LOCAL

High Winds Low Temperatures Have State Shivering in Storm
Nearly News
Public Schools Being Hit Hard By Flu Season
State Instructors To Celebrate Career, Technology Feb. 11-17
County Commission Studies Flood Areas
Valentine’s Dinner/Theatre Slated Tuesday at CCCA
Expansion Work Discussion Held

High Winds Low Temperatures Have State Shivering in Storm

From Staff and AP Reports

High winds did major damage to a large marina at Lake Texoma State Park in southern Oklahoma, capsizing several boats and leaving one man missing.

Oklahoma state parks spokesman Ron Stahl said the man’s car was in the parking lot of the marina, his boat was capsized and there was no sign of him.

“We think he may have been aboard,” Stahl said. “The search is going on. The water is full of debris and it’s dangerous stuff, so we can’t get divers there. The boat is turtled and we’re trying to get into the boat from above. We’re trying to cut a whole in it.”

Stahl said a third of the 150-slip Catfish Bay Marina, near Durant, was destroyed and several nearby cabins were damaged.

North Central Oklahoma was spared the brunt of the storm, hit only with icy roads, blowing snow and temperatures in the low 20s. Peak wind gusts at the Ponca City Airport hit 31 miles an hour this morning. Winds chills were minus 18.

High winds blew over a tractor-trailer truck on U.S. 70 near Durant at 3 a.m. Friday, forcing a six-hour road closure, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol said. Nobody was hurt.

Troopers said the semi was blown onto its side by high winds at the east end of the Roosevelt Bridge in Bryan County.

The National Weather Service said wind speeds reached 65 mph in southern Oklahoma as strong thunderstorms moved through the area.

Toppled power poles, uprooted trees and minor structural damage were reported in Carter, Stephens and Tillman counties.

Elsewhere in the state, colder air remained bottled up in northwest Oklahoma, where a mixture of freezing rain, sleet and snow was reported Thursday evening.

Nearly News

The death of Anne Morrow Lindbergh, widow of Charles Lindbergh, brought back memories to Ponca City artist Mary White. She met her in 1994 and has a book Mrs. Lindbergh autographed. Mrs. White has kept track of the Lindbergh family over the years. She and her husband were married about the same time as the Lindberghs and had a son about the same age as their son. When the Whites lived in Mexico City, Anne’s father Dwight Morrow was Ambassador to Mexico. Mrs. White, 91, broke her ankle recently and has been shut-in, but she is still painting.

Public Schools Being Hit Hard By Flu Season

The flu and cold season has hit the Ponca City Public School district. The district had 356 sick leave days utilized by employees in the month of January.

In order to ensure a more complete recovery for students and to help control the spread of communicable diseases at school, it is necessary to keep a sick child at home for twenty-four (24) hours after fever or other abnormal symptoms have subsided.

Here is an example: The child has a fever of 100.6 at 3 o’clock Wednesday. Thursday morning, he/she does not have a fever, but it has not been 24 hours, so they should stay at home until Friday. Tylenol will reduce a fever for two to four hours, but it will return.

Ponca City Schools are asking for cooperation from parents in this matter. If you have any questions, you can contact the nurse at your child’s school.

State Instructors To Celebrate Career, Technology Feb. 11-17

“Want career success? Get career skills.”

That’s the message that Oklahoma’s career and technology education teachers and administrators will be communicating to the public during Oklahoma’s first ever Career and Technology Education Week on Feb. 11­17

“Those words help to define our educational system that prepares more than one-in-ten Oklahomans for career success annually,” said Dr. Ann Benson, director of the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education

Oklahoma is celebrating the first Career and Technology Education Week since the state’s vo-tech system officially changed its name to CareerTech through legislative action on May 19, 2000, said Benson.

Many of the state’s system of technology centers will take this opportunity to showcase the quality of their students and programs, Benson said.

“We’re encouraging our schools and our teachers to mark the occasion with special events and distribute information that underscores the importance of career skills to the educational and life success of Oklahoma’s students, she said.

“This week provides us with a forum to share how our new name more accurately represents what we teach and how we teach it,” Benson said. “Our new name reflects our emphasis on the use of advancing technology and on a career-focused, well-rounded education.”

“Last year, we recorded more than 500,000 enrollments in all phases of CareerTech education,” Benson said. That includes students in career and technology education programs in junior and senior high schools, technology centers, customized business and industry training and 25 skills centers — for incarcerated juveniles and adults.

Soon, Benson reported, a fifth component — the virtual technology system — will be added to the diverse list, reinforcing CareerTech as the economic development branch of Oklahoma’s educational system.

Today, many CareerTech students can receive college credit for coursework through cooperative agreements with local colleges, Benson said.

Among those are programs in such high-tech fields as orthotics and prosthetics, graphic design, as well as a wide range of information technology certification courses for firms such as Microsoft, Oracle and Cisco, and telecommunications.

Benson also said that although the system is growing steadily, the most dramatic growth has been in high tech areas such as telecommunications, information technology and other high tech occupations.

County Commission Studies Flood Areas

By KATHY ZEHR

News Staff Writer

NEWKIRK — Kay County Commissioners, homeowners, and representatives from state, city, and county emergency management agencies discussed mitigation for repeated flood damage to areas of Kay County in the Feb. 5 commissioners meeting in Newkirk.

State Emergency Management Director Albert Ashwood talked about preventing flood damage, federal and state aid for previous losses, and prevention options. He said no money is currently available through state funds, but some is to be set aside for flood programs later this year.

“Flood is one disaster we can plan for,” said Ashwood. “Unlike tornadoes and fire, we know where one is going to happen.”

Ashwood told commissioners the county is required to formulate a plan to reduce flood hazard before applying for flood damage assistance programs. Melissa Fruits, flooding victim, whose upscale brick home was made unlivable in the last big flood, suggested some plans for permanent flood prevention at the family farm south of Blackwell.

County Clerk Pam Goodno suggested looking at other counties who had submitted flood control plans for grant assistance. Ken Morris Executive Director of the State Floodplain Managers Association suggested contacting Ottawa County for ideas. Morris reminded that most grants or emergency funds only applied to houses.

Hessel Purdy, Blackwell, listed several residents of that city who had sustained repeated flood damage and discussed repair, elevation and assessments. He was also advised that Blackwell should prepare a plan for prevention to be eligible for funding assistance.

Morris talked about setting up an appropriation of $1,000,000 from grants and other sources for seed money to draw interest. That interest would be used to purchase flood-prone properties to convert into recreation or wildlife areas. He also said that many areas subject to flooding in Oklahoma had been created by poor engineering during construction of main highways or other structures, such as I-35 in the Blackwell area.

Morris said the Floodplain Managers Association now works with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, railroads and other construction entities to prevent the creation of potential flood plains. He also submitted a video about flood control measures and the commissioners agreed to view the video at 10:30 a.m. during the Feb. 12 meeting.

Tresa Engle, Kay County Assessor said her office spent several days, assessing property damage after the last big flood in the Blackwell/Tonkawa area. She submitted original assessment files with photographs of damage at the Fruits farm.

The group also discussed damage done to Kay County roads and bridges by recent ice storms. Commissioners were informed by Ashwood that 63 counties in Oklahoma had been placed on a list for financial aid but Kay County was not included. They were advised to make immediate damage assessment to see if they could qualify for state and federal assistance.

Other actions by commissioners included the acceptance of a bid from Railroad Salvage and Restoration Inc. in the amount of $239,000 for construction of a rail spur at the Carbon Fiber Optic project, south of Ponca City. A bid in the amount of $14,000 each was also accepted for used 1999 model pickups for District II.

Mike O’Connor announced that drawings, project manual and bidding documents for the new Kay County Health Department building were available for interested contractors. Copies of the documents are open for public inspection in the office Kay County Clerk in Newkirk. Interested bidders may procure complete sets of the documents for $100 from the office if Dewberry Design Group, 1350 S. Boulder, Suite 600, Tulsa, OK 74119 (918) 587-7283. Sealed bids will be opened and read aloud at 10 a.m. on March 12.

Goodno announced and reminded county officers they were responsible for accurate records of employee’s sick leaves and other work records. She also said memos would be sent to each officer about recording annual office inventories for insurance purposes. State officers located in the courthouse must also make up-to-date inventories, she said.

Other action by commissioners included review of the Five Year Road and Bridge plan with Marvin Beyer of Brawley Engineering. Funding for replacement of the old Kay/Osage County bridge southeast of Ponca City was discussed to include possible partial funding from the City of Ponca City and Osage County.

Several miscellaneous resolutions, claims and appropriations were approved and signed.

Kay County Commissioner court is held each Monday at 9 a.m. at the Kay County Court House in Newkirk. It is open to the public.

Valentine’s Dinner/Theatre Slated Tuesday at CCCA

Cornerstone Community Christian Academy will sponsor a Valentine Dinner/Theatre on Feb. 13. Dinner, door prizes and entertainment will be provided.

Dinner begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by the theatre portion of the event at approximately 7:15 p.m. The school is located at 3401 North Union. Cost is $14 per person or $25 per couple. Tickets can be purchased from any CCCA student or in the school office, 762-4120.

The theatre portion of the evening includes six skits including: “One Flesh” by Jecole Craig and Joseph Holick, “Satan in the Garden of Eden” by Joshua Barth and Jacob Martin, “Marriage on the Run” by Jennifer Orcutt, Harrison Parker, Jacob Martin and Anthony Holmes, “American Express Dating Card” by Joshua Barth, Christine Holick and Nichole Holloway, “Love’s Not Talking. It’s Doing!” by Nichole Holloway, Katie Blough, Erin Smith, Christyna Blough, Sara Orcutt, Jacob Martin, Joshua Barth, Joseph Holick and Anthony Holmes and “Here Comes the What?” by Anthony Holmes, Joseph Holick and Harrison Parker.

In addition to the theatre presentation, other entertainment for the evening includes a piano solo, a dance presentation and a “Let Me Call You Sweetheart” sing-along. The moderator for the evening is Alycia Sadok and the production is under the direction of Shannon Burdick.

Expansion Work Discussion Held

Members of the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce Education Committee met in January to discuss expansion work at Lincoln Elementary.

Members present were Grace Brooks, Marvin Clark, Katina Combes, Lisa Coy, Cathy Ferguson, Sandy James, Jan Jarrett, Pat Keast, Pat Morris, Don Nuzum, Perry Pederson, Keni Ray, Sharon Scroggins, Kathy Turner, Jerry Winkle, Mike White and Dr. Bill White.

Nuzum gave an update on the construction at Lincoln School. Plans are to expand the cafeteria facility and add four to five rooms for the Lincoln Early Childhood Center, which is currently located at the old Lincoln School. Construction should be completed this fall.

Winkle and guest speaker Mike White reported on the transition to a trimester schedule. White noted that one benefit of the trimester system is that students who struggle in the first trimester are able to immediately repeat a class.

Guest speaker Tricia Salyer with AmeriCorps discussed the “Gear Up” program. This program addresses the needs of the community by creating programs and helping students with tutoring. Volunteers are needed at Po-Hi, East Middle School and West Middle School.

DEATHS

Louis Lee Greenhagen
Geraldine Tucker Locker
Muraldine Edna Thomas
Maye A. Gass
Paul Arthur Wilson
Maude Evelyn Kelley
Carter Howard Camp

Louis Lee Greenhagen

NEWKIRK — Louis Lee Greenhagen, resident of Newkirk, died Thursday, Feb. 8, 2001, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 74.

No funeral services are planned.

Louis Lee Greenhagen was born June 20, 1926, in Kay County, the son of William Greenhagen and Charolette (Littou) Greenhagen. He lived in Newkirk all of his life and worked as a farmer. His favorite pastime was working on old machinery.

He was a chapter member of the Kildare Fire Department and also a member of the National Farmers Organization of Braman and served as secretary for both organizations.

Survivors include numerous cousins and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents and infant brother, William Edward Greenhagen.

Memorials may be made to the Kildare Fire Department, c/o Eastman National Bank, Seventh and Main, Newkirk, Okla. 74647 or to the Farmers Co-Op Elevator and Supply Company, 116 E. 6th, Newkirk, Okla. 74647.

Geraldine Tucker Locker

Geraldine Tucker Locker, longtime Ponca City resident, died Thursday, Feb. 8, 2001, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 66.

The funeral will be held 2 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 10, 2001, at First United Methodist Church with the Rev. J.D. Ward, pastor, officiating. Burial will be at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery. Arrangements are with the Trout Funeral Home. Visitation hours are from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday.

Geraldine Tucker Locker was born June 24, 1934, in Meridian, Texas, the daughter of Emmett D. Tucker and Lelia Oswald Tucker. She graduated from Waco High School in Texas. She married Raford “Joe” Locker Jr. on March 7, 1953, in Waco, Texas. They made their home in Fort Worth, Texas, until 1965, when they moved to Ponca City.

She was a homemaker and enjoyed her friends and family. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, where she was involved in the Mother’s Day Out program.

Survivors include her husband of the home; two daughters, Brenda Rziha of Ponca City and Jan Gose of Germantown, Tenn.; one sister, Patricia Todd of Brownwood, Texas; and one brother, Kenneth Tucker of Bedford, Texas; five grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, 1232 22nd St. N.W., Washington, D.C., 20037-1292.

Muraldine Edna Thomas

ARKANSAS CITY, Kan. — Muraldine Edna Thomas, former resident of Ponca City, died Thursday, Feb. 8, 2001, at the South Central Kansas Regional Medical Center of Arkansas City. She was 84.

A graveside service will be held 10:30 a.m. Monday, Feb. 12, at the Riverview Cemetery under the direction of Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home of Arkansas City.

Muraldine Edna Thomas was born Sept. 25, 1916, in Kaw City, the daughter of Robert F. and Leona Kenner Thomas. She was reared and educated in Kaw City and Arkansas City. In 1950, she moved to Ponca City and later returned to Arkansas City in 1979. She was employed at Montgomery Ward in Arkansas City and Ponca City as a department manager. She enjoyed making rag rugs. She was a member of the VFW Auxiliary and the Montgomery Ward Wardettes.

Survivors include two nieces and a number of great-nieces and nephews.

Memorial contributions may be made in her name to the American Cancer Society, c/o Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home, 100 East Kansas Ave., Arkansas City, Kan. 67005.

Obituaries

Maye A. Gass

Maye A. Gass, resident of Ponca City, died Thursday, Feb. 8, 2001, at Shawn Manor Nursing Home. She was 80.

The funeral will be held 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 12, at the First Baptist Church with the Rev. Hance Dilbeck, pastor, officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery. Arrangements are with the Trout Funeral Home.

Maye was born June 29, 1920, in Stockton, Mo., to Thomas and Ella (Simmons) Bailey. She graduated from Arcola, Missouri High School in 1938. She was united in marriage to Howard Gass in Greenfield, Mo., on Oct. 28, 1936. They owned and operated a dairy business in Missouri before moving to Ponca City in 1960.

She was a secretary for McKinley Elementary School and West Junior High. Her most important job was being a good mother and grandmother. She was a member of the Silver Tone Choir, Retired Teachers Association, Friendship Class and the First Baptist Church.

Survivors include one son, Jerry Gass and his wife Nadine of Ponca City; one daughter, Lanita Aldrich of Ponca City; five grandchildren, Shelley Nicley and her husband David of Claremont, Calif., Randy Gass of Tulsa, Carrie Schibbelhute and her husband Mark of Edmond, Kynada Aldrich of Lawrence, Kan., and Jake Aldrich of Tulsa; and two great-grandchildren, Kyle Nicley and Chloe Nicley, both of Claremont, Calif.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son-in-law, Gary Aldrich; and two brothers.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 N. Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, Okla. 74601.

The family will be at the Jerry Gass home, 1508 Shirlee.

paid obituary

Paul Arthur Wilson

COLBERT, Okla. — Funeral for Paul Arthur Wilson, 53, of Colbert, who died Saturday, Feb. 3, 2001, in Texoma Medical Center in Denison, Texas, was held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 6, in Colbert United Methodist Church. The Rev. Bill Brown officiated and Randa Norman provided special music. Burial was in Garden of Memory.

Paul had a full fireman’s funeral with Scott Ridling driving the fire truck to take Paul on his final run.

Arrangements were under the direction of Cunningham’s Achille Funeral Home.

Mr. Wilson was born Sept. 10, 1947, in Ponca City. He attended schools in Red Rock and Ponca City. He was a member of the Baptist faith.

Paul was the son of the late Oliver D. Wilson of Ponca City and Marjorie Burck Wilson. He married Sharon Parrish on Sept. 24, 1966, in Ponca City, and they made their home in Colbert, where Paul served as mayor, fire chief, councilman, and ambulance administrator, dedicating over 20 years of service to the community. Paul was also a decorated retired firefighter.

At the time of his illness, Paul was employed by Rural Metro Ambulance Service in Sherman, Texas.

Surviving are his wife, Sharon Wilson of Colbert; mother, Marjorie Wilson of Ponca City; two daughters, Stacey Gibby and husband Melvin of Colbert, and Kimberly Merck and husband Jake of Colbert; grandchildren, Cassey Wilson, Shelby Gibby, Jonathan, Zachariah and Nicholas Merck, Salina and Joel Gibby, all of Colbert; and two brothers, Gene Wilson of Ponca City and Jerry Wilson of Tulsa.

He was preceded in death by his father, Oliver D. Wilson.

paid obituary

Maude Evelyn Kelley

Maude Evelyn Kelley, longtime Ponca City resident, died early Thursday, Feb. 8, 2001, in the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 81.

A graveside service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 10, 2001, at the Resthaven Memorial Park. The Rev. Ed Coy-Light will officiate, and burial will be under direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.

Born Maude Evelyn Ward on Sept. 25, 1919, in Gainesville, Texas, she was the daughter of Thomas Byrd and Fairy Jane (Nichols) Ward. As an infant, Maude Evelyn moved to Ponca City with her family, and she had attended Ponca City schools. On April 9, 1939, she and Glenn W. Kelley were united in marriage in Ponca City. She had worked at Conoco during war time. Other than that, she was content in being a mother and a homemaker. She was a member in earlier years of the Grand and Palm Church of Christ, now known as Grand Avenue Church of Christ. Maude enjoyed being happy and bingo, sewing, being with her family and friends always kept a smile on her face and a song in her heart.

Survivors include her son, Roy Steve and his wife, Debby, Kelley of Ponca City; a son-in-law, Don Farris of Ponca City; a brother, Darrell Ward of Lawrence, Kan.; five grandchildren, David Farris, Mark Farris, Bill Farris, Steve Kelley Jr. and Kim Knight; and seven great-grandchildren, Tia Farris, Amber Farris, Dirk Farris, Chelsea Farris, Brittney Farris, Chelsea Kelley and Tyler Lee William Knight.

Maude Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents; husband; daughter, Glenda June Farris; son, Ward Dennis Kelley; granddaughter, Kelley Sue Farris; three brothers; and one sister.

Casket bearers will be Steve Kelley Jr., Lester Knight, David Farris, Mark Farris, Bill Farris and Phil Kizer.

Memorial contributions may be made in Maude Evelyn’s memory to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 N. Union St., Suite 103, Ponca City, Okla. 74601.

paid obituary

Funerals

Sunday

Carter Howard Camp

Carter Howard Camp — Evening prayer services 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday at the Ponca Indian United Methodist Church. Traditional funeral feast at noon Sunday in the Ponca Tribal Cultural Center followed by the funeral at 2 p.m. in the Ponca Indian United Methodist Church under direction Grace Memorial Chapel.

NEWS BRIEFS

Kids Club — Victory Mountain Kids Club will meet 10:30 a.m. to noon, Saturday. They will learn and understand the Bible, which includes songs, bible stories and puppet shows for children 6-12. The event, at 815 South Ninth Street, is a ministry of The Mission. More information is available from Anna, 765-0605.

Pauline’s Prime rib special, Saturday night, February 10. For reservations call 765-5460. adv.

Warrior Society Fundraiser — The Akinazi Ponca Warrior Society will hold an Indian taco, chili dinner Saturday at the FOP Lodge, 400 North Union, noon-4 p.m. $4 a plate.

“ I see red”. February 10-14, Rhoads Brothers Pharmacy and other Newkirk merchants. adv.

Vehicle Stolen — A woman reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:57 a.m. Thursday that two men had just stolen her vehicle from Conoco Convenience, at the intersection of North Fourteenth Street and East Hartford Avenue. Two officers were assigned and a report was taken.

I see red”. Newkirk’s Beautiful Reflections, Char-Ron Lounge, Kirkendall Antiques February 10-14. adv.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of North Union Street and Prospect Avenue at 8:34 a.m. Thursday that a 20-year-old man was being held for driving under suspension. A charge of having no insurance was dropped when insurance papers were produced.

“Colorama” Is back at Ponca Bowl! Saturday nights at 6:30 pm. “Glow- bowl” at 9:00 pm. till 1:00 am. Buy 2 games get one free. 762-3333. adv.

Suspicious Activity — A woman from the 2100 block of Jane Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:47 a.m. Thursday that she had found something in a soft drink bottle. An officer was assigned, the bottle was collected, and a information was logged.

Save $$$ February 10-14. New-kirk Northside Cafe, Newkirk Herald, Sonic, Country Cottage. adv.

Vehicle Abandoned — The Ponca City Police Department received a report at 9:56 a.m. Thursday that a vehicle was being towed from the Conoco parking lot in the 1000 block of South Pine Street as a result of an ex-employee having left it there.

Head Country Saturday night special. All you can eat beef brisket with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $7.49. All day. 1217 East Prospect. adv.

Items Missing — An employee at the First Church of God, 1101 West Grand Avenue, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3 p.m.. Thursday that some items had been taken from the church. An officer was assigned and a grand larceny report was taken.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of Drummond Avenue and South Ninth Street at 9:06 p.m. Thursday that a man was being held on a city warrant for failure to appear.

-I

njured in Wreck — The Communications Center received a report at 4:18 a.m. Friday that a vehicle had struck the Salt Fork bridge south of Ponca City on U.S. 177. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol and Kay County Sheriff’s Office was notified. An ambulance from the Ponca City Fire Department responded to the scene and a 20-year-old subject was taken to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center for treatment of injuries.

“I see red”. Newkirk’s Crossland Ford, Smith County Housers Hardware. February 10-14. adv.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 200 block of East Oklahoma Avenue at 3:42 p.m. Thursday that a 20-year-old man was being held for failure to pay.

Vacations over! The Red Barn will open on February 9th for all your fishing bait and supplies. Dont forget your new year fishing license. Open 7a.m. to 7p.m. seven days a week. adv.

Items Missing — The manager of Stratford House, 2320 North Fourteenth Street, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:20 p.m. Thursday that some items had been taken from a room. An officer was assigned and information was logged.

Pauline’s Steak and shrimp dinner. $11.95. Friday, February 9th. For reservations call 765-5460. adv.

Bicycle Stolen — A man from the 1700 block of Little Lane reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:35 p.m. Thursday that a bicycle had been stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Save $$$ Newkirk February 10-14, Matt’s Ice Doc, Jack’s General Store. adv.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 500 block of Glendale at 6:35 p.m. Thursday that a 72-year-old woman was being held on a Kay County warrant for harboring a runaway.

Ponca Bowl now open on Sundays 1:00 till 7:00 pm. $2.00 per game. 762-3333. adv.

Vehicle Stolen — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department took a report at 7:30 p.m. Thursday from a person in the 500 block of North Eleventh Street that a vehicle had been stolen.

Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential. Hours: Monday 1-3 p.m., Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and Thursday, 6-8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. 765-9689. adv.

Gas Spill — A clerk at a convenience store in the 200 block of East Highland Avenue requested assistance from the Ponca City Fire Department at 8:24 p.m. when gas had overflowed at one of the pumps and was under a vehicle. A unit from the fire department responded and handled the situation.

Minor Accident — A man reported to the Communications Center at 4:05 a.m. Friday that a vehicle had slid off U.S. 60 at T Street. Oklahoma Highway Patrol was notified of the incident.

Gas Drive-Off — A clerk at Triple T, 720 South Waverly Street, reported to the Ponca City Police Department that someone had driven off without paying for $5 worth of gas. An officer was assigned and information was logged.

Friday Bingo!! February 9, 2001 at the Disabled American Veterans, 401 South Lincoln, 762-3851. Early’s start at 6 pm. Don’t forget our Monday night and Tuesday afternoon bingo. Please come and help out our Disabled Veterans. adv.

PrimeTimers: Take a Discover Oklahoma Trip, March 7-11 with PrimeTimers. Detailed itinerary available at Pioneer Bank. Sign-Up deadline February 22, 2001. 765-5651. adv.

Subjects Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 200 block of East Oklahoma Avenue at 4:22 p.m. Thursday that warrants had been cleared with the arrest of an 18-year-old man on failure to pay and another 18-year-old man on failure to pay.

Jim Bowen Construction­ Custom homes, room additions and remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv.

Court Allen Construction. Brick, flagstone, concrete, walk-way’s, patios and planters. Call 765-2720. adv.

Vehicle in the Ditch — The Communications Center received a report at 2:06 a.m. Friday that a vehicle was in a ditch on U.S. 77 north of Ponca City near the intersection of Oklahoma 11 East. The Kay County Sheriff’s Office and Oklahoma Highway Patrol were notified.

Dougan's Bar-B-Q Friday special from 4-8 p.m., all you can eat ribs with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $8.49. 215 South 14th, 765-7979. adv.

“ I see red”. Newkirk, February 10-14, Pizza Town, Mickael’s Bakery, Muffin Tin. adv.

Vehicle Stolen — The White Eagle Police Department reported to the Communications Center at 5:46 a.m. Friday that a vehicle had been stolen. Information was logged that the vehicle had a full tank of gas and that keys were not in the vehicle.

Kids Review now accepting children’s spring/summer con-signments. Spring open, Saturday February 17th. adv.

Save $$$ February 10-14, Newkirk Locke Auto, R&G Style Shoppe, Heartland Foods. adv.

Retired Educators — The Kay County Retired Educators Association will meet at 11:30 a.m. Monday at the Blackwell Methodist Church, Sixth and Coolidge.

-

RELIGION

Church Briefs
The Theme of ‘Goodness’ Continues at First Lutheran
St. John Baptist To Install New Pastor on Sunday
Book of Revelation Theme of Biblical Study At St. Mary’s
Eastern Heights Sets Marriage Seminar
Justice Uses Ten Commandments

Church Briefs

Praise Night at the Refuge

Praise Night will be held at the Refuge beginning at 6 p.m. on Saturday. Located in the gym at the First Church at Peachtree and Grand, admission is free and everyone is welcome. There will be live performances by contemporary Christian artists such as Sky Pilots, Cass Midgley, Johnathan Scroogs and featuring worship by Ben Scroggs. For more information, call 716-4517.

Hartford Avenue

Church of Christ

Members of the Hartford Avenue Church of Christ, 1905 Joe Street, invite the public to share God’s Word each week. Sunday Bible classes are at 9:30 a.m. followed by worship service at 10:30 a.m. Sunday evening worship is at 6 o’clock and Wednesday worship is at 7 p.m. There are classes for all ages. Visitors are invited for lunch in the fellowship center following worship. Watch the Search program Sunday at 8 a.m. on Channels 5 or 8; this week’s topic is “What is a Miracle?” Bible thought for the week is from Romans 6:11: “Even so consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus.”

Prince of Peace Lutheran

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, ELCA, at 2800 Turner Road, will celebrate the sixth Sunday after The Epiphany. Theme will be around Jesus’ great sermon in Luke 6:17-26. The Sunday school children will assist with the worship service. The Sunday school is collecting food items to be given to the Friendship Feast. Prince of Peace will sponsor a Pancake Supper on Feb. 27. Watch for details. Sunday school begins at 9 a.m. followed by worship service at 10 a.m. and fellowship at 11. Visit the website at www.princeofpeacechurch.net

International Gospel Hour

The Newkirk Church of Christ help in the sponsorship of the Search TV program that can be seen each Sunday morning on Channel 5. This Sunday, Mack Lyons will be speaking on the topic “What is a Miracle?” The church also has a weekly radio program on KSOK 95.9 FM known as the International Gospel Hour heard each Sunday at 8:30 a.m. with Winford Claiborne as speaker.

Laity Sunday at Woodlands

Woodlands Christian Church will observe a Laity Sunday with its theme based on Psalm 1 and is entitled “Woodlands Is Planted by Streams of Living Water.” Lay members participating include Terry Boring, Bob Case and Patricia Leonetti delivering the morning sermon and Marty Ladd sharing the children’s sermon. Derric Drake, Mary Ann Lincoln, Dot Cowan, Hank Kruckeberg, Bill Coleman, Ann Jester, Leslie Hoover, Dave Bryan, John Merle and Price Thomas will participate. Georgianna Adams will be music director, and Karen Adams will write “Living the Scripture” for the back of the bulletin. Special music will include “Let Us Serve Him” by the Chancel Choir and “A Tribute” sung by Nic, Ann, Linn and Dawn Kruckeberg.

The Theme of ‘Goodness’ Continues at First Lutheran

The month’s worship theme of goodness will be continued at First Lutheran Church on Feb. 11 at both the 8:30 and the 11 a.m. services.

The Rev. Ramsey’s sermon will be “God Turns Evil into Good.” The Senior choir will sing “The Lord Hath Helped Me.” The service follows the format of a prayer service written by the Rev. Gregory Cynova. The text for most of the hymns to be sung were written by Cynova. It will also be Scout Sunday with the scouts serving as greeters, readers, and ushers in both services.

The informal evening service at 6:30 will discuss listening as an aspect of prayer. Individual input on the topic will be put into practice following the discussion time. The relaxed atmosphere of this service has aided many families in involving children in the discussion.

Anyone is invited to attend any of the worship opportunities at First Lutheran.

St. John Baptist To Install New Pastor on Sunday

Members of St. John Baptist Church will install the Rev. Raymond James Petties Jr. as pastor on Sunday. The Rev. Petties is a native of Oklahoma, having grown up in Cushing. He graduated from Cushing High School with honors and attended Northeastern Oklahoma A&M Junior College on a football scholarship.

Petties began his ministry in music at First Baptist Church in Cushing, where he served as their minister of music. He moved to Stillwater and Mt. Zion Baptist Church as director and minister of music. Petties has been blessed to perform with gospel great the Rev. Dr. James Cleveland, the Rev. James Moore, the Rev. Timothy Wright, songstress Yolonda Adams, minister Keith Pringle and a host of others. He also has served as director for the Southwest Regional Convention of Progressive National Baptist Convention for two years.

In October of 1991, the Rev. Petties answered his calling to the preaching ministry. He received four years of advanced study in the gospel ministry at Johnson Memorial Bible Institute at St. John Baptist Church in Oklahoma City,

While at Mt. Zion, he served as an associate minister, started a radio ministry, worked in the nursing home ministry as well as taught Sunday School.

Petties joined with St. John Baptist in September of 1999 as assistant pastor. He served in this capacity until December 2000, when he was called to become pastor. He has taught and directed the Conoco/Community Choirs for the past two years. The choirs sang at the celebrations honoring the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and during Black History Month celebrations. Additionally, Petties participated in the pulpit exchanges by preaching services at First Christian Church and Four Square Gospel Church.

The morning celebration begins at 10:45 a.m. with Gregory K. Davis, bishop of First Baptist Church North on Tulsa, bringing the message. The Petties family will provide music.

Afternoon service begins at 3:30 p.m. with the Rev. Willie Anderson of the New Prospect Baptist Church in Perry presiding. The Rev. Dr. John Reed of Fairview Baptist Church in Oklahoma City will bring the installation message. The Rev. Reed is moderator of East Zion District and president of the Oklahoma Baptist State Convention. The Fairview Baptist Church choir and Mt. Zion Baptist Church choir will provide music.

St. John’s congregation invites all to join them in this glorious celebration honoring God’s servant.

Book of Revelation Theme of Biblical Study At St. Mary’s

The Rev. Michael J. Knipe, pastor of the Church of the Resurrection in Tulsa, will be the guest of the people of St. Mary’s Catholic Church Feb. 11, 12, 13.

Knipe will celebrate the Sunday Masses and will lead the congregation in studying the Book of Revelations in accordance with contemporary Catholic teachings.

His presentation will address how the Book of Revelations raises many questions. Is its message mainly a warning not to be left behind? Or, is its message hope and practical encouragement, telling believers to learn “from the Lamb who was Slain the mystery of patient endurance”?

Knipe has graduate degrees in theology and canon law from the University of Dallas and the Catholic University of America. He serves as the Judicial Vicar of the Diocese of Tulsa.

The community is invited to the attend the study of Revelations at 7 p.m. Feb. 11, 12 and 13 at St. Mary’s, 707 East Ponca.

According to the church’s news release, attendees will read the Revelation aloud together and consider its power of conversion and a deeper faith, whatever happens in the world.

Eastern Heights Sets Marriage Seminar

Eastern Heights Christian Church is hosting a Marriage Enhancement Seminar for couples on the community on Friday and Saturday.

The Friday session, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., will spotlight information on developing marriage skills. The Saturday session., from 9 to 11 a.m., will contain material on acquiring parenting and grandparenting skills.

Leland Griffin, interim minister, will be the featured speaker. There is no charge, and visitors are invited to attend and participate. Call 767-1967 for more information and to register. Registration is suggested so handouts can be made available.

Eastern Heights Christian Church is located three miles east of Pioneer Woman on Lake Road.

Justice Uses Ten Commandments

By Allie Martin

and Jody Brown

(AgapePress) — The new chief justice of the Alabama Supreme Court has promised to take the Ten Commandments with him to the state capitol in Montgomery.

Chief Justice Roy Moore became a leader in the Christian conservative movement in 1995 when the American Civil Liberties Union sued him over a hand-carved copy of the Ten Commandments hanging in his circuit court in Gadsden, Ala. The case ended several years later, unresolved on legal technicalities, but the Ten Commandments stayed on Moore’s courtroom wall.

Moore has promised to take the Ten Commandments to Montgomery, but so far has not said where he will hang the plaque, despite the barrage of questions concerning the issue since his election in November.

Perry Hooper Sr., whose retirement from the bench left the chief justice seat open, notes that the U.S. Supreme Court has a painting of Moses holding tablets that represent the Ten Commandments. He says that may offer some precedent for hanging Moore’s plaque in the Alabama courtroom. The Mobile Register reports that except for a clock, some light fixtures, and the words “Supreme Court of Alabama,” the walls of the courtroom in Montgomery are bare.

No one seems to know what rules exist for decorating the Supreme Court. But a fellow Republican and newly elected Supreme Court justice, Bernard Harwood, believes the members of the court would be willing to discuss the subject “in good faith.” The Alabama chapter of the ACLU has made no statements thus far on the matter.

During his campaign for the chief justice post, Moore’s campaign billboards stated he was “still fighting for the Ten Commandments.”

EDUCATION

Ponca City Awarded Grant For Century Learning Center
East School Adds Students To Honor Roll
Director’s Corner
After Prom Party Meeting Scheduled

Ponca City Awarded Grant For Century Learning Center

State Superintendent Sandy Garrett recently congratulated 18 school districts awarded federal grants to establish high-quality, after-school community learning centers.

“I am proud that so many communities and their schools have made a dedicated effort to helping children long after the final bell rings each school day and during summer months,” Garrett said. “These grants are specifically for rural and inner-city schools that collaborate with other public and nonprofit community groups.”

Ponca City schools was awarded one of the grants. They will receive $306,207.

Other state schools receiving grant money included Ada Public Schools, Boley Public Schools, Cave Springs Public Schools, Cottonwood Public School, Fox Public Schools, Hulbert Public Schools, Kingston Public Schools, McAlester Public Schools, Millwood Public Schools, Pauls Valley Public Schools, Picher-Cardin Public Schools, Talihina Public Schools, Tulsa Community College, Tulsa Public Schools, Turkey Ford Public Schools, Vinita Public Schools, Warner Public Schools and Watts Public Schools.

“These schools are considered by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) to be in ‘high need communities,’” Garrett said. “The new centers will help children meet our high academic standards in core subject areas.”

Each grant winner was required to submit a well-developed plan to operate a learning center outside of school hours and during the summer, in a collaboration with community partners. Last year, 36 grants totaling $11,467,188.82 were awarded to Oklahoma schools.

The 21st Century Learning Centers program allows schools to stay open longer to provide youth tutoring and homework help, enrichment through academics and the arts, technology education, drug and violence prevention counseling, supervised recreation activities and services for youth with disabilities.

The USDE recently awarded nearly $213 million in new grants to 386 school districts in 46 states. The centers will provide enriched learning opportunities in a safe environment for 300,000 children and 100,000 adults.

East School Adds Students To Honor Roll

A computer “glitch” caused several students’ names to be left off the first semester honor rolls for East Middle School.

Students added to the honor rolls include Staci Adams, Aaron Auld, Katie Behara, Michelle Brewer, Chad Carroll, Cheyenne Cartlidge, Phillip Chapman, Mason Combes, Michael Detten, Jennifer Dove, Jacob Failing, Clint Filson, Abby Fruits, Michael Gaddis, Adam Gibson, Steven Hager and Lisa Hendrickson.

Also, Callie Hill, Adriana Hodges, Kara Howey, Latasha Leon, Kelly Morgan, Savanah Morin, Anna Poff, Johnathan Pruett, Sameera Rahman, Melissa Reeder, Enedena Reveles, John Sharp, Taylor Shepard, Taylor Sinclair, Dustin Slavin, Tiffany Taiclet, Garrett Teasley, Candice Vandeven, Brooke Whitecotton and Jessica Wright.

Director’s Corner

by Dr. Brenda Stacy, Director

University Learning Center of Northern Oklahoma

ULC Expresses Condolences

On Jan. 27th, we lost 10 Oklahomans, all of whom were associated with the activities of higher education. The OSU plane crash took great friends and co-workers from us and we miss them dearly. We, at the University Learning Center of Northern Oklahoma, extend our most heartfelt condolences to the families and the many who have been touched by the loss of these individuals.

Oklahoma State University is one of the eight higher education institutions that deliver programs and classes to the University Learning Center of Northern Oklahoma. OSU also “bridges” many of our classes that are delivered from other universities to Ponca City, which means that OSU makes the technologies compatible so that we can receive the classes at ULC.

Kendall Durfey was the Broadcast Engineer in the control room at OSU. We might not have recognized him if he walked in the door and we didn't even know his last name until the accident, but we all new the voice of Kendall at OSU. When a class did not start broadcasting on time or we couldn't hear the audio or we needed to move a class to a new location, a call to Kendall usually resulted in a quick solution.

Kendall was extremely knowledgeable in finessing the enormous amount of “bells and whistles” that are necessary to send broadcasts of courses all across the state and beyond. Even when all chaos would be occurring, Kendall and his co-workers seemed to remain in control and always empathetic with the situation.

Jared Weiberg was also lost in this tragedy. Jared was the son of Mick and Vina Weiberg of Tonkawa. Mick is vice president for student affairs and men's basketball coach at Northern Oklahoma College. Again, we work very closely with NOC and knew Jared and the Weiberg family very well.

As people have mourned the losses of these ten individuals, many outstanding accomplishments and positive character traits have been enumerated about each. Jared was most certainly deserving of the praise bestowed. He was an outstanding young man, every parent's ideal child, who was always friendly, helpful, and hard-working.

As we reflect about the events of the past couple of weeks, it is difficult to understand why some lives are taken and some are spared. Such events seem to accentuate the fact that our time on earth is so short and that any moment might be our last.

I have heard several people relay the impact on their lives: “I checked on my little one sleeping just one more time, before going to bed last night.”

“I called my Mom and Dad yesterday, just to tell them I loved them.” “We hugged our teenager just a little tighter when she came home from her date and said a quiet ‘thank you’ for her safe return.” Such comments show that our awareness has been sharpened that we cannot take life for granted.

We cannot predict the future, but we can plan and prepare for it. Education can be a significant part of those plans. If you lost a husband or wife, would you be able to provide financial support for yourself or your family? Would your educational background yield the type of earning power necessary to send your children to college? Would you be able to maintain the same lifestyle to which you were previously accustomed?

The University Learning Center of Northern Oklahoma can help you prepare for the future. For more information, give us a call at 762-2856. We are located in the North Tower of the Conoco Complex. Enter Gate F from South Avenue in Ponca City.

After Prom Party Meeting Scheduled

Plans are under way and committees are forming for this year’s After Prom Party.

Parents of junior class students are asked to help organize this event which will be held at Grand Central Station. Volunteers and cash donations are still needed.

If you would like to help, please attend the parent’s meeting on Thursday, Feb. 15 at 6:30 p.m. in the Po-Hi Commons Area. Enter the school through the Fifth Street doors.

If you cannot attend the meeting, but would like to volunteer, contact any junior class officer. They are Desiree Franseen, president; Emily Day, vice president; and Jennifer Gray, secretary. You can also contact Desiree Franseen, or Karen Franseen, at 767-1280.

LIFESTYLES

Little News

Little News

Brandt Jackson Bullard

Announcing the birth of a son are Travis and Crystal Bullard of Perry. Brandt Jackson Bullard was born at 11:54 a.m. Jan. 11, 2001, in St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He weighed 8 pounds, 1 ounce, and measured 20 inches long.

Maternal grandparents are Rhonda Hanyka of Perry, and Tony Ivers of Ponca City. Paternal grandparents are Oley and Linda Bullard of Ponca City.

Great-grandparents are Johnie Ivers of Ponca City, Vernon Sattler of Lucien, Pat Bullard and Dorothy Franks of Ponca City, the late Joy Ivers, the late Dorothy Sattler, the late Clay Rucker, the late Melvin Bullard, and the late Matt Spielbusch.

Mason Gregory Coleman

Kevin and Lisa (Bakker) Coleman of St. Louis, Mo. announce the birth of a son, Mason Gregory Coleman, at 7:48 p.m., Jan. 19, 2001. He weighed 6 pounds, 12 ounces, and measured 19 1/4 inches long.

Grandparents are former Ponca Citians, Marv and Janet Bakker of Ames, Iowa, and Zelda Coleman of Hannibal, Mo.

SPORTS

Wrestlers Still Seek Respect
Sooners Will Open Season On Aug. 25
Sports Notes

Wrestlers Still Seek Respect

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

All season Ponca City’s Wildcat wrestlers have been seeking respect — and for the most part, getting it.

But it appears they still have a point to prove as they take on No. 3 ranked Westmoore in the first round of the Class 5A Dual State Tournament at the Tulsa Union Intermediate School this evening.

“From what I’ve read and heard, Westmoore may be looking past us,” Po-Hi coach Todd Steidley said before taking his grapplers into the first post season battle. “They are already trying to figure out what they are going to do against Broken Arrow.”

Broken Arrow, the No. 1 team in Class 5A, will take on Yukon at the same time (6 p.m.) that the Wildcats go against the Jaguars. The 8 p.m. duals pit Midwest City against Muskogee and Sand Springs against Choctaw.

Westmoore lost the No. 1 seed from the West in a late dual with Midwest City, but the Jaguars topped Del City, a team that beat the Wildcats earlier in the season.

“It’s going to be close,” Steidley said of his team’s chances against Westmoore. “They are strong at the same weights we are strong. There should be a lot of close matches. If they win most of the close matches, it could be a blow out. But if we can win those matches, we have a pretty good chance.

“Westmoore will probably be favored in more matches, so we need to pull off some upsets.”

The Wildcats have been pulling off upsets all season.

Written off as a rebuilding year for the youthful Cats, the Poncans came out of the gate strong and have been gaining momentum as they went along, Their only dual losses have come to Top 5 teams and they have started to give even the elite teams a battle.

“We’re in pretty good health and our confidence is good,” Steidley said.

“We’ll just have to go down there and see what we can do.”

Although several Cats — along with their coach — has been fighting the flu bug, Steidley feels his team is in good shape for this time of the year.

If the Wildcats win today, they will move on to the semifinals at 2:30 p.m. Saturday. The finals are set for Saturday at 7 p.m.

Sooners Will Open Season On Aug. 25

NORMAN, Okla. (AP) — National champion Oklahoma apparently will open the 2001 football season Aug. 25 against North Carolina in the Hispanic Fund Football Classic.

There are some details to be worked out, but several media reports say the official announcement of the game in Norman could come as soon as Friday.

North Carolina coach John Bunting, who agreed the announcement is imminent, told the Greensboro (N.C.) News and Record he is “anxious to play” OU.

“When I came here, I didn’t come to be second-best or middle-of-the-pack,” said Bunting, who was hired in December after Carl Torbush was fired. “I only want to be No. 1, and I want to play the best.”

Oklahoma athletic director Joe Castiglione, while not confirming the matchup, said the game will be included in the season-ticket package.

The only date still to be filled on Oklahoma’s schedule is Sept. 1. Castiglione said the school is close to lining up an opponent for that day.

“We’d have had this thing done a long time ago if we could get the other teams to make up their mind,” Castiglione told The Daily Oklahoman. “We’ve been working these phones hard trying to get somebody to say they’re going to do it.”

Sports Notes

Golf Boosters —The 2001 Wildcat Golf Booster club will hold a meeting in the Commons area at Ponca City High School, Sun., Feb. 11, at 6 p.m.. The meeting will be for all junior high and high school parents and golf boosters. For more information, please contact club president Wes Nimmo at (580) 762-5580.

———

Tennis Rating — There will be an United States Tennis Association rating clinic for USTA adult tennis leagues Sun., Feb. 11, from 3 p.m. - 5 p.m., at the Ponca City Country Club. For more information, please contact Kevin Milton at (580) 765-5179.