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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Sunday, February 13, 2000 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES SPORTS LOCALTrash Is Job One For New Cop Trash Is Job One For New CopNEWKIRK — Kay County’s fight against illegal trash dumping suddenly resembles The Lone Ranger instead of The Dirty Dozen. Following the lead of other successful Trash Cop programs across the state, Kay County now has a designated sheriff’s investigator to clean up unlawful trash dump sites and prosecute offenders. The move ended a two-year experiment that involved the sheriff department’s entire force of reserve deputies. The county commissioners last month approved a six-month contract for a new environmental officer, Dep. Chad Hodgson, who will receive $700 a month for 20 hours per week. The CLEET-certified Hodgson also gets a designated patrol car and a uniform. And in just two weeks, he seems to be on a pretty good pace, with six working cases, four investigations ready for the district attorney’s office, and four trash dumps already cleaned up by violators. Hodgson explained, “We want to get to a point where we can say, ‘There’s no excuse.’ Hopefully, we’ll set an example to tell people, ‘Take your illegal waste to the proper place.’” For the reserve deputies, it was simply a matter of being spread too thin to do an adequate job, said Sheriff Craig Countryman, who approached the county commissioners about the problem last month. “It’s not that the reserves weren’t doing a good job, but the department is busier now than we were two years ago, and we still operate with the same number of people,” the sheriff said. “We operate short-handed anyway, and the reserve officers didn’t have enough time to devote to the trash cop situation,” Countryman said. In early 1998, the state Association of County Commissioners (ACCO) awarded $10,000 to the county to begin a program that would thwart people from dumping trash on rural roadsides, and the county turned the so-called Trash Cop investigations over to the reserve deputies. The county in turn provided $300 a month from the ACCO grant into the reserve sheriff’s deputy fund for their assistance. The thinking, at the time, was that with several sets of eyes focused on the rural trash problem, cleanup efforts would be multiplied, and the Trash Cop program funding would perpetuate through fines imposed upon those offenders who were prosecuted. But for the reserve officers, who are volunteers, trash dump investigations were often interrupted by other business. Undersheriff Buddy Thomas explained, “One case investigation would get to midstream with one (reserve) deputy, and he’d get called away to another emergency, and when the next deputy would pick up the case, he’d have to start over.” Thomas said the department last year investigated 15 different complaints of illegal trash dumping, which resulted in four warrant requests, and at least one arrest and a guilty plea. Some of the incidents were resolved by deputies contacting the trash dumpers and arranging for them to clean up the dump site, and other incidents are still unresolved because of lack of evidence, Thomas said. County Commissioner Wayne Leven of District Two said the new arrangement “puts most of the accountability on one person instead of a group.” “Progress in the program means less trash on the county’s roads,” he said. County Commissioner Dee Schieber of District One said ACCO, which provided the initial Trash Cop grant, also has a program that can compensate the county for materials and labor to clean up rural trash dump sites, which may help them stay that way. For compensation purposes, any new incident of trash dumping on a former trash site could be regarded as an offense at a brand-new site, according to the program. The county commissioners have met with District Attorney Mark Gibson and District Judge D.W. Boyd to standardize a penalty for offenders who dump trash illegally in rural areas. One recommendation was that violators pay a minimum $200 fine to the court, plus another $200 to the Trash Cop fund and 20 hours of community service. The community service could require that offenders clean up trash sites. The sheriff’s department investigations are forwarded to Gibson’s office for possible charges and penalty recommendations. The judge said recommendations for penalties would have to be considered on a case-by-case basis. City Audit Report Ready For Commission ReviewBy BOB PATTERSON News City Editor The fiscal year 1998-99 accountants’ report and financial statements for the City of Ponca City will be available to the Board of Commissioners Monday during its regular session. Representatives of the firm of Baird, Kurtz and Dobson will be available an hour earlier at an open house at the Public Safety Center Commissioner’s Room at 4:30 p.m. Monday. The public is invited to be at the open house and confer with the representatives. The commission meeting is set for 5:30 p.m., and will also include a number of rezoning requests and recommendations. Also on the agenda is a recommendation from the Park and Recreation Advisory Board to approve the concept of a skate park built on city owned property to be chosen and brought back to the commission for consideration during the design phase of the project. Additionally, the commissioners will take up a proposal for amending an ordinance concerning the increasing of impoundment and boarding fees for animals brought to the Animal Control Center. Another item on the agenda is the consideration of engaging a firm to represent the city in the area of cable television permit fee compliance verification covering the period of Jan. 1, 1996 through Dec. 31, 1999. The rezoning requests include those having been approved by the Planning Commission and sent to the commissioners for final approval. They would be to rezone a tract of land located at 3510 AA Street from R-1 single family residential to RMHP (Residential Mobile Home Park), thus changing the official zoning map of the city. Also an ordinance for rezoning real property located at 413 East Emporia from R-1 single family residential to R-3, multi-family residential. And the third would be to rezone a tract of land in the 3600 block of B, C and D Streets from R-1 single family residential to RMHP residential mobile home park. Commissioners will have considered a number of items on the consent agenda, items that normally are not discussed unless some of the commissioners deem it necessary. The consent agenda includes minutes from several sessions, the granting of $2,040 to K-9 Dog Training Club to be used for promoting an Obedience and Agility Trials set for April 29-30, a resolution designating certain city employees as purchasing officers, authorization for the mayor to sign a lease agreement between the city and the Ponca Bowman Inc., a change order on the No. 1 Fire Station, authorization for M.L. Young Construction Corporation as agent of the city in purchasing materials for the Lake Ponca Dam spillway improvements project and appropriating money for payment of claims. Commissioners will also meet as members of the Ponca City Utility Authority and take up the audit report as provided by Baird, Kurtz and Dobson. Also on the PCUA agenda will be authorization for the chairman (mayor) to sign an agreement of representation with Oklahoma Municipal Power Authority naming Phillip Johnston as the alternate designated representative of the steam plant for the PCUA. The PCUA will consider a contract with Camp Dresser and McKee Inc. on the completion of a preliminary engineering design study/report for the extension and expansion of the water distribution system to serve the new Conoco Carbon Fiber Plant in the amount of $21,000. The PCUA consent agenda includes authorization for releasing of funds for the Airport Industrial Park water pump station enhancement program amounting to $142,238.75 to Ratliff Inc.; authorize a payment request of Bluestem Construction Inc. for work performed on the Overbrook Avenue sanitary sewer repair project and a resolution amending the operating budgets of various PCUA funds in the fiscal year 1999-2000. Meeting as members of the Ponca City Development Authority the commissioners will take up the audit report for that group. Defeated PTC Board Member Says Anonymous Letter Hurt His CampaignBy KRISTI HAYES News Education Editor Now that the school elections are over, Fred Haub can sit back and think about what went wrong ... at least with his campaign. Haub went into Tuesday’s election as the incumbent and expecting a close race. But he lost by more than 1,200 votes. Robert Howard was elected to serve on Pioneer Technology Center’s Board of Education. With the recent controversy alleging administrative harassment and high turnover rates, Haub says he did everything he could have done. “When you have a problem [like the anonymous letter], things tend to have a domino effect. You try to address each situation and sometimes there’s just too many of them,” he said. Haub said the original letter, which was reported by The Ponca City News on Jan. 11, 2000, did damage to his campaign. “The original letter was tough because I didn’t know how to respond to it. Then the paper printed Letters to the Editor and that caused even more damage,” he said. He acknowledged knowing unhappy employees at the vo-tech. “I knew of a few who had ill feelings. I believe though that people think there’s a much bigger problem than there really is.” He complimented Superintendent Dr. Sally Downey and her administrators. “I think they’re doing a great job. They are doing their best to make a top-notch school, and you step on feet when you do that sometimes,” Haub said. Although Haub was beaten Tuesday, he has words of advice for the current board members. “I think the board needs to be careful. [Its] role is to set policies. They hired the administrators and they need to have faith in what they do,” said Haub. Haub was happy about the board’s recent decision to implement new policies, but feels they could get into trouble. “If the board is not careful with the Verbal Abuse Policy, people might not be able to do their jobs,” he warned. Board members also decided on a new Complaint policy and an Exit Committee. “I think these are good policies to make people aware that the board really cares about the welfare of the vo-tech.” Haub noted a positive aspect from Tuesday’s election was the passing of the four building mills. “I think that indicates a lot of confidence in the school.” The board is presently looking at expanding health field opportunities. “Our health programs have 100 percent enrollment. We are looking at adding programs like a lab technician. There’s a big demand for health occupations,” Haub said. County Diabetes Support Group Meets TuesdayKay County Diabetes Support Group will meet on Tuesday, Feb. 15, at 7:30 p.m. at the Grand Avenue Church of Christ, 1300 West Grand. Dr. Derek Smith, a medical and surgical foot specialist from Ponca City, will present a program on foot care for persons with diabetes. Diabetes is the leading cause of lower limb amputations. The risk of amputation can be decreased by good blood sugar control and good foot care. Dr. Smith will discuss how diabetes affects foot health and preventive foot care, as well as medicare/insurance coverage for professional foot care and therapeutic shoes. Dr. Smith attended Ohio State University and Wittenberg University, Springfield, Ohio, where he received a bachelor of arts in biology. He was awarded a doctor of podiatric medicine degree from New York College of Podiatric Medicine. Smith did his residency training at Wycoff Heights Medical Center, Brooklyn, N.Y., where he specialized in medical and surgical foot care. For more information, call 763-0868 or 762-4479. The Kay County Diabetes Support Group meets on the third Tuesday of each month from September to May, and all interested persons are invited to attend the meetings. Cancer Society Sets Session for WomenThe American Cancer Society will be holding a Look Good ... Feel Better session for all women who have been diagnosed with cancer or are undergoing cancer treatment. Wigs, turbans and scarves are needed by the society. The session will be held 6:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 21, at St. Joseph Medical Center. For further information or to donate items, call Pam Wilburn at 765-0864. Local Educators Heading To State Capitol This WeekBy KRISTI HAYES News Education Editor School will be canceled this Wednesday for Ponca City students. Local teachers, along with thousands of other administrators, staff and parents will be demanding educational changes from state leaders when they attend the “Put Education First Rally” at the Capitol. The rally, organized by the Oklahoma Education Coalition, will begin at 11 a.m. Wednesday on the south steps of the State Capitol. The day was planned to coincide with the Oklahoma Parent Teachers Association’s Lobby Day at the Capitol on the same day. Judy Friess, president of Ponca City’s Association of Classroom Teachers, said she invites those who are interested to attend the rally. “On behalf of the members of the Ponca City Association of Classroom Teachers, I invite all parents to join teachers, administrators and school board members at the Oklahoma Education Coalition’s (OEC) rally,” she said. The purpose of the rally is to inform state legislators and the governor that Oklahomans support education and want education funding to be the top priority during this legislative session. Friess said, “As a taxpayer, you may not realize that approximately 70 percent of a school district’s operating revenue is awarded through the state legislators. That is why it is so important that all of us join together and make our voice heard at the State Capitol. For far too long, education has lost in the political arena, and now we are in the midst of an education crisis.” Friess said she would like local residents to understand many important statistics including: — Oklahoma’s common education funding increased less than two percent last year, which was less than all our bordering states. Texas increased its funding nearly 18 percent. — Oklahoma student enrollment has increased by 50,000 students since 1989; yet little funding has been allocated for this student growth. It would take an appropriation of $153 million through the school funding formula to accommodate this growth. — Compared to other agencies of state government, spending on schools lag far behind. Funding for elementary and secondary schools since 1995 has increased by only 23 percent, while funding for highways and prisons has increased by 89 percent and 92 percent, respectively. — Our per pupil expenditures are among the lowest in comparison with our bordering states. In 1995, Oklahoma’s per pupil expenditures were at 84 percent of the regional average; in 1998, these expenditures fell to below 77 percent of the regional average. — According to the National Center for Education Statistics, Oklahoma’s teachers’ salaries rank 48th in the nation. Further, Oklahoma teachers make approximately $75 for every $100 earned nationally, a dismal statistic hardly offset by the fact that the average cost-of-living in Oklahoma is approximately 90 percent of the national average. - Education Week calls Oklahoma’s teachers among the best qualified in the country. Yet, their salaries rank 48th in the nation and more than 1,100 Oklahoma teachers are lost yearly to better paying jobs in surrounding states, making as much as $10,000 more per year. Friess also stated, “While increasing educators’ salaries is a piece of the Oklahoma Education Coalition’s legislative agenda, it is, by far, not the only issue.” The OEC’s agenda also calls for fully funding mandates set forth in last year’s education bill, HB 1759, as well as hiring more counselors, funding before and after school reading and math programs, funding alternative education programs, and helping financially-straped districts acquire education technology. She said it’s important to note that this rally is not a walkout. “School districts statewide have discussed the importance of this event with their communities, and more than 300 districts have amended their calendars to be in attendance. Children will not miss one minute of instructional time,” Friess said. She also noted that many school districts added a day to the year, while others are utilizing a snow day. “Ponca city has rescheduled a non-contract day so that all school employees may participate in the rally.” Friess concluded, “The Ponca City Board of Education supports the OEC agenda and the Feb. 16 rally. Again, our purpose is to raise support for critical education issues.” Byron Berline To Perform at PoncanByron Berline brings his traditional bluegrass and western swing to the Poncan Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Friday. Admission is free and no tickets are required. Berline’s band includes John Hickman on banjo, Jim Fish on guitar, Richard Sharp on bass and Steve Short on drums. A three-time national fiddle champion, Berline has collaborated with several great artists, including the Rolling Stones, The Eagles, Elton John, Tammy Wynette, Mason Williams, Willie Nelson, Alabama and Vince Gill. This performance is made possible by the Ponca City Arts and Humanities Council with assistance from Conoco and the Oklahoma Arts Council. Library Presents Special Brown Bag Lunch EventA special program will be held at the Ponca City Library Thursday when author of Osage County Kids Lou Dean will be appearing at a Brown Bag Lunch visit from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The program will enable Dean to discuss various aspects of authorship: how to get started, where to get ideas, how to self-publish. Dean is the author of two previous books, Paw Prints in My Soul and Angels in Disguise. A 1999 nominee for the Colorado Blue Spruce Award for Young Adults, Angels in Disguise, is an autobiography of Lou Dean’s early years and her belief that pets truly can be angels. Her latest book, Osage County Kids, is a current nominee for the Oklahoma Book Award. Those interested in Ms. Dean’s experiences may bring a sack lunch to the Programming Room on the lower level of the Library. Drinks will be provided. The Library will host an evening program for all ages featuring Lou Dean on Monday, Feb. 21 at 6:30 p.m. For further information call Judy Johnson at the Library, 767-0345. Messages of Love Airing on KLVVKLVV radio will broadcast a special Valentine’s Day edition of the Focus on the Family program on Monday. In this program, Messages of Love, Dr. James Dobson presents a series of recorded comments from listeners about their favorite romantic memorial. The 30-minutes production will air three times Monday at 6 a.m., 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. This special presentation will help remind listeners of their commitments to their spouse whether they be newlyweds or have spent a lifetime together. According to Station Manager, Doyle Brewer, “This is a program that is woven throughout with touching memories and appropriate music — you will be riveted after only a few minutes. After all, our non-profit organization is called The Love Station.” KLVV is a non-profit Christian radio station that broadcasts on 88.7 FM Northern Oklahoma and Southern Kansas, 98.3 FM Enid, 106.7 FM Stillwater, and 97.3 FM Guthrie. Helpline To Host Spring Training For VolunteersIt’s time for Helpline spring training for volunteers, and this time Helpline has come up with a new and different approach! Instead of the usual several weeks of nightly meetings, the spring session will be held on a single day — Saturday, Feb. 26. According to Executive Director Lori May, “The professionals that teach our classes are very good at what they do. Anyone in any profession would benefit from this class!” Subjects, such as Crisis Intervention, Grief, Depression, Youth/Children, DHS Services, and more will be presented during this day, May explained. The class will be held at the United Way Office, 205 North Second, and will begin at 8 a.m. with coffee, and doughnuts and sign-in. The session will end at 5 p.m., and Helpline is providing lunch. Helpline is a 24-hour a day crisis intervention, information and referral hotline. “We are always looking for caring people with as little as two hours a week to volunteer for us, says May. Call 765-5551 to receive more information about the training or to sign-up for the training session. Helpline is a United Way Agency. Capitol Reportby Jim Campbell Jimmy Motley wore a borrowed colostomy bag to a capitol hearing. Bracing his hands against the arms of his wheelchair, he lifted himself to face a roomful of legislators. “I’m just half a man,” he said. “I have no legs.” Motley, 41, who lives between Norman and Noble, was invited to the House Public Health Committee meeting by Rep. Al Lindley, D-Oklahoma City. Testimony about consequences of his lost medical services left a stunned hush in the room and helped Lindley win a do-pass vote for a bill setting up a Complaint Review System Task Force for Persons with Disabilities. The 20-member panel force under House Bill 2356 would determine how complaints about access to programs and services for persons with disabilities are resolved by various state agencies. In the case of Motley, who was shot three times in Texas, several lawmakers demanded quicker action. Rep. John Sullivan, R-Tulsa, wanted something done “by 5 p.m. today.” Motley said he had been cut off medical services after his ADvantage waiver for health care from Medicaid was terminated by the Oklahoma Health Care Authority, which pays the bills. “You’re not even notified about the HCA cut-off until after the fact. You have no warning,” he said, his voice breaking. “Right now I’m wearing a friend of mine’s colostomy bag.” While many more Oklahomans are being helped by the Department of Humans Services’ DHS waiver programs, legislators say there are wrenching anecdotes about people lacking care for various reasons. These include ineligibility under rules written by HCA to contain costs and deliver services most efficiently. DHS must follow these policies. The state gets a 70 percent match from the federal government to finance the programs. A volunteer patient advocate, Amy Corley of Oklahoma City, told the committee the nurse evaluating Motley “didn’t like his attitude and didn’t think he needs services.” Motley was approved in 1996 for the waiver, which requires re-evaluation every three years, and was cut off Feb. 1. Rep. Fred Stanley, D-Madill, committee chairman, said a 41-year-old man in his district is waiting for a heart transplant “but he will die first.” “The state is not capable of giving this man the heart medicine he needs for the time he’s got to live,” Stanley said. Stanley and others expressed praise for DHS Director Howard Hendrick, a former Republican state senator. “Hendrick is doing a marvelous job,” Stanley told the committee. “He’s expedited anything I’ve asked him about.” DHS spokesman George Johnson said the Motley case was receiving attention at the highest levels. He said another medical evaluation has been ordered and that Motley may be eligible for services other than the nursing home level provided under the ADvantage waiver, but may not have applied for them. He said the outcome of the evaluation is based on the client’s own responses. He also said records indicate Motley had 30 days from Nov. 17 to file an appeal but it was not received until Jan. 11. Workers in the Aging Services Division of DHS took up a collection and bought 10 colostomy bags for Motley, Corley said. He uses two a day. Eligibility rules have ruled out help for a Lindsay diabetic in desperate need of services, says Sen. Trish Weedn, D-Purcell. She said Bryan Richardson, 34, suffers multiple severe disorders because of his disease. “He can’t walk; he crawls,” she said. “He did have an ADvantage previously and the only reason they cut him off is that he had diabetes before he was 21 so he isn’t eligible.” Weedn said Richardson was taken off the program in late fall. “He has a young child he’s trying to live for.” Letter - Little Wonder Teachers Are Leaving OklahomaAmazing isn’t it? What I am referring to is that any present or future Oklahoma teacher would stay in our state or continue in the profession. To say that they work for peanuts is too generous. At least they could eat peanuts to survive. Our Oklahoma teachers have been rated at the very top in the nation. The college education for a teacher at the University of Oklahoma is a full five-year program. A graduate can then look forward to earning a salary lower than a non-graduate. Oklahoma has been rated as having the best teachers in the nation. Another great teacher state is Connecticut. The difference is that Connecticut has the highest teacher pay in the United States and Oklahoma has near the very lowest teacher pay in the nation. Our high teacher rating is very little consolation to our teachers when trying to pay their bills. These people are the most valuable workers we have, working with our most valuable resource our children. When will we learn we must adequately provide education to people for a few years or provide subsistence (welfare) to them for a lifetime. Our governor and legislators have advocated meager pay raises attached to merit. If our teachers are already the best in the nation, what merit do they have to prove. A 50 percent pay raise still would not even come close to what teachers make in Connecticut. The governor’s $2,000 raise still leaves teacher pay near the last in the nation. Amazing isn’t it! If our legislators and governor think our teachers are of so little value, it’s no wonder our teachers are leaving. Maybe we can fill the teaching jobs with less qualified people, like politicians. Would they work for such a small salary — NOT!!! Randy Weber, D.D.S. Letter - Maybe Rep. Nations Knew SomethingThere seems to be quite a bit of flap about Rep. Nations’ bill concerning the Oklahoma flag. I wonder if most people have any idea as to what or who a flag represents? First and foremost, a flag is a standard, a symbol of a people, a nation, a state, or organization to describe or define certain unique characteristics of the entity it is to represent, universally recognizable by the different communities of the human race. Most flags, especially national and state flags, are prescribed by the legislative bodies for which these Standards are to represent. Likewise, these legislative bodies prescribe the manner in which these are to be displayed, treated, handled, replaced, retired, altered, etc., and penalties for demeaning, disrespecting, altering, etc., are set forth as a matter of public law. Title 4 United States Code sets forth these specifications and the underlying statutes at large for the United States Flag. The Oklahoma Flag specifications are somewhat more difficult to find, see Titles 21 and 25 Oklahoma Statutes, each contain the rules for display and penalties for improper display, altering, disrespectful conduct, etc. All are interesting and enlightening reading. Ms. Fluke designed, and the Oklahoma Legislature adopted in 1925, the Oklahoma Legislature in 1941 changed the Official Oklahoma Flag to include the word “Oklahoma” in white letters placed below the shield, otherwise leaving the original design untouched. At the same time, they also commissioned the Governor’s Flag. The Governor’s Flag is forest green bearing the State Seal and trimmed with a gold fringe and five stars. This brings me to my point, in all my research I have been unable to find ANY lawful justification to the gold fringed Oklahoma Flags I see adorning our courtrooms, school buildings, Oklahoma House and Senate chambers, and most all other public buildings. The gold fringed U.S. Flag (the Union Jack) was provided for by an executive order of the President for display of federal authority, previously restricted to military use. While the Honorable Rep. Nations may feel insecure, and all those other things he’s feeling, at least he was going about it in the right manner. Now the main question that exists in my mind is, In the absence of lawful authority (it such exists please advise) who, or what does this altered gold fringed Oklahoma Flag represent? Other questions rapidly come to mind since according to Oklahoma statute it is a crime to display an altered flag. Who is responsible and to what extent? Do the People really care about their flag? Do the People really care about the laws, and to what extent? If the People don’t care about the laws, why do we bother electing people to write them? If elected officials are going to fly altered symbols will they be responsive to the will of the people, or do as they damn well please? Are our courts, courts of justice, where juries have the opportunity to not only judge the facts of a particular case as well as the law itself, or does the judge dictate the facts and the law to the jury? Do the courts protect the rights of the accused or do they just persecute the accused? All interesting questions, huh? Oh well, maybe we should just run the U.N. flag up the pole and see what happens? In summation, perhaps Rep. Nations knows something we don’t. He might have been trying to do us a favor. By the by a couple more questions, why is it hard printed copies of the Oklahoma Constitution are no longer available from the state? I was referred to West Law. Why are the Oklahoma Statutes and Session Laws copyrighted by West Law? I was taught in school copyright only protects private enterprise, perhaps our legislature is passing private law. But what do I know, I’m just a dumb Okie. Also don’t take my word for these things check it out for yourself. The Oklahoma Statutes are in the Ponca City Library, and the United States Code is in the Law Library above the Post Office. Ron Buck Oklahoman, American School CalendarPo-Hi Feb. 14 Freshmen and sophomore students to see Bye, Bye Birdie at Howell Auditorium, 8:30 a.m. Sophomore basketball at Blackwell, 6 p.m. Feb. 15 DECA breakfast at Commons Area, 7:30 a.m. Juniors and seniors to see Bye, Bye Birdie at 8:30 a.m. Ninth grade blue boys basketball at Longfellow, 3:30 p.m. Ninth grade blue girls basketball against Longfellow at East School, 4 p.m. Junior varsity and varsity basketball against Broken Arrow, 4 p.m. Feb. 16 Education Day at the capitol in Oklahoma City (classes dismissed). Feb. 17 Freshmen English classes at Howell Auditorium, 8:30 a.m. Career Fair at Assembly Center, 9 a.m. Sophomore basketball at Guthrie, 6 p.m. Senior parent meeting in the upper Commons Area, 7 p.m. Ninth grade red boys and girls basketball at Enid. Feb. 18 Freshmen English classes at Assembly Center, 11 a.m. Junior varsity and varsity basketball against Stillwater, 4 p.m. Ninth grade red boys and girls basketball at Enid. Varsity wrestling at Tulsa Union. Feb. 19 Ninth grade tournament continues in Enid. Varsity wrestling at Tulsa Union. School MenusElementary Breakfast Monday — Pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Tuesday — Biscuits and gravy or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk. Wednesday — No school. Thursday — Biscuits with egg and cheese or pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Friday — Pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Elementary Lunch Monday — Cheese stix with marinara sauce or ravioli with garlic bread, broccoli with cheese sauce, fruit, heart shaped cookies, crackers, dill spears, raisins or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Tuesday — Meat and cheese nachos or corn dogs, California vegetables, lettuce and tomato salad, fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears, raisins or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Wednesday — No school. Thursday — Hog dog or hot pocket, pinto beans, french fries, Jello, peaches, saltine crackers, dill spears, raisins or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Friday — Pretzel with cheese sauce or steakfingers with hot roll, fruit, mashed potatoes and gravy, cinnamon rolls, saltine crackers, dill spears, raisins or assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. West Middle School Breakfast Monday — French sticks with sausage or pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Tuesday — Egg and sausage biscuit or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk. Wednesday — No school. Thursday — Egg and cheese biscuit or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk. Friday — Breakfast burrito or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk. East Middle School Breakfast Monday — Breakfast burrito or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk. Tuesday — Pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Wednesday — No school. Thursday — Biscuits and sausage gravy, pop tart or cereal, assorted juices and milk. Friday — Cinnamon toast or cereal or pop tart, assorted juices and milk. West Middle School Lunch Available on Tuesday and Thursday at West Middle School is Subway. Monday — Cheese stix with marinara sauce, broccoli with cheese sauce, heart shaped cookies, lettuce and tomato salad, fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears, raisins or potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Tuesday — Corn dog, cheesy rice, corn, lettuce and tomato salad, fruit, saltine crackers, dill spears, raisins or pasta with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Wednesday — No school. Thursday — Hot pocket, tossed salad with ranch dressing, french fries, fruit, Jello, saltine crackers, dill spears, raisins or pasta with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Friday — Steakfingers with hot roll, mashed potatoes and gravy, lettuce and tomato salad, fruit, cinnamon rolls, saltine crackers, dill spears or potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. East Middle School Lunch Available at the Mid-High Monday through Friday are Domino’s and Subway. Monday — Cheese stix with marinara sauce, broccoli with cheese sauce, heart shaped cookies, lettuce and tomato salad, dill spears, saltine crackers, raisins or baked potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Tuesday — Meat and cheese nachos, chocolate pudding, cheesy rice, California vegetables, lettuce and tomato salad, dill spears, raisins or baked potatoes, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Wednesday — No school. Thursday — Hot dog, vegetarian beans, french fries, fruit, Jello, dill spears, raisins or baked potatoes, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. Friday — Steakfingers with hot roll, fruit, mashed potatoes and gravy, lettuce and tomato salad, dill spears or potato with fixings, assorted cold sandwiches, chef salad, cottage cheese salad or yogurt salad, juice and milk. High School Lunch Available every day at Campus Mart, the Training Table Deli offers a pasta bar, baked potato bar, lean items and fresh fruit. The Ala Carte Wildcat line offers Pizza Inn and Subway. The Retro Mart features a Mexican food, bakery/deli and Italian food courts. Po-Hi Campus Mart Monday — Chili dog, tator tots, broccoli with cheese sauce, cookies and cream, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. Tuesday — Pizza, corn, Jello, tossed salad, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. Wednesday — No school. Thursday — Indian taco, mexi beans, mexi rice, sour cream, salsa and jalapeno, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. Friday — Steakfinger with hot roll, mashed potatoes and gravy, mixed vegetables, seasonal fruit, juice and milk. McCord Elementary Breakfast Monday — Cereal, toast, juice and milk. Tuesday — Scrambled eggs, toast, juice and milk. Wednesday — No school. Thursday — Biscuits and gravy, juice and milk. Friday — Cinnamon rolls, juice and milk. Lunch Monday — Goulash, french bread, green beans, pears, cookie and milk. Tuesday — Chicken nuggets, potatoes and gravy, green peas, applesauce, hot roll and milk. Wednesday — No school. Thursday — Meat and cheese nachos, corn, mixed fruit, cinnamon rolls and milk. Friday — Hot turkey sandwich, potatoes and gravy, carrots, pineapple and milk. Pioneer Technology Center Tuesday — Spaghetti with meat sauce, fried chicken or liver and onions with soup, assorted salads, vegetables, breads and desserts. Wednesday — Chicken fried steak, chicken tortelini alfredo or crab cakes with soup, assorted salads, vegetables, breads and desserts. Thursday — Mexican casserole, greek grilled chicken or baked ham with soup, assorted salads, vegetables, breads and desserts. The cafeteria will be open to the public Tuesday through Thursday from 11:15 a.m. to noon. City CalendarItems for the City Calendar should be brought in or telephoned (765-3311) to Bob Patterson, at the Ponca City News, by Thursday noon. Anytime FOLOBS (Friends of Library Ongoing Book Sale), anytime the Ponca City Library is open, North of Multimedia Room (downstairs). Alcoholics Anonymous, Alano Group, Ponca City’s first established AA Group, meets at Noon and 8 p.m., seven days a week. All noon meetings open, all 8 p.m. meetings closed except Fridays, 603 South First Street. Sunday through Feb. 27 Ponca City Art Association Annual Membership Show, Art Center, 819 East Central, judge will be Judith A. Dwornik, Oklahoma City. Today Po-Hi Presents Bye, Bye Birdie, 2 p.m., Howell Auditorium, tickets at the door $5 adults, $4 students. Monday RSVP Valentine’s Day meeting, 11-30 a.m.-1 p.m., Conoco Clubhouse, members invited and asked to bring salad or vegetable dish, guest speaker Jerry Ridgway on Misuse of over-the-counter-drugs. Coffee with the Auditors, 4:30 p.m., Public Safety Center Commissioner’s Room, reception open to the public, city’s external auditors from Baird, Kurtz and Dobson on hand to answer questions on fiscal 1999 audit. Ponca City Board of Commissioners, 5:30 p.m., Public Safety Center, Commissioners’ Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue, Ponca City Utility Authority and Ponca City Development Authority follow. Tuesday Library Preschool Programs, We Are Best Friends, 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., storytimes for ages 4-7, Ponca City Library. Kaw Lake Association 2000 Board Meeting, noon, Golden Corral. Marland Estate Commission, 4:30 p.m., Program Room, Ponca City Library, 515 East Grand Avenue. Osage Cove Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., Fire Station, corner U.S. 60E and Keeler Road, new volunteers always welcome. DAV, 7 p.m., 401 South Lincoln Street. Wednesday Library Preschool Programs, We Are Best Friends, 10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., storytimes for ages 2-3, Ponca City Library. Ponca City Tourism Authority, 2 p.m., Cultural Center Sunroom, 1000 East Grand Avenue. Thursday Share lunch with Lou Dean, author of Osage County Kids, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Ponca City Library, Dean will discuss various aspects of authorship, bring a lunch, drinks provided. Ponca City Noon Ambucs, noon-1 p.m., Ponca City Country Club, interested in joining, come by. Park and Recreation Advisory Board, 5:30 p.m., Municipal Court Room, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Friday Traffic Commission, 1:15 p.m., Commissioners’ Room, Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Byron Berline Band, 7:30 p.m. at the Poncan Theatre, sponsored by the Ponca City Arts & Humanities Council. Free admission, no tickets necessary. Friday-Saturday Drama/Debate Department Speech Tournament, Ponca City High School, more information 767-9500, extension 132. February 20 Black History Month Program, 3:30 p.m., St. John Baptist Church, 1009 South Eleventh Street, presented by Ponca City Network Group and Essence Club. February 21 Ponca City Board of Commissioners Work Session, 2 p.m., Public Safety Center, Commissioners’ Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Multiple Sclerosis Support Group, 6:30 p.m., Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm Street, call Lori White, 767-1668 for more information. United Ostomy Association, Stillwater-Ponca City Chapter, 7 p.m., June Parsons, LPN, retired ostomy nurse, Baptist Hospital, Stillwater Medical Center Board Room. February 22 Library Preschool Programs, Snip, Snip Snow, 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., storytimes for ages 4-7, Ponca City Library. February 23 Library Preschool Programs, Snip, Snip Snow, 10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., storytimes for ages 2-3, Ponca City Library. Ponca City Public School Foundation, 12 noon at the Ponca City Library. February 24 Ponca City Noon Ambucs, noon-1 p.m., Ponca City Country Club, interested in joining, come by. Alzheimer’s Support Group, 7 p.m., Conference Room A (in cafeteria), St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. American Legion Huff-Minor Post 14, 7:30 p.m., Post Home, 407 West South Avenue, Ponca City. February 28 Ponca City Board of Commissioners, 5:30 p.m., Public Safety Center, Commissioners’ Room, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue, Ponca City Utility Authority and Ponca City Development Authority follow. March 2 Ponca City Noon Ambucs, noon-1 p.m., Ponca City Country Club, interested in joining, come by. Kay-9 Dog Training Club, 7 p.m., Ponca City Library, public welcome, information 762-9053 or 762-7360. March 4 American Legion pancake and sausage feed (all the pancakes you can eat), from 6:30 to 10 a.m., Post Home, 407 West South Avenue, Ponca City. Adults $3.50. Children under 12: $2. Children under 6: free. Proceeds will go to children and youth activities. Christian Motorcycle Association, 8 a.m., Western Sizzlin’. Humane Society Sock Hop, Dave May and Sound Machine providing music, 7:30-11:30 p.m., Unity Gym, refreshments available, $12 per person. March 8 Sage, Rosemary and Thyme Garden Club, 9:30 a.m., more information call 762-9866 or 718-0314. Rural Water, Sewer and Solid Waste Management District No. 3 Board Meeting, 7 p.m., District Pump House, Perch Lane, Sandy Park Estates. March 9 Agrarian Club, 6 p.m., southwest meeting room, Western Sizzlin’. American Legion Huff-Minor Post 14, 7:30 p.m., Post Home, 407 West South Avenue, Ponca City. March 14 State Primary Election, includes City Commission Election. AARP, 12:30 p.m., Wheatheart Nutrition Center. Kaw Lake Association 2000 Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Kay Electric, Blackwell. McCord Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., McCord School Library. March 15 Ponca City Public School Foundation, 12 noon at the Ponca City Library. Ponca City Tourism Authority, 2 p.m., Cultural Center Sunroom, 1000 East Grand Avenue. March 16 KLVV 88.7 FM presents FFH and special guest Aaron Benward in concert at Enid’s Mark Price Arena at 7 p.m. Tickets go on sale Feb. 9. Call 767-1400 for more information. March 21 Osage Cove Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., Fire Station, corner U.S. 60E and Keeler Road, new volunteers always welcome. DAV, 7 p.m., 401 South Lincoln Street. March 23 Alzheimer’s Support Group, 7 p.m., Conference Room A (in cafeteria), St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. March 31 Howard Hanger Jazz Fantasy, 7:30 p.m. at the Poncan Theatre, sponsored by the Ponca City Arts & Humanities Council. Free admission, no tickets necessary. April 1 American Legion pancake and sausage feed (all the pancakes you can eat), from 6:30 to 10 a.m., Post Home, 407 West South Avenue, Ponca City. Adults $3.50. Children under 12: $2. Children under 6: free. Proceeds will go to children and youth activities. April 6 Ponca City Noon Lions present the Plummer Family Country Music Show, 7:30 p.m. at Hutchins Memorial Auditorium, North Fifth and Overbrook. For tickets call 580-765-5676. DEATHSAlta Evelyn Grubb Alta Evelyn GrubbPAWNEE — Alta Evelyn Grubb, Pawnee resident, died Thursday, Feb. 10, 2000, at Stillwater. She was 97. Funeral services were held Saturday, Feb. 12, 2000, at 2 p.m. at First Christian Church in Pawnee with the Rev. Tom Scott officiating. Burial followed at the I.O.O.F. Cemetery under the direction of Poteet Funeral Home of Pawnee. Alta Evelyn Grubb was born Feb. 6, 1903, to Loyd B. Duff and Clara Rosetta (Burton) Duff, at Maramec, Okla. She graduated from Maramec High School and attended Oklahoma A&M College. She taught country school for several years. She married Mevlin F. Grubb on June 14, 1925, in Maramec. They lived in a number of places before returning to Pawnee several years ago. They enjoyed traveling and visited all 50 states plus Cuba. She was a member of the Pawnee First Christian Church, the Eastern Star and Rebekah Lodge. She enjoyed square dancing, playing cards and visiting with her friends. She is survived by her daughter, Melva June Barnes of Eugene, Oregon; one brother, Doyl Duff of Hutchinson, Kan.; four granddaughters; six great-grandchildren; and many other relatives. She was preceded in death by her husband on March 17, 1996, her parents, one son, Dwight Grubb; and brother, Cecil Duff. Jacob Lewis LentzPAWNEE — Jacob Lewis “Tom” Lentz, longtime Pawnee resident, died Thursday, Feb. 10, 2000, at his home in Pawnee. He was 92. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, Feb. 15, 2000, at 10:30 a.m. at the Poteet Funeral Home in Pawnee with the Rev. Tom Scott officiating. Burial will follow at the Highland Cemetery under the direction of Poteet Funeral Home of Pawnee. Jacob Lewis “Tom” Lentz, was born March 24, 1907, to Jacob Lewis Lentz Sr. and Minnie Ocho (Logan) Lentz in Woodland, Iowa. He married Secene Merriman on Oct. 14, 1942, in Pawnee. He served in World War II for three years and worked in the oil fields and farmed and ranched. He was a member of the First Christian Church. Survivors include his wife, Secene Lentz of the home; two sons, Tommy Lentz of Pasco, Wash. and Roger Lentz of Pawnee; six grandchildren; two great-grandsons; and three brothers, Logan Lentz of Ames, Ohio, Jim Lentz, Pasco, Wash., and John Lentz, Pahrump, Nev. He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Marvin Lasater; sister, Winnie Whitman; and one brother, Chet Lentz. Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice of Pawnee County, in care of Pawnee Municipal Hospital, P.O. Box 467, Pawnee, Okla. 74058. Marvin GilesBLACKWELL — Marvin Giles, Blackwell resident, died early Friday morning, Feb. 11, 2000, in the Hillcrest Manor Nursing Home in Blackwell. He was 91. Funeral services will be held Monday, Feb. 14, 2000, at 1 p.m. at Roberts Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Gale Izard, First United Methodist Church, officiating. Burial will follow in the Waco Cemetery in Waco, Kan., under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home of Blackwell. Marvin Giles was born on April 27, 1908, in Homestead, Fla., to Robert and Ada (Sweet) Giles. He grew up in the Homestead area and attended schools there. Following his schooling, he worked at various jobs in the area. In 1924, he moved to Hennessey, Okla., where he worked at a local cafe. He then began working for the Rock Island Railroad for two years before working for the Sante Fe Railroad where he worked for 35 years before his retirement as a machine operator. He married Lena Janzen on Oct. 27, 1978, in Haysville, Kan., and they settled in Blackwell. His hobby was raising numerous tomato plants each season. He also enjoyed years of dancing with many friends and playing with his grandchildren. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Blackwell. Survivors include his wife, Lena, of Blackwell; one daughter, Jeanette Bina of Lincolnville, Kan.; one step-daughter, Opal Janzen of Billings; and five grandchildren. He was receded in death by his parents; and two sons, Robert and Coy Giles. Casket bearers will be Byron Bina, Dustin Bina, Don Blimm, John Purdy, Gale Doyle and Jim Kranz. Memorial contributions may be made to the VFW Auxiliary or American Legion Auxiliary of Ponca City in care of Roberts and Son Funeral Home, 120 West Padon, Blackwell, Okla. 74631. NEWS BRIEFSMcCord Meeting — The annual meeting of McCord Rural Water District 3 will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday in the McCord School cafeteria. DAV District Meeting — Disabled American Veterans Chapter 56 will host the District 3 meeting of DAV in Lawton April 15. Speakers from various organizations as well as the second and third junior vice commanders of the Department of Oklahoma DAV are expected to attend with veterans update from Past Department Commander TJ Davis. Any questions concerning this or other veterans issues, contact the PR chairman at (888) 964-7698. Free Movie — Home National Bank Heritage Club members free movie will be Monday, Feb. 14. “Bicentennial Man,” starring Robin Williams, will be shown at the Ponca Plaza Twin Theatre at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. For more information contact Winnie Barber, director, 764-5543. Valentine Dinner — The students at Cornerstone Community Christian Academy will present a Valentine Dinner on Feb. 14. The dinner/theater will be held in the auditorium of Word of Life Christian Center church with dinner served at 7 p.m. The entertainment will be presented by the students of CCCA and special music guests. Tickets are $12 per individual or $20 per couple. Cookie Creation Contest — Sunday, Feb. 20 — a double contest, a baking/cooking contest for adults and a visual art contest for youth utilizing Girl Scout cookies — prizes awarded to winners. Entry forms available at the First United Methodist Church office, at the Girl Scout office, at Buy for Less and United Food Stores, at the Asbury United Methodist Church, the Presbyterian Church, Albright United Methodist Church, and St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. Po-Hi Science Club Fund Raiser — BBQ Dinner, Friday, Feb. 18, 2000 from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the Po-Hi Commons Area. A $5 ticket includes BBQ pork sandwich, potato salad, beans, dessert and drink. Preorders for delivery dinners taken until 3 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 17. Six dinner minimum for deliveries in Ponca City area only. To pre-order, call 767-9555 No. 1534 and leave contact name and home number, number of meals, delivery location and time. Special Program — Share lunch with Lou Dean at the Ponca city Library Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Author of Osage County Kids, Dean will discuss various aspects of authorship. Bring a lunch and join us. Drinks provided. Burglary in Progress — The Communications Center received a call at 8:36 a.m. Friday that a burglary was in progress in the 500 block of South First Street at a trailer on the south side of the business. An officer was assigned and a 39-year-old man was held for public intoxication and unlawful entry. Vandalism — The Ponca City Police Department received a report at 8:47 a.m. Friday that some windows had been broken out in the 1300 block of West Grand Avenue during the night. An extra patrol was requested. Vandalism — A man from the 1900 block of North Osage Street reported at 8:57 a.m. Friday that someone had knocked over the curbside mailbox during the night. Information was logged that a request was made for an extra patrol. Units Burglarized — A man from the 1400 block of West Highland Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department that apartment units in the area had been broken into. A report was taken on the burglaries. Accident — An accident at the intersection of North Ash Street and West Highland Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:45 a.m. Friday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Subject Held — an officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 300 block of North Seventh Street at 9:53 a.m. Friday that a 48-year-old woman was being held for possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a controlled and dangerous substance with intent to distribute and possession of marijuana. Theft — A man from the 600 block of South Ninth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 10:49 a.m. Friday that a dog had been stolen. Pickup Recovered — The Ponca City Police Department reported at 12:22 p.m. Friday that a pickup that had been reported stolen had been recovered behind a business in the 400 block of South Fourteenth Street. Accident — A two-vehicle accident in the 1300 block of East Prospect Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:03 p.m. Friday. Two officers were assigned and a report was taken. Theft — A man from the 600 block of West Hazel Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:09 p.m. Friday that a dog had been stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Items Missing — A man from the 300 block of South Ninth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:35 p.m. Friday that several items had been stolen from a shed. An officer was assigned and a grand larceny report was taken. Shoplifter — An employee at Wal-Mart reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:39 p.m. Friday that a woman was being held for shoplifting. An officer was assigned, a 19-year-old woman was held for petit larceny and a report was taken. Assault — The Ponca City Police Department received a request for assistance in the 800 block of West Ponca Avenue at 6:40 p.m. Friday. An officer was assigned and a report on an assault was taken. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of Birch Street and West Grand Avenue at 9:23 p.m. Friday that a 49-year-old man was being held for DUI, having no insurance and driving left of center. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 500 block of North Lake Street at 10:29 p.m. Friday that a 25-year-old man was being held for driving under suspension and a city warrant. Requests Assistance — A woman in the front lobby of the Public Safety Center requested assistance from the Ponca City Police Department at 10:57 p.m. Friday. An officer was assigned and information was logged that the officer activated the SANE activity for a sexual assault victim at 11:37 p.m. Assaulted — The Ponca City Police Department received a report at 11:23 p.m. Friday from the 2000 block of North Fourth Street that a man at the residence had apparently been assaulted. An ambulance from the Ponca City Fire Department responded to the scene and took the victim to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center for treatment. A report was taken. Fire — All stations of the Ponca City Fire Department sent units to the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center at 11:25 p.m. Friday as a result of a fire alarm. There was no fire, and information was logged that the problem was a security panic alarm. Subjects Held — A clerk from a business in the 1600 block of West South Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department Saturday that four juvenile males had taken beer and ran to the 500 block of South Lincoln Street. An officer was assigned and two 16-year-old boys were taken into custody for petit larceny and minors in possession of beer. A report was taken. Vandalism — A man reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 12:32 a.m. Saturday that while at North Fifth Street and East Cleveland Avenue that a group of males broke the window out of his vehicle while it was parked there. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Subjects Held — Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of South Pine Street and West Central Avenue at 12:53 a.m. Saturday that a 34-year-old man was being held for DUI, following too close, having no driver’s license, having no insurance and a 23-year-old man was held for public intoxication. A vehicle was towed from the scene. Another driver of another vehicle was taken to the police department, interrogated and then taken home. Theft — A clerk at Citgo, 320 West Grand Avenue, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:03 a.m. Saturday that a man had taken two 30-packs of beer without paying and left south bound on South Oak Street. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Vandalism — The Ponca City Police Department received a report at 3:29 a.m. Saturday that subjects were in a parking lot of the 2500 block of Industrial Boulevard messing with vehicles. An officer was assigned and a report was taken that a radio had been taken from a vehicle. Subjects Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 2100 block of Jane Street at 3:55 a.m. Saturday that a 27-year-old woman was being held for DUI and a 33-year-old man was being held on a city warrant. Burglary — The Ponca City Police Department received a report at 6:18 a.m. Saturday that a stereo was missing and a cellular phone from a vehicle in the 2500 block of Industrial Road. Burglary — A woman from the 1100 block of East Prospect Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 6:53 a.m. Saturday that a vehicle had been broken into and an attempt had been made to steal the stereo. A report was taken. LIFESTYLESNothing Can Be Too Sweet or Too Fancy For Your Valentine Nothing Can Be Too Sweet or Too Fancy For Your ValentineBy LOUISE ABERCROMBIE News Staff Writer Valentine’s Day is a day for girl and boy friends, lovers and would be lovers and yes, husbands and wives. Fancy cards, beautiful roses and chocolate candy are the traditional gifts. But there are other gifts out there that say “you are special.” A gift from a fellow nearly five decades ago has made a lasting impression on one couple’s relationship. The gift was a gold oblong purse size compact music box. When opened the compact plays “Let Me Call You Sweetheart.” For this couple the flowers and candy routine phases have long gone, but the tradition of funny valentines has weathered the test of nearly half a century. The art of courtship for a permanent relationship quite frequently hinges on humor. Dining out takes the place of flowers and candy. Especially nice is that first Valentine of grade school that has a special meaning, not the typical Valentines that are passed around to all classmates; but the one that has special meaning for that fourth grade girl, who knows somehow that it is from her favorite boy friend, and the whole class knows it too. Favorites of the younger set are those tiny heart- shaped message mints. Red heart- shaped suckers are also popular. Naturally there are small white bears with red hearts touting “Be My Valentine.” Leap Year Valentines are mainly for the women folk, who also love to give gifts to their best beaus. The favorites for gals to give guys are boxer shorts with hearts, and after shave lotion the ladies like to smell. And chocolates aren’t just for females anymore. Upscale chocolates such as Godiva are always welcome. And naturally the ladies like parfum [French for perfume]. Popular perfumes this year are White Diamonds, Obsession and Joy. Presents for the guys are most often accompanied with an expressive card vowing love and affection for sweethearts. Cookies and cakes baked in heart shapes or a special home cooked meal, served by candlelight, is another treat for the man in their lives. And remember that the year 2000 is leap year, an event that only occurs every four years. And that means it is perfectly all right for a gal to ask a guy out for dining and an evening at the theatre. Naturally she needs to pick up the check — and pay it too. Another lady dreams of going to Paris — the city of romance, going to the opera, visiting the gardens and museums. Another woman would like a book of romantic poems. A favorite Valentine for one lady was a surprise trip to Corpus Christi, Texas, where the hotel room was appointed with flowers, candy and champagne. One female said that her favorite gift was jewelry because flowers die and chocolate is too fattening. Of course one could press the flowers, and one theory is that if chocolate melts, the fat does too. So try melting the candy and drinking it. A favorite Valentine’s day for one lady was a dozen roses and a diamond and heart shaped necklace from the man in her life. Distance can apparently be covered in a short time with bouquets that are wired. A wife and mother-to-be at home while the husband worked thousands of miles away was surprised with flowers. For fellows who can’t think of anything original they might try having a female relative find out what the love of his life likes and buy their sweetie the suggested lingerie or scented oils. Another act of love could be giving a gift certificate for a glamour photo. And massage gift certificates are also a popular item. Don’t forget the “I Love You” balloons, these tell everyone you love someone. A Valentine to remember that eventually led to courtship and marriage, was when a certain fellow came back from military service and delivered a large red heart- shaped box of candy in person to the object of his affections. Valentine Cake Special Any Day of the YearLooking for a sweet way to say I love you this Valentines Day? Try Patricia Rutherfords heartfelt Strawberry Heart Cake. A great country cook frorn Winchester, Ill., Pat makes this special treat every year for her granddaughter, who was born on Valentine’s Day. Shared by the editors of Taste Home magazine, this delightful dessert is convenient too, since it starts with a boxed mix. STRAWBERRY HEART CAKE 1 package (18 1/4 ounces) white cake mix 1 package (3 ounces) strawberry gelatin 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1/3 cup vegetable oil 4 eggs 1 package (10 ounces) frozen sweetened strawberries, thawed 1/2 cup cold water 1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened 5 to 5 1/2 cups confectioners sugar Red-hot candies, optional In a mixing bowl, combine cake mix, gelatin and flour. Beat in oil and eggs. Drain strawberries, reserving 1/2 cup syrup for frosting. Add berries and water to batter; mix well. Divide batter between two waxed paper-lined 8-inch baking pans, one square and one round. Bake at 350 for 30-35 minutes (square) and 35-40 minutes (round) or until cake tests done. Cool for 10 minutes; remove from pans to wire racks to cool completely. In a small mixing bowl, combine butter and reserved syrup. Gradually add sugar; beat until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Place square cake diagonally on a 20-inch x 15-inch covered board. Cut round cake in half. Frost cut sides; place frosted sides against the top two sides of square cake, forming a heart. Frost sides and top of cake. Decorate with red-hots if desired. Yield: 12-16 servings. Award Winning Artwork On Display LocallyLocal artists and members of the Ponca City Art Association are displaying their art work at the Art Center, 819 East Central. Seventy-five works of art were entered in the association’s membership show and will be displayed through Sunday, Feb. 27. A spokesman for the association remarked on the quality of the entrees, expressing that the community should visit the Art Center and see the talent that lies within our community of local artists. The show was adjudicated by Judith A. Dwornik, a well-known Oklahoma artist, at the judging Sunday, Feb. 6. Dwornik has had extensive training in painting, framing and selling art and operated “By Judith Galleri” in Tulsa for 13 years before moving to Oklahoma City. Best of Show was won by Favona Sussman for her “Yawning Tiger.” Mary Oberlender won the category of student of oil/acrylic for her “Monument Valley Sunset.” In the advanced class of the category of oil/acrylic, Betty Jones took first place with her “Tea Time”; second place went to Dee Enevoldsen for “Mother’s Lilacs”; third place was won by Fay Johnson for “Tranquility”; and Mary Ann Avery won an honorable mention for “The Warmth of Red Roses.” In the professional oil/acrylic category, Cathy Shupe captured first place with “Cat’s Meow”; Shirley Petersen won second with “Holly Hocks”; “Yawning Tiger” by Favona Sussman took third; and “Boarding House Blues” by Sonja Wyler received an honorable mention. “Mountain Valley Meadow” by Elaine Armstrong won first place in the professional watercolor category while “Three Pots of Pansies” by Ruth Loucks won second. Elaine Armstrong also took both third place and honorable mention for “Josef’s Pottery” and “Shadows on the Wall,” respectively. Phyllis Fox Meredith’s “Empty Saddle” took first place in the professional graphics category, and L. Kent Rous’ “A Lady at Prayer” took second place. “Shelter from Storm” by Margaret Yates won third while “Rock Fragment” by Cindy Rasche received an honorable mention. Teresa Doerksen won first in the student pottery/sculpture category for “Candle Box.” In the professional pottery/sculpture category, Anna Adams won first place with “Turtle Story Teller,” and Sam Johnson won second with “Otoe.” The Ponca City Art Center is open from 1 to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. The membership exhibition can been seen through Feb. 27. For additional information, call the Art Center at 765-9746. Katy Nickles to Wed James Nash Walters IVMr. and Mrs. R. Clark Nickles of Ponca City have announced the engagement and approaching marriage of their daughter, Kathleen Diane, to James Nash Walters IV, son of Mr. and Mrs. James Nash Walters III of Berea, Ohio. The May wedding will be held in the gardens of the Marland Estate. Grandparents of the bride-elect are Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth English of Guthrie, and Mrs. R.C. Nickles of Ponca City. Great-grandmother of the bride-to-be is Mrs. C.A. Nickles of Minnetonka, Minn. Grandparents of the prospective bridegroom are Mrs. Tadeusz Ostoja Steblecki of Berea, and Mr. and Mrs. James N. Walters Jr. of Port Charlotte, Fla. The bride-to-be is a 1990 graduate of Ponca City High School, and a 1994 graduate of Oklahoma State University. She is currently employed with Enterprise Car Sales, a division of Enterprise Rent-A-Car in Cleveland, Ohio. The future bridegroom is a 1990 graduate of Berea High School, holds a bachelor of arts degree from Bowling Green State University, a master’s degree from the University of Akron, and is presently a doctoral candidate in Public Policy at Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, where he serves on the board of trustees. He is also a teaching fellow at Kent State University and works as a public relations and policy consultant. Couple Plans July WeddingA July 7 wedding is being planned by Darci Jo Binford and Derrick Lee Myers. The announcement of their engagement is being made by her parents, Dwane and Debbie Binford of Geuda Springs, Kan. Myers is the son of Mike and Barbara Myers of Tarboro, N.C. Miss Binford graduated as valedictorian from the Arkansas City Christian Academy. She is also a graduate of Cowley County Community College and is presently employed as a computer technician at Sykes. Myers is a graduate of Northern Oklahoma College and is currently attending Oklahoma State University, where he is majoring in management information systems. He is employed as a computer technician at Sykes. Pair To Celebrate 25 YearsMr. and Mrs. Rickey Alley, 2425 South T Street, will observe their 25th wedding anniversary on Feb. 14. Alley and the former Earla Sue Byler were married on that date in 1975 at Prairie Chapel United Methodist Church. They made their first home in Dallas, Texas, before moving to the rural area between Ponca City and Blackwell in 1979. Their children are Daniel Alley, Shawn Alley, and Jesse Alley, all of Ponca City. 55 and Older Club Planning LuncheonThe 55 and Older Club will have a luncheon at 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 15, at 700 West Broadway. Those attending are asked to bring a favorite dish. The club will provide utensils. The afternoon will be spent playing games. Those attending are asked to bring a favorite Valentine from someone to share. The club is open Tuesday and Thursday from 12:30 until 4 p.m. Local DAR Chapter To Hear Program About WashingtonPonca City Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, will meet on Friday, Feb. 18, 12:45 p.m., at the Cultural Center. Donna Lamb, regent of the DAR Enid Chapter, will present a program entitled, “George Washington — What You May Not Know About Him.” In addition to serving as regent of the Enid Chapter of DAR, Mrs. Lamb has served as Frontier District director and is currently the state marshal for the state society. Student winners of the Citizenship History Essay contest will also be honored at the meeting. Donna Humble will present the awards. Mary F. Duffe, DAR state regent, will also attend the meeting. Mrs. Duffe will speak briefly about her duties as state regent. Hostess chairman is Elaine Fulton, assisted by committee members Paula Denson, Susan Hill, Raymona LeBaron, Verna Frazier and Peggy Brenneman. TOPS Chapter Members MeetTOPS OK Chapter 308 met Monday. Ann McCool was in charge of the meeting, and Robinelle Oldham gave the devotional “Struggles.” Mary Bryant led the TOPS Pledge, and Robert Oldham led in the KOPS Kreed. Natalie McCoy called the roll, and Betty Flower gave the weight report. Elaine Hoober was the best loser and also won the Ha Ha pot. Wanda Headrick was the January “angel.” She was awarded a certificate as first place winner in division one. Ruth Ann Lenz was the first place winner in division three. Kathleen Andrews was welcomed as a new member of the group. Forbidden food for the week is chips. Pat Meller gave the program “How To Keep a Journal.” Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a non-profit organization whose members desire to lose or maintain weight. Members are encouraged to develop individual exercise programs, and contests are used to encourage weight loss. Weigh-in time is 6-6:45 p.m. Monday. For more information contact Betty Flower, 765-5448, or Delpha Clemens, 762-2844. PCHS 1943, 1944, 1945 Graduates Plan ReunionThe Ponca City High School graduating classes of 1943, 1944, and 1945 will have a reunion planning meeting Feb. 14 at 7 p.m. in the program room of the Ponca City Library. All classmates are urged to attend. The reunion is slated June 2,3 and 4. For more information contact Bruce Davis, 765-9870, or Pauline Deffner Miles, 762-5866. Singles Network Plans Several Social EventsThe Singles Network, organized in 1982, has announced a calendar of events planned this month. Adults of any age who are divorced, widowed, or never married, are invited to participate and meet other singles. Activities for the week of Feb. 13-19 include the following: Feb. 13, 5 p.m., Valentine potluck dinner at Shery’s, call 762-1987. Feb. 15, 7-9 p.m., coffee, cake and conversation at Jan’s; call 765-3603 if you are planning to attend. Feb. 17, 7 p.m., monthly card party at Phil’s; bring snacks to share. Feb. 18, the group will meet at the parking lot of the First Presbyterian Church at 5 p.m. and travel to Stillwater for a birthday dinner at the Stillwater Bay. Little NewsAlan and Marlene (Pruitt) Amis announce the birth of a son, Corbett Drew, on Jan. 12, 2000, in Plano, Texas. The baby weighed 9 pounds, 5 ounces, and was 20 1/4 inches long. Corbett has a sister, Monica Lauren. Grandparents are Paul and Margaret Amis of Jacksonville, Ark., and Bill and Patty Pruitt of Ponca City. Great-grandfathers are Jesse Amis of Camden, Ark., and Ralph Pruitt of Ponca City. ———— Derek and Brandi Wright, 1405 Starshadow, Dallas, Texas, have announced the birth of a son at 3:30 p.m. Feb. 5, 2000. Chas LaSalle Collins Wright weighed 8 pounds, 9 ounces, and measured 21 3/4 inches long. Maternal grandparents are Eileen and John Floyd of Canadian, Texas, and Bill and Doris Collins of Tahoka, Texas. Paternal grandparents are Julius and Michelle Wright of Ponca City. Great-grandparents are Harold and Iris Fawcett of Ponca City, and Jess and Berneice Wright of Wichita, Kan. Area Women Invited To Attend PCCWC Lunch at Country ClubAll area women are invited to come to the “Designed for You” luncheon on Feb. 16, 12: 30 to 1:30 p.m. at the Ponca City Country Club. Sponsored by the Ponca City Christian Women's Club, the cost is $8.50. Calling Jeanette at 765-8427 may make reservations for the luncheon and complementary child care. It is necessary for reservations to be honored, canceled or used by a friend. “Delightful Designs” special feature will be Keely Stuever from Sealed With A Kiss, Inc. in Guthrie, who will be sharing some of her designs as well as models of other garments and accessories from her shop. Sherry and Kelly Stuever, a mother-daughter team, founded Sealed With A Kiss, Inc. in 1993. For the past seven years, SWAK has brought the knitting world over 140 unique and innovative intarsia designs for adults and children. Featuring theme sweaters for most any holiday, profession or interest and designs for all 50 U.S. states, Canadian provinces and several countries, SWAK has set the standard for quality knitting patterns. SWAK started as a small mail-order company and has now grown so that their patterns and knits are available in fine yarn shops throughout the U.S. and Canada. In 1997, the Sealed With A Kiss studio and SWAK KNITS yarn shop opened its doors in Guthrie. The intricacy of SWAK’s designs brought about the need to provide customers more extensive information on the intarsia knitting technique used in their designs. In 1998, SWAK’s first book was published, entitled “Intarsia: A Workshop for Hand & Machine Knitting,” which is the most extensive source of information available on intarsia knitting, featuring many techniques that were developed by the Sealed With A Kiss studio. SWAK is now recognized in the knitting industry as the foremost authority on the intarsia knitting technique. The SWAK KNITS yarn shop is the largest source of knitting and crochet yarns and supplies available in central Oklahoma. It has been featured in the Edmond Sun and Oklahoma Today magazine. The Edmond Sun article was featured in newspapers throughout the state of Oklahoma and many communities across the United States. Born in Lawton, Keely graduated from Edmond High School with honors. A magna cum laude graduate from University of Central Oklahoma in accounting, she was recognized as the outstanding freshman woman student in 1987 for achieving the highest grade point average among all full-time women students. She became a certified public accountant in 1993. Owner and designer for Sealed With A Kiss, Inc., Keely is knitting instructor at venues throughout the US and Canada. She lists as her hobbles and interests — knitting. “Design in Song” special music will be brought by Laurie Graham. Born at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, Kan., she is a Ponca City High School graduate. Laurie and her husband Jay, an electrician at Conoco, have two daughters, Jacev 13 and Micah 6. She sings for civic organizations and church activities. One interesting vocal opportunity includes singing for a convenience store opening. Her hobbles are listening to southern gospel music, reading and working with children’s musical ministries. Annette Williams, owner and piano teacher at the Sounds of Music Studio, will do background music. “Special Designs for Living” will be the theme of speaker Mini Jane Johnston from Stonecroft Ministries as she shares patterns for life. An internationally known seminar leader and speaker, Mini Jane attended Northwestern College in St. Paul, Minn. She was a Wisconsin speech finalist and has spoken at numerous women’s conferences, clubs, and youth seminars. She also spoke at Amsterdam ‘83 in Holland and has attended the Presidential Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C. Mini Jane is the author of the beautifully illustrated book “IDENTITY.” Sherrills Observe AnniversaryMr. and Mrs. Gerald Wayne Sherrill Sr., 308 North Olympia, will celebrate their 55th wedding anniversary Feb. 14. Sherrill and the former Betty Joyce Kester were married on that date in 1945 in Jennings. They made their first home in McAlester. Mr. Sherrill began employment with Conoco in 1948, retiring in 1983. The couple is affiliated with Sunset Baptist Church. Their family includes a son, Gerald Wayne Sherrill Jr., and his wife, Nancy, of Ponca City; a son, Robert Sherrill, and his wife, Christie, of Oklahoma City; a daughter, Teresa Sherrill of Irving, Texas; and a grandson, Randy Sherrill of Ponca City. Bennett Chapel Is Setting For Goss-Bryant WeddingAmmie Goss became the bride of Jefferson Bryant in a 6 p.m. ceremony Jan. 29, 2000, at Bennett Chapel on the campus of Oklahoma State University in Stillwater. Their double-ring vows were officiated by the Rev. Hap Prough. The bride is the daughter of Katherine Goss of Ponca City, and Mr. and Mrs. David Goss of Perry. The bridegroom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. George Bryant of Warr Acres. Grandparents of the couple are Mr. and Mrs. George Brown of Ponca City, C.C. Goss of Perry, and Ms. Lois Bryant of Claremore. Shane Kimbrell of Marland, nephew of the bride, was the candlelighter. Attending the guest book were Karissa Golay of Perry, cousin of the bride, and Samantha Bryant of Warr Acres, sister of the bridegroom. MacKenzie Bryant of Warr Acres, sister of the bridegroom, was the flowergirl and Jacob Kimbrell of Wichita, Kan., nephew of the bride, was the ringbearer. Matrons of Honor were Pascha Franklin of Stillwater, sister of the bridegroom, and Ronna Kimbrell of Wichita, Kan., sister-in-law of the bride. Best Men were Jacob Morriss of Oklahoma City and Chris Franklin of Stillwater, brother-in-law of the bridegroom. Guests were seated by Rick Kimbrell of Wichita, Kan., brother of the bride; Chris Martin of Ponca City, cousin of the bride; and Shane Kimbrell of Marland, nephew of the bride. Assisting with the reception at the French Suite of the OSU Student Union were Laurie Gates and Carrie Jo Stephens. The newlywed couple resides in Stillwater. The bride is employed at the Pioneer Woman Museum in Ponca City, and the bridegroom is employed at Cartune's in Stillwater. Crystal Lampe, Mike Hein Wed in Eureka Springs, Ark.“The Gardener’s Cottage” chapel at the Rock Cottage Gardens Bed and Breakfast Inn in Eureka Springs, Ark. was the setting for the Jan. 8, 2000, noon wedding of Crystal DeAun Lampe and Michael John Hein. A reception in honor of the couple will be held at 7 p.m. Feb. 18 at the VFW building on East Prospect. All friends and family of the couple are invited to attend the event. The bride is the daughter of Don and Mary Lampe of Burbank, and the bridegroom is the son of Becky White of Ralston, Joe Hein of Ponca City, and the late Bob White. Grandparents of the couple are Katie Ford of Ponca City, Wilma and Mel Harker of Shell Knob, Mo., Geraldine Forbes of Ralston, and Glenda and Clarence Hein of Ponca City. The bride, a graduate of Ponca City High School and medical technology at Pioneer Technology Center, is a dental assistant for Dr. Paul Walker. Hein, a graduate of Fairfax High School, is employed for Merz brothers in Newkirk. County Retired Teachers To MeetThe Kay County Retired Educators Association will meet on Monday, Feb. 14, at the Presbyterian Church fellowship hall in Ponca City. The meeting will begin with a luncheon at 11:30 a.m. Entertainment will be provided by the Madrigal Singers from Northern Oklahoma College. They will perform under the direction of Rick Edgington of the Fine Arts Division faculty. According to association president, Bill Heilmann, this will be one of the most important meetings of the year since an election of officers for the next year is scheduled. “I urge all education retirees, professional or support staff, to come join us Monday,” Heilmann said. Bits and PiecesChapter FCChapter FC of PEO will meet at 1 p.m. Feb. 16 at the Cann Garden Center with Susan Nickles as hostess. Pearl Farris and Ann Slief will be co-hostesses. Norma Erner will present the program “P.E.O. Constitution.” An update will be given on the International Peace Scholarship fund by Wanda Baumert. Chapter ELChapter EL of PEO will meet at noon Feb. 16 for a dutch lunch at Personalities Restaurant at Pioneer Technology Center. Flo O’Connor and Janelle Eichor will serve as co-hostesses. Kenn Wessel will present the program “Life in the Year 1000.” Leadership ConferencePam Wilburn of Ponca City was among hundreds of BeautiControl consultants attending a recent leadership conference in Dallas, Texas. BeautiControl is a direct sales company for skin care, cosmetics, image and health. Lookin’ With Louby Louise Abercrombie Where Have All the Ice Picks Gone?Have you tried to buy an ice pick lately? Does anybody out there know what an ice pick is? For the younger set, it is not a frozen candy stick or a joy stick for computer games. Ice picks were in vogue during the years when ice was sold in 20- to 50-pound blocks for a kitchen appliance called, strangely enough, “ice box.” This was before refrigerator was a household word. There are some modern day applications for an ice pick. It is a useful tool when the teeth of the paper shredder needs ungumming. Or you could also pick your dentures with it. Have you tried to buy a shoehorn lately? No, youngsters, it is not a musical instrument played barefooted. Have you tried to buy a moustache cup at the corner drugstore? Worse part is trying to explain to the clerk what you want — try drawing a picture and it gets worse. Have you tried to buy Gramma’s Lye Soap? There are all kinds of sweet smelling soaps in various colors on the market. These sweeties, however, don’t know much about fighting grime. However, not a bar of the lye soap is to be found. Course, these days it wouldn’t pass the food and drug administration specifications anyway, but it sure was good to be able to cure everything from hearing problems to head lice. Bits and Pieces For those of you who have needed to buy caulking for covering nail holes before painting boards - here is a helpful hint. Before jumping in the car and driving to the discount store, try filling the holes with toothpaste. Yep, that’s what the “Farmer’s Almanac” advises. Pretty scary, huh? Think what the paste does if you don’t get it all brushed off your teeth. Then again, it might fill the cavities cheaper than the dentist. A bad dental experience happened to me one time when I was eating. I bit on what felt like a hard nut or a rock. So I spit it out and threw it to the garbage disposal. First thing I knew, my tongue found a post where my crown had been. I scrambled to the disposal and retrieved my phony tooth. Deciding this needed more than super glue, I opted to contact my friendly dentist to do the resticking. Speaking of the “Almanac,” why is it that this publication can predict the weather over a year in advance and be more accurate than television weather forecasters the day before? Prediction, according to the “Almanac,” for February says “above normal temperatures and below normal precipitation.” Pretty conclusive don’t you think? Don’t throw your woolies and long underwear away because here is another advance weather prediction. The Almanac’s meteorologist predicts a period of global warming, followed by global cooling — perhaps another ice age. And for the fishing crowd — looks like fishing is good today through the 16th and becomes great the 17th to 21st. Medical MinutesDon’t Take Chances With An Irregular HeartbeatBy Dr. Pavel Riha Maintaining a normal heartbeat billions of times is a real feat. The heart is not a Swiss watch, but a complex biologic system that suffers from occasional hiccups. The heart is powered by an electrical impulse generated by a cluster of cells that makes the heart’s four chambers to pump, each at the proper time. The heart works in an endless contract-relax/contract-relax cycle. An average heart beats 100,000 times a day, pumping some 2,000 gallons of blood through its chambers to the rest of the body and then back to the heart. Over a 70-year life span, that adds up to more than 2.5 billion heartbeats. Like an engine, the heart occasionally misfires and causes symptoms of palpitations, which, in otherwise healthy heart, are quite harmless. Cardiac ArrhythmiaBut many forms of heart disease can seriously interrupt the normal contract-relax cycle and cause abnormally fast or unusually slow heart rates. Called cardiac arrhythmias, these conditions make the heart pump less effectively, so that not enough blood reaches the brain and other vital organs. When the body’s blood flow is inadequate, the person can faint or suffer chest pain. Some arrhythmias can be very dangerous and even cause sudden cardiac death. It is of utmost importance to separate the non-life-threatening from the potentially lethal arrhythmias quickly. Recognized properly, most arrhythmias are treatable. Understanding of cardiac arrhythmias is in a constant evolution and a relative novice in the specialty of cardiology. Resuscitation from cardiac arrest was almost unheard of before the 1960s, when cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and external defibrillation started to become tools that could be used almost anywhere. The prevention of sudden cardiac death due to lethal arrhythmia has become a reality. The key to success, however, is recognition of high risk patients and initiation of treatment before the first life-threatening event. But not all arrhythmias are dangerous. Types of ArrhythmiasPremature beats. The most common arrhythmia, premature beats — which affect virtually everybody at some point — are benign and are often described as "flip-flops, palpitations or skips.” Caffeine and stress may increase the occurrence of premature beats. Atrial fibrillation. Three to five percent of Americans have atrial fibrillation, making it the most common type of problematic cardiac arrhythmia. Atrial fibrillation is found most often in people over 65. An electrical disturbance in the two upper chambers of the heart (atria) makes them to quiver rather than pump correctly. Although not life-threatening, atrial fibrillation can cause a debilitating stroke — a potentially preventable complication. BradycardiaA slowed heartbeat, or bradycardia, causes a person to feel fatigued, dizzy, and lightheaded and may trigger fainting spells. Those patients can be helped with the proper type of a pacemaker. Tachycardia. Rapid heartbeat, or tachycardia, can also cause inefficient blood circulation. During an episode of tachycardia, a person may feel heart racing, dizziness, lightheadedness and may faint. Ventricular arrhythmias. The most severe and life-threatening arrhythmias affect the beating of the main pumping chambers of the heart (ventricles). Ventricular tachycardia is a rapid dangerous arrhythmia. Ventricular fibrillation occurs when the ventricles go completely out of control, quivering and beating ineffectively, stopping the pumping action. If a more normal rhythm is not restored promptly — within three to five minutes — the patient will suffer brain and heart damage and die. Treatment OptionsMany options are available in the treatment of arrhythmias. Some patients may require medications such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers or blood thinners only. Others will require more extensive electrophysiological testing to determine the cause of the electrical problem and proceed with the appropriate treatment. Implantable defibrillators (ICDs) are nowadays preventing sudden cardiac death and are saving thousands of lives. Radiofrequency ablation (a catheter based procedure) can cure many arrhythmias. Pacemakers may be a treatment for others. Only a proper medical evaluation will tell you what kind of arrhythmias you have, and what is the most appropriate treatment of your condition. Wheatheart NutritionFor Wheatheart Nutrition Menu information call 767-1620. Volunteers are needed to deliver noon meals to the elderly homebound. Menus for this week are as follows: Monday, Feb. 14: Meatloaf with Creole sauce; seasoned green beans; mashed potatoes with gravy; whole wheat roll with margarine; chilled peaches. Tuesday, Feb. 15: Chicken enchilada casserole; beans; tossed salad with dressing; Mexican cornbread with margarine; sherbet. Wednesday, Feb. 16: Ham salad; vegetable beef soup; cabbage slaw; crackers; apple crisp. Thursday, Feb. 17: Chicken fried steak with gravy; mashed potatoes; buttered peas and carrots; biscuits with margarine; pineapple upsidedown cake. Friday, Feb. 18: Sliced ham; sweet potatoes or yam patties; buttered broccoli; muffin with margarine; pudding with whipped topping. Ponca City HappeningsSunday Marland Estate Mansion, 901 Monument Road, open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Guided tours Monday-Friday, 1:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 1:30 and 3 p.m. Special tour information, 767-0420. ———— Pioneer Woman Museum, open Tuesday-Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. The museum is closed on Mondays and holidays. ———— Ponca City Art Center, 819 East Central. Wednesday through Sunday, 1-5 p.m. ———— Ponca City Cultural Center and Museum, 10th and Grand. Home of Ponca City Indian Museum, Bryant Baker Studio, 101 Ranch Museum and DAR Museum. Available for receptions, teas, bridge parties, etc. Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday 1-5 p.m. 767-0427. ———— Ponca City Tourism Office, 10th and Grand. Information about all tourist attractions and events in Ponca City and the surrounding area. Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. 763-8067. ———— 11th Step AA meeting — open, 11 a.m.; AA Discussion meeting, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third. ———— AA Alano Group — 8 p.m., closed topic meeting: 603 South 1st. Monday Al-Anon meeting, 8-9 p.m. Monday, upstairs in the Harmony House, 212 South Third. ———— Domestic Violence Group, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Mondays. Programs for women and children of family violence. Babysitter provided. For information call 76A-BUSE. ———— Fibromyalgia Support Group meets on the fourth Monday of each month at 7 p.m. in the parlor of the First Baptist Church. More information may be obtained by calling Betty Wilson, 762-3768; Mary Beth Guy, 765-9894; Martha Long, 762-5572. ———— Multiple Sclerosis Support Group meets the third Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm. Call Beth Wright, 765-6738, for additional information. ———— Ponca City Rotary Club, noon Monday, American Legion. ———— Simple Steps AA — closed, noon; AA Step Study — closed, 8 p.m.; Harmony House, 212 South Third. ———— AA Alano Group — Noon, discussion; 603 South 1st. ———— TOPS OK 308 members weigh-in time is 6 to 6:45 p.m. with meetings starting at 6:45 p.m. on Mondays. For information call Betty Flower at 765-5448. ———— Principles Before Personalities, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Monday, Harmony House basement (use south entrance by parking lot). ———— Pioneer Area Quilter’s Guild meets the first Monday of each month at Community Christian Church on West Grand. Business meeting begins at 12:30 p.m. There will not be a meeting in July. Tuesday The American Family Support Group will meet 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays at 1105 West Highland. The topic will be Child Welfare Services and child abuse. ———— Kay County Wheatheart Sweet Adelines, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Performing Arts building (south entrance) Northern Oklahoma College, Tonkawa. All women welcome. For information call 765-6829, 363-1643 or 762-2885. ———— Kiwanis Club, noon Tuesday, Marland Mansion Conference Center. ———— New-Found Freedom Co-dependents Anonymous, 8 p.m., Tuesday, Harmony House (upstairs library). ———— AA Discussion meeting at noon; AA Big Book Study — closed, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third. ———— AA Alano Group — Noon, Big Book; 8 p.m., closed, Step Studies with first Tuesday for Traditions; 603 South 1st. ———— Freedom Group of AA; Tuesdays at 8 p.m. Woodlands Christian Church (Room 202), Fourteenth and Hartford. Smoke-free meeting and building. We study and practice tradition. Study Discussion of “As Bill Sees It” and other AA approved literature. For more information, call John at 762-3345 or Chuck at 718-9253. ———— Parent Support Group, 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesday at Northern Oklahoma Youth Services Center. Focus on parental concerns and frustrations, as well as ways to increase understanding and communications between parent and child. Support, education, coping techniques, and introduction to nonpunitive parenting styles. ———— Preschool storytime for 4-, 5-and 6-year-olds, 10 and 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays at the Ponca City Library. ———— Ponca Prairie Pleaters meet the first Tuesday evening of each month with the exception of the summer months. For more information call Cheryl, 762-9618. ———— The Pioneer Water Garden Society meets the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Cann Garden. Those interested in water gardens are welcome to attend. For more information call Marsh, 765-8249, or Ray, 762-7806. ———— Weight Watchers meeting, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. Weigh-in begins at 6 p.m. ———— Fanchon Chapter 53, Order of the Eastern Star, meets the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Masonic Temple, 1200 West Grand. ———— Free pregnancy test is kept confidential at Birth Choice, 700 West Broadway, Hours are 6-8 p.m. Tuesday; 1-3 p.m. Wednesday; 6-8 p.m. Thursday. Call 765-9689. ———— The 55 and Older Club will have a luncheon at 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 15, at 700 West Broadway. Those attending are asked to bring a favorite dish. The club will provide utensils.The afternoon will be spent playing games. Those attending are asked to bring a favorite Valentine from someone to share. The club is open Tuesday and Thursday from 12:30 until 4 p.m. ———— Marjorie Parker, 1349 Quail Lane, will host the Tuesday Book Review Club Feb. 15 at 1:30 p.m. She will review her original composition “How Did This Happen?” The club meets every third Tuesday. Wednesday Deadline for Happenings and items for Sunday’s edition of Lifestyles is 5 p.m. Wednesday. For Happenings include name of club, time and day of meeting, place and hostess. ———— Pioneer Toastmasters Club, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, R&D East Auditorium, Conoco Complex, 1000 South Pine. Guests welcome; public invited. For additional information, contact Bob Ennis, 767-5946. ———— Ponca City Bahai Community Discussion Group, 7:15 p.m. Wednesday. For location call 765-5695 or 762-5529. ———— Simple Steps AA meeting; Step Study — closed, noon. AA Discussion meeting, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third. 0002000006B600001732 6B0,———— AA Alano Group — Noon, discussion; 603 South 1st. ———— Al-Anon meeting, 8-9 p.m. Wednesday, upstairs in the Harmony House, 212 South Third. ———— Storytime for 2 and 3-year-olds, Ponca City Library, 515 East Grand, 10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Short stories, songs, use of flannel board. Lasts about 15 minutes. ———— Ponca City Council of Garden Clubs meets at the Cann Center on the first Wednesday of each month at 9:30 a.m. Anyone interested in gardening, flowers, birds, butterflies, conservation, historic preservation, landscape design or environmental education, is welcome to attend. For more information call 762-3695, or 762-3555. ———— Principles Before Personalities, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Wednesday, Harmony House basement (use south entrance by parking lot). ———— All area women are invited to come to the “Designed for You” luncheon on Feb. 16, 12: 30 to 1:30 p.m. at the Ponca City Country Club. Sponsored by the Ponca City Christian Womens Club, the cost is $8.50. Calling Jeanette at 765-8427 may make reservations for the luncheon and complementary childcare. It is necessary for reservations to be honored, canceled or used by a friend. ———— Chapter FC of PEO will meet at 1 p.m. Feb. 16 at the Cann Garden Center with Susan Nickles as hostess. Pearl Farris and Ann Slief will be co-hostesses. Norma Erner will present the program “P.E.O. Constitution.” An update will be given on the International Peace Scholarship fund by Wanda Baumert. ———— Chapter EL of PEO will meet at noon Feb. 16 for a dutch lunch at Personalities Restaurant at Pioneer Technology Center. Flo O’Connor and Janelle Eichor will serve as co-hostesses. Kenn Wessel will present the program “Life in the Year 1000.” Thursday AA Discussion meeting, noon; AA discussion meeting, 8 p.m., Harmony House, 212 South Third. ———— AA Alano Group — Noon, open, discussion; 603 South 1st. ———— Freedom Group of AA; closed Big Book Study at 8 p.m. Thursdays, Woodlands Christian Church (Room 202), Fourteenth and Hartford. Smoke-free meeting and building. We study and practice tradition. Open meeting the last Thursday of each month for birthdays. For more information, call John at 762-3345 or Chuck at 718-9253. ———— Jaycees, 7 p.m., first and third Thursdays. Chamber of Commerce meeting room. Interested persons welcome to attend any meeting. ———— Model Railroad Club, 7-10 p.m. Thursday, Stephenson Building, 113 North Third. For information call 762-8687 or 765-7996. ———— Parent Support Group, 9:30-11 a.m. Thursday Northern Oklahoma Youth Services Center. Focus on parental concerns, frustrations, as well as ways to increase understanding and communications between parent and child. Support, education, copying techniques and introduction to non-punitive parenting styles. ———— Ponca City Newcomers Club meets the third Thursday of each month at the Ponca City Country Club. For more information and to make reservations call Joyce Fox, 762-9578. ———— Story hour for school-aged children Thursday at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Ponca City Library. ———— Principles Before Personalities, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Thursday, Harmony House basement (use south entrance by parking lot). ———— American Legion Post 14 meets at 7:30 p.m. the second and fourth Thursdays of each month at the Huff-Minor Post home, 407 West South Avenue. ———— DAV meets the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at 401 South Lincoln. Friday Simple Steps AA — open, noon; AA speaker meeting — open, 8 p.m. Harmony House, 212 South Third. ———— AA Alano Group — Noon, open, Step Study with the first Friday for traditions; 8 p.m., open, discussion, last Friday for birthdays; 603 South 1st. ———— Pioneer Rotary Club, noon Friday, Golden Corral. ———— Principles Before Personalities, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m. Friday, Harmony House, 212 South Third, basement (use south entrance). Smoke-free building. For more information call 762-3345 or 765-9459. Saturday AA Discussion meeting at noon Saturday. AA Discussion meeting at 8 p.m., Harmony House, 212 South Third. ———— AA Alano Group — Noon, open, discussion; 603 South First. ———— New Found Freedom Co-dependents Anonymous, 8 p.m. Saturday, Harmony House (upstairs library). Smoke-free. ———— Freedom group of AA; Closed meeting at noon at the Woodlands Christian Church, room 202 upstairs, Fourteenth and Hartford. Smoke-free building. Study and discuss AA approved literature. AA traditions are studied and practiced. For more information, call John at 762-3345 or Chuck at 718-9253. ———— Order of the Amaranth meets the first and third Saturdays of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Masonic Temple. ———— Overeaters Anonymous group meets 11-12 Saturday mornings at Woodlands Christian Church. The meetings are open to “anyone who desires to stop eating compulsively.” Fore more information call 762-2161. SPORTSJaguars Too Heavy for Cats Jaguars Too Heavy for CatsBy FRED HILTON News Sports Editor YUKON — Westmoore has some “heavy” heavier weights. The Jaguars won the final four matches, three by falls, against Ponca City’s Wildcats in the first round of the Class 5A Dual State Tournament Friday to produce a 44-18 decision that doesn’t reflect the closeness of the dual. “We were beaten by a good team,” Po-Hi coach Todd Steidley said afterwards. “But I was very pleased with the way our kids wrestled. Everyone wrestled hard. Westmoore is just a better team right now.” For most of the dual, the score was close. After spotting Westmoore a 5-0 lead on a technical fall in the first bout of the night, Ponca City won the next three weights to move in front, 9-5. Westmoore won then next three, including a fall at 140 to move back in front, 17-9. Michael Osborn got a 7-3 decision for the Poncans at 145 to close the gap to 17-12. Westmoore got a fall at 152, but the Cats returned the favor with Kyle Duren’s 56-second fall at 160. That left the Wildcats just five points behind at 23-18. But then Jaguars won the final four matches, getting falls at 171, 189 and heavyweight to expand the score. Westmoore is ranked No, 2 or 3, depending on which poll you subscribe and was the top seed in the West. Ponca City was seeded No. 4 in the East. So some observers were a little shocked when the Wildcats got a good start early Phillip Brotherton trailed Westmoore 112-pounder Briyan Slater 3-2 early when he reversed the Jaguar to his back. Another reversal in the second period ran the Wildcat lead to 8-4. Slater escaped to start the third period, but Brotherton got another takedown late for a 10-5 win. At 119, MiMi Miller was nursing a 4-3 first period lead over Westmoore’s Jared Fields but got a second period takedown and a third-period near fall for and 8-3 decision. The most exciting match of the night came at 125 where Clint Stafford faced off against Westmoore’s Jon Kline. Stafford was cruising with a 9-4 lead in the second period when Cline got an escape, takedown and near-fall in quick succession. That put the Jaguar in front, 10-9. Kline upped his lead with an escape to start the third period. Stafford came back with a double leg takedown to tie the score at 11 with 1:32 left in the match. Kline then escaped and got a trip takedown to forge a 14-11 lead, but Stafford returned the favor with an escape a takedown to tie the score, The final seconds got hectic. Going for the win, Stafford released Kline and got a quick takedown to move in front 16-15. But as Kline struggled to escape with the clock ticking down, the Jaguar was awarded a penalty point for locked hands, sending the match into overtime. Stafford won it with a takedown 20 seconds into sudden death. It was his sixth takedown of the match. With Westmoore leading 17-9 and threatening to run off with the dual, Michael Osborn stopped the bleeding for the Cats with a 7-3 win over Nick Terhune at 145. Osborn also got two third period takedowns to preserve the win. Duren whipped Westmoore’s Mike Betts to his back to open the 160-pound match for the only bonus points by the Poncans. But that as the last harrah. Seeing the heavily favored Jaguars coming in the final four weights, coach Steidley inserted Jason at 171 moved three of his grapplers up a weight, but it didn’t slow the Jaguars. The Wildcats are scheduled to take part in the East regional tournament at Tulsa Union Friday and Saturday, trying to qualify for the state tournament Feb. 25-26. Westmoore 44, Ponca City 18 103 — Dick (WM) tf Short, 19-2 (4:13) 112 — Brotherton (PC) d. Slater, 10-5 119 — Miller (PC) d. Field, 8-3 125 — Stafford (PC) d. Kline, 18-16 (OT) 130 — Hileman (WM) d, Windler, 3-1 135 — Gasteneau (WM) d. RedLeaf, 5 -1 140 — Greer (WM) p. Littleton, 2:11 145 — Osborn (PC) d. Terhune, 7-3 152 — Olguin (WM) p. Lockett, 3:34 160 — Duren (PC) p. Betts, :56 171 — Roberts (WM) p. Leavitt, 1:08 189 — Madden (WM) p. Empting, :51 215 — Ingram (WM) d. Leavitt, 8-3 Hwt — Finn (WM) p. Neuerburg, :35 Dual State Results Friday 5A Westmoore 44, Ponca City 18 Yukon 32, Sand Springs 23 Broken Arrow 42, Choctaw 17 Midwest City 32, Muskogee 27 3A Blackwell 43, Grove 30 Wagoner 49, Weatherford 24 Bristow 59, Harrah 11 Locust Grove 53, Little Ax 19 Wildcat Rally Falls Short In SapulpaBy BOB PATTERSON News City Editor SAPULPA — Unable to take the lead in the second half to quiet a noisy Chieftains crowd, the Ponca City Wildcats dropped a Frontier Conference contest 59-54 here Friday night. The Chieftains thus recovered from getting pounded by the Wildcats in mid-January 83-62 at Robson Fieldhouse. So, now, the Wildcats will be looking towards utilizing the home court to a shot in the arm heading to post-season play, when they take on Broken Arrow on Tuesday and then finish the regular season against Stillwater. For Coach Ron Arthur, the Wildcats played one of their better floor games, in that they committed but 10 turnovers and crashed the boards to start the third quarter for a remarkable effort at a comeback. Leading the way on that third quarter spurt was 6-2 junior Billy Broughton, held to a first quarter bucket prior to intermission. Broughton opened the third quarter with a trey to pull Ponca City within six after Sapulpa got the opening shot to drop for a 9-point lead. Broughton’s next effort was a stick-back off the offensive glass, to make it 31-27. Then it was Blake Geubelle pulling down an offensive board and a stick-back that made it 33-29, and hitting another goal at the 4:25 mark to make it 33-31. Broughton then hit a pair of treys around a Sapulpa trey by Brett Nightingale, 6-0 freshman, but the Wildcats couldn’t get the go-ahead score. Broughton’s two pulled Ponca City within one each time, 35-34 and 38-37. Sapulpa then answered with scores to a 44-37 lead prior to Blaine Petrie, 6-5 junior for the Wildcats, hitting a pair of free throws to make it 44-39 at the end of the quarter. Ponca City got a two-pointer from Petrie to start the fourth, pulling the Wildcats within three, 44-41 prior to Sapulpa going 6-0 to a 50-41 reading. Then it was 6-3 senior Jeff Furnas-time, heating up the cords on the rim, as he hit a free throw with 3:41 to go, got a bucket and a second free throw at 2:56 to pull Ponca City within five, 50-45 and then hit two more free throws just five seconds later at 2:51 to make it 50-47. Another 6-0 run by Sapulpa made it 56-47 prior to Furnas cashing a trey only to see Sapulpa move further ahead at 59-50. The Wildcats got the final two goals on a rebound stick-back by Brett Skaggs, 6-2 senior, and Broughton. The Wildcats started the night off in front, when Petrie hit a free throw followed by a single free throw by Furnas and then a goal by Furnas to make it 1-0, 2-0 and then 4-2. Sapulpa got the next ten points to a 10-4 lead and the Wildcats had to play catchup the rest of the night. Biggest deficit was 12, 29-17 after 6-10 senior Derek Colvin of the Cats got a bucket to pull Ponca City within seven, 24-17. Furnas and Skaggs each goaled and Petrie got another free throw, to cut the lead of 29-17 to 29-22 at the intermission. Furnas with three buckets and two treys and 5-of-8 free throws led the Wildcats with 17 while Broughton, igniting with 11 in the third quarter finished with 15. Geubelle finished with eight, Petrie had six and Skaggs and Colvin each had four. Tim Frick, a 5-11 junior leaper, pulled down six second half rebounds. It was a matter of the Cats having two more two-pointers, 14-12 but two less treys, 7-5 and unable to match the Chieftains’ sot shooting from the free throw line, particularly in the fourth quarter. Sapulpa had 14-of-17 from the line to the Cats 11-of-16. But Sapulpa cashed 7-of-9 in the fourth, the Cats 3-of-6. Leading Sapulpa were senior Rick Bruner at 5-10 with 16; freshman Nightingale with 15 on four treys; Darieon Davis, a 6-2 freshman, who had 13; and junior Omar Gibbs with 10. Lady Cats Sizzle Early at SapulpaBy BOB PATTERSON News City Editor SAPULPA — A 10-0 start by the Ponca City Lady Cats failed to deflate the Lady Chiefs of Sapulpa here Friday night, but in the end the Lady Cats still prevailed for a big 51-47 Frontier Conference win. The Lady Cats sizzled early and then got some really great streak shooting efforts from several hands en route to the victory. It showed the Lady Cats they can play on the road well. The Lady Cats had lost to the same Sapulpa team in mid-January by four points and had a seven-point win almost tucked away at Sapulpa Friday when a desperation heave from midcourt by Lady Chiefs freshman Sharice Mitchell toward the bucket went in for a trey, to provide that final score of 51-47. Ponca City jumped to a 5-0 lead when Jenna Wedd, 5-10 sophomore cashed a shot in the paint, and 5-5 junior Jena Birdsong swished a trey. That same combination provided a 10-0 lead, despite Sapulpa calling a quick 20-second time out at the 6:05 mark between Wedd’s second two-point and Birdsong’s second trey. The Lady Chiefs used a similar combination of a two and a trey for a 10-5 reading before 5-5 senior Laura Sudbury popped two free throws. It was 12-7 when Wedd hit her third bucket and Sudbury got the Lady Cats of Coach Dana Pulley to a 16-10 score on a stick-back from an offensive rebound. The first quarter ended at 16-13. Mallory Hodge, 5-10 sophomore for the Lady Cats, got the first points in the second quarter on a bucket, but Sapulpa went on a 9-0 run to make it 22-18 for Sapulpa, that had inklings of turning things around for the Lady Chiefs. Off the bench, 5-7 junior Tara Cries For Ribs then swished a pair of treys on two attempts, within 28 seconds of each other, the second at 2:17 to pull the Lady Cats back in front at 24-22. Sapulpa made it 25-24 ahead of two more free throws by Sudbury and with 0:20 showing, Alana Smith, 5-6 senior for the Lady Cats, made it 28-25. Sudbury showed trey-shooting skill in the first minute of the third quarter to push the Lady Cats up by six, 31-25 as did Wedd to match one by the Lady Chiefs. But Sapulpa got the next six points to a 34-34 reading at the 4:10 mark when Amber Morsey hit three straight goals. Smith put Ponca City in front again, only to see Sapulpa regain the lead on a trey. J. Birdsong then hit a trey, followed it with another a minute later at the 2:10 mark to push Ponca City in front 42-37. When Sudbury hit another goal, the Lady Cats were rolling and not going to look back this time, making it 44-37. The third quarter ended with Ponca City in front 46-41 and it was 46-43 at the 4:55 mark as neither team could score in the first three minutes of the fourth period. Then J. Birdsong got another trey, her fifth of the game for a total of 15 points to lead the Lady Cats and a defensive play found Courtney Birdsong, 5-5 sophomore get her lone bucket of the game for a 51-43 lead. The Lady Cats kept Sapulpa from scoring while holding that lead, until 12.5 ticks were left on the clock. At that, Sapulpa put four more points on the board on a free throw and the desperation shot. Besides J. Birdsong’s 15, Sudbury had double figures, with 13. Wedd had nine before fouling out with 3:32 left in the fourth quarter and the score at 49-43. Cries For Ribs had six on the two treys, Smith had four and C. Birdsong and Hodge each had two. The Lady Cats finish the regular season this week at home, with two dates, taking on Broken Arrow on Tuesday and Stillwater on Friday at Robson Fieldhouse. Both games start at 6:30 p.m., ahead of the Wildcats against those two schools also. Northern Is Halfway ThereIn Seeking Conference CrownTONKAWA — "Being able to start the second round of conference play at home with a win is really big," said Northern Mavericks’ Head Coach Mick Weiberg after Northern men downed the Murray State Aggies by a margin of 76-42. That handed Murray their biggest loss of the season and propelling the Mavs to a 5-0 conference record and a 20-7 season record. "We handled them better than anyone has this season," said Maverick assistant coach Greg Shamburg. “They haven't been beat by more than five points or so all year.” Weiberg said he didn't know how the game was going to go because Murray can dish up plenty of trouble. “They shut down our inside game, but we fought back and really opened up from outside,” Weiberg said. The Mavs downed 13 3-point shots. The Mavericks travel to Western on Monday, a game Weiberg says should prove to be tough. “It was a hard fought win against them here,” Weiberg said. “If we can keep our momentum going we can get the job done there.” The Mavericks will play at home again next Thursday when they face Seminole with the Lady Mavs taking the floor at 6 p.m. in Foster-Piper Fieldhouse and the men following at 8 p.m. The final home game is set for Feb. 24 against Eastern, which will feature Parent's Night and the annual Autograph Signing Party.
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