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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Friday, March 10, 2000 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES EDUCATION RELIGION SPORTS LOCALPoncan Theatre brings Oscar nominated show; Magnolia Of School Violence Information Event Poncan Theatre brings Oscar nominated show; MagnoliaMagnolia is “absolutely mesmerizing,” says critic Steve Rhodes. David Ansen of Newsweek says that “Magnolia towers over most Hollywood films this year.” It delivers “grand imagination and daring,” according to Nuvo Newsweekly. Critic Jim Bartoo writes that it “is as challenging and evolutionary a film as one could hope for. Magnolia is one of the most highly praised films of the year. Magnolia is nominated for three Academy Awards. They are “Best Supporting Actor” (Tom Cruise), “Best Original Screenplay,” and “Best Song.” Cruise has already won the coveted Golden Globe for his work in the film. Magnolia has also won prestigious awards from all around the country. They include the Florida Film Critics (“Best Film” and “Best Ensemble Cast”), the Golden Satellite Awards (“Special Achievement”), and the National Board of Review (“Best Ensemble Performance” and “Best Supporting Actor” for Philip Seymour Hoffman) to name only a few. It has also received international attention, receiving awards in the high-powered Berlin Film Festival. Magnolia tells several different stories that seem to be distinct but actually are interwoven. They are stories of troubled lives, focusing on family relationships in the past that cause turmoil in the present. This film demonstrates “how comic, terrifying and unpredictable life can be,” says the San Francisco Chronicle. Tom Cruise plays an Andrew Dice Clay kind of character, selling self-help to the troubled male, pumping up his audience with misogynous slogans that sear and tear. But he also gets exposed for the vulnerable, wounded victim that he is. In the riveting conclusion, he and other characters find a glimmer of hope for a new world order. Critics call Cruise’s performance “mesmerizing.” Writer David Elliott says it’s “the best work of his career.” Julianne Moore, Philip Seymour Hoffman, William Macy and others share in the extraordinary work of this fine, award-winning ensemble cast. Jason Robards also “gives the performance of his career,” says the New York Citysearch. Magnolia even has Biblical implications. The film depicts a set of personal trials in contemporary California, a kind of spiritual Gomorrah. Families are torn asunder. Human decency is on trial. Victims are everywhere, and victimizers have become victims themselves. In Magnolia, a few characters hold on to principles of core goodness. We wonder whether the maelstrom will suck them in, too. At great personal risk, they commit acts of simple kindness. Integrity seems out of place in this world, so far out of place that we suspect the Good Man may be fundamentally unequipped to meet the challenges. But out of chaos, an astonishing plague begins to cleanse the world. It brings a glimmer of hope. It is a reminiscence of the plagues of Exodus. The Chronicle calls it “a flabbergasting climax.” They write that it’s “maddening” when it seems the threads of plot won’t come together, but “wonderful” when they do. Magnolia, a “mesmerizing” film, begins Sunday at the Poncan Theatre at 104 East Grand. It is rated R. For show times, call the Poncan Theatre at 580-765-0943. Keyes on GOP: ‘George Bush Can’t Do It’OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Alan Keyes says Republicans can only win the White House on moral issues and that he is the best man to stand up to Democrat Al Gore in the presidential race. During a campaign stop Thursday in Oklahoma, Keyes said Republican front-runner George W. Bush lacks the skills to effectively challenge Democrats in a time of prosperity and relative world peace. ‘‘I’ll be quite frank with you,’’ Keyes said. ‘‘After the election is over, I want to be in a position to say I told you so.’’ He said any GOP nominee faces an uphill struggle and can only win by exposing ‘‘the Democrats’ failed moral stewardship in the White House.’’ ‘‘George Bush can’t do it,’’ Keyes said of the Texas governor and son of the former president. ‘‘I’ve watched him and he can’t do it. ‘‘So when he stands toe to toe with Al Gore on issues like abortion, he will come off looking second best because he doesn’t know how to make the case, properly and effectively. And so we’ll lose.’’ He said he did not say that with any glee ‘‘because I’m one of the Americans who has been strongest in my opposition to the Clinton years,’’ which he described as a time of ‘‘great moral betrayal.’’ Keyes is among five Republicans still on the ballot in Oklahoma for Tuesday’s primary. The others are Bush, Arizona Sen. John McCain and Steve Forbes and Gary Bauer. Ponca City Police hold Unclaimed Property AuctionPonca City Police Sergeant Don Ray reviews bike tag numbers with Nancy Hursh, administrative secretary, in preparation for the unclaimed property auction to be held Saturday. Those interested in bidding for the property should be at the police station by 7:30 a.m. for registration. All buyers must be registered. The auction will be held at the Public Safety Center, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue under the canopy. There are 75 bikes of all types to be auctioned and various other property. Police Issue 43 Citations For Underage Purchases; Say More Stings PlannedBy MARK GALVIN News Staff Writer The law is simple enough: Don’t sell beer or cigarettes to underage people. However, Ponca City police were still surprised last weekend when they logged 43 incidents where store clerks or bartenders sold beer or cigarettes to underage buyers — despite what they regarded as ample warning. “It’s just too easy for our young people to make these purchases,” said Detective Capt. Dwaine Vincent after local teenagers bearing accurate driver’s licenses participated in a sting operation for the police department’s “Cops in Shops” program. Last Friday, a 17-year-old entered 23 local businesses to buy beer and cigarettes. At nine businesses, clerks allowed both beer and cigarettes to be purchased by the juvenile. At one business, only beer was sold. And, at six others, the youth was turned down for beer, but was sold cigarettes. On Saturday evening, a 19-year-old working with the police department successfully bought beer at six local businesses and a 17-year-old was able to buy tobacco. During the weekend, other officers who concentrated on bars and liquor-serving establishments wrote 11 more citations and arrested six adults on alcohol-related offenses. According to reports, the two-evening operation found 49 violations, 43 of which led to written citations and future court appearances. Vincent said the police effort will continue: “Our officers will be out there again with little or no warning. This past weekend’s operation indicates to us that it’s just too easy for our young people to make these purchases,” he said. “The emphasis is not to find violators,” he said. “A success story to us is that we go in to the store and they DON’T sell to us.” Partial funding for the sting effort comes from grant money from the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office to fund agents from the Alcohol Beverage License Enforcement (ABLE) Commission to join Ponca City police to battle underage drinking. “For every officer we send out, [(the ABLE Commission] sends an officer,” Vincent said. The state agents extend the department’s jurisdiction to check businesses licensed to sell liquor, beer and cigarettes beyond the city limits of Ponca City, including Osage County. Detective Sgt. Fred Marshall said the department started the crackdown “because underage drinking leads directly to tragedy. There’s no end to the problems it causes.” Vincent said, “In a great deal of the incidents involving juveniles, there’s alcohol involved, whether it be a fight, vandalisms, auto burglaries. So, other than the fact that it’s illegal, it creates further problems.” With municipal fines of $150 per beer or cigarette violation, the department is actually lenient. The law authorizes communities to arrest a store clerk and lock up the convenience store following a violation. “Everyone had fair warning before we did this [last weekend],” Vincent said. “There’s really no excuse, and there are stores that are complying.” Marshall said with some new cash registers, all the clerk has to do is type in the date of birth and it will indicate whether the sale is legal. “It’ll tell you in half a second, but all the technology in the world is not going to help if you don’t ask for that ID — and when you ask for it, you have to examine it,” he said. One chain that fared well last weekend was Ponca City’s three CITGO stations, which denied all underage beer requests during the police sting. Kay Clinton, manager of the CITGO No. 2 station on East Highland Avenue, said clerks there are responsible to pay for their own citations. Clinton said Jack Rogers, owner of the Ponca City and Blackwell CITGO stations, requires all new hires to sign a form stating they know the laws. It reads, “...if we sell and get fined, it’s up to us to pay it.” The form says the clerk should ask for identification on any beer customer who looks younger than 30. The fine for every cigarette or beer violation, including court costs, is $172 in municipal court. “We don’t feel it’s fair to be set up (by the law enforcement officers), but I understand why they have to do it,” said Clinton, who believes screening underage buyers is not an easy task. “We need some recourse for the clerks that would put the responsibility back on the underage person who’s trying to break the law,” she said. “We’re only a few blocks from the high school and every lunch hour we get kids trying to buy cigarettes. When we ask for identification, they say they don’t have any, but they get back in their car and drive away. “Last year, one of my clerks sold cigarettes by checking the year on the ID and the buyer was two days short of being 18. We received a warning for that,” she said. Higher Education Day at State CapitolASHLEY HOLLINGSWORTH of Ponca City was a facilitator at Higher Education Day at the State Capitol, Feb. 29. She is attending Northern Oklahoma College. The session was held in the Chamber of the House of Representatives where this picture was taken with Rep. Jim Newport of Ponca City. Purpose of Higher Education Day was to express appreciation to legislators and the governor for the FY 2000 funding request for the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education. Donating Organs can provide help, and hope to othersA recent civic club program centered on the importance of donating organs to give life and hope to others. The following personal experience story, relates that even in the midst of grief one can provide help and hope for others. On Sunday the family of the late Jerry Pace of Ponca City will be attending a Donor Family Recognition Ceremony at Oklahoma Christian University to honor the compassionate, giving spirit of organ and tissue donors. Union Choir Enjoys Time In SpotlightBy KRISTI HAYES News Education Editor Local students at Union Elementary were in the national limelight Thursday while watching the 16th annual World’s Largest Concert on PBS. Third and fourth grade students and the school’s Honor Choir students taped the song Home on the Range last October at the Kelly Buffalo Ranch near Ponca City. The taped song was incorporated into yesterday’s PBS broadcast. More than 300 tapes were submitted by schools across the nation for review. Union was the only school chosen from Oklahoma. Choir director Nancy Taylor was ecstatic about the show. “I am so proud of all of you,” she said to students before watching the broadcast. “It’s not very often we get to hold an assembly to honor the students.” Taylor decided to enter her choir after watching last year’s performance. “I decided right then and there that our students were going to participate in this. Little did I know it would take so long to prepare for,” she said. The 125-member choir, along with several parents, teachers, supporters, horses and buffaloes, gathered at the taping last year. “You can’t imagine how difficult it was to get the students quiet for the buffalo,” she said. The event was sponsored by the National Association for Music Education (MENC) and coincided with Music in Our Schools Month. Thursday’s concert included a performance taped at America Gardens Theatre in Epcot at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Other songs performed on the broadcast included I’ve Been Working on the Railroad; Yankee Doodle; Lets Make Music, America!; Fifty States in Rhyme; and When the Saints Go Marching In. Ponca City superintendent Dr. Bill White attended the assembly and praised Union’s students. “I think all of Ponca City is very proud of you for your accomplishments and for representing our town and the state so well. We congratulate each of you,” White told the youngsters. Dr. John Mahlmann, executive director of MENC, said celebrating Music in Our Schools Month is important. “We hear from our members, who are music teachers, that when they participate in the World’s Largest Concert, student enrollment in choral programs increases the following year. There’s also a lot of research showing that learning music helps kids in their own studies by increasing spatial IQ,” he said. Communication Main Goal Of One NOYS CounselorGetting families to talk to one another is the main goal of one counselor at Northern Oklahoma Youth Services Center. According to Brenda S. Ferguson, community based services are available to citizens in Ponca City and surrounding counties at no cost to the client. Services cross all ethnic and economic lines and are based on perceived community needs. “We believe families to be our greatest natural resource, parenting our greatest responsibility and children our hope for the future,” said Vearl Caid, executive director for NOYS. As needs change, so do the counseling services and groups offered. “The most common underlying problem seen with families I work with is lack of communication,” said Ferguson. “No solutions or progress can be made until people talk to each other. To this end, I am a mediator and facilitator.” Keeping in mind the importance of strengthening families and promoting parenting skills, Ferguson works with families In whatever way is needed. “My position entails being flexible and changing as community needs change,” Ferguson continued. “In carrying out human services, staff remains mindful that those who require services are in the midst of family trauma. Not only the success of the center, but also its viability, depend upon the maintenance of public confidence and credibility. “As a private agency, Youth Services can be and is responsible to community needs because its our community, too,” said Caid. “Our staff lives, shops, owns homes in this area, and our children attend local schools.” A variety of community based programs are available. In 1999, about 11,000 hours of education were provided to 55,000 individuals. Primary prevention ranges from the treatment of school-aged youth to advanced technical training for other professionals. Treatment services are offered by qualified professional staff including services such as individual, family and group counseling. Clinical assessment, drug and alcohol treatment, crisis intervention, home visiting and parenting skills education are also available. NOYS is a private, charitable agency operating under the aegis of a local nonprofit corporate citizens board. Youth Services in the State of Oklahoma have been statutorily sanctioned in (Juvenile Code) Title 10. Oklahoma Statutes Section 603, 604 and 607 as amended by State Bill 606. Communication, Warning Signs FocusOf School Violence Information EventOKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Opening communication lines between parents and their children and recognizing the warning signs of potential violence are the keys to protecting the country’s students, said experts and speakers at a safe schools summit. Comedian Bill Cosby delivered the keynote address at the conference Thursday night, where he used his familiar humor to remind parents that they are the bosses in their homes. ‘‘In my day, parents didn’t knock on my bedroom door, because they had this strange notion that it was their house,’’ he said. ‘‘There was a hole and cracks in my wall where my dad kicked open the door and the doorknob hit the wall. That was his knock.’’ The conference at the Myriad Convention Center featured the first of a nationwide series of forums sponsored by the American Psychological Association meant to tackle the violence problem in America’s schools. Gov. Frank Keating said it is a topic no school can ignore. ‘‘Thirty years ago when teachers were asked, ’What is it you’re most concerned about?’ it was running in the halls and chewing gum. Today it’s rape and assault,’’ Keating said. ‘‘It’s important that parents recognize that they are largely responsible for the integrity and value systems of their children.’’ APA psychologist Russ Newman said many kids don’t bring problems to their parents, fearing an outburst or embarrassment. Newman urged parents to take their time in looking at their children’s problems and to avoid getting overly emotional or too involved in solving the problem themselves. ‘‘It’s important not to confuse listening with doing nothing,’’ Newman said. Panelist Dale Marshall, who has two teen-age boys, said parents need to be firm but understanding authority figures to their children, and avoid being stoic or distant. ‘‘Before I talk with my kids about serious issues I talk to them about everyday issues so it doesn’t seem unnatural when I approach them when there’s a problem,’’ he said. Adawnya Wiewel, Principal of Sacred Heat Catholic School in El Reno, said she does not usually worry about school violence. She said her oldest students are only in the fourth grade. But in light of the shooting last week in Michigan where a 6-year-old boy shot and killed a first-grader at school, she said she wants to be better prepared just in case. ‘‘I want to know why kids are enjoying the act of violence. It’s in their video games, the movies they watch, everywhere,’’ Wiewel said. ‘‘I am baffled and bewildered by it.’’ District CourtNewkirk Marriage Licenses Grant James Thomison, 25, Shidler, and Jill Diane Parsons, 23, Arkansas City. Jason Charles Presuhn, 30, Tonkawa, and Kimberley Sue McDonald, 30, Ponca City. Glenn Paul Fast, 22, and Cammie LaDawn Wyckoff, 22, both of Marland. Donald Wayne Haden, 60, and Julie Johanna Marazas, 53, both of Ponca City. Paul Sheild Bublik, 30 and Cynthia Jane Walther, 33, both of Ponca City. Larry Warren Lamm, 52, Burbank, and Donna Ruth Cannon, 46, Ponca City. Jorge J. Garcia, 23, and Hilda Araceli Hernandez, 21, both of Ponca City. William Eugene Munroe, 45, and Renee Ann Guthrie, 30, both of Blackwell. Brian Glen Herren, 18, and Cheryl Louise Taylor, 18, both of Blackwell. Broadcasters Want Cameras at Nichols’ HearingsOKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Prosecutors and defense attorneys in the Oklahoma City bombing case say they are opposed to a request to broadcast hearings for bombing conspirator Terry Nichols. Television stations in Oklahoma City and Tulsa and the Court TV cable channel have filed a request to allow a camera in the courtroom during Nichols’ preliminary hearing, trial and other court proceedings. Associate District Judge Robert M. Murphy Jr. was scheduled to hear arguments on the motion at a hearing today where broadcasters planned to demonstrate how electronic equipment would be used to broadcast hearings for Nichols. Murphy also planned to take up a defense motion requesting that Nichols’ preliminary hearing be held somewhere other than a room in the basement of the Oklahoma County Jail, where all hearings have been held so far. Murphy has expressed an interest in holding hearings at the Canadian County Courthouse in El Reno. Two Canadian County officials — Sheriff Lewis Hawkins and Judge Edward Cunningham — were subpoenaed to appear at today’s hearing. In addition, Murphy may take up a request by Nichols’ lead defense attorney, Brian Hermanson, that Hermanson’s wife be permitted to cut Nichols’ hair for security reasons. Nichols, 44, faces 160 counts of first-degree murder in the April 19, 1995, bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. The bombing killed 168 people and injured hundreds more. The TV stations have requested pool coverage for Nichols’ preliminary hearing and other hearings, meaning only one camera would be in the courtroom. The Code of Judicial Conduct prohibits television coverage of proceedings unless the defendant consents, but a motion filed by broadcasters maintains that the rule is not binding. DEATHSPrecious Faith MapelBLACKWELL — Precious Faith Mapel of Blackwell died Wednesday morning, March 8, 2000 in the University Hospital in Oklahoma City. The funeral will be 2:30 p.m. Saturday, March 11, 2000, in the first United Methodist Church in Blackwell with the Rev. Gale Izard officiating. Burial will be in the Blackwell Cemetery under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home of Blackwell. Precious Faith Mapel was born March 8, 2000, in Oklahoma City, the daughter of Kris Alan and Lana Kay (Field) Mapel. Survivors include her parents; two sisters, Kristin and Katelin Maple of Blackwell; a brother, Ryan Brown of Blackwell; paternal grandmother, Bonnie Mapel of Peckham; maternal grandparents, Bob and Rada Field of Blackwell; and several other relatives. She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Don Mapel. Honorary casket bearers will be Jerry Field, Kent Field, Mike Mapel, Ronnie Mapel, Jay Mapel, Don Hobaugh, Randy Teeters, Men’s Bible Study, and Open Door Sunday School Class. ObituariesGladys Feagin EberhardGladys Feagin Eberhard, 2029 North Fifth, died Tuesday, March 7, 2000, at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 79. The funeral will be Saturday, 10 a.m. at the Albright United Methodist Church with the Rev. Dr. Sheila Combs-Francis, pastor, officiating. Burial will follow in Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of the Trout Funeral Home. Born Aug. 30, 1920, on a farm east of Chilocco. She was the youngest daughter of Marion L. and Pearle Van Pelt Feagin. At three years of age, she moved with her family to the Pawnee Indian Agency where her father was employed. In 1926, the family moved to White Eagle and in 1934 to Ponca City. Gladys graduated from Ponca City High School in 1937. While there, she won nine state championships for typing. On Aug. 5, 1939, she and Leon S. Eberhard were married in Ponca City. In 1989 the couple had the wonderful privilege of celebrating 50 years together with all of their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. The celebration took place at the Marland Mansion with many of their lifetime friends and other relatives. Special music, food, and lots of reminiscing were highlights of the afternoon. From 1938 until 1942, Gladys was employed at Conoco. In 1963 she joined the Wetzel Agency as their automobile clerk and retired in 1981. She was a faithful member of Albright United Methodist Church, serving as a Sunday school teacher, on various committees and in several United Methodist Women offices. Her favorite pastime was spending time with family and friends. Her hobbies included gardening, canning, cooking, entertaining, playing cards and dominoes, and working crossword puzzles. She is survived by her two daughters, Jeanne Burge and Lynnita Jarrell, both of Ponca City; two sons, Bill Eberhard of Rogers, Ark., and Eddie Eberhard of Ventura, Calif.; 11 grandchildren, Timilyn Crank, David and Daniel Eberhard, Heather Sales, Lee Burge, Brian, Brett, and Beau Eberhard, Andrew, Alexander, Aubrey, and Annie Eberhard; three great-grandchildren; two sisters, LaVerne Kreger of Ponca City and Marion Appleman of Johnstown, Neb.; and her extended family daughter, Corrine Wasson and her children, Anita Shelton, Terry Wasson, Carla Fenton, Dawn Piel, David Wasson, Kathey Howell, and Amy Miller. She was preceded in death by her husband on Sept. 1, 1991; a sister, Mildred Oshinski; and a brother, Raymond Feagin. The grandsons will serve as casket bearers. Memorials may be made to Albright United Methodist Church, 128 S. Palm, Ponca City, Okla. 74601. The family will be at the home, 2029 North Fifth. The casket will not be opened at the church; however, friends may call at the Trout Funeral Home until 8:30 a.m. Saturday. paid obituary Services PendingVerna M. PetersonVerna M. Peterson, longtime Ponca City resident, died Thursday evening, March 9, 2000, at the Mercy Health Center in Oklahoma City. She was 75. Survivors include her husband, Ray Peterson, of the home. Arrangements are pending with Grace Memorial Chapel. Georgia Mae WarrenGeorgia Mae Warren, Ponca City resident, died Friday morning, March 10, 2000, at the Southwest Medical Center in Oklahoma City. She was 76. Arrangements are pending with Grace Memorial Chapel. Vera ParkinsonVera Parkinson, Ponca City resident, died Thursday, March 9, 2000, in the Presbyterian Hospital in Oklahoma City. She was 95. Arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home. NEWS BRIEFSCraft Show Planned — The annual Spring Fling Craft show, sponsored by Church Women United, is scheduled March 25, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Unity Gym, to benefit Child Development Center, a United Way Agency. Booth spaces available, contact Mary Bates at 718-0019. Onion Plants, and sets, asparagus, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, rhubarb, strawberry plant, bulk seed and bulbs now available. Open Sunday. Keathly Nursery. adv. Accident — The Ponca City Police Department received a report at 7:47 a.m. Thursday that an accident had occurred in the 600 block of North Sunset Street. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Onion Plants, onion sets, asparagus, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, potatoes, strawberries, grapes, bulk seed. Keathly Nursery. adv. Injured in Accident — A two-vehicle injury accident at the intersection of South Sixth Street and East South Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:51 a.m. Thursday. Two officers were assigned and two units from the Ponca City Fire Department responded. An ambulance took two people to the emergency room of St. Joseph Regional Medical Center for treatment. Vehicles were towed from the scene. Dougan's Bar-B-Q Friday special from 4-8 p.m., all you can eat ribs with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $7.49. 215 South 14th, 765-7979. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 800 block of North Elm Street at 10:50 a.m. Thursday that a 26-year-old woman was being held for giving false information to an officer. Jazzercize, Step, Circuit at Unity gum. Monday 5:30pm and 6:45pm. Wednesday 5:30pm. Thursday 5:30pm and 6:45pm. Start anytime. 762-7243 adv. Vandalism — A man from the 600 block of East Brookfield Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:38 a.m. Thursday that some graffiti had been painted on the back of a building. An officer was assigned and the information was logged. Affairs To Remember, 212 North Third. Open house Saturday, March 11, 11-3:00. adv. Theft — A woman from the 300 block of South Second Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:20 p.m. Thursday that a subject had stopped a vehicle at the residence and two juveniles got out and picked flowers from the yard. An officer was assigned and the information was logged. Hit and Run — A woman from the 1100 block of East Prospect Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 2:23 p.m. Thursday that her vehicle had been hit by another that left the scene. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Special 40 lb. cow manure, 99 cents each. Limit 10 bags. Open Sunday. Keathly Nursery. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca city Police department reported at 2:42 p.m. Thursday that an 18-year-old man was court committed to serve time instead of fines. New Massachusetts State uncirculated quarters and ornaments now at Carla’s Hallmark, Downtown. adv. Vandalism — A man from the 300 block of West Otoe Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 2:57 p.m. Thursday that a woman had kicked in the door. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Jim Bowen Construction Custom homes, room additions and remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv. Accident — An accident in the 2100 block of North Ash Street was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:42 p.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and information was logged. 25 Cents a gallon drinking water. Pure Water Wagon 1717 N. 5th. adv. Items Missing — A man from a business in the 2100 block of North Fourteenth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:45 p.m. Thursday that some items had been stolen from the business. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Garden gift, bird houses, statuary, and lots of bunnies! Mrs. Brown’s Attic, Ponca Plaza. adv. Accident — An accident in the 400 block of East Grand Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:31 p.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Girls Traveling fast pitch softball team tryouts, 14 and under. Sunday, March 12, 2:00 p.m., ballfield west of 101 Rodeo Grounds, South of Humane Society on West Prospect. More information call Jerry 762-6060 days, Leonard 762- 9988. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 400 block of South Fourteenth Street at 4:32 p.m. Thursday that a 19-year-old man was being held on a Kay County warrant for failure to pay and a Pawnee warrant for failure to appear. Stormescape Shelters, perfect for garage, under vehicle, instal- lation. $1,695. 765-2633. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 400 block of South Fourteenth Street at 5:37 p.m. Thursday that a 28-year-old man was being held on an Osage County warrant. Theft — An employee at Wal-Mart, 1101 East Prospect Avenue, requested assistance from the Ponca City Police Department with two subjects being held for shoplifting. A 21-year-old woman was held for grand larceny and a 15-year-old girl was held for grand larceny. Vehicle Fire — The Communications Center received a call at 9:12 p.m. Thursday that a vehicle was on fire in the 3500 block of East U.S. 60. The McCord Volunteer Fire Department responded to handle the situation and the fire was reported out. Pauline Steak and shrimp dinner $11.95 Friday the 10th. For reservations call 765-5460. adv. Vandalism — A man from the 800 block of North First Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 6:25 p.m. Thursday that there had been vandalism to his residence. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Kids Review now accepting spring/summer childrens consignments. adv. Threats — A man from the 2300 block of El Camino Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 6:36 p.m. Thursday that some death threats had been received by telephone at the residence. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. 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. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 200 block of East Oklahoma Avenue at 7:08 p.m. Thursday that an 18-year-old man was being held on a Kay County warrant. 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. Assault — A woman from the 2300 block of North Fourteenth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:51 p.m. Thursday that a man had tried to choke her. Two officers were assigned and information was logged. Burglary — A woman from the 300 block of South Peachtree Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 10:16 p.m. Thursday that subjects had come to the residence asking for a ride. The woman went back into the house and then went outside, finding the subjects in her vehicle. Three officers were assigned and juveniles were taken into custody and released to a parent with a promise to appear. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 2200 block of North Fourteenth Street at 1 a.m. Friday that a 34-year-old man was being held for DUI, driving under suspension, having no insurance and speeding. Vandalism — A woman from the 600 block of West Highland Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 1:10 a.m. Friday that some subjects had broken windows out of her car. An officer was assigned and a destruction of private property report was taken. Vandalism — A clerk at Triple T, 201 West Hartford Avenue, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:51 a.m. Friday that a man had driven off with the gas pump nozzle still in the gas tank. An officer was assigned and a destruction of private property report was taken. LIFESTYLESMothers Club Meets Mothers Club MeetsMothers Club Unit II met in the home of Jerri Boyer with Jerri Barnes and Marge Robb as co-hostesses. The meeting was brought to order by Sue Ziegenhain, president, with 24 members present, and it was followed by the reading of the collect. The program was by Judith McClung on BeautiControl makeup. A thank you note from Domestic Violence was read for the paper goods donated. Sondra Scott also sent a thank you note for the gift for her new granddaughter. Nominees for the year 2000-2001 officers were presented by the nominating committee and approved. Officers are Sue Ziegenhain, president; Patti Lundeen, vice president; Zofia Bohon, secretary; Pat Morahan, treasurer; Ina Bond, librarian; and Sandy Bishop, parliamentarian. Zofia Bond will host the April 7 meeting. Members are reminded that next year’s dues will be due and to bring paper goods. Paper goods were donated to the Child Development Center. Couple Observes 60 YearsMr. and Mrs. O.E. Davis will be honored at a 60th wedding anniversary reception Sunday, March 12, noon-2 p.m., in the home of their daughter and son-in-law, Lynda and Guy Clark, 12 Ridgecreek Road. Other hosts will be their grandchildren, Jeffrey Davis Clark and his wife, Lynna, of Ponca City, and Jennifer Clark Tinsley and her husband, Mark, of Tulsa. An invitation is extended to all friends and family to attend the event. Cards may be sent to 5455 East Hunt Road, Ponca City, OK 74604 Orvis Eugene “Hugg” Davis and Pearl Elaine Beshears were married in the Bethel Tabernacle Church in Ponca City on March 9, 1940. They have resided in Ponca City and Osage County all their married years. They have two children, Lynda, and the now deceased Michael Eugene Davis, who died in 1994. Weddings Around the World International Club ProgramThe February International Club meeting was held in the home of Nora Slaughter with 17 members present. The program “Weddings Around the World,” was presented by club members. The group heard about Japanese, Armenian, Ukrainian, Muslim, Polish, Chinese, Norwegian and Swedish weddings and their traditions. Some of the most unique traditions might belong to the Muslims in which the men do all the work at the wedding and the groom or his family provide a house for the couple. Other interesting traditions include the Ukrainian wedding which can last as long as three days! Polish couples must be married twice, once in church and once by the state. These two weddings can be months apart. In China, couples are given lucky envelopes with money instead of presents. The bride changes into different dresses depending on the wealth of the family. The bride is given gold jewelry by both her family and the groom’s family. Jewelry given to her by her family is worn on the right side; that from the groom’s family is worn on the left One bride present won her cake and wedding photos in a “Bride of the Month” contest! The next meeting will be March 29 at 7 p.m. in the home of Chayo Cobb. Anyone interested in attending the meeting or in International Club should call Anna Razowiski, 767-1468. Little NewsNick and Amanda Alexy announce the birth of a daughter, Jordan Nicole Alexy. Born at 3:01 p.m. Feb. 21, 2000, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, she weighed 6 pounds, 14 ounces, and measured 20 1/2 inches long. She has two sisters, Jessica Alexy, 9, and Brianna Alexy, 5. Paternal grandparents are Don Riggs and Alice Nelson of Ponca City. and maternal grandparents are Allen and Pat Marlar of Ponca City, and the late Wayne Stocker. Great-grandparents are LaVerne reed of Lyons, Kan., Thelma stocker of Pawnee, the late C.E. McAllaster, the late Clyde Stocker, the late Ted and Dorthy Nelson. EDUCATIONStudent Benefits from PTC Program Board Meeting in OKC Student Benefits from PTC ProgramHard work and determination is paying off for Pioneer Technology Center student, Joe Scholey. After passing his competency tests in food safety and sanitation, Scholey's manager, Dave Jackson, El Chico restaurant, gave him a raise right on the spot! “I couldn't believe it,” said Scholey. “I was so excited. Learning about food preparation has been a lot of fun. Mr. Ellenwood is a great instructor and he has let me do some neat things in this program.” Scholey is a sophomore from Ponca City and is enrolled in the Education Enhancement (EE) program under the direction of Lynnie Bailey. The EE program is a partnership with Pioneer Technology Center and the Ponca City Public Schools that works to identify ninth grade students who are at-risk of dropping out of school. Scholey admits that he was at-risk of dropping out of school before coming to PTC, but he has now changed his mind. “I never really liked school so I just started skipping classes. I didn't realize it, but I had gotten so far behind in my work. I started coming part-time to PTC last fall. First, I explored the Horticulture program and then I moved to the Food Services program in January. I really like both classes, but the Food Services is neat because it relates to some of the things I do in my part-time job at El Chico's.” According to Steve Ellenwood, Food Services Instructor, Joe has done exceptionally well in the program for the short amount of time that he has been enrolled. “He started in January and has already passed one of his competency tests! This is the fastest I have ever had a student do this. I am pleased that he has found something he likes to do and it shows with his determination and efforts in the program.” To date, Scholey has already passed the Steward Dishwasher competency test that included two different sections on safety and sanitation and food preparation. He continues to work in food preparation where he is learning more about herbs and spices. The Food Services program has seven different competency tests for students to take. Students can take these competency tests after meeting certain criteria in the program. The seven tests are: Steward Dishwasher, Cold Foods, Hot Foods, Baking, Waiter / Waitress, Cashier, and Manager. “Most of the students will take the first five tests,” said Ellenwood. “But I know that Joe is determined enough and motivated enough to take as many as he possibly can.” Sholey is definitely proving this by making plans to take another competency test after he completes the training in herb and spice preparation. “I feel like I am doing much better now,” said Sholey. “After this nine weeks, I will be caught up in my school work and should be were I need to be. Right now, I am enjoying getting to learn and do new things. I may even go back to the Horticulture program to learn more about the spring and summer plants! One thing I do know is that I don't think about skipping classes at PTC. There is just no reason to do that!” Joe Scholey is the son of Fred and Charlie Scholey of Ponca City. He has three brothers, Fred, Charlie, and John. PTC’s Robert Howard Attends State SchoolBoard Meeting in OKCRobert A. Howard, new board member for Pioneer Technology Center, attended the New School Board Member Workshop sponsored by the Oklahoma State School Boards Association (OSSBA). This two-day workshop was held on March 4 and 5 at the Westin Hotel in downtown Oklahoma City. Everything a new school board member needs for a foundation in leadership was available. “The OSSBA New School Board Member Workshop provides a solid core of knowledge for new school board members,” said OSSBA President Debi Thompson from the Carney School Board. “It is also valuable for long-time school board members, because basic information can be revised due to legislation and changing times.” The first day focused on school board meeting and leadership topics, such as roles and responsibilities, ethics and standards of performance, clerk duties, the Open Meetings and Open Records Acts, agenda preparation, parliamentary procedure and public participation at board meetings. In addition, attendees enjoyed an informative “mock school board meeting,” which dramatically illustrated how to conduct a proper board meeting. State Superintendent Sandy Garrett opened the program with a discussion of the role of the State Department of Education. The State Department also holds a two-day workshop for new school board members in April. School finance and budget issues dominated Day two. Property taxes and other revenue, the school funding formula, budget and financial accountability, investing school funds, the role of the school treasurer and school bonds were the topics. Jeff Spelman of the Oklahoma Tax Commission and Butch freeman, Oklahoma County Treasurer, were among the officials who shared their expertise about taxes. School board members who attended this workshop received training credits as mandated by state law. Regents Name PC as GEAR UP SiteThirty Oklahoma school districts, including Ponca City, have been selected to serve as focus districts for the first phase of the Oklahoma GEAR UP program, the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education announced Wednesday. Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) is a federal program designed to better prepare students, especially those from low income families, for college. Last August, the U.S. Department of Education awarded Oklahoma a five-year grant totaling $20.5 million to implement GEAR UP activities across the state. The 30 school districts participating as focus districts during the first year will conduct a needs assessment to identify gaps and weaknesses in district services designed to prepare seventh through 12th grade students academically and financially for college. The results from the assessment will be used to tailor a plan for implementing GEAR UP services that will fill those gaps. Oklahoma GEAR UP staff will work directly with the schools to help implement the new programs and services. Additionally, the schools will be eligible to receive numerous free programs provided by Oklahoma GEAR UP partners, organizations that have donated more than $25 million in funds and programs to the initiative. Schools will also receive $18,000 in direct funding to support free-based services provided through the program and to build local capacity to sustain those services over time. “Thousands of students across Oklahoma will benefit from the opportunities that the Oklahoma GEAR UP program offers,” said Chancellor Hans Brisch. “GEAR UP will help identify student needs and respond with proactive programs that will better prepare students for college and for life after high school.” The 30 school districts participating in the Oklahoma GEAR UP program this year include : — North Central Region: Agra, Boley, Carney, Depew, Ponca City, Woodland — Northeast Region: Checotah, Jay, Locust Grove, Muskogee, Stillwell, Tahlequah — Southeast Region: Boswell, Broken Bow, Calera, Durant, Idabel, Silo — South Central Region: Bowlegs, Millwood, Oklahoma City, Shawnee, Seminole, Tecumseh — Southwest Region: Anadarko, Erick, Frederick, Granite, Indiahoma, Mountain View-Gotebo The selected districts represent various regions in Oklahoma that have a high participation rate in the free and reduced school lunch program and a proven commitment to student preparation. Additionally, all school districts meet required federal guidelines and have demonstrated involvement with the State Regents’ Oklahoma Educational Planning and Assessment System (EPAS), a multi-year education and career preparation system for middle and high school students. “GEAR UP builds on Oklahoma’s existing programs to make educational programs and services available to all Oklahoma students, regardless of their location or background,” said State Regents Chairman Bill W. Burgess Jr. “Approximately 35,205 Oklahoma students in the seventh through 12th grade will be impacted by GEAR UP during the initial phase, and even more students will feel its impact as the program continues.” Regents noted that eventually 180 Oklahoma school districts will be implementing students preparation programs through GEAR UP. The federal GEAR UP program was established by Congress in 1988 to fund partnerships between colleges and universities, middle schools, community-based organizations and businesses to prepare low-income students for college. In addition to the readiness component mentioned above, the Oklahoma GEAR UP program will support two other components that will support two other components that will target the entire state: — college scholarships for students with financial need who demonstrate a commitment to academic success in high school; and — a statewide awareness plan to provide information to Oklahoma students and parents on preparing early for college. The New StandardThe Ponca City Board of Education recently adopted a new standard design to promote academic excellence in the high school. Beginning with all 2000 classes, students must earn a “C” or better in the core classes to count toward graduation. Students earning a “D” or an “F” in English, mathematics, science, technology, and social studies must repeat the course to earn a higher grade. Educators have known for years that students who earn only a “D” in an initial course almost universally fail the subsequent course. A student who earns a “D” in Algebra I almost always fails Algebra II. The student simply has not mastered enough information in the introductory class to pass the second level course work. The “C or Better” requirement will establish a new threshold that will motivate students to learn more in the vital courses that are fundamental to a well-educated citizen. Several arguments against the new standard have been raised. These include athletic eligibility will be hampered, dropout rates will increase, and “grade inflation” will increase. First, students earning a “D” will not be ruled ineligible, but the course must be repeated and the higher grade will replace the “D.” This will cause a slight increase in the grade point average. Teachers will not change the requirements for earning a “C,” and expectations for each course will remain at a high level of achievement. The dropout rate in Ponca City is decreasing. The current junior class has 461 students, down only 29 from the beginning of their freshman year. The alternative school deserves great credit for keeping students in school. The “C or Better” may be difficult for some students to achieve and they may choose to dropout rather than repeat the course work required. At the same time, students dropout primarily because of lack of success. When they earn higher grades and see that they have a chance to do well in subsequent classes, they will stay in school and graduate. The goal of Ponca City High school is to see every child graduate with a diploma. This means they have mastered the curriculum and are ready to enter the adult world of a career or to pursue a college education. The new standard of “C or Better” will be coupled with new graduation requirements that will better prepare graduates for college and career. The next Superintendent’s Corner will detail the graduation requirements for the class of 2002 and beyond. RELIGIONPraise Service For Schools Set At 1st Lutheran Praise Service For Schools Set At 1st LutheranA service of praise will culminate National Lutheran Schools Week at both the 8:30 a.m. and the 11 a.m. services at First Lutheran Church on Sunday, March 12. The School Choir will sing a special anthem at both services. The other musical portions of the service will be under the direction of Carol Powell and Peggy Ramsey. Pastor Tom Ramsey’s sermon is titled “Obeying God even when it seems self defeating.” First Lutheran Church is a member of the system of Lutheran elementary, middle, high schools, and colleges that is sponsored by congregations of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. “Managing Stress: Rely on Jesus” will be the theme for the 6:30 p.m. service on Sunday evening, March 12. this enlightening series has proven to be very helpful for those attending. Those people would invite others to join them for a time of discussion, prayer, Bible study, and praise. The mid-week Lenten service will again be held on Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. The theme is “The Eight Days That Changed the World.” These times of worship offer an opportunity during the week not only to worship, but also to meditate on and learn more about the suffering of the Savior during the week before He died on the cross. Church BriefsGrace Church Announces Plans for Holy WeekThe Rev. Kenneth Armstrong, rector of Grace Episcopal Church, in announcing services for Lent, indicated service times are scheduled to give everyone an opportunity to attend at some time. Two services are planned to continue on Wednesday, the first at 10:30 a.m. and the second at 5:30 p.m., which follows the usual services for Wednesday. Each Friday at 5:30 p.m. a light supper will be served, hosted by the various church organizations, followed by the Stations of the Cross. And, of course, the two services of Holy Communion — 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. — on Sunday will remain the same. Anyone wishing to worship is welcome to attend any of these services, Fr. Armstrong pointed out. Services for Holy week will be announced later. Community Christian Plans Lenten Prayer ServicesCommunity Christian Church invites you to join with its members for Lenten prayer services each Wednesday evening from 6:30 to 6:50 p.m. through April 19th. Future announcements will be made for services observing Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter. ‘Come Let Us Reason Together’ The Hartford Avenue Church of Christ invites the public to share God’s Word with them every week. Sunday Bible classes at 9:30 a.m., worship at 10:30 a.m., Sunday evening service at 6 p.m. and Wednesday service at 7 p.m. There are classes for all age levels - nursery through adult. Watch the Search program Sunday at 8 a.m. on TV Ch 8. City-wide Bible Class is scheduled at Hartford Avenue Church of Christ Sunday evening at 6 p.m. - an in-depth study of Romans. This week, “The Impartial God” — Romans 2:1-11. Many people who read the closing verses of chapter one would agree such things are deserving of the wrath of God. Their own sins, however, are overlooked or justified. Paul makes it clear that this will not do, “for their is no partiality with God.”Gracious Lord, we offer our thanks to You today, as You watch over all our needs and cares. We trust You with an ever-deepening faith. How great You are, in Jesus’ name. Amen. Alcoholism Recovery Special on KLVV Radio KLVV Christian radio will air a special edition of Focus on the family on Monday entitled “Overcoming Alcoholism.” Alcoholism is a disease that destroys many families today. On Monday’s Focus on the Family, Dr. James Dobson interviews author Bob Bartosch and his wife, Pauline. Bob and Pauline share their recovery experience from alcoholism. The 30-minute program will air three times Monday at 6 a.m., 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and listeners will hear what God is doing in the lives of a family recovering from alcoholism. KLVV is a non-profit Christian radio station that broadcasts on 88.7 FM Northern Oklahoma and southern Kansas, 98.3 FM Enid, 106.7 FM Stillwater, and 97.3 FM Guthrie. Prince of Peace Lutherans Continue Lenten JourneyPrince of Peace Lutheran Church, ELCA, continues its Lenten journey with worship, study and fellowship this coming Sunday, the first Sunday in Lent, the Rev. Bruce W. Keck, pastor, announced today. The theme for this Sunday will be focusing on Jesus’ forty days in the desert wilderness in the midst of solitude, silence, and evil. Pastor Keck said, “Our own Lenten journey challenges us to face the hardships of life, as did Jesus, knowing that He alone can be our stronghold and refuge as Savior.” The congregation will gather together every Wednesday evening during the season of Lent for a Soup Supper at 6 p.m. and Worship at 7 p.m. The theme for this year’s mid-week worship services is, “The Carpenter’s Cloth,” focusing on Christ’s journey to the cross and beyond. Pastor Keck invited “Please come and join us for worship, study and fellowship at 2800 Turner Road, phone 762-7698.” Pastors NotesI have good news and bad news. Spring is just around the corner. An Oklahoma spring is always a mixed blessing. We enjoy the warmer weather that brings budding trees and blooming flowers. However, the severe thunderstorms that come with spring are frightening. After the terrible storms in our state last year, many Oklahomans will be anxious as they greet the spring of 2000. The Bible tells us that we will certainly face storms in our lives. We may never lose our homes to a fire or tornado, but we will have to deal with grief, sickness, and adversity. Good people are not immune from tragic events. How do we prepare for the storms that will surely come our way? At the conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus shares a short story about the wise and foolish builders.This story offers good advice for all of us, for our faith in God can help us through the storms. “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” Let us heed the words of Jesus and place our lives on a foundation that can endure the storms of life. The Rev. Dr. J.D. Ward, Senior Minister First United Methodist Church Women of Faith Ministry Names New DirectorsUMW Social Action Chair Speaking Sunday at St. Paul’s UMC Services St. Paul’s United Methodist Women are excited to have Evelyn B. Phyffer, Social Action Chair for the Oklahoma Conference UMW, preach at the 8:30 and 10:50 morning worship services, emphasizing United Methodist Women’s Sunday at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, Hartford and Pecan. Ms. Phyffer has a strong commitment to the church and to community service. Prior to her marriage to Chester L. Phyffer, pastor at Selecman UMC, she was ordained as a Deacon and then an Elder in the Presbyterian Church. She sings in her church choir and is active in UMW. In October, 1998, she was elected Conference Coordinator of Social Action for the Oklahoma Conference of UMW and reelected to that office in 1999. She is active in Volunteers-in-Mission, having served on four mission teams; three of which were to the Continent of Africa, and on two of which she was team leader. She serves on the Conference VIM Committee. She is an Attorney-in-the-Classroom through the Bar Association and serves on its Law-Related Education committee. She has served as a judge in the statewide “We the People” competition and has served as a judge for Oklahoma City University’s Appellate Advocacy classes. She has been a volunteer with the American Red Cross, the Salvation Army, the Oklahoma City Food Bank, the Children’s Miracle Network and United Way where she was chair of an allocations subcommittee for many years, and is currently serving as Vice-Chairman of the Allocations Committee. Ms. Phyffer is a Tax Policy Analyst with the Oklahoma Tax Commission in Oklahoma City. United Methodist Women Sunday celebrates women who give their all in service to God. You are invited to come and worship with the UMW on Sunday, March 12. United Methodist Women Sunday celebrates women who give their all in service to God. The leadership of Women of Faith Ministry was recently turned over to Susie Colville and Kathy Walker, as Sandy Suggs stepped down after serving as director of the ministry for the past 12 years. In turning over the leadership of the organization, Suggs said Colville and Walker are well qualified to assume the leadership, as each has served as a Circle leader within the Women’s Ministry for the past two years. Susie served with the Arts and Crafts Circle which sponsors the annual church bazaar, and Kathy with Acts of Kindness Benevolence Circle which is responsible for providing meals for funerals, during illnesses and other times of crisis in the church family. In addition, both women also serve in the Usher Ministry of the church and Kathy teaches a Bible class for two year olds on Wednesday nights. Suggs said Colville and Walker are excited about their new positions and responsiblities and have great plans for Faith Tabernacle’s Women of Faith. SPORTSPioneers Pound Cats Pioneers Pound CatsBy Thomas True News Sports Writer STILLWATER — It was bound to happen, and Thursday afternoon it did. Defeat came to the Wildcats (4-1). This came at the bats and gloves of their Frontier Conference rivals, the Stillwater Pioneers (5-1). The only consolation is that this 10-0 conference loss will have a chance to be redeemed when Stillwater travels to Ponca City later in the season. Just as the Po-Hi baseballers have done to others this season, the Pioneers did to them. Coming out swinging in the first inning. Stillwater scored four runs on two hits. Po-Hi senior pitcher Todd Stewart (1-1) ran into trouble early with two walks ands a wild pitch conntributing to the Pioneers’ big inning. When it came to the Wildcats performance on offense, they swung well but the fielding and arm of hurler J. T. Severe kept the Wildcats from advancing past third. The Poncans reached thaty base with J. Michael Sharron. There really wasn’t a point in which the Cats seemed to reach a zone where they could get on top of the game. In the fourth inning coach Mike Krehbiel replaced Stewart with Matt Wilks after a 3-run homer by Wyatt Stanfield brought the score to 8-0. After a three up, three down fifth inning the Pioneers brought an end to the game with two runs to invoke the run rule After the game a disappointed Krehbiel said that the Cats just didn’t perform at their abilities. But playing the Pioneers is a wake up call to prepare for the Owasso doubleheader here in Ponca City Saturday at noon. Stillwater 10, Ponca City 0 Ponca City 0 0 0 0 0 — 0 2 0 Stillwater 4 0 1 3 2 — 10 9 0 J. T. Severe (w) T. Stewart (l) 3 2/3, Matt Wilks 1 1/3 Cat Tennis Teams Top BartlesvilleBARTLESVILLE — Ponca City’s Wildcat tennis teams swept past Bartlesville, 7-2 in the varsity match and 9-0 in the JV dual. “It’s been a log time since we’ve beaten Bartlesville in a dual,” coach Steve Larimer said, but he still saw room for improvement. “Overall, the boys played pretty well, but there are still some things we need to work on.” The Wildcats won four of the six singles matches, and most of the close contests. There were three three-setters and four more extended two-setters. The JVs also has some close matches, but won them all. The Wildcat netters will play host to Oklahoma City Cassidy Tuesday. Varsity Ponca City 7, Bartlesville 2 Singles Michael Grismore (B) d. Bilal Agha, 4-6, 6-1, 7-5 Tim Frick (PC) d. Geoff Berman, 6-4, 7-5 Barry Donaldson (B) d. Josh Pitts, 6-2, 7-5 Sterling Foy (PC) d. John Keen, 6-3, 6-1 Scott Mitchell (PC) d. Doug Hankins, 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 Mustafa Durrani (PC) d. Scott Muller, 7-6, 6-0 Doubles Agah-Frick (PC) d. Grismore-Berman, 6-4, 6-4 Pitts-Foy (PC) d. Donaldson-Keen, 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 Mitchell-Durrani (PC) d. Hankins-Muller, 7-6, 6-0 Junior Varsity Ponca City 9, Bartlesville 0 Singles Trevor Viljoen (PC) d. Ankit Pitel, 6-2, 6-3 Cory Landes (PC) d. David Fooshee, 6-4, 6-4 Bill Lundeen (PC) d. Preston Birk, 6-2, 6-3 Matt Caine (PC) d. Brian Koonce, 7-5, 6-2 Mark Parsons (PC) d. David Thorpe, 6-2, 6-0 Michael Stuemky (PC) d. Nathan Lambert, 7-5, 6-0 Doubles Viljoen-Stuemky (PC) d. Pitel-Fooshee, 6-7, 6-1, 6-1 Caine-Parsons (PC) d. Birk-Koonse, 6-4, 6-1 Landes-Lundeen (PC) d. Thorpe-Lambert, 6-2, 6- Lady Cat Netters Lose DualBARTLESVILLE — Only Lillie Vucic in the No. 5 Singles was a winner for the Lady Wildcat varsity tennis team in a 8-1 dual loss to Bartlesville Thursday. The JV girls fared only slightly better in losing their dual, 6-3. Tiffany Almack came from behind to win a three-setter, 2-6, 6-2, 7-6 in the No. 1 singles. Danielle Keim won in straight sets in the No. 5 Singles while Keim and Natashia Copple took a three-set victory in the No. 3 Doubles. The Lady Cats host Oklahoma City Casady on Tuesday and travel to Enid next Friday in the final dual before Spring Break. Varsity Bartlesville 8, Ponca City 1 Singles Megan Carter (B) d. Allison Hufnagel, 6-4, 6-1 Christy Walsh (B) d. Gena Smith, 6-2, 6-1 Erika Johnson (B) d. Claire Winterrowd, 6-1, 6-1 Krisa Lambert (B) d. Morgan Mongold, 7-5, 6-4 Lillie Vucic (PC) d. Kim Birk, 6-1, 6-0 Julie Holbert (B) d. Marcie Wilkerson, 6-2, 6-2 Doubles Carter-Walsh (B) d. Hufnagel-Smith, 2-6, 6-1, 6-3 Johnson-Holbert (B) d. Winterrowd-Wilkinson, 6-4, 6-2 Birk-Lambert (B) d. Mongold-Vucic, 7-6, 6-2 Junior Varsity Bartlesville 6, Ponca City 3 Singles Tiffany Almack (PC) d. Tiffini Ashing, 2-6, 6-2, 7-6 Cassie Poindexter (B) d. Anna Stalcup, 6-2, 6-0 Taylor Donaldson (B) d. Clair Didlake, 6-3, 6-2 Jamie Reid (B) d. Amber Foy, 6-2, 6-3 Danielle Keim (PC) d. Niti Bagga, 6-3 6-1 Amber Lopez (B) d. Natashia Copple, 6-1, 6-1 Doubles Ashing-Poindexter (B) d. Stalcup-Didlake, 7-6, 6-6, 6-3 Donaldson-Reid (B) d. Almack-Foy, 62, 7-5 Keim-Copple (PC) d. Bagga-Lopez, 7-5, 3-6, 7-5 Lady Cats Golf Team Takes 10thGUTHRIE — Ponca City’s Lady Wildcat golfers improved their scores — a little — in the Guthrie Invitational Thursday, but not enough as they finished 10th in the tough 23-team field. The Ponca City High School girls lowered their team score by three stroke, to 385. from their fifth place finish in the Ponca City Invitational last week. But it was not enough improvement to stay with some of the top teams from the western side of the state. Defending state champion Edmond North, which ran off with the Ponca City title, showed it was the class of this tournament too, winning with a 327 score, 33 strokes in front of second-place Duncan. The Lady Wildcat scoring was well balanced, just not low enough. Jenni Nimmo and Heather Staires each shot 95, Kalyn Snell 96, Christy Rutledge 99 and Kelle Waddell 100. “Some of the girls improved their scores a little,” said coach John Spore, “and some didn’t fare as well. “Now its back to the course to practice and hope to get better in time for Owasso.” The Po-Hi girl take part in the Owasso girls’ tournament at the new Golf and Athletic Club course on Monday, Team Scores Top 10 Edmond North 327, Duncan 360, Ardmore 369, Tulsa Union 370, Tulsa Bishop Kelly 380. Mustang 382, Carl Albert 383, Elk City 384, Ponca City 385. Bike Club Sets Up TrainingThe Cherokee Strip Bicycle Club is currently holding a weekly Progressive Training Ride program. The rides will increase by five-mile increments each week until the graduation ride on June 3 of 65 miles. The progressive rides will be held each Sunday, starting at 2 p.m. from the Pioneer Woman Museum parking area, That will change April 2 (when Daylight Savings Time starts) when the rides will be held on Saturdays at 8 a.m. The rides were initially set up several years ago for riders to train for the annual cross-state bicycle tour called FreeWheel, which takes place in June. The rides have since been opened up to include anyone interested in bicycle training (road or mountain bike) and would like to ride with a group. There is no charge for the rides, but participants are required to wear bicycle helmets and a parent or guardian must accompany persons under 14. Each ride has a designated leader and support (SAG) vehicles are available on longer rides in the event riders have difficulties either with their equipment or are unable to complete the specified distance. Riders wanting to ride longer distances can continue once the designate ride distance has been completed. Veteran club members are also available to provide training tips or suggestions as to proper fit and adjustment of equipment. For additional information contact road ride director, Tom Hanke (767-1541) or Earl Ball (762-545-3)), club president.
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