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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Friday, March 3, 2000 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES EDUCATION RELIGION SPORTS LOCALA Few Good Men Opens Tonight A Few Good Men Opens TonightBy S.L. Dickey News Staff Writer The Ponca Playhouse production of A Few Good Men opens tonight at the Poncan Theatre under the masterful direction of Jo Ann Muchmore. Muchmore is also an accomplished actor. Human history is always a combination of heroes and heartache — the stories differ but the basic plot remains the same. A Few Good Men is a story of heroes and heartache in the United States Marine Corps. The terms hero and honor may seem simple to define but as the play begins and the story of murder, military rank, youth, Marine dogma, government cover-up, human vulnerability and court-martial unfold, the cast on stage demonstrates that labeling the words hero and honor is not straightforward. The cast of 17 men and one woman includes 11 debut performances by new faces to the Ponca Playhouse stage. This “rookie” cast began the production like a starched, dress military uniform, a bit crisp and stiff, but by halfway through the first act, they were completely comfortable in their roles, dressed in fatigues for combat with well-delivered lines and strong characterizations. Because this story was such a commercial hit in the film version starring Tom Cruise, Demi Moore, and Jack Nicholson, there is a tendency of the viewer to compare the productions. As the play progressed, I found a real vulnerability of the characters on stage that the film production missed — these local thespians exposed the grit, guts, and give-it-one-more-shot of their characters in an unguarded, live theater performance that stays with the viewer, revealing more layers and intricacies of the plot long after the curtain drops. As Lt. j.g. Daniel Kaffee, Louis Kindler is tremendous. The strong performance as a bored, cocky attorney, biding his time and swinging numerous settlements, is fun to watch. Just the right amount of arrogance coupled with introspection emanates from Kindler and his character’s evolution through the play is visible. Lt. j.g. Sam Weinberg, played by Shane Green, is Kaffee’s right hand man in the play. Green and his delivery of the “I’ll do what I’m told but I’d rather not do anything,” character is strong and the character’s insights at just the right moments are well-delivered. Gina Laramy’s debut on the Ponca Playhouse stage in the only female part of the play, also a leading role, as Lt. Cmdr. Joanne Galloway is abrasive and bossy — just like she’s supposed to be. Laramy also shows a softness underneath the steel cover when Kaffee exposes some of Galloway’s lawyer ineptness. The two teenage Marines, Lance Cpl. Harold W. Dawson, Brandon Heppler, and Pfc. Louden Downey, Chase Kelly, show the strength and vitality of youth coupled with the zealous execution of a superior’s orders, upholding the belief in the Marine dogma, at the cost of human life. The belief that they did nothing wrong is well-delivered and passionate. Heppler as Dawson shows the training and discipline of a military existence in his tutelage of Downey (Kelly), while Downey exhibits the unsureness of a rookie, that needs the orders of his superior, Dawson. Capt. Matthew A. Markinson, Ivery J. Allen II, is a lifer, a career military character. Allen pulls off the complexities of his character and his ultimate decision, a battle within of discipline vs. dishonor and its consequences. Chris Williams as Lt. Jonathan James Kendrick is fabulous. His character comes alive with his voice, intonation, inflection, shoulder position and body language, a living, breathing, military Marine. His debut Playhouse performance commands respect of the military branch he represents and was once a part of. Lt. Jack Ross is played by Michael Harrison, a new face on the Ponca Playhouse stage. His performance of the disciplined prosecuting attorney Ross, is strong and self-assured. For me, he was able to reveal the subtleties of his character, the strict adherence to the law and its processes, even after the play was over. Pete Shields shows his thespian experience in the character of Lt. Col. Nathan Jessep. He delivers a strong performance, well-balanced by his character’s arrogance, discipline, tyranny and psychosis, revealed slowly and surely throughout the play, culminating in a unmasking climax. Cmdr. Walter Stone, Ron Hernandez, the Guantanamo Bay Base doctor who performed the autopsy on the private first-class Santiago, bends his professional training and delivers a well-thought-out, under-oath explanation for the death of Santiago, believable to the courtroom on stage and the viewers in the audience. John Raley as Capt. Julius Alexander Randolf demonstrates both his acting experience and his military background. Raley is commanding as the presiding judge during the court-martial of Dawson and Downing. His presence is imposing and his voice echoes over the stage and audience, bringing order and authority to his part. Brandon Gurley as Capt. Whitaker, Michael Deken as Cpl. Dunn/MP, Brock Derrick Campbell as Cpl. Hammaker/Sentry, and Jeremy Jones as Orderly, Sgt.-at-Arms, all had their debut performance on the Playhouse stage. As military men with a mission, their performances were right-on. Jeremy Jones as Cpl. Jeffrey Owen Howard demonstrated with his performance the complex braiding of youth, military discipline and honor in his character’s testimony during the court-martial. Pfc. William T. Santiago, Adam Lake, delivered a great depiction of the conflict inside the character between self-preservation and current existence in a hated environment. This is also Lake’s first stage appearance for the Ponca Playhouse. Jose Cervantes as Cpl. Hammaker/Sentry demonstrated strong military training in his character’s part with booming voice and crisp moves. Cervantes also has the difficult task of maintaining guard throughout the entire play in the watch tower, relieved by Allen for a brief time during his speaking performance. The set was well-designed, with smooth scene changes. In this play, the scene changes are frequent, and were well-executed. I was particularly enamored with the barbed-wire fence, created out of PVC pipe, yarn and pipe-cleaners. It was the brain-child of Dave Guinn, and created by Guinn with the help of Suzanne Zanardi. The costumes were fabulous and transported the viewers into a military world. The behind-the-scenes efforts of the production crew are tangible in the well-done set, lighting, audio and sound effects, but their weeks and hours of work are invisible to the audience, the markings of a job well done. Of course all this magic is overseen by the director, Jo Ann Muchmore. Her ability to command such fine performances out of first-timers is evident by the product on the stage. The Marines in the play chant “Unit, Corps, God, Country” as their mantra to survival and the order in which they adhere their loyalties. The cast and crew could shout “Cast, Scene, Character, Play” as one of theirs, highlighting the magic Muchmore created. District CourtNewkirk Marriage Licenses Tracy Allen Parker, 33, and Anita Faye Fisk, 35, both of Kildare. Robert Lewis Billops, 54, and Mary Elizabeth Johnson, 44, both of Wichita. Brandon Kyle Hampton, 23, and Staphane Renee Johnson, 23, both of Ponca City. Glenn Leroy Reimer, legal age, and Nicolle Gean Helton, legal age, both of Ponca City. David Harold Bessler, 39, and Patty Ann Landreth, 46, both of Ponca City. Billy Richard McMillen, 80, and Joan Futrall Lines, 70, both of Ponca City. Jared Todd Hutchison, 29, and Cheryl Lea Kent, 27, both of Ponca City. James Lee Roland III, 22, and Amanda Ruth Allison, 20, both of Ponca City. Derrick Jermaine Johnson, 23, and Christina Gail Helm, 22, both of Ponca City. Divorces Sought Clifford R. Cunningham Jr. vs. Tina M. Cunningham. Daphine An Robertson vs. Dennis Ray Robertson. Blackwell Divorces Sought Loretta Dee Martin vs. James Dee Martin. Divorces Granted Connie S. Brown vs. Rickey D. Brown. Osage Nation Head Start Accepting ApplicationsOsage Nation Head Start will be accepting recruitment applications Monday and Tuesday, March 20 and 21. Children attending the program must be three on or before Sept. 1, 2000. Parents must bring income verification, immunization record, CDIB (if claiming Indian descent), birth certificate and child’s social security number. Osage Nation provides bus service to door within a five mile radius. Students will be attending Head Start in McCord at 3674 East Highway 60. The curriculum is the Theme Based Method, which is extended throughout the Learning Centers. The children participate in Multi-Cultural activities throughout the year. The Learning Centers are set up in the classrooms as housekeeping, blocks, science, library, art, writing area, sand and water table, music, math and play dough. In addition, the school has a computer in each classroom. Osage Nation provides a morning snack and lunch. At lunch time, cultural foods are introduced and the children are provided many opportunities to try new nutritious food items. Head Start provides a special transition to public schools for children entering kindergarten. Each year in October, Head Start has a Health/Safety fair for the children and their families. Health screenings are provided, information for parents and TBs for parents and volunteers. In November, the school has a Native American Fun Day for parents, children and extended family members. Each April, they have Indian Olympics with events for the children. Some of the event examples are storytelling, fishing, build a campfire, dance around the teepee, obstacle course, etc. Each child receives a gold medal and more importantly everyone has an opportunity to participate, succeed and have fun. If you are interested in sending your child to the program, feel free to come and observe. For further information call Carl Kliesen at (580) 642-5505. Portrayal of Girl Scout Founder in Ponca City Set for March 20 EventAn invitation is extended to meet Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of Girl Scouts, right here in Ponca City. Juliette, portrayed by Lois Siemer, will give a guided tour of her birthplace, and will share the Girl Scout spirit with those in attendance. Siemer travels throughout the United States portraying Juliette Low for the Girl Scouts and will be at the Woodlands Christian Church at North Fourteenth Street and East Hartford Avenue on Monday, March 20. The presentation begins at 6:30 and ends at 8 p.m. A 60-minute slide show is followed by Juliette (Siemer) sharing the light of Girl Scouting. Leaders wishing to receive the light must bring candles. The “Light of Juliette” began in 1914 when Juliette passed it to a young girl in her troop. This girl passed it on as an adult, and Siemer is the third generation to receive it. A punch and cookie reception will follow the presentation. Tickets cost $3 per person, and patches for this event are also available for an additional $1. The cost of the tickets is used to cover the travel expenses of Siemer. To register contact the Girl Scouts — Bluestem Council, Juliette On Tour, 221 N. 2nd, Suite 105, Ponca City, OK 74601. This program is sponsored by the Ponca City Service Unit. The deadline for registration is Wednesday, March 8. Local Group Donates to Child WelfareIn the Ponca City area there are families that must decide between purchasing food or household cleaning items, as non-food items are not covered by food stamps. The Child Welfare staff prevents removal of children in these homes by providing personal hygiene and household cleanup supplies. Marge Parker and Jan Browning, members of First United Methodist Church and representing the Good Samaritan Class and Leta Gorham Group, bought and presented items to the Child Welfare staff for those families who need assistance due to crises or hardship. In 1999 the Child Welfare Department investigated 1,269 cases of child abuse and neglect in Kay County. Donations of non-food items such as these help children in these homes. No Place to Hide, Drug Abuse in the HeartlandBy Gary W. Smith, CCDC Executive Director Narconon Chilocco New Life Center (Part II of series of epidemic proportions in rural areas, according to the Center on Drug Addiction and Substance Abuse.) The Heartland — where a hand shake is still a point of honor, where people are not afraid to bid a friendly greeting to a stranger and family values are strong. How could it be then that middle America is being violated so badly by drug abuse in such epidemic proportions? The fact that the drug epidemic in our rural communities is worse per capita than the drug problems in New York City or Los Angeles is a hard pill to swallow. The truth is the drug epidemic that is now posing a threat to us all is not a new problem. Back in the 1960’s as the increased use of drugs in America hit a new plateau of acceptability one of the early anti-drug crusaders, American author/researcher and humanitarian L. Ron Hubbard wrote, “The acceleration of widespread use of drugs such as LSD, heroin, cocaine, ‘angel dust,’ marijuana and a long list of others has contributed heavily to a debilitated society. The drug scene is planet wide. It is swimming in blood and human misery.” It was this observation and grave concern that motivated Mr. Hubbard to spend the better part of the next 20 years researching effective antidotes to treat drug addiction. As the drug epidemic began to find its way from the big cities to the rural communities in the heartland the problem grew unchecked. This happened because typically, smaller communities did not have a large enough tax base to meet the increasing need to hire and train sufficient numbers of law enforcement officers. The often limited resources of our small towns created greater difficulty in providing accessible drug treatment programs or enough trained substance abuse professionals or school nurses. A legislative push to supply Federal funding to help small town America address the drug problem is currently under way. But this will be a lengthy process and chances of every rural community in need receiving enough financial resources from the Feds to effectively address the substance abuse problem in the heartland is unlikely. So besides waiting for a federal handout what can we do on a short term basis to protect our homeland from the scourge of substance abuse? There is actually a great deal that can be done to tackle this problem. In this editorial series we will attempt to arm you with information that will help give you tools to impact the drug problem in your home and/or community. This is not a one soldier war. It’s a fight that concerns us all. If total communities are educated on drug abuse and band together in a united effort to de-popularize drugs, we can be triumphant in this battle, and in doing so persevere the way of life we hold so dear in the heartland. It must first be understood that the driving force behind the drug problem in America is ‘supply and demand.’ The recent meth crisis has opened up our eyes to the fact that law enforcement alone will not solve the drug problem in America. We have spent the better part of 30 years and countless billions of dollars to bolster law enforcement and military actions against the drug cartels, importers, and street pushers all in an attempt to keep illegal drugs from our borders and out of the hands of Americans. And to what end? The more money and resources we have thrown at keeping drugs out of the country, the more multi-million dollar methamphetamine and marijuana industries become established and successful within our country’s borders. While law enforcement needs to be part of the overall solution to the drug problem, much more emphasis and resources need to be put towards de-marketing drugs in America. Drugs are popular with entirely too many Americans. As long as this is the case the drug problem will continue to flourish. If there is one thing we, as Americans, have successfully communicated to the world at large, it is that if we desire a product and are willing to pay for it, that product will be made available to us at just about any cost. The examples are many. The Hula Hoop, Pet Rocks, Cabbage Patch Dolls and now Pokeman. The main difference between these products and drugs is that while Americans eventually get bored with the toys we continue to be intrigued by drugs despite the negative societal effects. Why? It is a matter of marketing and advertising/supply and demand. Most of us tend to think that drugs like LSD, heroin, cocaine and marijuana have only become a problem in the latter part of this century. The truth is that these drugs are not new to us. The drug epidemic that has been steadily brewing since the 1960s is not the only time in America’s history that drug addiction has effected a large portion of the U.S. population. To solve the drug problem today we must first understand the history and origins of drugs and their abuse in America. Whether we want to admit it or not we have become a drug oriented society. This mind-set didn’t just happen overnight. There has been a marketing and advertising campaign on drugs both illegal and legal that has been alive and well in the U.S. for more than 150 years — details of which will be the subject of future articles. DEATHSFirman Ezel Vickery Firman Ezel VickeryNEWKIRK — Firman Ezel Vickery, longtime Newkirk area farmer, died late Wednesday evening, March 1, 2000, in the Newkirk Nursing Center. He was 103. A graveside service has been scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday, March 4, 2000, in Newkirk Cemetery with the Rev. Jim Holifield, minister of the Newkirk First United Methodist Church, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Miller-Stahl Funeral Service. Firman Ezel Vickery was born June 16, 1896, on a farm west of Arkansas City, Kan., the son of Ivan Wright and Ella (Reed) Vickery. He grew up on the family homestead southwest of Newkirk. He attended Banner Rural School, completing his education with the eighth grade. The family moved to a farm southwest of Arkansas City, and he attended a business college in Arkansas City, for two years. He also worked on the family farming operation. On June 27, 1918, he married Gertrude Doris May in Winfield, Kan. They made their home on the family homestead until 1924 when he bought the first farm of his own near Deer Creek. While in the Deer Creek area, he served on the school board in the Deer Creek District. In 1948, he moved his family to the Silverdale, Kan., area, and he served on the Silverdale township board. In 1964 he moved back to Newkirk and retired to a “smaller farm,” his backyard garden. He has been a resident of the Newkirk Nursing Center for the past few years and even there continued farming by growing tomatoes. He was a member of the Newkirk Historical Society, and he enjoyed working on small engines. He is survived by two sons, Kenneth Vickery of Silverdale, Kan., and H. Ralph Vickery of Newkirk; 16 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and 10 great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Gertrude on June 13, 1968, one son, two daughters, his parents, one brother, two grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. A memorial fund has been established with the Newkirk Historical Society. Contributions may be made in his memory through Eastman National Bank, Box 468, Newkirk, Okla. 74647-0468. Services PendingClarence HeltonTONKAWA — Clarence Helton, longtime Tonkawa resident, died Thursday night, March 2, 2000, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Ponca City. He was 80. Arrangements are pending with McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home of Tonkawa. NEWS BRIEFSLegion Sets Pancake Feed — American Legion Pancake and Sausage Feed (all the pancakes you can eat), Saturday, March 4 from 6:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. at 407 West South Avenue — Adults $3.50, children under 12 $2 and children under 6 free. Proceeds go to the children and youth activities. Tonight And Saturday, homemade lasagna and garlic bread dinner special and Bar B Q rib dinner special. $5.99 each. Western Rose Restaurant. 4:30 to 9:00. 302 S. Flormable. adv. Residence Burglarized — A man from the 200 block of South Ash Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:07 a.m. Thursday that his house had been broken into. An officer was assigned and a burglary report was taken. Jim Bowen Construction Custom homes, room additions and remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv. Structure Fire — The Ponca City Fire Department sent units to check on a fire in the 2300 block of El Camino Street at 7:36 p.m. Thursday. Firemen reported handling a chimney fire at the residence. Accident — The Communications Center received a report at 9:57 a.m. Thursday that an accident had occurred in the 2200 block of North Union Street. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Information was logged that a vehicle had hit a light pole. Paulines Shrimp Peel. All you can eat, $11.95. Friday, March 3rd. For reservations call 765-5460. adv. Accident — A two-vehicle, non-injury accident at the intersection of West Cleveland Avenue and North Pine Street was reported to the Ponca City Police department at 12:30 p.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. 25 Cents a gallon drinking water. Pure Water Wagon 1717 N. 5th. adv. Gas Drive-Off — A clerk at Citgo, 400 East South Avenue, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 12:16 a.m. Friday that a subject had driven off without paying for gas. Information was logged. Theft — The Ponca City Police Department received a request for assistance at 1:09 p.m. Thursday from a business firm in the 2100 block of North Fourteenth Street reporting that a theft had occurred. Two law enforcement officers responded to the scene, located an identified vehicle in the 100 block of North First Street and field interviewed a subject. The subject was released and advised not to return to the store. Dirty Dogs? Tee-Kay Pets can help! Grooming appointments Monday-Friday Starting at 7:30 a.m. and now on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. Walk-ins welcome. 8:00 to 12:00 weekdays. Tee-Kay Pets 916 East Highland. 762-3020. adv. Bomb Threat — The Communications Center received a call from a pay phone at Wal-Mart at 3:59 p.m. Thursday from a man that reported a bomb being planted in a grocery store on North Fourteenth Street. Seven officers of the Ponca City Police Department responded to the various locations to advise officials of the stores and a report was taken. Onion Plants, and sets, asparagus, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, rhubarb, strawberry plant, bulk seed and bulbs now available. Open Sunday. Keathly Nursery. adv. Gas Drive-Off — A clerk at Triple T, 425 South Fourteenth Street, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:02 p.m. Thursday that a woman had left without paying for $5 worth of gas. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Call Doug at Wright Masonry Service for all of your brick repair needs. 765-1901. adv. Burglary — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 1500 block of South Fifth Street at the Sunset Baptist Church that a burglary had occurred. The church has been moved and the officer secured a door to the building. Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential. Hours: Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and Thursday, 6-8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. 765-9689. adv. Accident — A woman from the 3000 block of El Camino Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:30 p.m. Thursday that an accident had occurred in the parking lot of the Bank of Oklahoma. Information had been exchanged but a request was made for a report. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Suspicious Activity — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from one-quarter of a mile east of U.S. 77 on Hubbard Road at 11:50 p.m. Thursday that a subject was being interviewed. A Kay County Sheriff’s Deputy handled the situation, with information logged that the vehicle was stolen. 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. Vandalism — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 4:56 a.m. Friday from the 100 block of South Fourteenth Street that some glass had been broken in the area. An officer of the Ponca City Police Department responded. Information was logged that a man and a woman were fighting in a room. The officer took a report on destruction of private property. Sixth Annual antique sale! Friday, Saturday 10a.m.-6p.m. Sunday 11a.m.-4 p.m. Tickets $2.50. Homemade food and pies. Fairgrounds hwy. 160 west of Winfield, KS. adv. Stormescape Shelters, perfect for garage, under vehicle, installation. $1,695. 765-2633. adv. Special 40 1b Cow manura, 99 cents each. Limit 10 bags. Open Sunday. Keathly Nursery. adv. 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. Kids Review now accepting spring/summer childrens consignments. adv. Just the Right Spot — The News Briefs column is appropriate for announcing a special event or needing help otherwise. Phone 765-3311 for information LIFESTYLESADA Endorses Wild Mushroom Fettucine Dish ADA Endorses Wild Mushroom Fettucine DishATLANTA (AP) — Lin Sun has been a restaurateur for 20 years, and became a vegetarian 10 years ago for physical and spiritual reasons. After creating and running popular restaurants in Texas and North Carolina, she and husband Edward Sun opened their first vegetarian restaurant, Cafe Sunflower, five years ago in Atlanta. Now there are two wildly successful Cafe Sunflowers offering food that tastes too delicious to be good for you. But it must be, since the American Dietetic Association, which met recently in Atlanta, chose the cafe to host a buffet dinner for delegates. Here’s a recipe for Wild Mushroom Fettucine taken from Suns new cookbook, “Cafe Sunflower Vegetarian Recipes.” Sun says the dish gets its exceptional flavor from the mushroom stock, which can be made in advance and frozen. Wild Mushroom Fettucine For Mushroom Stock:6 tablespoons canola oil 3 cups mushrooms, roughly chopped 1 cup leeks, washed and chopped 8 whole garlic cloves 5 sprigs fresh thyme 4 dried bay leaves 1 tablespoon peppercorns 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped 6 cups water Heat oil over medium-high heat in large pot. Add mushrooms, leeks, garlic, thyme, bay leaves, peppercorns and parsley. Saute until ingredients begin to brown. When ingredients have browned and volume is reduced by half, add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until volume is reduced by half, about two to three hours. Remove from heat, strain and reserve. Makes three cups of stock. Pasta and Wild Mushroom Topping1 pound fettucine, cooked al dente, drained and tossed with 1 tablespoon oil ¤ cup canola oil 4 cups mixed mushrooms portabella, shiitake, and white, sliced ğ cup sun-dried tomatoes, soaked in 1 cup water (reserve soaking water) 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste Heat oil in large saute pan on high heat, add mushrooms and cook for 2 minutes. Add sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, salt and pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, until mushrooms are almost tender, about 2 minutes. Add 1/2 cup mushroom stock and tomato soaking water. Continue cooking to reduce liquid, 1 to 2 minutes. Add pasta, cook until liquid is absorbed and pasta browns, about 4 minutes. Serve immediately. Makes 4 servings. RELIGIONTransfiguration Sunday Planned Sunday at First Lutheran Church Transfiguration Sunday Planned Sunday at First Lutheran ChurchTransfiguration Sunday will be celebrated at both the 8:30 a.m. and the 11 a.m. services at First Lutheran Church on March 5. This event closes the Epiphany season and heralds the beginning of the Lenten season which occurs on Ash Wednesday, March 8. The general theme for the Transfiguration service is that of “Christ, the Light of the World.” The Holy Gospel tells the story of Jesus being transfigured before the chosen disciples. The hymns in the service speak of the glory of Christ. The sermon hymn was specifically written to retell the experience of the disciples that day. Special music will be provided by the Senior Choir in the 8:30 a.m. service. They will sing, “Bless Thou the Lord.” In the 11 a.m. service the Cantate Choir will sing the anthem, “I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light.” Pastor Tom Ramsey’s sermon for the day is titled, “Obeying God Even When it Seems Foolish.” Holy Communion will be celebrated in both services. The 6:30 p.m. evening service will continue the study of stress management. The topic for Sunday, March 5 will be “Exercise Patience.” This very helpful study has been welcomed by a growing number of people. That group invites anyone to join them in the search of God’s Word for His advice about managing stress. An open invitation is extended to anyone in the community to join the members of First Lutheran at any of the worship opportunities offered. Church of Christ Announces Spring Quarter Bible ClassesDon Huddleston, minister, announces the Spring Bible Classes for adults and teenagers at the Hartford Avenue Church of Christ. Classes are centered around this quarter’s theme, “Growing in the Knowledge of the Lord”. Sunday morning Bible classes begin at 9:30, with morning worship service at 10:30, and Sunday evening worship at 6 p.m. Wednesday evening Bible classes are at 7 weekly. Bible classes are also provided for nursery through high school on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights. A nursery is provided for all services. Schedule for Sunday Mornings, Beginning March 5 l & 2 Peter - Hopeful Pilgrims, taught by Dean Patterson. I Peter is a practical look designed to prepare Christians for living as pilgrims. Peter experienced first hand the many trials of following the Lord. His words of comfort and hope, written to a church that was scattered and suffering for the faith, urged his audience to continued loyalty to Christ. In his second letter, Peter warns Christians against complacency and heresy. God did not intend for His people to be content to stay in this world, but to live as pilgrims in search of a better home. This study is guaranteed to help those seeking to be loyal followers of Jesus. Promises of the Bible, taught by John Summers. God has made many “precious and very great promises”, according to the apostle Peter. Some were made to unique individuals like Abraham, while others were intended for God’s special people, Israel. Some of His promises were even made with us in mind. This study will look at some of God’s promises and see how they influence Christians today. Unlike man, God always keeps His promises. Be part of this class as we study some of God’s great promises from the Old and New Testaments. Think on These Things, taught by Ron Pitts. Movies, magazines, newspapers, radio, television, and the Internet ... we are constantly bombarded with so much information that our minds get cluttered with influences that can adversely affect our Christian walk. How do we combat these influences? Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, gives the answer. Join us as we explore practical ways to improve our walk with God, live a more disciplined Christian life, and grow ever closer to becoming the disciples Jesus wants us to be! Wednesday Evening, beginning March 1 Fruit of the Spirit, taught by Carl Maples. In Galatians 5:22-23, the inspired writer reveals nine different characteristics defined as a singular product called the fruit of the Spirit. This study will focus on how the Holy Spirit produces this fruit. Are we, as Christians, involved in this production? Just how does the Spirit work in us? Join us for this interesting and provocative study. Concentrated Bible Study (CBS) Part 2, taught by Don Huddleston. This intensive study program is designed to help students thoroughly learn the New Testament This challenging class includes weekly tests and discussions. Books to be covered include: Mark, 1 & 2 Corinthians, 1 & 2 Thessalonians, Philemon, 1 7 2 Timothy, Titus, John, Hebrews, James, 1 & 2 Peter, 1, 2, & 3 John, and Judge. Leviticus - Deuteronomy, taught by Paul Priba. This class will discuss the historical and ethical teachings of these last three books of the Pentateuch. Special emphasis will be placed on learning the lessons that these books teach concerning how Christians should live today. The apostle Paul taught in Romans 15:4 that ‘whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.” This study will explore the teachings that God revealed to Moses that can enable us to look toward the future with hope. Teen Bible Classes 7th through 12 Grades Sunday Faith Challenge II - Continued, taught by Tim Hunt. In this intense discussion class, students will be openly challenged in their faith by guest speakers playing the part of a cynic. The teens will also have the opportunity to take a turn being the cynic. Students are encouraged to come to class prepared to discuss specific contemporary challenges to Biblical faith in God. Wednesday Christian Roots, taught by Steve Hamm. Are values real? Does morality matter? These and other key elements of Christian character are rooted in the nature of Jesus Christ, and reflected in the church described in the New Testament. This class will over two separate, but related, topics. Section one deals with how God sees us, and what he expects of us individually. Section two focuses on how God views us collectively as His church, and explores the roots of the New Testament church. Second Baptist Calls Associate PastorThe congregation of the Second Baptist Church is pleased to announce the calling of the Rev. Greg Schanfish as Associate Pastor. Greg was born in Ft. Worth, Texas and grew up in Texarkana, Ark. He came to know Christ young in life and during his teenage years committed to a closer walk with the Lord Jesus, according to his testimony. Greg is a graduate of Ouachita Baptist University where he double majored in Biblical Studies Language and HIstory. He is also a graduate of Southwestern Theological Seminary in Ft. Worth, Texas where he earned his Master of Divinity degree. Before coming to Second Baptist he was a pastor in Cove, Ark. Greg is married to Tonya, who was born and raised in Hatfield, Ark. She gave her life to Christ when she was a junior in college where she received a B.S. in Psychology and Sociology. Since that time, Tonya has been involved in various ministries. She has taught Bible studies, started a singles ministry and has worked in missions. Greg and Tonya have two children, Megan and Matthew. In February, God called them to Second Baptist here in Ponca City. Greg will serve as the Associate Pastor under the Senior Pastor, the Rev. Paul Graham. His primary duty will be to minister to young adults and their families. The Second Baptist Church invites you to join with them in welcoming Greg, Tonya, Megan and Matt to the church and to the Ponca City community. Pastor’s NotesHave you heard the ridiculous story of the man who saw an ad for a $19.95 cruise? Tom Harrison, pastor of Asbury United Methodist Church in Tulsa, tells the story. This man named Fred went to the travel agency that ran the ad and said, “There must been error in your ad. The cruise must really cost $1,995.” The agent replied, “No! The ad is correct. It only costs $19.95.” “Well, okay, sign me up!” Fred said. At that moment, someone came up behind the man and hit him on the head with a baseball bat! When Fred came to, he was drifting down a river strapped to a log. After a few hours on the log, he slammed into another log. This log also had a man strapped on it. Fred shouted to the other fellow, “Is that all there is to this cruise? Don’t they serve a meal?” And the other fellow replied, “Well, they didn’t last year.” Some folks just don’t seem to learn from their mistakes! They keep taking those $19.95 cruises. They refuse to learn. Listen to the wise man. Like a dog that returns to its vomit is a fool who repeats his folly. Prov. 26:11. Don’t keep making the same mistakes. Stop falling into the said ole destructive patterns. Live and Learn! The Rev. Hance Dilbeck, Pastor First Baptist Church Church BriefsGrace Church Plans Fun EveningGrace Episcopal Church will hold Family Fun Night, the first of several planned for the spring and summer, on Saturday, beginning at 6:30 p.m. with chili dogs on the menu, it was announced by Jane Simmons of the Hospitality Committee. An evening of Bingo is planned following supper, with the first Bingo card free. Cards will be $1 after the first, and prizes will be available. Everyone is invited, and children are welcome. The festivities are scheduled to be held in the Fellowship Hall, facing 13th Street. Presbyterian Women Meet March 9The Presbyterian Women of First Presbyterian Church will meet on March 9 at noon for their monthly luncheon in fellowship hall of the church. Theme for March is Glimpses of our Youth in Action, with Larry Williams giving the program “Plans for 2000”. The Elisabeth Reynolds Circle is hostess and chairs are Gloria Harris, Frances Waldron, Joan Jones, Marcia Black and Virginia Brown. Pearl Farris will give the blessing and Ann Salmons, the devotional thoughts. First Assembly Clothing Give-AwayThe new Helping Hands House, formerly and still a ministry of the First Assembly of God Church, is now located at 440 Fairview, across the street from the church. The clothing give away is available to anyone with a need — open Monday, March 6 from 6 to 8 p.m. This week will be the grand opening at their new location. In case of bad weather, the giveaway will be cancelled. Prince of Peace Lutherans Tell Service PlansPrince of Peace Lutheran Church, ELCA, will celebrate this Sunday, The Transfiguration of our Lord Sunday, with Holy Communion. From the mountain of transfiguring light, Christ goes forth to Jerusalem and leads us to the passover from death to life. Here, we find the meaning of his birth and baptism, He was born to die, so that in our death, we might be born to eternal life with Him. The children will assist with the worship service, as ushers and greeters, Pastor Bruce Keck pointed out. Please come and worship with us at 10 a.m., he invited. Fellowship follows the worship service. Sunday School is at 9 a.m. Prince of Peace Lutheran Church is located at 2800 Turner Road, Ponca City, phone number is 762-7698. Tonkawa Church of Christ Presents Lesson SeriesThe public is cordially invited to hear a series of lessons from God’s Word currently under way through March 5 at the Tonkawa Church of Christ, 300 North Public in Tonkawa. This series of lessons from God’s Word are being presented by Lindy McDaniel, former major league baseball pitcher. Tonight at 7 p.m., the topic will be “Godly vs. Ungodly Emotions”; Saturday 8 a.m. Men’s Breakfast and the topic is “The Christian Life and Athletics” and at 7 p.m. “Christians Share Joy and Sorrow with the World”. Sunday’s topics will be “The Intensity of Faith” at 9:30 a.m., “Christian Experience, both Sorrow and Joy” at 10:30 a.m. A Fellowship luncheon is scheduled for noon and at 6 p.m., “A Cheerful Heart is Good Medicine”. A nursery is provided for 2 years and under on Sunday. ‘Come Let us Reason Together’The Hartford Avenue Church of Christ invites you to share God’s word with them every week - Sunday Bible classes 9:30 a.m., worship at 10:30 a.m., Sunday evening at 6 p.m. and Wednesday 7 p.m. There are classes for all age levels - nursery through adult. Watch the search program Sunday 8 a.m. TV Channel 5 or 8. The city-wide Bible class is Sunday at 6 p.m. at Hartford Church of Christ — an in-depth study of Romans. This week “Wrath of God Part 2” Roman 1:24-32. What does it mean that God “gave them over”. Paul’s description of the ancient world sounds very much like the world today. Study these verses carefully for an insight into how the wrath of God is at work in the world even now! Thank you, Lord, for giving us the opportunities to grow from an older person’s experience in living, teaching us patience, courage, compassion and gentleness. In Jesus’ name. Amen. Methodist Men Plan Breakfast MeetingThe United Methodist Men, First United methodist church will meet for their monthly breakfast on the 11th day of March. This month they will be doing a little “spring” cleaning as they tackle the task of cleaning the van garage and some closets around First United Methodist. Easter Pageant Coming — Make PlansThe Easter Pageant, presented by the First Baptist Church, is being presented again this year April 13, 14, 15, and 16. The presentation, open to the public, will be held at 7 p.m. nightly in Hutchins Auditorium. Tickets are free but necessary, it was noted, and are available at Master’s Touch, KLVV, First Baptist Church, Pioneer Bank & Trust, Guy Lyall Insurance in Tonkawa, Eastman National Bank of Newkirk, Christian Bookstore in Stillwater and Ruth’s Christian Bookstore in Enid. Happenings at Asbury United Methodist ChurchFollowing service on March 5th, a reception will be held in room 5 of Asbury United Methodist Church for Laveta Porter, who will be moving to Florida. The “Boundaries Sunday School Class” will hold a game night on April 1st at 7:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall of the church. Bring a finger food and join in on the fun. The next men’s breakfast is set for Saturday, March 11, at the church. EDUCATIONNOC Meets Community Needs NOC Meets Community NeedsSuperintendent’s Corner Dr. Joe Kinzer, President NOC Northern Oklahoma College constantly strives to offer educational opportunities tailored to meet the needs of the community. Among the college's unique academic programs is Native American Leadership (NAL), directed by Drs. Joe and Carol Conner. Although other institutions offer Native American degree programs in fields such as humanities and arts, Northern offers the only NAL program designed to prepare Native Americans for leadership opportunities in tribal government. Before coming to Northern, the Conners had sponsored the successful Native American Leadership Academy to provide education relevant to tribal operations and management. Having heard of the academy, I asked them to design a two-year degree program to address the needs of Native American students. Joe and Carol utilized their many years' experience in working with various tribes to develop the NAL curriculum. This program is so innovative that no textbooks are available for the specialized classes. The Connors creatively put together material from readings and resources for courses with a strong practical focus to address assessed needs of tribal government employees. Students are encouraged to develop individual projects to gain experience in organizing and in planning an event from beginning to end. One such project resulted in the display on campus of an exhibit telling the story of Indian peoples. The specialized courses include Tribal Government, Tribal Leadership, Tribal Management, Tribal Planning and Internship. They offer specific training in the area of tribal public administration. Students learn the role of the public servant in a tribal setting and learn how to deal with government regulations. In addition to training students for positions such as managers or directors, the classes encourage development of leadership skills so that students may become community leaders. This program is open to non-Indian as well as Indian students who will be employed to work with or for a tribe, and graduates earn the Associate of Arts degree. We are on the verge of expanding the NAL program outside our area via distance learning. Last year the Chickasaw Nation in Ada received a class, and we have received inquiries from tribes in other states such as Michigan and Washington. Many tribes have the technology in place to receive classes and could have access to any of our programs. Our first three NAL majors graduated in May 1999 with two more majors graduating in December 1999. All of these students, as well as a number of others who took NAL classes as a minor to a business or other degree, were offered jobs in tribal government. Two students with Associate of Science degrees are already employed with tribes; one is a program director. Another student who took three or four of the NAL classes is Executive Director of a tribe. Many employment opportunities with tribes are available for our graduates. The Federal government recognizes 560 tribes, and in Oklahoma alone an estimated 15,000 public service jobs exist in tribal government in 39 tribes. In addition, a number of businesses have dealings with tribal governments, and employees with a background in NAL from Northern are an asset. By inaugurating the Native American Leadership degree program, Northern is contributing to the economic development of our surrounding area as well as the entire state of Oklahoma. Committee Votes to Eliminate Remedial CoursesOKLAHOMA CITY -- Legislation to eliminate remedial classes at OU and OSU received a lukewarm endorsement Tuesday from the state House Education Committee. House Bill 1710 by Rep. Carolyn Coleman, R-Moore, declares it is the intent of the Legislature that all remedial courses offered in the state's two comprehensive universities "shall be terminated ... by the fall of the 2001-2002 school year." Teaching remedial math, science and English classes at the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University "is not in the mission statement" of the two comprehensive schools, Coleman asserted. "They should not be in the business of providing remedial courses." College-bound students who need refresher courses could fulfill their requirements at regional universities, junior colleges or community colleges, Coleman suggested. Rep. Raymond McCarter, D-Marlow, a former school superintendent, concurred with Coleman. "It is not the responsibility of the comprehensive universities, nor any post-secondary institution of higher education, to remediate students who didn't get educated in the first place" in their local grade, junior high and senior high schools, he declared. Rep. Barbara Staggs, D-Muskogee, a former school teacher/administrator, also agreed. She noted that nothing in HB 1710 would "preclude a student" who needs remedial education "from going to a regional or junior college in the summer and, if they pass, entering a comprehensive university in the fall." "I want to make sure we're not limiting the opportunity of Oklahoma students to attend the two comprehensive universities," said Rep. Kenneth Corn, D-Howe, who is completing his undergraduate degree at the Universityof Oklahoma. Rep. Jack Begley, D-Goodwell, a retired university administrator/coach, noted that many students require remediation. Records show that during 1997-98 school year, 35,079 Oklahoma students enrolled in remedial classes at state institutions of higher education. Coleman emphasized that her prohibition against remedial courses wouldapply only to OU and OSU. Senior Claire Sonnichsen Wins Council of Teachers AwardClaire Sonnichsen, student at Ponca City Senior High School, was among the 709 high school seniors honored by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE). The 1999 NCTE Achievement Awards in writing recognizes writing excellence based on the students’ samples of their best prose or verse, and on impromptu themes that are written under supervision. The award recipients this year were among nearly 3,000 students from the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Canada, and American schools abroad who participated in the program; it is administered each spring during the students’ junior year of high school. “As our Achievement Awards in Writing program enters its 43 years, NCTE reaffirms its commitment to help students achieve at high levels in reading, writing, and all of the language arts,” NCTE Executive Director Faith Schullstrom said. “The Achievement Awards program is one example of NCTE’s efforts to foster the development of students with the confidence and competence to participate successfully as citizens in the 21st century. Every year, this program provides evidence that many students — both those who are selected as winners and the many more who participate — are developing the critical thinking and expressive abilities that will serve them well as individuals, as community members, and as members of the work force. We want all students to be given the opportunity to develop those skills,” Schullstrom said. Achievement Award-winning students and their schools will receive certificates recognizing their accomplishment. Students’ names are published in a booklet that is sent to directors of admissions at 3,000 two- and four-year colleges and universities, to members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, to state supervisors of English, and to NCTE leaders. Partial support for the Achievement Awards in Writing program comes from the Maurice R. Robinson Fund. Frontier TSA Students Excell at ConferenceFrontier Technology Student Association (TSA) members recently attended the Northeastern Regional TSA Leadership Conference. This one-day conference provided students with an opportunity to develop their leadership skills and personal growth by participating in up to six of the twenty-two competitive events. They competed with students from twenty other schools from around the state. In the High School Structural Engineering event, Mike Geiger brought home the 1st place trophy and Matthew Caldwell won 2nd place. They each designed, constructed, and load tested a tower. Additionally, Mike Geiger placed 2nd in Engineering Graphic Analysis, a written test of knowledge. The High School team of Matthew Caldwell and James Page earned the 2nd place trophy in Construction Systems, composed of a written test. The team of Matthew Sayre and Mike Geiger took the 4th place position in Construction Systems. In Cyberspace Pursuit, Matthew Caldwell and James Page again teamed up to design and create a Web Page, which yielded a 2nd place showing. The Middle School team also excelled in Construction Systems, with Jeremey Brewer, Robert Kiker, and Zane Sullins winning 4th place. In Middle School Structural Challenge, students' design, constructed, and load tested bridges. Robert Kiker earned 5th place, Jeremey Brewer received 8th place, and Zane Sullins secured the 10th place position. The entire Frontier TSA Team enjoyed renewing passed acquaintances and making new friends among the three hundred of fellow competitors. They are already planing new strategies, redesigning projects, and working on new competitive events as they prepare for their next leadership conference. PTSA Meeting SetEast Middle School PTSA will hold a board meeting on Thursday, Marcy 9 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the East Middle School Library. For questions contact Karen Franseen, 767-1280. Music in Our Schools MonthMarch is “Music in Our School’s” month. During the week of March 6-10, a different musical group will be featured at Liberty Elementary during the 8 a.m. assembly. Guest artists next week include John DeHaven, Tim Muniz, Miss Suzie’s recorder ensemble, The Cowley College singers and several Ponca City High School orchestra members. On Thursday, March 9 at noon, the students at Liberty will participate in the World’s Large Concert, “Make Music America 2000.” This event will be part of a nation-wide celebration that will be televised on PBS. Parents and members of the community are invited to attend this special program. SPORTSBedlam More Than Rivalry Bedlam More Than RivalryBy OWEN CANFIELD AP Sports Writer STILLWATER (AP) — Saturday night’s basketball game between Oklahoma and Oklahoma State is more than just the final game of the regular season. Much more. For one thing, both teams are positioning themselves for the postseason. With a victory, No. 13 Oklahoma State (23-4, 12-3 Big 12) would be the number-two seed in the conference tournament. Oklahoma would be seeded fourth or fifth, depending on the outcome of Sunday’s game between Kansas and Missouri. If No. 21 Oklahoma wins, the Sooners (23-5, 11-4) become the third seed and OSU drops to fourth. Oklahoma would love nothing more than to pay back the Cowboys, who beat OU 74-71 in Norman three weeks ago. Oklahoma State built a 20-point lead in that game, then hung on when the Sooners rallied. Oklahoma State wants to send out its six seniors with a victory over their in-state rival. Desmond Mason, Glendon Alexander, Doug Gottlieb, Joe Adkins, Brian Montonati and Alex Webber make up the largest senior class in Eddie Sutton’s 10 years as OSU’s coach, and they’ve produced many big victories during their time in Stillwater. Finally, Saturday’s game marks the last sporting event in Gallagher-Iba Arena. The building, which opened in 1938, is being expanded. When it reopens in December, it will seat about twice as many as the present capacity of 6,381. ‘‘I guess it’s a little sad to think it’s the last game,’’ said Sutton, who played at Oklahoma State (then Oklahoma A&M) under one of the building’s namesakes, Henry Iba. ‘‘Regardless of that, just the fact if we win the game we get a 2 seed in the tournament, plus you go into the tournament with some momentum. ‘‘We could be 24-4. I think that will speak quite well in the eyes of the NCAA tournament committee.’’ The Cowboys are 14-0 inside Gallagher-Iba this season and would set a school record for home victories by winning Saturday night. They have been especially impressive at home in recent weeks, winning their past four games by an average of 32 points. But Oklahoma enters the game with momentum of its own, winner of nine of its past 11. Its only losses during that time were by three points, at home to Oklahoma State and on the road against Kansas. The Sooners won at Texas A&M by 18 on Wednesday, thanks in part to a defense that came up with 20 turnovers. ‘‘We’re very confident,’’ said Oklahoma forward Eduardo Najera. ‘‘Especially since (our younger players) are playing so well. We’re playing our best basketball right now.’’ Emotions are always high when Oklahoma and Oklahoma State meet. They figure to be even higher this time, given that it’s senior night. The six regulars, along with fellow senior Rodney Sooter, will be honored in a pregame ceremony that is sure to have the old building ringing. ‘‘Senior night always concerns me,’’ Sutton said. ‘‘I’ve had teams where they get too emotional and they almost get in a frenzy because they want to win so badly. I think that would concern any coach. ‘‘You’d rather be playing one of the lower-division teams on senior night than one of the contenders.’’ Cat Track Teams Have NumbersBy FRED HILTON News Sports Editor There will be some big shoes to fill when the Wildcat track teams open the season Saturday with the Wildcat Relays. But Ponca City coach Terry Henderson believes he has both the numbers and talent to do exactly that. “The program is really growing,” Henderson said as he prepared his teams for the meet which will start at 9:30 a.m. Saturday in Sullins Stadium. “That is due in great part to the job the junior high coaches — Penny Surber and Steve McHenry — are doing.” The Po-Hi thinclads will have a different look this year. For years, the track teams have been strong in the distance runs. But the Poncans graduated a number of their distance standouts. In their place are a bunch of speedsters, according to Henderson. “This team will definitely be sprint orientated," the coach said. “This talent here is raw. It will take some time to develop. But I feel both teams will be a force to be reckoned with in time.” Henderson has bee impressed with the strength of the girls’ team, although a couple of standouts are sidelined by injuries for this opener. The group of sprinters include Angela Penny and Tara Nelson, Melissa Ford, Penny Bradford, Mandy Black, Krystal Stevens, Kelly Coldiron, Hally Martin and Aubry Kelly. This group will be running the 4x100 and 4x200 relays for this meet. The distances will be handled by Jessica Guinn, Jeri Wright, Kendra lane, Brooke Hines and Amanda Ingram. There will be a brand new event for this meet. For the first time Oklahoma high school meets will hold women’s pole vaulting. Coldiron and Nelson are expected to compete i that event along with a strong group of “throwers.” On the boys’ side, the sprinter include Fabian Porter, Michael Kirby, Billy Broughton, Anthony Dewberry and Kyle Henderson. Broughton will double in the high jump, Dewberry in the mile relay and Henderson in the hurdles. Micah Johnson will be in the high jump and hurdles along with Chase Kelly while Jason jump and Scott Steichen will pole vault. The distance runners include Jeff hand, Chad Patterson. Billy Struble, freshman Nate Macy and Drew Lancaster. Frontier Holds Off Forgan to AdvanceBy FRED HILTON News Sports Editor MOORE — Frontier’s “Mad Bombers” took control early, but the Mustangs stumbled at the free throw line late and had to hang on for a 70-64 win over Forgan in the first round of the Class B state basketball tournament Thursday. Frontier was playing Chattanooga, a 67-64 winner over Moss, in the semifinals at the State Fairgrounds Arena this afternoon. The finals are at the Fairgrounds Saturday at 1:30 p.m. Opening their bid for a second straight Class B crown, the Mustangs started firing away from the outside early. Frontier hit 12 threes on the night, 10 in the first half. Zac Clouse banged in six treys in the first half and Albert Plumley had four as they combined for 39 of the Mustangs’ 41 first half points. Frontier led 41-28 at the intermission and was threatening to blow the game open. But Forgan’s double post of Nick and Blake Nichols 9 (each 6-4), started to excert their advantage under the boards while guard Gil Lujan refused to let the Bulldogs fade away. The Mustangs cooled in their shooting, scoring just nine points in the third period as Forgan cut the lead to 10, 50-40, to start the fourth quarter. As the Bulldogs nibbled away at the Frontier lead, the Mustangs went into a delay game with just over four minutes remaining. The move almost backfired as Frontier failed to convert its chances from the free throw line. The Mustangs, who ususally shoot 74 percent from the line, were 11-of-19 down the stretch. Meanwhile, Lujan scored 14 of his game-high 35 points in that fourth period as Forgan cut the Frontier lead to 66-64 with 30 seconds left. But the Bulldogs turned the ball over on three straight trips down the floor and Frontier hit just enough free throws to hang on for the win. “Forgan is a good team and in a close game you have to hit your free throws,” Frontier coach Bob Weckstein said afterwards. “Their double post gave us some trouble. Our tallest player is 6-3 and he deosn’t play that much. So, really, the tallest player we could put against them is 6-0. And No. 23 (Lujan) just took over their game.” Plumley and Clouse finished with 31 and 21 points to top the Frontier scoring. The Nichols brothers had 15 and 12 points for Fogan, which finished its seson 23-7. Frontier 70, Forgan 64 Frontier 14 27 9 20 — 70 Forgan 17 11 12 25 — 64 Frontier — Albert plumley 31. Zac Clouse 21, Jermiah Regnier 7, Matt Clouse 6, Chris Plumley 3, Jeff Ingmire 2. Forgan — Gil Lujan 35, Blake Nichols 15, Nick Nichols 12, Liaz Sanchez 2. Lady Mavs Lose To Top Seed NEOBy TED ATCHLEY NOC Sports Information SHAWNEE — The Northern Oklahoma College women's basketball team fell victim to top-seeded NEO during opening play of the Region II Tournament on the Oklahoma Baptist Univrsity campus Thursday night. The Lady Mavs couldn't recover from a 40-23 halftime deficit and lost to NEO 81-59. “I was proud of the team for stepping up and continuing to fight, said NOC women's head coach Greg Krause. “We didn't slack off and only got beat by five points the second half. We didn't lay down and die, we fought them to the end.” The Lady Mavs were hounded by an NEO full-court press that ate up the shot clock almost all night long. “We could have used Suzi Eisenhauer against their pressure defense,” Krause said. Eisenhauer was injured last week and was unable to suit up Thursday night. The Northern women ended their season with a 15-17 overall record after standing at 9-15 just after Christmas. The Lady Mavs managed to win five of their last six games and tied for second place in the Bi-West Conference this year. “We didn't play well at the beginning of the season but we sure turned it around the second half,” Krause said of this year's team. “I'm proud of the team for the way they never gave up.” Tia Andrew scored another double-double Thursday night, scoring 14 and blocking 10 shots. She also had seven big rebounds for the Lady Mavs. LaQueisha Dickerson scored 18, Deidre Dick seven, B.J. Homer and Denise Jake six each, Reva Howell four, Ranada Collins two and Lindsey Shiever one. “It was a struggle for us this season,” Krause said. “But we managed to show our character and accomplish a lot. We have a lot of good freshman coming back next year and we are looking forward to playing hard.”
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