, microwaves, dishwashers and garbage disposals. The second phase of the project, to begin at an undetermined date, will provide an additional 616 beds. “We haven’t established the final rent schedule yet, but these units will be competitive with comparable housing in the Edmond and north Oklahoma City area,” said Dr. Cornelius Wooten, vice president of administration and finance. As the residential apartment-style complex is being built on what is now a student parking lot, approximately 1,000 student parking spaces will be blocked off during construction. However, 660 spaces will be opened up for students to help with the parking situation. Approximately 430 of these spaces will be located at the northeast corner of Thatcher and University Drive, in the university’s “driving range,” and another 230 spaces will be available in Lot U east of Wantland Stadium. The complex will be paid for over a 30-year period through revenue bond funding from the Collegiate Housing Foundation. Capstone Development, based in Birmingham, Ala., is serving as project developer. Regents Approve New SealTONKAWA — The Board of Regents for Northern Oklahoma College met Jan. 18 and approved a new institutional seal. Dr. Joe Kinzer, president, presented the new proposed seal and complimented the division chairs and faculty members for their input and Dineo and Todd Heilmann and Piyush Patel for the computer enhanced design. Marion Tucker mentioned she has a deal designed for Northern’s centennial in 2001. Dr. Roger Stacy, vice president for academic affairs, also presented a preview of divisional seals which are in progress. Regent Trojan reported that Vance Air Force Base in Enid was now performing naval as well as air force training which has the potential to increase the enrollment in Enid. Trojan also mentioned that the Bankruptcy Court has set a date of Feb. 12 to begin proceedings on Phillips University. Dr. Kinzer reported on the status of the University Learning Center of Northern Oklahoma and the establishment of an Economic Development plan. He also announced that Oklahoma State Regent Marlin “Ike” Glass will be the speaker at Northern’s spring commencement ceremonies. Dr. Stacy reported an increase in student enrollment. He also reported on a Business Program Review to be conducted by a team of business education leaders from across the nation. Stacy also reported on the progress of the Process Technology program and that it will be offered in fall of 1999. Marion Tucker, vice president for information systems, reported that a new server had been installed over Christmas break and that Northern was now year 2000 compliant. Tucker also mentioned that the project had involved changing the date field on 4200 reports. Dr. Ed Vineyard, dean of instruction on the Enid campus, reported that Northern would be donating door prizes to the Enlisted Men’s Dinner at Vance AFB. Vineyard also reported that faculty member Darin Combs had been named to “Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers.” Vineyard also expressed his appreciation to Marion Tucker for installing new software on the computers at the Enid campus. The board heard a report on a Pre-Athletic Training Assistant program. Athletic director, Mick Weiberg, and Health, Physical Education and Recreation chair, Nevona Kegans, worked with OSU on the development of the program. The regents approved the new program. The Regents approved an allocation request for Section 13 funding for campus repairs and maintenance to include the painting of the swimming pool and a new voice mail system. The next meeting is scheduled for Feb. 17 at 3 p.m. in Enid. Ponca City News Education GuideSchool news is very important to the citizens of Ponca City. For many it is the only way to find out what’s happening in the local schools. The information you give out should be accurate, complete and timely. The Ponca City News would like to do everything possible to help the educators (teachers, principals, etc.) that submit articles to The News. Following are several suggestions which may help you in getting the best possible publicity for your school. Deadlines Be prompt in meeting deadlines. Deadline for stories and pictures for Friday’s Education section is noon on Wednesday. Deadline for daily editions is noon the day prior to publication. These deadlines are not set arbitrarily. Stories and headlines must be written and edited on computer and sent to typesetter. Layout sheets for the composing room must be completed. Pages are then set up by hand in the composing room, photographed and printed. These things take time. Deadlines for the Education section are earlier than certain other portions of the newspaper since this section is completed first. Although reporting on past events at your school is important, keep in mind that upcoming events are considered more newsworthy and thus receive priority. Just as in other sections of the newspaper, Education section readers are interested in NEWS. An event which is 10 days old is not as newsworthy as one which is one day old. Please try to submit your stories within two days after the event. Please do not ‘save’ stories or pictures and submit two or three at a time. The older the story or picture the more likely it will have to give way to more recent news if an editor is forced to delete copy due to lack of space. Please keep in mind that the Education section is only one page. It is next to impossible to submit two pictures and a story and expect them to run together on the same page. Legibility Be legible. If possible, type or print your news releases. Misspelled names are usually the result of an editor being unable to read handwritten submissions. Because of the hundreds of names which appear in the newspaper, an editor seldom has the time to double check all spellings. Names Children like to have their names spelled correctly (as do the parents). We do try our best to be accurate but we need your help. If there are unusual names, put a small check over each one to let the editor know you have checked them for accuracy. It is important to remember that no name is so simple that it can’t be spelled more than one way. Pictures Keep picture possibilities in mind at your school. The News is happy to run pictures you have taken providing the quality of the photo is good. The News will not accept pictures of check passing, honor roll members, scholarship winners or college graduates. The only pictures of college graduates that will run are students that receive at least a master’s degree. Please understand that hundreds of Ponca City students graduate from colleges every year and The News does not have enough room to run everything. Kristi Hayes, Education Editor, is usually available during normal business hours, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you would like her to take a picture you need to call at least two days in advance. Her schedule is very busy during the school year and it is impossible to call her and expect her to take a picture in ten minutes. Since numerous activities occur at night, it is also impossible for The News to provide a photographer at these events. Color or black and white photographs are acceptable if they are clear and not too dark. Polaroids can seldom be used since these do not reproduce well. Check with the editor. Description All stories submitted will be edited and rewritten in newspaper style after submission to the editor. However, you will find that fewer changes are made if newspaper style is followed. Check stories in the newspaper for comparison. Tip: the most newsworthy or interesting part of the story comes first. Keep the five Ws in mind: Who, What, When, Where and Why (and, sometimes, how). Newspaper stories use the “inverted pyramid” style of writing. In other words, the most important or interesting facts are used in the “lead” or beginning paragraphs. Space is limited in the Education section. Longer stories will probably be cut so make sure the important information is at the beginning. Other Information Please be sure to include a name and phone number (where you can be reached during business hours) at the top of each story. If you have any questions or if we can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to call us at 765-3311. Pepperette Officers Announce DanceThe Pepperette Officers would like to announce this year’s 1999 Winter Dance, “Take My Breath Away,” on Feb. 20 from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. at Hutchins Memorial. The Promenade will begin at 7:30 p.m. with doors opening at 7:25 p.m. No one will be admitted until the Promenade is over. Tickets will go on sale during lunch the first week of February. The cost of the tickets are $8.50 for singles or $15 for a couple. This year T-shirt with the theme of the dance will be sold. Cost of the T-shirts will be $9 for short sleeve and $11 for long sleeve. Prepayment is required. If you would like to purchase a video of the dance the cost is $15 and prepayment is required. Pepperettes is a non-school sponsored activity. Honor Rolls Announced at First LutheranThe Second Quarter Honor Rolls have been announced at First Lutheran School. Fourth graders on the Principal’s Honor Roll include Andrew Benyshek, Eric Brunkow, Casey Cashon, Brian Eyster, Sarah Graham, Hillary Harpster, Kasha Kurtz, Brandon Pichanick, Dylan Powell, Jefferson Powell and Wesley Young. Fifth graders are Meredith Inselman, Kristina Kirsch, Maddie McDaniel, Jenna-Lyn Piel and Anna Van Cleave. Sixth graders include David Eyster and Samuel Garlett, and seventh graders are Emily Beier, Megan Benyshek, Kim Deitrick, Andrea Penny and Tiffany Pichanick. Eighth graders on the Principal’s Honor Roll include Mandy Bacher, Taryn Bradford, Jenny Christian, Bradley Keim, Katrina Kitsch and Sean O’Grady. Teacher’s Honor Roll Fourth grade students on the Teacher’s Honor Roll are Sherri Beier, Blake Braden, Wilford Collins, Molly Correll, Kammi Frazier, Kayla Harris, Caitlin Owens, Tacie Penewitt, Lindsay Roehl, Chelce’ Rouse, Caleb Silkey and Kirsten Webster. Fifth graders include Andy Adams, Andrew Grimes, Heather Harris, Brian Masters, Jordan Piel, Ryan Schwanke and Travis Stone, and sixth graders are Micah Allyn, Katie Blough, Phillip Chapman, Jenni Dove, Polly Morris, John Penewitt, Ryan Sands, Eric Stephen and Kelsey Whitebay. Seventh graders include Alison Bell, Amanda Bohon, Laura Lake, Philip LeBaron, Jeremy McConnell, Kajal Patel, Eric Schatte and Elizabeth Webster. Eighth grade students were Eugene Allyn, Katie Andrews, Marie Brown, Ben Johnson, David Kelle, Nate McDaniel and Scott Poling. NOC Hosts Preview DayTONKAWA — Northern Oklahoma College will host a high school preview day Feb. 8 for area seniors. Students will meet at 3:30 p.m. in the Olin Walcher Conference Center, Memorial Student Union, for information on admission requirements, enrollment procedures and how to apply for financial aid. Miss NOC Christy Kelley will address the group and will entertain. A campus tour, complimentary dinner in the cafeteria and a free pass for the NOC-Seminole basketball game that evening are included in the activities. For more information call (580) 628-6668. BrieflyFounder’s NightWashington PTA will host Founder’s Night on Feb. 2. A Book Fair will start at 5 p.m. and a chili and hot dog supper will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. The meal is free to PTA members. Bingo begins at 6:45 p.m. The public is invited. AdditionsJessica Webb, Middle School, and Michael Bales, Mid-High, were accidentally left off the Faculty Honor Rolls. The News apologizes. UCO Honor RollsStacy Hacker and Kristina Williams were named to the President’s Honor Roll at the University of Central Oklahoma. Ponca City students on the Dean’s Honor Roll were Whitney Adams, Toby Blackstar, Laura Caid, Dustin Conner, Michel Hereford, Kevin Kem, Jennifer Pameticky, Heather Sattre and Richard Trussell. Does Coaching Raise SAT Scores?(NAPS) — To coach or not to coach for the SAT. This dilemma faces thousands of parents of college-bound students every year. Do out-of-school coaching programs raise scores? Are they worth the time and money? Is everybody doing it? A major new scientific study published this year in the “Journal of Educational Measurement,” provides some answers. The study shows that only 12 percent of students use out-of-school coaching to prepare for the SAT. It also shows that even without such coaching, students gained an average of 43 points on the 400-1600 score scale. This gain reflects the general growth of verbal and math reasoning skills over time. Gains from out-of-school coaching averaged 26 points above that 43-point base, primarily on the math, not the verbal, part of the test. Do those 26 points make a difference in college admission? That’s hard to say, but most colleges consider the high school record more important than test scores, and high test scores do not guarantee admission. Before you sign up for a coaching program, the College Board advises you to weigh the importance of test scores against all other admission criteria. It says that without coaching, motivated students may raise their scores significantly by taking a strong academic program, reviewing math, and reading to increase vocabulary and comprehension. At the very least, students should be familiar with the test before taking it, to reduce anxiety and save time. They should read the free booklet they get when they register for the test, and take the sample test it contains. SPORTSTrying Cage Times Trying Cage TimesBy MATTHEW KOENIG News Sports Writer These are trying times for the Po-Hi cagers. The Wildcats have played unbelievably well in spite of their 3-6 (5-10) record, but a numbing array of close losses is quickly leading to the “so close but so far away” syndrome, and a bad case of melancholia. As coach Ron Arthur likes to say, “close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades.” The Lady Cats, despite some brilliant performances in quarters and halves, seem to face an uphill battle every night against stronger, taller, faster teams. That leads to the potential resignation that comes with an 0-9 (3-12) season. Still, coach Dana Pulley assures, “we’re not ready to write our season off. We’re at least playing for pride.” Tonight, the cagers will travel to the wilds of Eastern Oklahoma to square off against Bartlesville. As it was two weeks ago, the Bruins’ threat is nominal among Frontier Conference foes, and the chance of success for the Poncans is definitely there. The Bruins are 2-4 (4-8 overall), while the Lady Bruins are 2-4 (6-6 overall). Both teams suffered losses to Union last night, as well, and should be tired (40-35 for the girls; 82-48 for the boys). That could give the Poncans a definite edge once the fourth quarter rolls around. The boys game will start at 6:15, while the Lady Cats will tip off at 7:45. Both games will be on WBBZ. PC Wildcats (3-6, 5-10) at Bartlesville Bruins (2-4, 4-8) The Cats have already played everyone they’ll meet in the last seven games of the season. They’ve beaten three of them (Sand Springs, Broken Arrow, Stillwater), and kept things dangerously close in all the others. Two weeks ago, Jan. 15, marked the Cats’ most agonizing defeat in conference play to date, a 2-point, 62-60 loss to Bartlesville. The Cats surged back with an 8-1 run in the final minute to tie the game, but Bruin Jon Thompson won the game with a 12-foot jump shot at the seven second mark. At the time, Arthur described it as possibly the most emotional loss he’d had as a coach. Though there have been a pair of 1-point losses since then, the Cats would no doubt like to exact some revenge from the Bruins. Also, never mind their record — the Cats are capable of winning out. “That’s our plan,” says Arthur. “It starts with Bartlesville. We did a good job catching up and tying it last time — this time we just have to make sure we don’t fall behind, on the road.” The Bruins are led by the Frontier’s third leading scorer, 6-3 senior Forward Chris Turner, at 17.8 ppg, while Thompson averages 11.3. PC Lady Wildcats (0-9, 3-12) at Bartlesville Lady Bruins (2-4, 6-6) Most things being relative, the Lady Bruins still represent one of the Lady Cats’ best chances for a conference win. “They’re a very beatable team,” says Pulley. “I think we’ll go over there and play well.” Two weeks ago, the Lady Cats played with the Lady Bruins for the first half, going down just 18-15 at intermission. The Lady Bruins stomped in the second period, however, rolling to a 50-28 win. Blame it on the Big One, 6-2 senior Ashley Meredith (actually known as “the Big One”), who scored 13 points — nine in the second half. Sandra Jones, and athletic 5-11 forward, finished with nine. Most of those were high-percentage shots from the inside, a place the Lady Cats have typically been weak in, defensively. “We watched the tape and they only took four shots outside the paint,” said Pulley. “(This time) we need to fight around, and not let them post up.” Meredith is averaging 11.1 ppg, while Jones averages slightly under 10. Pulley, like Arthur, is also hoping for a late-season turnaround. “I don’t think we can win the conference championship at this point,” she says. “But anything can happen in the playoffs, you see it all the time. (Unranked) teams upset No. 1 teams. That’s what we’re working for.” Grapplers Pin UnionBy FRED HILTON News Sports Editor TULSA — Ponca City’s Wildcat wrestlers have been fighting illness and nagging injuries all week, but it didn’t show Thursday as the Cats flattened Tulsa Union 48-21. “I was pleased with the way we wrestled tonight,” Po-Hi coach Todd Steidley said after the dual. “The kids took care of business.” There is more business just ahead as the Cats take on No. 8 ranked Sand Springs on the Sandites home mat Saturday. That dual is set to start at 4 p.m. Ponca City rolled up bonus points against the Redskins with six falls, a technical fall and a major decision in winning nine of the 14 matches. Phillip Brotherton got the pin parade started with a 3:00 fall at 103 pounds. The Cats also picked up falls by Scott Steichen (5:05) at 135 pounds, Matt Littleton (5:07) at 140, Kyle Duren (5:36) at 160, Toby RedLeaf (3:38) at 171 and Justin Burns (1:09) at heavyweight. Clint Stafford scored a 23-7 technical decision at 130 pounds and Shawn Lee had a 12-0 major decision at 125. After Brotherton’s pin, Union seemed poised to give Ponca City a battle as the Redskins got a fall at 112 and 119-pounder Doug Green edged Josh Bailey, 7-3. That gave Union a 9-6 lead in the team scoring. “Josh has been bothered by a stomach injury for some time,” Steidley said. But the loss came to one of Union’s four state qualifiers last year. However that was the last time Union saw any hint of a lead as the Wildcats rolled off four straight extra-point wins. Lee had Union’s Chad Blanchett on his back twice in putting the Poncans back on top. Stafford played takedown-let up with Union’s Mike Hron until rolling the Redskin to his back for a near-fall at the end of the second period. Steichen led 9-6 over Wesley Hodge at 135 pounds when he took the Union grappler to his back in the final minute of his match. Littleton was well in front 8-0 before rolling Matt Sewell to his back. That gave Ponca City a 27-9 lead. The strength of the Union lineup showed up at 145 and 152 pounds, closing the gap to 27-18. But Kyle Duren got the Cats going again at 160, breaking away from a 4-2 battle with a takedown and fall in the final 30 seconds. RedLeaf put the dual out of reach with a fall after leading 6-1 in the 171-pound match. Ponca City and Union traded overtime wins at 189 and 215 with Jason Neurenberg gaining a takedown 54 seconds into the extra period for a 4-2 win at 215. Justin Burns put a capper on the dual for the Poncans with his third fall of the season. Following Saturday’s dual at Sand Springs. the Wildcats will host Class A power Newkirk in a make-up dual Tuesday, then close out the dual season at Sapulpa Thursday, Feb. 4. Ponca City enters the Bishop Kelley Tournament Feb. 5-6 to prepare for the regional tournament Feb. 19-20. RESULTS Ponca City 48, Tulsa Union 21 103 — Brotherton (PC) p. Steen, 3:00 112 — Remigo (U) p. Costello, 1:16 119 — Green (U) d. Bailey, 7-3 125 — Lee (PC) md Blanchett, 12-0 130 — Stafford (PC) tf Hron, 23-7 (4:00) 135 — Steichen (PC) p. Hodge, 5:05 140 — Littleton (PC) p. Sewell, 5:07 145 — Brady (U) d. Osborn, 10-5 152 — McIntire (U) p. Empting, 3:21 160 — Duren (PC) p. Dawson, 3:36 171 — RedLeaf (PC) p. Roberts, 3:38 189 — Course (U) d. Leavitt, 5-3 (OT) 215 — Neurenberg (PC) d. Mills, 4-2 (OT) Hwt — Burns (PC) p. Tangeres, 1:09 Mat Stats Takedowns — Ponca City 23, Union 9. Escapes — Union 13, Ponca City 9. Penalty Points — Union 3, Ponca City 0. Reverses — Ponca City 5, Union 3. 2-Near Falls — Union 1, Ponca City 0. 3-Near Falls — Ponca City 5, Union 1 Falls — Ponca City 6, Union 2. Technical Falls — Ponbca City 1, Union 0. Major Decisions — Ponca City 1, Union 0. Decisions — Union 3, Ponca City 1. Mavs Pop EasternBy MATTHEW KOENIG News Sports Writer TONKAWA — After three weeks on the road, the NOC Mavericks returned home to slam the Mountaineers of Eastern Oklahoma, 86-70, Thursday. Point guard Josh Regnier nailed five 3-pointers in the first half and Ron Banks finished 9-of-11 from the field with 20 points to lead the Mavs. The win also gives the Mavs a perfect, 2-0 start (18-4 overall) in conference play. Despite the impressive victory, the Mavs were nonetheless without leading scorer Larry Reid, while a number of other players saw limited time. “We have a little flue, a little bug,” said coach Mick Weiberg, also suffering from illness. “We got a little sloppy at times. But our strength is in our depth, and we had a bunch of kids step up.” Despite an up-tempo offense and an aggressive defensive performance, the Mavs started off slowly. The Mountaineers went up by five, early, and didn’t see their last lead evaporate until late in the first quarter, when a shot clock violation gave the Mavs the ball back. Regnier, at 5-9, promptly drove and scored on 6-11 Bahamas native Livan Pyfrom to tie the game at 23-all, and the Mavs went on a 8-0 run to take the lead for good. “We came out of the chute kinda slow,” said Weiberg. “That surprised me a little, coming home and playing in front of the home crowd. But Regnier sparked us numerous times in the first half to keep us in the game.” Overall, the Mavericks were a whopping 11-of-22 from long range. Though Travis Love buried a 3-pointer with 20 seconds left in the half, Regnier — who finished with 17 points — answered with one at the buzzer to give the Mavs a 42-37 halftime lead. Love led the Mountaineers with 16 points — 14 in the first half. Ryan Williams dumped in seven of his 15 points in the third quarter, Latarvis Norman had a pair of dunks, and Jeff Newby added a pair of 3’s to put the Mavs up by as much as 18 in the third quarter. Despite the slow start, Weiberg was nonetheless pleased with his team’s flue-impaired effort. “If we ever hit on all cylinders, we’d be tough,” he muses. The Mavs shot 52 percent (34-of-65) from the field, while the Mountaineers connected on 48 percent (25-of-54). Both teams had 18 turnovers, but the Mavs notched 14 steals, to just 7 for their foes. The Mavs held a slight, 31-27 advantage on the glass. NOC’s Shere Khan Jones went wild on the boards, however, grabbing 10. Newby had 12 points, Sherman Rochell 6, Norman 4, Tyler Barnard and Jones 3, while Josh Nichols, Phillip Rogers and Nathan Gregory had 2 each. The Mountaineers were led by Love with 16, Pyfrom had 14, while Rickey Young had 10. The Mavs’ one-day homestand is over, however, as they head back on the road on Monday, traveling to Western Oklahoma. Swimmers Splash NormanThe Wildcat swimmers continued with what is proving to be one of the most successful seasons in Po-Hi athletics this year, romping over both Norman North and Norman, 115-32 and 119-10, respectively. The Lady Cats also won against both schools, beating Norman North, 101-50, and Norman, 123-13, upping their duel record to 4-7. The boys concluded their home meet schedule with an overall record of 7-4, the best by a Ponca City swim team since 1989, when the Cats finished 9-2. It was also senior night for the swimmers, there was a strong crowd showing, and coach Dave Strah was in high spirits. “What a way for our six seniors to go out in their last meet at home,” he said. “It’s fun to win like that.” Seniors Ryan Ives and Patrick Tucker finished 1-2 in the 100 free, Chris Kana won the 200 IM and the 100 back, Rory Peterson won the 200 free and the 500 free, while Greg Dunham won the 100 breast. “Ryan is very close to qualifying (for state) in the 50 and 100 free,” says Strah. “He should get those times at conference when he’s rested and shaved.” The Cats also won the 200 medley relay, the 500 free relay, the 200 free relay and the 400 free relay. Diver Eric Chambray out scored teammate Daniel Stransky for a 1-2 finish in that event. The Lady Cats, meanwhile, won every event except for the 400 free relay. Megan Tomek, the only senior on the girls’ team, won the 50 and the 100 fly, with a new qualifying time in the fly. Andra Nuzum won the 200 free and the 500 free, Sunita Chahar won the 200 IM, while Shannon Mersman won the 100 free and the 100 back. Strah was also impressed with sophomore Jennifer Roth, who finished second in the 100 free and fourth in the 100 breast. “Jennifer moved here last summer from California and is truly a welcome sight on the girls’ team,” Strah said. “She hasn’t qualified for state, but with some good swims she could get close in conference.” The swimmers head to the conference meet at Tulsa Union, Feb. 6. Lady Mavs Perfect In LeagueBy MATTHEW KOENIG News Sports Writer TONKAWA — So far, so good. The Lady Mavericks of NOC upped their conference record to 2-0 (8-12 overall) on Thursday, blasting past the Lady Mountaineers of Eastern Oklahoma, 79-65. Newkirk native Kacey Whitworth dumped in 20 points and went 6-of-8 from the free throw line to augment an otherwise harrowing night for the Lady Mavs from the line. Overall, the Lady Mavs hit just 20-of-40 from the charity stripe. “Yes, we could have hit our free throws,” said coach Greg Krause. “It could have been a little bigger (score) than it was, but it’s still good to win. It’s a good start for us, and maybe we’ll start to play with a little more confidence.” The Lady Mavs got scoring from all but one on their roster en route to the win, including 10 from Jennifer Williams, nine from LaTonya Douglas and eight from 6-3 Ponca City native Lyndsey Warrior. Former Newkirk standout and 2-sport NOC athlete (softball) Suzi Eisenhauer also finished with eight. Though the Lady Mountaineers jumped out to a 10-5 lead in the opening minutes, the Lady Mavs quickly tied the game and went ahead on a Chenise Robinson 3-pointer, 13-12, at the 12:38 mark. The Lady Mavs surged ahead from there, outscoring their foes 16-7 before halftime to take a 36-21 lead. Highlighting that run was a steal and a fast break basket by Douglas, six straight points from Williams, and a coast-to-coast scoring drive by Whitworth. “We’re moving the ball better; we’re starting to click,” said Krause. “We didn’t handle the pressure well, consistently, and we had some turnovers — but they were aggressive turnovers, and that’s a sign of confidence.” The Lady Mavs opened the second half with an 8-0 run to go on top by 21, 44-23. The Lady Mountaineers inched back to within 17 on two occasions, but that’s as close as they would come until the closing minutes, when Jennifer Lawley buried a trio of 3-pointers in the final 4:12. Ranada Collins had 7 for the Lady Mavs, Chenise 6, Ritha Moro 5, Shaneta Lewis 3, Jessica Garner 2, while Erica Metcalf had 1. Angela Young and Lawley led the Lady Mountaineers with 13 each, Debranika Booker had 10, while Brianne Strickland had 8. The Lady Mavericks will play a solo, non-conference game (without the Mavs) on Saturday, taking on Crowder College. Tip off in Foster Piper Fieldhouse is at 5.
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