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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Thursday, February 18, 1999 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS SPORTS GARDENING LOCALNearly News Nearly NewsSeekers of the unusual, be on the lookout for the double banana. Don Richardson of Ponca City discovered a banana having two curved fruits encased in a single banana peel after arriving home from shopping at Miller Market Wednesday morning — a rare encounter of the yellow kind. Chamber NewsSmall Business Key To Growth Small Business is a key part of Oklahoma’s economic engine and needs support in the Legislature if it is to grow and prosper. That was the message sent loud and clear during the Governor’s Conference on Small Business which was held in Ponca City on Jan. 27. More than 100 business owners and managers were on hand to participate in a legislative goal setting process that was chaired by Lt. Gov. Mary Fallin. Critical issues identified were Workers Compensation revision, small business taxation, workforce development and Right-to-Work. Communities from all across Kay County were represented at the meeting. Similar sessions have been planned for every county in Oklahoma, with the overall objective being to bring a large delegation to Oklahoma City on Wednesday, Feb. 24 to pass the message to every member of the Oklahoma Legislature and ask for their assistance in making our state more “business friendly.” More than 90 percent of all businesses in the state employ fewer than 100 persons, making small business the major employer in Oklahoma. Chris Hand of Ponca City served as the event chairman. Thanks to him for his efforts in making it such a success and thanks to the many business people who took the time to attend and make their opinions heard. Details on the February trip to Oklahoma City to meet with legislative representatives are now being set and will be publicized soon. New Faces, New Dreams, New Opportunities Oftentimes we miss what is right under our own noses or take for granted what others consider a prize. On a recent tour of Thorn Apple Valley, several individuals had the opportunity to hear first hand what these jobs have meant to some of our newest citizens. The group of individuals we spoke with told us where they had come from and what a difference these jobs and our community have meant in their lives. Most talked of leaving communities where the violence was an everyday occurrence and they literally feared for the lives of their families. Where drugs and gangs were the normal neighbors and the future was dismal and bleak at best. Where after many years of employment, they saw their jobs leave the United States, for a cheaper labor market in Mexico. In that type of environment survival was the most important factor in their daily lives. To them, America as we know it was non-existent or simply a dream. When asked about their experience in Ponca City, smiles came to their faces and their eyes brightened. They spoke of children who now can play in their own yards without fear of violence or drug dealers. They proudly discussed how their children now value their educational experience and are doing well in school. How they are actively involved in extra curricular activities and how they feel welcomed in our community. Because of these new jobs they have been able to purchase a home, a second car and to dream about sending their children to college. To dream about improving our lives and the lives of our children is something that is common ground for all of us. In particular they spoke of how they have been accepted in our community and how they have been made to feel part of what we often take for granted. They discussed their love for Ponca City and Oklahoma in terms that are usually expressed only by natives or long time residents of our state. Simply put, they feel at home and cherish “OUR” community and what it has offered them. The American dream is still possible in our nation. In fact it is happening right here in Ponca City. We as citizens should continue to be proud of our community, our abilities and our future. Let us not forget that many new residents of Ponca City have generated an expressed overwhelming enthusiasm for our community and our way of life, shouldn’t we share that same spirit? Upcoming Events Friday, Feb. 19 — Legislative Review Committee, 7:30 a.m., Chamber Conference Room. Tuesday, Feb. 23 — Leadership Alumni, 11:30 a.m., Chamber Conference Room. Tuesday, Feb. 23 — Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., Brandt’s Ace Hardware, 3203 North Fourteenth. Wednesday, Feb. 24 — Ribbon Cutting, 12:30 p.m., Urgent Care Clinic, 1715 North Fifth. Wheatheart Kitchen Site Moving To BlackwellBy PATTI CARMACK News Lifestyles Editor A group of 200 people gathered Wednesday at the Wheatheart Nutrition Center to hear that the kitchen at the Ponca City site will move to Blackwell March 1. Gene Braley, project council president for Wheatheart, let the group know in no uncertain terms that nothing could be done about the decision, which was made during a Dec. 16, 1998, board meeting of the Wheatheart Nutrition Project Inc. In a meeting that began at 10 a.m., Braley announced at 10:59 a.m. that the discussion would end at 11:15 a.m. Various senior citizens from Ponca City and Newkirk were allowed to walk to a microphone, a difficult task for some, to ask why Ponca Citians had not been allowed input into such an important decision, and if it was too late to negotiate. Braley finally halted repeat speakers from the floor, while allowing discussion among Northern Oklahoma Development Authority (NODA) and Wheatheart Project personnel. The gist of the local discussion was the lack of communication from NODA Area Agency on Aging and the Wheatheart Project as to the time and subject matter of the meeting to make this type of decision. Ponca City Wheatheart Nutrition Center, 319 West Grand, has been reduced to a satellite center with meals to be prepared at the Blackwell site and delivered to Ponca City and Newkirk. Cooks at the center prepare 120-200 meals a day including 40-50 for homebound participants. Part of that food is cooked here and taken to the Tonkawa and Newkirk centers. The Wheatheart Nutrition program feeds anyone 60 years of age and older. With the exception of certain holidays, the center is open Monday-Friday. It is state and federally funded through NODA (Department on Aging) based in Enid. No fee is charged for the meals but donations are welcome with a recommended amount being $1.50 per person. Those expecting to eat at the center or have a meal delivered are required to call the preceding day and make a reservation. Telephone number is 767-1620. Determining Factor Money was the factor in determining whether the kitchen site remained in Ponca City or was moved to Blackwell. The building in Blackwell is being renovated by the City of Blackwell and utilities are provided with a rental fee of $250 a year. Mayor Tom Leonard indicated that the City of Ponca City had not been advised of the move and had no chance to work with NODA AAA on the matter of utilities. The city purchased the building and renovated it in 1989 and charges a fee of one dollar per year for its use as a nutrition site for seniors. Recently the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) received a grant to help fund activities at the center. In an announcement of the Feb. 17 meeting an information sheet stated the reasons for the decision made to close the kitchen site here, resulting in meals being prepared in Blackwell and transported to Ponca City. Wheatheart Nutrition Project, Inc. (WNP) is funded through the Northern Oklahoma Development Authority Area Agency on Aging (NODA AAA) by the Older Americans Act. Since the Older Americans Act has not been reauthorized by Congress and the federal appropriations have remained the same for several years, funding has been static, while costs have increased. WNP has cut costs in an effort to operate more efficiently. After months of consideration, the WNP Board of Directors determined that closing the kitchen at the Ponca City site is necessary for the long-term survival of the project as a whole. The decision was made unanimously at the Dec. 16, 1998, board meeting. The close of this kitchen is expected to save the project over $30,000 in one budget year. Utility costs at the Ponca City site were listed as $12,509 in fiscal year 1998. Marianne Gutierrez, project director, said WNP can no longer afford to have two kitchens in Kay County. Responding to the majority of questions asked about the site, she also said “we don’t pay utilities in Blackwell, just $250 a month for rent.” Nothing Else Affected Beginning March 1, 1999, the Blackwell site, which is the location of the other kitchen in Kay County, will prepare meals for the Ponca City site. Meals will still be prepared and received daily, Monday through Friday. Except for the absence of a kitchen, everything else at the site should remain the same. All other activities should not be affected said Gutierrez. The site manager, Erma Burke, and the custodian and van driver, Charles Hindes, have accepted the same positions they currently hold. The cooks, Fontella McAdams and Norma Osburn, will transfer to the Blackwell site. Paula Gurley has elected to resign from WNC. The hours for Ms. Burke have also been reduced. Larry Tipps, NODA executive director, said “Wheatheart has 18 sites, eight counties, 175,000 square miles to deal with and it is difficult to negotiate contracts each year.” Gutierrez said “this is a board decision and that decision stands.” Among those present were Wheatheart Board of Directors: Gene Braley, project council president, who served as facilitator for the meeting; Nicki Carleston, director of NODA AAA; Sallie Shreck, program planner; Larry Tipps, NODA executive director for eight counties; Johnece Wilson, executive coordinator; Louann Long, bookkeeper; Janet Richards, administrative assistant; Dean Cortright, chairman of WNP project board; Ed Toews, vice chairman; Rex Purdy, Kay County board member, and board members from Alfalfa, Blaine, Garfield, Grant, Kingfisher, Major and Noble counties. Also attending were Mayor Tom Leonard; City Manager Gary Martin; United Way Executive Director Helene Schwartz; and RSVP Director Marie Trenary. A trust fund from a Ponca City man was utilized for purchasing a van and various equipment for the center, including kitchen items. The participants from Ponca City called for an accounting and audit of those funds, as well as queries on what would happen to the equipment. Larry Tipps said “there has been no misuse of the funds whatsoever.” Gutierrez said all such items would remain at the Ponca City site. Questions ‘Secrecy’ Center participants asked “why the secrecy” in the meeting and decision making. The board chairman replied “it was no secret — it was an open meeting.” Over and over again was the comment from Gutierrez, Tipps and others — it’s a “cut and dried decision ” and “utility costs are too high in Ponca City.” Mayor Leonard said “I am surprised” at the lack of communication. “This is a textbook example of what not to do when dealing with the public. We learned about this months after the decision was made. I can understand why the people here feel it was done secretly.” In addressing the board members, Leonard said, “You contacted the city of Blackwell, but you didn’t contact the city of Ponca City. We weren’t even asked if we could modify our contract. One of the things we do, as a city, for our customers is an energy audit. Grants are being written and are available for winterization, etc.; but we weren’t asked.” “One of my goals, as well as the commissioners, is cooperative, collaborative ways of meeting with any or all groups in our city. My big question is — are we too late? Is this already written in stone?” He also said, “this is a significant concern to me and to the commissioners as the attitude is that the city has ignored the needs of senior citizens — and we didn’t even know this site was at a crisis stage.” He reiterated that he, personally, as well as the city, would be glad to work with NODA and WNP. Wilson said the Older American Act funding could be “pulled by congress at any time” and suggested that citizens write their congressmen to indicate the need for authorization. She also said “communication is a two way street and you need to find out when meetings are held.” Yearly Training For Hospice Volunteers SetHospice of Ponca City will offer its yearly volunteer training beginning on March 2. Volunteer training is offered only once a year and will last for eight weeks. Training is required for all persons who are interested in working with Hospice patients and/or families. The course will cover important topics necessary for patient and family involvement. Such topics include: What is Hospice?, Listening and Communication Skills, Developing Relationships, Spiritual Care/Needs of the Dying, Bereavement/Grief, Physical Care of the Patient, and Expectations of Hospice Volunteers. The classes will be held at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, located at the corner of East Hartford Avenue and North Pecan Road, on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Participants are required to complete eight out of the nine classes in order to receive their training certificates. Class size is limited and reservations are recommended. If you’re interested in volunteer training or need additional information, please call Tamie Barnes, Volunteer Coordinator, Hospice of Ponca City at 762-9102. Traffic Group To Reconsider Waverly ProjectA revision of a street improvement project on Waverly Street from South Avenue to Highland Avenue is on the agenda for the members of the Traffic Commission at its regular meeting Friday. Traffic Engineering Director Mike Lane announced the agenda item Wednesday for the 1:15 p.m. Friday meeting at the Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue, noting that the commission would consider the project revision as being from two lane overlay, to a four-lane reconstruction. The panel will also take time to discuss, review and implement other annual goals for 1999. The meeting also allows citizens comments on items not on the agenda, plus communications from members, and a report from the traffic engineer. Also on the agenda is an election of a chairman for the panel. DEATHSIvan Leo Dixon Ivan Leo DixonIvan Leo Dixon, former longtime Ponca City businessman, died Wednesday morning, Feb. 17, 1999, at the Morningstar Retirement Residence in San Marcos, Texas. He was 85. A graveside funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery with the Rev. Charles Heyer, associate pastor, First Christian Church, officiating. Local arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home. Ivan Leo Dixon was born March 16, 1913 in Hunter, the son of Walter Washington and Edith Edna (Haskins) Dixon. He graduated from Ponca City High School in 1932, and Northern Oklahoma College. After graduation he began his career in the dry cleaning business. On Nov. 12, 1937, he married Geneva Mae McHaffie in Ponca City. In the early years he became associated with Parisian and Master Cleaners and Hatters. During World War II he served as a lieutenant commander in the U.S. Navy on Atlantic convoy routes. Dixon continued his service in the U.S. Naval Reserves until his retirement. After his military service the returned to Ponca City and owned and operated Troy Cleaners on North Second Street until his retirement in the 1960s. Dixon was a lifelong member of the First Christian Church, where he served as deacon. He was an active member of the Ponca City Lions Club. with a 57 year record of perfect attendance and a charter member of the Tippers Club. Dixon served on the Ponca City Planning Commission and on the Ponca City Board of Education, the State School Board and several terms as president of the Oklahoma Dry Cleaners Association. He enjoyed drinking coffee every morning with his friends in Ponca City for more than 50 years. Survivors include his wife, Geneva Mae Dixon of San Marcos, Texas; a son Bob Dixon of Wimberley, Texas; four grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Dixon’s name to Alzheimer’s Association, 1919 North Michigan Ave., Suite 1000, Chicago, IL, 60611-1676. The family will be at Trout Funeral from 7 to 8 p.m. today to receive friends. Clifton R. LarisonClifton R. “Cliff” Larison, Ponca City resident, died Tuesday morning, Feb. 16, 1999, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 59. The funeral will be held Friday, Feb. 19, 1999, at 11 a.m. at First Free Will Baptist Church with the Rev. David Bigger, pastor, officiating. Burial will follow in Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Trout Funeral Home. Clifton R. Larison was born July 11, 1939, in Woodward, to John Everet and Ona Ruth (Pickering) Larison. He moved to Ponca City at an early age and was a 1958 graduate of Ponca City High School. After graduating, he joined the U.S. Air Force, serving four years. He was discharged in 1962 and attended Northern Oklahoma Junior College in Tonkawa for two years, then earned his degree and teaching certificate from Northwestern University in Alva. On March 24, 1967, he married Zeylia “Zedie” Henson in Ponca City. They moved to Washington, Mo., where Larison was employed as a teacher. The couple later returned to Ponca City and he began a career in the grocery business. He had been employed with Bestyet, Miller’s Market, Safeway and Homeland. Larison retired as produce manager of Homeland in Blackwell. He enjoyed woodworking and golf and was credited with inventing the “Yard Ball” that helped with his swing. He is survived by his wife, Zedie of the home; two sons, Shawn Larison of Kansas City, Kan., and Joel Larison of Oceanside, Calif.; one daughter, Kim Craighead of Conifer, Colo.; and five grandchildren. His parents and one brother, Carl Burton Larison, preceded him in death. Casket bearers will be Mike Craighead, Shawn Larison, Matt Longoria, Tommy Carithers, Clint Bordovsky, and Clayton Wright. The family will be at the home, 1932 North Seventh Street. Isaiah Michael ThompsonIsaiah Michael Thompson, infant son of Micca Lois Thompson died Tuesday, Feb. 16, 1999, in Tulsa. He was four months old. A prayer service will be held at 7 p.m. today at the Ponca Indian Baptist Church in White Eagle. The traditional Indian feast will be held at noon, Friday, Feb. 19, followed by the funeral at 2 p.m. The Rev. Ted Freeman will officiate. Burial will follow in the Ponca Indian Cemetery at White Eagle. Arrangements are under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel, Ponca City. Isaiah Michael Thompson was born, Oct. 16, 1998, at Hillcrest Medical Center in Tulsa. He is survived by his mother, Micca Lois Thompson of Tulsa; one sister, Kyra Lorene Thompson; his maternal grandparents, Michael W. Thompson and Angel L. Grass Thompson of Tulsa; and several aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his great-grandparents, Charley and Martha Grass. Casket bearers will be Charles Thompson, Richard Thompson, Michael Thompson and Isaiah Thompson. Services PendingMary Jane HazelbakerFAIRFAX — Mary Jane Hazelbaker, Fairfax resident, died Wednesday evening, Feb. 17, 1999, at her home. A rosary service will be held at 7 p.m. Friday at Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home Chapel in Fairfax. The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Fairfax. Other arrangements will be announced later by Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home. Etta Van HoyNEWKIRK — Etta Van Hoy, longtime Newkirk resident, died Wednesday evening, Feb. 17, 1999, at Sterling House in Arkansas City, Kan. She was 90. Arrangements are pending with Miller-Stahl Funeral Service in Newkirk. NEWS BRIEFSFree Smoke Alarms — Operation S.A.F.E., free smoke alarms for elderly, homebound, handicapped and hearing-impaired within the city limits in need of a smoke alarm or a new battery for an existing alarm, will be Saturday. If eligible, or know of an eligible person, call Family Resource Center at 767-9509, United Way at 718-0288, or Helpline at 765-5551 by Wednesday to sign up. The service is provided by the Ponca City Fire Department, the Fire Prevention Advisory Council, AARP and AmeriCorps. Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential. Hours: Monday, 4-6 p.m., Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and Thursday, 6-8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. adv. Fashion Show — There will be a Native American Fashion Show on Friday from 2 to 2:45 p.m. at the Roosevelt gym. The event is coordinated by Jeana Rush, Title IX Indian Education. For more information call 767-8060. Ponca City High School will present its all-school play, Shake- speare’s Romeo and Juliet Friday, February 19, for a communi- ty performance. The condensed 2-act version will be presented at Ponca City High School’s Howell Auditorium at 8 p.m. Tickets are $3.00 and available at the door. Don’t miss this exciting produc- tion! adv. Flags Stolen — An employee at Lew Wentz Golf Course reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:27 a.m. Wednesday that some flags had been stolen from the course. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Ryder Truck Rental is back. Now located at Dempewolf Mini- Storage. 2101 North Union, 762-6162. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 300 block of North Oak Street at 8:23 a.m. Wednesday that a 38-year-old man was being held on a city warrant. Former Young Life club members or those interested in start- ing a club for our High School Students in Ponca. Please call Vivian 762-1364, leave name and phone number. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 300 block of South Osage Street at 10:24 a.m. Wednesday that a 22-year-old man was being held on a city warrant for failure to obey. Spring Soccer for boys and girls age four and one half and up. Sign up Quatum Computer Service, 312 East Grand, Febru- ary 20th, 22nd, 23rd, 24th. Every child must sign up during this time. Call 762-9056. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 11:08 a.m. Wednesday that a 24-year-old man was being held for failure to pay. Pauline's Shrimp peel. All you can eat, $11.95, Friday the 19th. For reservations, call 765-5460.adv. Subject Held — An employee at Conoco Convenience, 1613 West South Avenue, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:21 a.m. Wednesday that a subject who had just stolen some cigarettes was at the pay phone. An officer was assigned and a 39-year-old man was held for petit larceny. Being Relocated, or in town for a short time? We have homes available by the month or longer. All homes are full furnished with appliances, furniture, linens, pots and pans. Inclusive of cable, local phone, and utilities. Please call 580-762-7980 or 580-718-0681. adv. Building Vandalized — A man reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:51 a.m. Wednesday that the old Farm Fresh building along 200 block of North Union Street had been vandalized. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Forgery — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department took a report on a forgery at Miller Market at 1:32 p.m. Wednesday. Dry, Winter skin? Free sample of facial moisturizer to fit your skin type from Estee Lauder or Clinique at John’s Apparel, downtown Ponca City. 762-2763. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 1:35 p.m. Wednesday that a 38-year-old man was being held on a city warrant for failure to pay. State Certified DUI School Bridgeway, Inc. is Kay Co.'s only local non-profit organization that offers both mid-week and week- end DUI Schools and Assessments. Next school scheduled Friday, February 18th, and Saturday, February 19th, starting at 5:00 p.m. We now offer the 24 hr. DUI School. Call 762-1462 for res- ervations and information. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 2:22 p.m. Wednesday that a 34-year-old woman was being held on a city warrant for failure to pay. Head Country all day Friday special All you can eat, smoked BBQ ribs, beans, potato salad, and coleslaw, only $6.95, all day. 1217 East Prospect. 767-8304. adv. Merchandise Damaged — An employee at Hastings, 2900 North Fourteenth Street, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 2:41 p.m. Wednesday that a shoplifter had been in custody but left before police arrived. Employees at Hastings reported the merchandise recovered, but it had been damaged. An officer assigned took a report on the destruction of private property. Dougan's Bar-B-Q Friday special from 4-8 p.m., all you can eat ribs with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $7.49. 215 South 14th, 765-7979. adv. Accident — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 3:32 p.m. Wednesday that a two-vehicle accident had occurred in the 3300 block of South Seventh Street. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol was notified. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of West Grand Avenue and Pine Street at 3:45 p.m. Wednesday that a 25-year-old man was being held on a county warrant for civil contempt and application to revoke. Another officer assisted in the arrest. Threatened — A woman reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:38 p.m. Wednesday that she had been threatened by another woman a week ago. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Purse Stolen — A woman from the 1900 block of Jane Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:06 p.m. Wednesday that a purse had been stolen while at Pioneer Technology Center. Information was logged. Vandalism — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 4:29 p.m. Wednesday from a woman in the 400 block of South Lincoln Street that some juveniles had put paint on her vehicle. An officer of the Ponca City Police Department was assigned and a report was taken. Hit and Run — A man from the 1200 block of South Seventh Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:36 p.m. Wednesday that his vehicle had received damage from a vehicle that had left the scene. An officer was assigned and a hit-and-run accident report was taken. Disturbance — A person reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:15 a.m. Thursday that a disturbance was occurring outside a building in the 2100 block of North Union Street. Two officers were assigned and a citation was issued for a minor in possession of beer. Bicycle Found — A man from the 500 block of North Eleventh Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:51 p.m. Wednesday that a bicycle had been abandoned by the garage. Animal Control was contacted to handle the situation. Dougan's Bar-B-Q Thursday special from 4-? 1/2 BBQ chicken with 2 vegetables. $4.25. 215 South 14th. 765-7979. adv. Gas Drive-Off — An employee at E-Z Mart, Bradley Avenue and North Fourteenth Street, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 6:18 p.m. Wednesday that someone had driven off without paying for $5 worth of gas. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. WCW/NWO Superbrawl IX only one will take home the belt! Sun- day, February 21st at 7:00 p.m. Only on Pay Per View. Call Cable ONE at 762-6684 for your ring count on! adv. Residence Vandalized — A woman from the 800 block of West Oklahoma Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:01 p.m. Wednesday that some vandalism had been done to the residence. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 1500 block of South Ninth Street at 7:26 p.m. Wednesday that a 22-year-old man was being held on a Kay County warrant for failure to appear. Shoplifters — An employee at Wal-Mart reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:57 p.m. Wednesday that two juvenile girls were in custody for shoplifting. An officer was assigned and a 16-year-old girl and a 17-year-old girl were held for grand larceny. Subject Held — An officer of the Kay County Sheriff’s Department reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 8:45 p.m. Wednesday that a 36-year-old man was being held on a city warrant for failure to pay. Vehicle Towed — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of West Cleveland Avenue and North Oak Street at 11:13 p.m. Wednesday that a vehicle had been towed from the scene for having illegally tinted windows. Subject Held — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 11:42 p.m. Wednesday that a disturbance was occurring in the 1500 block of South Ninth Street. Two officers were assigned and a 21-year-old man was held for violation of a protective order. Suspicious Activity — The manager at Hastings, 2900 North Fourteenth Street, reported at 12:06 a.m. Thursday that two employees had been caught stealing. Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department were assigned and information was logged. Treated for Injury — An employee at the emergency room at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 1:44 a.m. Thursday that a subject was being treated for an injury received after being hit by a bottle while in the 300 block of West Hartford Avenue. An officer was assigned and the information was logged. Curfew Violation — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of North Osage Street and West Summit Avenue at 4:31 a.m. Thursday that a 16-year-old girl was being held for curfew violation. Library Story Times — The topic for next week’s Ponca City Library story times for preschool and primary youngsters is “Who is Sick Today?” Youngsters ages 4-7 will go to hear the program at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. for 30 minutes on Tuesday, while 2-3 year old youngsters will have 15-minute programs on Wednesday at either 10 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. More information may be obtained by calling the Ponca City Library at 767-0345. The Library is located in the 500 block of East Grand Ave. GARDENINGWildlife Habitat Designated Here Wildlife Habitat Designated HereEditor’s Note: The News will publish pictures and more information on the local habitat in future garden pages. WASHINGTON — The word is out on the grapevine that Marilyn Campbell of Ponca City has put out the welcome mat for all kinds of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife, while helping to protect the local environment. The Campbell property is now certified as a National Wildlife Federation (NWF) Backyard Wildlife HabitatTM site. Joining more than 20,000 property owners in the U.S. and Canada, Campbell is providing habitat by cultivating trees, shrubs, and flowers that offer food and cover for wildlife, thus attracting butterflies, birds, frogs, and small mammals. This effort promotes common-sense conservation by reducing or eliminating the need for fertilizers, pesticides, or irrigation water. The Backyard Wildlife Habitat program offers individuals, families, and organizations an easy and enjoyable introduction to nature that can yield a lifelong commitment to conservation. It is one of many NWF efforts to educate, inspire, and assist people in protecting wildlife and the environment. Since the program's start in 1973, Backyard Wildlife Habitat sites have sprouted in urban, suburban, and rural sites everywhere, from post offices, schools, and places of worship, to hospitals, community parks, and municipal facilities. The majority can be found at residential properties like the Campbell yard. For general information on the program call (703) 790-4434. Backyard Wildlife Habitat information packets are also available at all 200-plus Wild Birds Unlimited stores in the U.S. and Canada. The Backyard Bird Feeding Specialists at Wild Birds Unlimited can help property owners meet the qualifications to certify their property as an official National Wildlife Federation Backyard Wildlife Habitat site. Not All Bulbs Are Suitable for Forcing Into Bloom IndoorsBy Karen C. Wilson Copley News Service The tradition of “forcing” — tricking bulbs into blooming early — dates to the ancient Romans. Not all bulbs tolerate this procedure well, but there are four that do. They are amaryllis, crocus, paperwhite narcissus, and hyacinths. All paperwhite narcissus and amaryllis can be forced indoors, regardless of variety, since neither requires any special conditioning. However, when selecting bulbs of crocus and hyacinths for forcing, look for varieties that have been specifically bred for this purpose. The reason is that these two bulbs require a certain period of “winter chill” in order to bloom. In forcing, the chill requirement is accomplished by storing the bulbs in a refrigerator for a certain period. Varieties that have been bred for forcing usually have been pre-chilled, cutting the amount of refrigeration time they need by several weeks. Once they have bloomed, bulbs that have been forced will not bloom again and should be discarded. The exception is amaryllis, which will grow and rebloom for years with the proper care. Paperwhites These are the most popular bulbs for forcing, and among the easiest. They are virtually foolproof, requiring no pre-chilling and quick to come into bloom. Paperwhites are traditionally forced in shallow, gravel-filled containers or in water. To force in gravel, cover the bottom of a container with a thin layer of gravel, place the bulbs on top and fill in around them with enough gravel to hold them in place, but not cover them. Crowd bulbs together for the best effect. Add water to the level of the gravel and put the container in a cool spot with low light until roots form, about one or two weeks. Then move the pot to a sunny spot to encourage bloom. Amaryllis Like paperwhites, amaryllis require no pre-chilling, and will bloom six to 10 weeks after planting. The huge jumbo types are the most popular for forcing, which is done in soil in a container. Pots should be at least 6 inches deep and heavy enough to support the oversize blooms and up-to-3-foot tall stalks of the mature plant. The bulb should fit snugly in the container, with only an inch or 2 of space between it and the side of the pot; with the top third of the bulb exposed above the soil surface. Put it in a cool, sunny location and water sparingly until shoots appear, then increase watering so that the soil stays evenly moist. Blooms should appear in four to six weeks. When bloom has ceased, cut off the flower stalk close to the base. Continue watering and add fertilizer regularly through midsummer, then allow the plant to dry out for six to eight weeks. Repeat the forcing process described above. Crocus Crocus are forced in soil in a container, and require pre-chilling in the refrigerator. Like paperwhites, crocus look best in a crowded planting. A wide, shallow pot works best. Fill with 2 inches of soil, and place the bulbs on top so they’re even with the pot rim. Fill in around them with more soil and place the pot in the crisper section of your fridge. Chill for the required amount of time, then move to a warm, bright location to trigger leaf and flower production; blooms should open in about three or four weeks. Hyacinths Hyacinths often are forced in special hourglass-shape forcing vases, using only water - a practice begun by the Victorians. Bulbs must be pre-chilled for the requisite amount of time before being placed in the water-filled vase (up to its “neck”). Place in a cool, lowlight area until roots begin to form, then move to a warm bright-light location. Books on Bulbs “The Burpee Expert Gardener: Bulbs” by John E. Bryan (Macmillan). A well-rounded reference that covers an unusually wide range of bulbs. An Englishman, Bryan is especially informative about South African bulb varieties. Highly recommended for gardeners wanting to add the increasingly popular and available South African bulbs to their gardens. “Beautiful Bulbs” by Georgearme Brennan and Mind Luebberman (Chronicle Books). Part of the Garden Style Book series, this book provides a quick overview of 20-plus bulbs, but the focus is really on the how-to-plant them projects presented. “Bulb Gardening With Derek Fell” by Derek Fell (Friedman/Fairfax Publishers). A well-written, beautifully photographed book by one of America’s leading garden writer/photographers. Covers all aspects of bulb gardening, from planting to landscaping, plus in-depth portraits of a wide range of bulbs. A good bet, overall. “Classic Bulbs: Hidden Treasures for the Modern Garden” by Katherine Whiteside Willard Books). Whiteside describes and traces the history and uses of 26 “classic” garden bulbs that include a number of surprising choices. Well written and researched, it’s a reference serious gardeners will find well worth having. “Magic of Irises” by Barbara Perry Lawton (Fulcrum Publishing). A comprehensive guide to irises and everything related. In addition to horticultural information, the book looks at myths, historical significance and medicinal uses of the iris; it even examines its impact on art and culture. “Adventures With Hardy Bulbs” by Louise Beebe Wilder (The Lyons Press). Originally published in 1936, Wilder’s book has been reissued by The Lyons Press as part of its Horticulture Garden Classic series. Able to bridge the years, Wilder’s prose remains a delight and the indepth bulb portraits retain detail few could duplicate today Bulbs for Forcing Amaryllis - Hippeastrum. Height: 12-24 inches. Flower colors: red, white, salmon, pink, bicolored. Chill time: none. Forcing time: four to eight weeks Native to tropical South America. Eighty species range from miniature to giant flowered. Most grown today, usually the giant flowered types, are Dutch hybrids, bred for forcing. Each sends up two stalks, with four flowers per stalk. Trumpet-shape flowers measure up to 12 inches across. Easily forced in soil in a container, bulbs will rebloom annually, given proper care. Divide and repot overgrown bulbs every three to four years. Also can be planted in the ground. Paperwhite narcissus - Narcissus tazetta. Height: 12-18 inches. Flower colors: white, yellow, bicolored. Chill time: none. Forcing time: three to five weeks. Three varieties of N. tazetta are bred specifically for forcing. The most common is the paperwhite, with white petals and an ivory white cup. Others are Grand Soleil d’Or, golden petals with an orange cup; and Chinese Sacred Lily, creamy white petals with a large yellow cup. Best forced in water or pebbles, not soil, and discarded after bloom. All produce up to three stems per bulb, and numerous, highly fragrant flowers per stem. Crocus - Crocus. Height: 4-6 inches. Flower colors: white, yellow, lavender, purple, bicolored. Chill time: 12 to 15 weeks. Forcing time: two to three weeks. Native to the Mediterranean region through Afghanistan. Introduced to Europe in the 17th century. Goblet-shape flowers taper at base into long tube that originates below the soil surface. Crocus vernus, Dutch crocus, is the most vigorous and most often used for forcing. C. crysanthus, snow crocus, also forces well. Force bulbs in soil in a container. Discard after bloom. Pre-chilled bulbs also can be planted in the ground. Hyacinth - Hyacinthus. Height: 8-12 inches. Flower colors: pink, blue, violet, white, yellow, red, salmon. Chill time: 10 to 12 weeks. Forcing time: two to three weeks. Three species of bulbs native to the Mediterranean through Central Asia. H. orientalis is the best for forcing. Highly fragrant, reflexed flowers are densely clustered on a flower spike. Can be forced in a variety of media, including soil, pebbles and water. Some varieties are bred specially for forcing; others can be planted in the ground after prechilling. Both types should be discarded after bloom. SPORTSMatmen Ready For Gut CheckBy FRED HILTON News Sports Editor It is gut check time for state high school wrestlers as the post season battles begin with regional tournaments. For the Wildcats, its also a time to check out how mentally tough they are, according to coach Todd Steidley. The Cats enter the tough eastern regional at Tulsa Union Intermediate School Friday and Saturday with Steidley fearing some of his matmen may not be ready mentally. Ponca City’s grapplers have had two weeks of wrestling room workouts, which the coach says has been both good and bad. It has been a time to work on some techniques and it has been a time to let some injuries get better, if not completely healed. But it has also been a time when the Poncans have been without outside opposition, And that, in part, is why Steidley is concerned about his team’s mental preparedness. “Some of the kids are excited and ready to extend their season another week — to go to the state tournament,” Steidley said. “But some seem to be ready for the season to be over. “This is a tough time of the year for wrestlers. We’re still pretty beat up. But if you’re beat up or if you’re sick, you just have to reach down and go.” In the regional tournament, the Wildcats will face some of the top individuals in the state, from Broken Arrow, Sand Springs. Tulsa East Central, Muskogee and Westmoore. “We should get three or four wrestlers seeded among the top four,” Steidley said. “And we should have three or four more seeded in the top six. “We have a chance to qualify six or seven (to the state tournament). But we could also fall on our face and not qualify anyone. We don’t have anyone that we feel will go to state for sure.” The Wildcats’ will go with the same lineup they have had for the last several weeks, except they will be void at 112 pounds. Junior Phillip Brotherton (21-11 with 13 falls) will be at 103 pounds. Senior Josh Bailey (16-8, 6) will be at 119, junior Clint Stafford (17-1, 2) at 125, sophomore Jacob Bailey (8-9, 2) at 130, junior Scott Steichen (8-19, 4) at 135, sophomore Matt Littleton (23-11, 9) at 140, junior Michael Osborn (23-8, 12) at 145. Junior Blaine Empting at (19-11, 12) at 152, junior Kyle Duren (14-3, 9) at 160, senior Toby RedLeaf (25-5, 14) at 171, junior Jeremy Leavitt (10-17, 2) at 189, junior Jason Neurenburg (11-18, 6) at 215 and senior Justin Burns (7-16, 6) at heavyweight. The other teams in the eastern regional include Bartlesville, Edmond Memorial, Jenks, Owasso, Sapulpa, Stillwater, Tahlequah, Tulsa Memorial, Tulsa Union and Tulsa Will Rogers. The sessions for the regional tournament will be at noon and 6 p.m. both Friday and Saturday. Regional Pairings Feb. 19-20 Class 5A at Del City - Choctaw, Del City, Edmond North, Edmond Santa Fe, Enid, Lawton, Lawton Eisenhower, Midwest City, Moore, Mustang, Norman, Norman North, Putnam City, Putnam North, Putnam West, Yukon. Class 5A at T. Union Intermediate — Bartlesville, Broken Arrow, Sand Springs, T. East Central, Edmond Memorial, Jenks, Muskogee, Owasso, Ponca City, Sapulpa, Stillwater, Tahlequah, T. Memorial, T. Union, Westmoore, T. Will Rogers. Class 4A at Carl Albert — Altus, Ardmore, Capitol Hill, Carl Albert, Chickasha, Douglass, Duncan, El Reno, John Marshall, Lawton MacArthur, Northeast/Classen, Northwest Classen, Shawnee, Southeast, U.S. Grant, Western Helghts, Woodward. Class 4A at Bixby — Ada, T. Kelley, Bixby, T. Washington, Catoosa, Claremore, Coweta, Durant, Guthrie, McAlester, T. McLain, T. Hale, Noble, Pryor, T. Edison. Class 3A at Harrah — Anadarko, McGuinness, Blackwell/Braman, Clinton, Cushing, Deer Creek, Harrah, Little Axe, Marlow, McLoud, Pauls Valley, Star Spencer, Tecumseh, Wagoner, Weathrford. Class 3A at Bristow — Bristow, Cleveland, Collinsville, T. Webster, Fort Giubson, Glennpool, Grove, Jay, Locust Grove, Mannford, Miami, Okmulgee, Oologoah, Poleau, Sallisaw, Sklatook, Stilwell. Class 2A at Kngfisher — Bethal, Comanche, Cordell, Covington-Douglas, Elgin, Empire, Geary, Hinton, Hobart, Kingfisher, Lexington, Madill, Mangum, Newcastle, Piedmont, Plainview,. Purcell, Snyder, Sulphur, Tonkawa, Tuttle, Watonga. Class 2A at Pawhuska — Barnsdall, Berryhill, Chandler, Henryetta, Hulbert, Inola, Kellyville, Morrison, Newkirk, Oklahoma Union, Parkview, Pawhuska, Pawnee, Perkins-Tryon, Perry, Salina, Sequovah-Tahlequah, Sperry, Vinita
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