From the pages of The Ponca City News, Friday, March 17, 2000

LOCAL

DEATHS

NEWS BRIEFS

LIFESTYLES

EDUCATION

RELIGION

SPORTS


LOCAL



State Reps Draw Battle Lines
Murder Charges Filed Thursday In Sedam Case
Rain May Cause Salt Creek To Flood Tonight
Ponca City Man Critical After Car Clipped by Train
OU Sooner Flight Academy Sets Ponca City Camp for June 19 through 23
Hall of Famer Venk Jurist For Art Association Show



State Reps Draw Battle Lines

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — A public dispute over unheard Republican legislation in the Oklahoma House of Representatives will help voters draw a contrast between Democrats and Republicans in the next election, the House’s top Republican says.

‘‘These are bills that aren’t being heard that may be good ideas,’’ Minority Leader Fred Morgan of Oklahoma City said Thursday. ‘‘These campaigns are about contrast. These are contrasts that need to be drawn.’’

Republicans renewed the political fight to keep their legislation alive when Morgan and Rep. Bill Graves, R-Oklahoma City, moved to have bills they authored pulled from Democrat-controlled committees that didn’t hear them. They want the bills considered by the entire House.

Their efforts failed in largely partisan votes.

‘‘All members of the Legislature should be held accountable for their voting record,’’ Morgan said. ‘‘It’s only the minority that feels they’re not getting a fair hearing on their bills.’’

Graves tried to bring two bills before the full House. One would require posting copies of the Ten Commandments in public buildings. The other would prohibit gays and lesbians from adopting children.

Morgan’s bill would permit the Office of State Finance to review the financial and administrative practices of Oklahoma school districts and help them reduce district-level administrative costs when they are too high.

The procedural maneuvers were a continuation of efforts that began Wednesday, when Republican Reps. Kevin Calvey of Del City and Tim Pope of Mustang tried to have their legislation moved from committees where they had died to the House calendar. Those efforts also failed.

‘‘These are important ideas that we want to have heard,’’ Morgan said. ‘‘I think it is important that these ideas be put out on the floor.’’

Thursday was the deadline for bills to be heard in their house of origin.

Last month, House Speaker Loyd Benson, D-Frederick, pulled a bill by Rep. Susan Winchester, R-Chickasha, out of the House Revenue and Taxation Committee that would allow a state income tax checkoff to support the Oklahoma City National Memorial.

Benson took the action after Democrats came under harsh criticism for not hearing the bill in committee. Winchester’s sister was one of the 168 people killed in the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building.

Benson said the House should focus on issues ‘‘rather than taking political shots at each other.’’



Murder Charges Filed Thursday In Sedam Case

NEWKIRK — Second-degree murder charges were filed Thursday against Kevin Alan Miller, accused in the Sunday shooting of Keith Sedam of Ponca City.

According to authorities, the 22-year-old Miller was asked to help resolve a family dispute at a home in the 900 block of West Oklahoma Avenue.

Assistant Kay County district attorney Phil Ross said Sedam had been drinking heavily Sunday night and refused to leave the house. Reports indicate the house belonged to his mother.

Family members then called Miller for assistance.

Authorities said Sedam approached Miller, who shot him five times with a .25-caliber semiautomatic pistol.

“It's kind of hard being in the right when you’re trying to kick somebody out of their own house,” Ross said. He also suggested Miller’s case isn’t helped by the fact that he brought a handgun with him.

Miller is being held in the Kay County jail.

The shooting Sunday night was the first homicide in Ponca City in 2000. There were no murders in 1999.



Rain May Cause Salt Creek To Flood Tonight

By The Associated Press

Oklahoma should warm up throughout the week, but the threat of rain will linger in some places, the National Weather Service says. The rain brings the chance of flooding along the Salt Fork River at Tonkawa.

The river is expected to crest tonight near 18 feet, which is a foot above flood stage, the weather service said. Farm land, oil fields and rural roads in eastern Grant County could be covered with water.

Up to three inches of rain fell in north central Oklahoma.

While residents near Tonkawa worried with the rain, residents of Buffalo had four-to-six inches of snow on top of ice pellets that hit the area Wednesday night. Much of northwestern Oklahoma had some type of frozen precipitation.

After the cold front brought sleet and even snow to parts of Oklahoma Thursday, tonight should not be much different. Forecasters said it should be mostly cloudy with a chance of rain in the east and far northwest with a chance of rain or snow in the Panhandle.

Lows should be from the mid 30s to mid 40s, dipping into the mid 20s to lower 30s in the Panhandle.

Saturday should be mostly cloudy with a chance of snow in the Panhandle and a chance of rain elsewhere. Highs should be from the upper 40s to upper 50s, but as low as the upper 30s in the Panhandle.



Ponca City Man Critical After Car Clipped by Train

A Ponca City man is in critical condition in a Tulsa hospital following a vehicle-train accident a mile south of Kildare Thursday afternoon.

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol investigating the accident said that a vehicle driven by Travis L. Shields, 20, of Ponca City was west bound on a county road.

The Burlington Northern-Santa Fe train, including three engines and 115 cars, was heading south at the time of the accident, which was approximately 1:35 p.m.

According to the OHP, the vehicle had stopped at the tracks, then pulled out in front of the train. It was reported to be raining at the time and the roadway was muddy.

Trooper Ty Hendren’s report stated that Shields was taken by ambulance to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center.He was later transferred to St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa, where his condition was listed as critical, but stable, with head, arm and trunk injuries.

Engineer of the train was 40-year-old Randy Valencia of Arkansas City. Conductor was James Lockwood, 57, of Newkirk and brakeman Tom Myatt, 56, of Ponca City.

None of the Burlington-Northern Santa Fe was reported as injured.



OU Sooner Flight Academy Sets Ponca City Camp for June 19 through 23

NORMAN — Enrollment is now open for the fourth annual OU Sooner Flight Academy summer aviation camp. Children attending grades 2-5 this school term are eligible to enroll in the program that is hosted by the University of Oklahoma’s College of Continuing Education, Department of Aviation.

OU’s Sooner Flight Academy Satellite Camp will be in session June 19-23 at the Ponca City Regional Airport.

Students who attend the program will experience the mathematics and scientific principles of flight through hands-on lessons at the airport.

“Our goal is to get students excited about learning math and science and at the same time revitalize interest in aviation throughout communities,” said Pam Kennedy, director of the OU Sooner Flight Academy.

“Our Satellite Camps travel across Oklahoma and a five-state area to educate children using aviation education. By involving airport operators, pilots, community groups, parents, and local aviation-related businesses, children see positive role models and meet mentors who help them stay focused on exciting careers and positive lifestyles,” added Kennedy.

Because every airport offers a unique history and variety of opportunities, camp activities are custom planned for each town served by the Academy.

Cadets experience the effects of science, math, engineering and technology as they participate in hands-on lessons throughout the week-long camp. The students learn aerodynamics and the principles of flight while experimenting with rockets, kites, and parachutes. Magnetic compass and gyroscope lessons help cadets understand basic aircraft instrumentation.

These experiments incorporate team building and cooperative learning to teach the principles of aerial navigation, Newton’s Laws and space exploration. Weather and parents permitting, students will receive an airplane ride. “There is no substitute for ‘airtime’ to help tie all the concepts together and allow students to experience the science of flight,” Kennedy added.

Don Nuzum, the Ponca City airport manager, is providing airport tours, classroom space in the Aviation Booster Club classroom, and coordinating airplane rides with the local EAA chapter whose members generously donate their time and aircraft to share the majesty of flight with the cadets.

The Oklahoma Aeronautics and Space Commission has donated seven $100 scholarships to help students in Ponca City attend the program.

Jean Hoffmeyer at Woodlands Elementary is coordinating the scholarships. Local community leaders are encouraged to contact the OU Sooner Flight Academy at 405-325-1635 if they are interested in providing tax-deductible academic scholarships for Ponca City students. Tuition is required, as the Academy is self-supported and does not receive state funding.

Cadets attend the program from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day and are encouraged to enroll early. Class size is limited to 30 students and tuition is $175.

Registration forms are available at the Ponca City Regional Airport and on the Academy’s web site at http://flightcamp.ou.edu.



Hall of Famer Venk Jurist For Art Association Show

Jurist for the upcoming Ponca City Art Association Photography Competition and Show will be Ralph E. Venk.

Venk is a board member of the International Photography Hall of Fame and a past president of the Photographic Society of America.

He was won numerous awards in PSA events to include a three-star rating in black and white prints. To be awarded a three-star rating, one must have 160 prints accepted in shows. He also holds a two-star rating in color prints (80 accepted) and a two-star rating in color slides.

He has conducted over 40 programs on photography at local, state, national and international conventions. His experience with alternate photography mediums includes the use of platinum, bromoil, gum arabic, salted paper and albumen. He is currently conducting experiments in lith printing, a process developed in England.

Born in South Chicago, Ill., he grew up in Dearborn, Mich., and attended the University of Michigan and the U of M School of Dentistry. He practiced dentistry in northwest Oklahoma City from 1951 to 1985, when he retired and moved to Norman.

His interest in photography began about age 12. When he was in high school, he was the photographer for the school paper and annual. He photographed football for Michigan for two years. In 1959, he joined the Oklahoma Camera Club and the PSA.

Venk served as club president and later as president of the Photography Society of America in 1987-91. During his tenure, the PSA moved its national headquarters from Philadelphia to Oklahoma City.

The 17th annual Ponca City Art Association Photography Competition and Show will be held April 9 through 23 at the Art Center, 819 East Central. The deadline for entry is April 5. A reception will be held from 1:30 to 5 p.m. April 9.

For additional information, call the Art Center, 765-9746. The Ponca City Art Center is open from 1 to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.



DEATHS



Vernon Gist
C.B. Thompson
Lillie M. Dye
Elizabeth Faye Beman
Erna Morgan
Charles C. Yeakley Jr.
Byron Lynn Metzger



Vernon Gist

LOS LUNAS, N.M. — Vernon Gist, former resident of Ponca City, died Wednesday, March 15, 2000. He was 90.

The funeral will be held 1:30 p.m. Saturday, March 18, in Los Lunas, N.M. Burial will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 21, in the Resthaven-Sunset Memorial Park in Ponca City under the direction of Riverside Funeral Care Center of Los Lunas.

Vernon Gist was born March 12, 1910, in Arkansas, the son of Sam and Laura Gist. He was a retired boilermaker and a member of the Boilermakers Union.

Survivors include two sisters, Nellie M. Skinner of Los Lunas, N.M., and Velma Nan Yarbrough of Orange, Calif; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and wife, Ruby, in 1993.



Obituaries



C.B. Thompson

C. B. “Tommy” Thompson, longtime Ponca City resident, died Thursday morning, March 16, 2000, at his home. He was 79.

The family has requested a private family service only. Arrangements are under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.

Tommy was born May 20, 1920, in Sipe Springs, Texas, the son of B.J. Thompson and Addie (Gravis) Thompson. He spent his early years in Texas where he received his education. In 1939 he joined the United States Navy. He was sent to Norfolk, Va., for basic training, where he was trained as an electrician. Tommy served aboard the U.S.S. Tuskaloosa in the Pacific and European Theaters. After his honorable discharge, he was employed by Western Electric in Houston, Texas, until 1948, when he was transferred to Continental Pipeline Company in Ponca City, where he worked as a maintenance supervisor of communications.

Tommy was united in marriage to Neva Gauger in Oklahoma City, on May 7, 1949. The couple made their home in Ponca City, where they lived until the time of his death.

Tommy is survived by his wife, Neva Thompson of the home; two daughters, Glenda Brewer and her husband Kim of Lake City, Colo., and Wanda Thompson of Crescent; one son, Roger Dean Thompson; one grandson Geremy Lee Skinner of Oklahoma City; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and four sisters, Winona Babin, Wanita Jackson, Betty Jo Thompson and Wanda Thompson.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to the American Heart Association, Box 348, Ponca City, Okla. 74602, or to the American Diabetes Association, Pioneer Bank and Trust, P.O. Box 111, Ponca City, Okla. 74602.

paid obituary



Lillie M. Dye

ARKANSAS CITY, Kan. — Lillie M. Dye, 93, of Arkansas City, died Wednesday, March 15, 2000, at the South Central Kansas Regional Medical Center in Arkansas City.

Funeral services are scheduled for 10:30 a.m., Monday, March 20, 2000, at the Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home in Arkansas City. Mr. Harold A. “Hap” Prough will officiate. Burial will follow in the Riverview Cemetery.

Miss Lillie was born Oct. 11, 1906, to Joseph C. and Pearl Mae (Wright) Brooks in rural Arkansas City. On April 9, 1930, she married Richard B. Dye in Newkirk. He preceded her in death on April 9, 1971. As a small child she rode along in the wagon with her father, who was a teamster, as he hauled brick used for Summit Street and the materials used for the Newman Building and various other buildings in Arkansas City. Miss Lillie attended Arkansas City schools. As a young lady, she worked in the candy factory that was located on West Madison Avenue. She also worked as a cashier in various grocery stores and as a waitress.

In 1976 she moved to Ponca City to make her home with her daughter and son-in-law, Norma and Sammie Brown. Shortly after moving to Ponca City, she began work at El Palacio Mexican Restaurant and later at The Kettle. Mrs. Lillie’s last occupation was a door greater at Kmart in Ponca City. She worked until she was 87 years of age and had a love for her work and the people. In October 1994, she moved to the Presbyterian Manor in Arkansas City due to failing health.

She was a member of the Eastern Heights Christian Church in Ponca City, White Shrine, Eastern Star, Moose Lodge, and the VFW Ladies Auxiliary 1227 in Ponca City. Miss Lillie received her 50-year life membership certificate and pin from the White Shrine in March 1998.

She is survived by her daughter, Norma Brown of Ponca City; grandchildren, Robyn Fezer of Ponca City, Rex and Susie Brown of Guthrie, Lynn and Mike Calder of Macungie, Pa., John and Linda Dye of West Union, S.C., Bruce and Dianna Dye of Salem, Ore., Donna and Tim Ellenberger of Belfair, Wash., Cathy and Glenn Baughman of Parkland, Wash.; 10 great-grandchildren; five step-great-grandchildren, six great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Miss Lillie was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Richard; son, Donald Dye; son-in-law, Sammie Brown; sister, Lela Christenson; brothers, Lawrence Brooks and LeRoy Brooks; and great-grandson, Jason.

Even with health problems, she maintained her sense of humor. Many nurses shared humorous stories with the family. She will be missed by all.

In lieu of flowers the family asks memorials be made to the Benevolent Fund of the Eastern Heights Christian Church of Ponca City. Contributions may be made through Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 756, Arkansas City, Kan. 67005

paid obituary



Elizabeth Faye Beman

Elizabeth Faye Beman, lifelong resident of Ponca City, died Thursday morning, March 16, 2000, at Hillcrest Hospital in Tulsa. She was 75.

The funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 18, 2000, at the First Christian Church with the Rev. Kent Dorsey presiding, assisted by the Rev. Charles Heyer. Burial will be at the IOOF Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.

Elizabeth Faye Pierce was born Oct. 3, 1924, in Ponca City, the daughter of William Dale Pierce and Gladys Faye (Probasco) Pierce. She graduated from Ponca City High School in 1942. She was married to Earl Oscar Beman on May 30, 1942, at Ponca City. She was employed with the Southwestern Bell Telephone Company for over 35 years, serving as the chief operators clerk for many of those years.

She was a member of the First Christian Church, the CWF Group, the Renaissance Ringers of the First Christian Church, the 12 Bells Club which was a club of the 12 original Ponca City Bell telephone operators, the Pioneer telephone retirement group and was on the 1942 class reunion committee.

She is survived by one son, Dwight Earl Beman and wife Mimi of Nantucket, Mass.; one daughter, Claire Elaine Russell and husband Ronnie of Ponca City; five grandchildren, Todd Ray Russell of Ponca City, Kari Dawn Russell of Tulsa, and Elizabeth Beman, Mary Allen Beman and Anne Wetmore Beman, all of Nantucket, Mass. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Earl Oscar Beman in December of 1967; one son, Rodney Paul Beman in July 1968; two sisters, Patricia Pierce and Mary Helen Lake.

Casket bearers will be Todd Russell, Mark Russell, Skip Russell, Wes Schneider, Matt Fry and Jarrod Fry. Honorary casket bearers will be S.W. (Pug) Thorpe, Wallace Officer, Clyde Lake, and U and I Sunday School Class.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First Christian Church, Music Ministry, 210 North Fifth, Ponca City, Okla. 74601.

paid obituary



Services Pending



Erna Morgan

Erna Morgan, resident of Ponca City, died Thursday afternoon, March 16, 2000, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 69. Survivors include a sister, Rosie Dixon of Ponca City. Arrangements are pending with Grace Memorial Chapel.



Charles C. Yeakley Jr.

Charles C. Yeakley Jr., Ponca City resident, died Friday morning, March 17, 2000, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 78. Local survivors include his wife, Margaret Yeakley. Arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home.



Byron Lynn Metzger

Byron Lynn Metzger died March 11, 2000, in San Diego, Calif. He was 46. Local arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home.



NEWS BRIEFS



Time for Spring Fling — The annual Spring Fling Craft Show, sponsored by Church Women United, is scheduled for Saturday, March 25, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., in Unity Gym. The annual event is for the benefit of Child Development Center, a United Way Agency. Admission is free.



Pauline’s Shrimp peel. All you can eat $11.95 Friday 17th. For reservations call 765-5460. adv.



Vandalism — An official at the Ponca City Post Office, 402 East Grand Avenue, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:36 a.m. Thursday that restroom walls at the post office had been vandalized. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.



Love the lodge look? Check us out for new lodge and hunting decor. Mrs. Brown’s Attic, Ponca Plaza. adv.



Assault — A woman from the 400 block of South Ash Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 10 a.m. Thursday that she had been assaulted Wednesday night. An officer was assigned and information was logged that the incident occurred in Kay County and Kay County Sheriff’s Department was notified.



Just Arrived year 2000 Frankoma Political mugs. Brown’s Antiques 1204 N. 3rd. adv.



Receiving Threats — A man from the 200 block of South Sunset Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 1:53 p.m. Thursday that subjects had been making threats over the telephone. An officer was assigned and information was logged.



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 — Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 400 block of South Elm Street at 3:14 p.m. Thursday that an 18-year-old man was being held on a warrant.



Five-Vehicle Crash — Several motorists reported a five-vehicle accident in the 1000 block of North Fourteenth Street at 3:18 p.m. Thursday. Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department responded, as did units from the Ponca City Fire Department. Two subjects were taken to the emergency room of St. Joseph Regional Medical Center for treatment. A report was taken.



Pokemon Cards in stock! The Hot Corner, Ponca Plaza Shopping Center. 765-5333. adv.



Hit and Run Accident — A man from West Middle School reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:19 p.m. Thursday that another vehicle had hit his vehicle and left the scene. 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.



Gas Drive-Off — A clerk at Citgo, 400 East South Avenue, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:45 p.m. Thursday that someone had left without paying for $29.87 worth of gas. An officer took a report.



Marjolein Bastin spring and summer 2000, now at Carla’s Hallmark, Downtown. adv.



Jim Bowen Construction­ Custom homes, room additions and

remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv.



25 Cents a gallon drinking water. Pure Water Wagon 1717 N. 5th. adv.



Quality Replacement windows and patio doors. We sell and install. Ponca Glass, 300 WestHighland and Pine, 762-6522. adv.



Requests Assistance — The Pawnee Oklahoma Highway Patrol office requested assistance in locating a vehicle with front end damage involved in a hit and run east of Ponca City on U.S. 60.



Cute Hand painted furniture now arriving at Carla’s Hallmark,

405 E. Grand, Downtown adv.



Subjects Held — An employee at Wal-Mart, 1101 East Prospect Avenue requested assistance from the Ponca City Police Department with shoplifters near the west door of the business at 4:25 p.m. Thursday. Two officers were assigned and a 30-year-old woman was held for grand larceny and a 31-year-old woman was held for grand larceny.



Stormescape Shelters, perfect for garage, under vehicle, installation. $1,695. 765-2633. adv.



R & G Style Shop-Newkirk. Shop Saint Patrick’s Day weekend and save 17% off selected new spring items. Thursday, Friday and Saturday. adv.



Accident — The Communications Center received a report at 4:47 p.m. Thursday that a three-vehicle accident had occurred in the 2400 block of North Fourteenth Street. An officer of the Ponca City Police Department was assigned and a report was taken.



Accident — A two-vehicle accident in the parking lot of a business in the 3000 block of North Fourteenth Street was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 5:31 p.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.



Kids Review now accepting spring/summer childrens consignments. adv.



Item Missing — A woman from the 800 block of North Oak Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:58 p.m. Thursday that two men had taken an antique claw bath tub from the front yard of 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.



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.



To My sweetheart of 50 years. We’ve come a long way, baby. Happy Anniversary — Walt. adv.



Use News Briefs — Need help in announcing something. Call 765-3311 and check about News Briefs.



LIFESTYLES



Administrative Professionals Plan Seminar
Huddlestons Mark 50 Years
Traditional Irish Potato Dish A Favorite All Over World
Little News



Administrative Professionals Plan Seminar

The Underground Professionals Chapter of the International Association of Administrative Professionals will host the 42nd Arkansas-Oklahoma Division annual meeting in Stillwater April 28-29.

The theme of the annual meeting is Surfing Into The New Millennium, together with the 1999-2000 A/O theme of Past Realities, 2000 Opportunities.

The speaker for the Friday seminar is Jan Hargrave, lecturer and author of Let Me See Your Body Talk, Freeway of Love, and Judge the Jury. She will show how to take advantage of the vast world of nonverbal communication, reading body language. She has been a guest on several television talk shows as well as The Learning Channel.

The seminar will be open to the public. If you are interested in attending, contact Kim Korn, 580-336-4426 x1+6685.



Huddlestons Mark 50 Years

Celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary today are Mr. and Mrs. Walt Huddleston, 3210 Kingston. Huddleston and the former Evelyn Cundell were married March 17, 1950, in Arkansas,

Mr. Huddleston is retired from sooner construction, and Mrs. Huddleston is employed with the Ponca City School system food service.

Mr. and Mrs. Huddleston have four children and eight grandchildren. Family members are D.J. Huddleston, and wife, Karen; Trina Stover, and husband, Brad; Tracy LaRue, and husband, Brent; and Dirk Huddleston. Grandchildren are Ty LaRue, Travis LaRue, Kory LaRue, Darci LaRue, Erika Stover, Cameron Stover, Zoë Huddleston, Willa Huddleston.



Traditional Irish Potato Dish A Favorite All Over World

(AP) — Champ is a traditional Irish potato dish that seems to melt in your mouth. And for good reason. Boiled potatoes are mashed with tender scallions and served with melted butter. Colcannon, sometimes called Bubble and Squeak, is similar except that cabbage is added.

To serve champ, according to The Cassell Food Dictionary, a well is made in each portion and filled with melted butter. Rosemary Moon, author of a March release Onions, Onions, Onions (Firefly Books Ltd. ), suggests serving champ family-style with a lake of melted butter in the serving bowl.

Chives, chopped leeks or parsley can be substituted for the spring onions. Either way, champ is too tempting to pass up. In introducing the recipe in her book, Moon writes: ‘‘I could eat it just as it is, although it is more usual to serve it as an accompaniment.’’

Champ

1 3/4 pounds potatoes

1 bunch scallions, about 8 to 10, trimmed and sliced fine

2/3 cup whole milk

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

8 tablespoons (1 stick)

butter

Peel the potatoes and cut them into small pieces. Bring to a boil in a pot of salted water, then cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, until tender.

Meanwhile, simmer the scallions gently in the milk for 2 to 3 minutes.

Drain the potatoes, then return them to the pot and place them over low heat for a minute or so, to allow any excess water to evaporate.

Add the milk and onions and pound or beat the potatoes to a soft, fluffy mash. Add plenty of salt and pepper as you go. Mound the champ in a large bowl. Make a little hollow for the butter and allow it to melt into the potatoes before serving.Makes 4 servings.

Irish flutist James Galway presents his favorite recipe for Colcannon in Bravo! Recipes, Legends and Lore (Favorite Recipes Press). The cookbook is a recent publication to benefit the University Musical Society in Ann Arbor, Mich. Its 250 recipes include many from world-class musicians who have performed with the UMS.

James Galway’s Colcannon

2 pounds white potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces

2 bunches scallions, white parts only

1 small green cabbage, cored and cut into 1-inch chunks

1/2 cup heated milk or half-and-half

1/4 to 1/2 cup ( 1/2 to 1 stick)

butter, softened

Salt and pepper to taste

In a sauce pan, combine the potatoes with cold water to cover. Top with the scallions and cabbage. Simmer, covered, until potatoes are tender; drain well.

Return the potato mixture to the sauce pan. Cook over low heat, mashing with a potato masher until coarse. Add the milk and butter and mix well. Season with salt and pepper. Serves 6 to 8.



Little News

Max Joseph Wohlgenant is the name selected by Dan and Michelle Wohlgenant of Ponca City for their son born at 12:33 p.m. March 14, 2000, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. Max weighed 7 pounds, 11 ounces, and was 20 1/2 inches long.

Maternal grandparents are Howard and Janice Weber of Portland, Ore., and paternal grandparents are Duncan and Deborah Wohlgenant of Cody, Wyo. Great-grandparents are Inez Gambaro of Portland, Ore., Betty Arneson of Billings, Mont., Lillian and Joe Wohlgenant of Miles City, Mont.



Richard and Calvia Chaloupek of Ponca City announce the birth of their third child, a daughter, at 11:41 a.m., March 7, 2000, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. Mikayla Jane Chaloupek weighed 8 pounds, 7 ounces, and measured 21 1/2 inches long. She has two sisters, Katie, 5, and Natasha, 20 months.

Maternal grandparents are Bob and Rosalee Henderson of Ponca City. Paternal grandparents are Richard Phipps and Bill and Linda Motley, all of Ponca City.



RELIGION



First Church of God Welcomes New Pastor
Shabbat Across America Canada
Gospel Composer Darrell Archer Leading Morning Service at 1st Nazarene Church
Church Briefs
Pastor’s Notes



First Church of God Welcomes New Pastor

First Church of God of Ponca City is moving right along, it was reported, following the arrival of their new pastor and his wife, Chuck and Judy Scroggs. The Scroggs began their service with the church here on Wednesday, March 1.

This Sunday, March 19, at 3 p.m. the congregation of First Church of God will join together in a song and praise service to install their new pastor. They extend an invitation to the community to join with them and share in this time of new beginnings.

Pastor Scroggs’ first privilege after arriving in Ponca City was accepting an appreciation plaque last Sunday, March 12, for the congregation, noting their contribution of a quarter of a million dollars over the years to mission work. Jerry Brandon of Anderson, Ind., a representative from the Church of God headquarters, made the presentation. He was accompanied by his wife, Norma.



Shabbat Across America Canada

On Friday night, March 31st, members of Ponca City’s Jewish community will gather at Temple Emanuel in an unparalleled display of Jewish revitalization and interdenominational unity. Conceived and organized by the National Jewish Outreach Program (NJOP), “Shabbat Across America/Canada” represents a united effort by Judaism’s four major movements to renew interest in the fourth of the Ten Commandments — observing a weekly day of rest (Shabbat in Hebrew).

Temple Emanuel will be one of approximately 750 synagogues across the continent that will simultaneously open its doors to practicing and non-practicing Jews alike, so they may join together to experience and rejoice in a traditional Shabbat service and festive meal. Led by Dr. Perry Gethner, attendees will experience an interactive Friday night beginners service and a traditional Shabbat dinner with all the rituals explained. The event will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. There will be a nominal fee for the Shabbat dinner and for reservations you must call Cindy Wigley at 580-765-2252 or Bobbie Smith at 580-765-8990 by March 24.

“We just can not accept the common perception that North American Jewry is an endangered species,” commented Rabbi Ephraim Buchwald, founder and director of NJOP. “While it is true that the vast majority of Jews in this country have never experienced a traditional Sabbath experience and do not feel a connection to the Judaism that their grandparents practiced only half a century ago — this should not be! Shabbat Across America/Canada is an exciting and modern way of reintroducing friends and family members to a practice that has been with, and unified, our people for over 5,000 years, and which we hope will be with us for at least 5,000 more.”

Prompted by the growing rate of Jewish assimilation in North America, NJOP is hoping that a memorable and rewarding experience at Shabbat Across America/Canada will infuse thousands of non-practicing Jews with a sense of a greater commitment to Judaism. Of the 5.6 million North American Jews, 2 million no longer identify themselves as Jews, 2 million are unaffiliated with any Jewish organizations, and 1.2 million are marginally affiliated, meaning they rarely attend synagogue and have little to do with anything in Jewish life. In addition, 52 percent of all American Jews intermarry and 54 percent of Jews below age 18 are being raised as non-Jews or with no religion. Perhaps, the most poignant fact is that more than 2/3 of all North American Jews do not observe the Sabbath in any way. (1990 National Jewish Population Survey, council of Jewish Federations).

Designed to teach a generation of unaffiliated Jews about the beauty and significance of the Jewish Sabbath, Shabbat Across America/Canada is the first nationally orchestrated program which appeals to members of all major Jewish denominations. It is also the first and only program aimed at uniting Jews across the United states and Canada through one single event. Shabbat Across America/Canada will take place in every city where there is a Jewish presence — from major Jewish geographical centers, such as New York, Los Angeles, and Toronto, to cities with smaller Jewish populations such as Kenosha, WI; Anchorage, AK and Mobile, AL.

The National Jewish Outreach Program was established in 1987 by Rabbi Ephraim Buchwald, and has become one of the world’s largest and most successful Jewish outreach organizations. NJOP offers free programs at more than 2,800 locations across North America and in 27 countries worldwide. Through programs such as Shabbat Across America and Read Hebrew America/Read Hebrew Canada, NJOP has successfully reached more than 425,000 North American Jewish, and engaged them in Jewish life.

Located at 1201 East Highland, Temple Emanuel has less than 25 members from Ponca City’s Jewish community. Since 1964, Temple Emanuel has been an innovator in Jewish programming and education. This is their first year participating in the Shabbat Across America/Canada program.



Gospel Composer Darrell Archer Leading Morning Service at 1st Nazarene Church

Darrell Archer will be presenting the entire morning service, leading the congregation in worship at First Church of the Nazarene, 1900 West Grand Avenue at 10:45 a.m. on Sunday, March 19.

Writing lyrics and music is almost as natural as breathing for Darrell. He has written over 900 songs and arrangements in recent years and appears regularly as a religious concert artist, Associate Pastor Cindy Poling, told the News.

Many of his songs have been recorded and over 100 pieces have been published by 15 leading publishers of gospel and sacred material.

His song writing began as a youngster when he won various talent contests for singing some of his original compositions. He started playing and singing at an early age at various community gatherings and churches of rural Oklahoma where he grew up.

While attending college he was a member of the college choir in which he was a featured soloist, a part of a men’s ensemble (again a featured soloist), and a college entertainer. Outstanding music student, music club president, vice president of the honor society, a top ten academic student, and being chosen by the faculty as outstanding student in activities are only a few of the awards received during his college years.

Darrell satisfied his military obligation with 51 months of service in the U.S. Air Force during which time he won several of their talent contests.

He is a composer, lyricist, orchestrator, recording artist, pianist, arranger, publisher, record producer, guitarist, concert artist, choral director, accompanist, speaker and most importantly, one committed to the service of the Lord.

He has traveled hundreds of thousands of miles and has presented his Christ-centered message in music in almost every situation imaginable. From small native villages with no lights to city-wide concerts in large auditoriums, he is known for his entertaining presentation of gospel music ranging from contemporary tunes to familiar standards.

He is always willing to sing for any worthwhile event where Christ can be presented through gospel music. Whether it is through personal contact in live performances, television, radio, or recordings, he wins new friends and supporters everywhere he goes.

His proficiency at his chosen field of endeavor is substantiated by the many lucrative offers he has received to entertain in the secular area. “I prefer to use whatever measure of talent I have to bring honor and glory to God,” Darrell explains.

His program appeals to the youngest as well as the oldest. He communicates with all age groups providing a variety of music that everyone will enjoy. Visitors are invited to join the congregation at First Church of the Nazarene for this Sunday morning service.



Church Briefs

Special Program for Women on KLVV Radio

KLVV Christian radio will air a three-part special edition of Focus on the Family beginning Monday entitled “What Our Mothers Didn’t Tell Us.” Dr. James Dobson and guests discuss how the roles of women are becoming more traditional and they discuss the important things women desire today.

In the program, women give a cautious look at feminism and discuss the joys of being a woman. The 30-minute three-part program will air three times Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday at 6 a.m., 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and listeners will find the answer to the age-old question “What do women really want?” 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.

‘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 at 6 p.m. and Wednesday at 7 p.m. There are classes for all age levels — nursery through adult. Watch the Search program Sunday at 8 a.m. TV Channel 5 or 8.

City-wide Bible Class — Hartford Avenue Church of Christ, Sunday evening at 6 p.m., an in-depth study of Romans. This week’s topic, “With or Without the Law.” Romans 2:12-16 These are some of the most misunderstood verses in Romans. That there is no favoritism with God must have been an uncomfortable idea for people who thought of themselves as God’s chosen people. On the other hand, other people could not accuse God of unfairness simply because He did not give them a law as he had given to the Jews. As Paul shows in these verses, it is not the law that saves or condemns, but what we do. When life gets weary, Lord, remind us to count our many blessings you give us every day. Thank You for helping to ease our fears and heartaches. In Jesus name. Amen.

Gayle Young to Share Israel Tour Trip with First UMC

Gayle Young, Minister of Childhood Education at First Baptist Church, will be the guest speaker at the March 23, United Methodist Women meeting at First United Methodist Church, it was announced this week.

This is the regular March meeting at 1 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. You do not need to be member to enjoy this program. All are invited - come and bring a friend.

Foursquare Gospel Offering ‘Freedom from Smoking’ Program

Foursquare Gospel Church is offering the American Lung Association’s “Freedom From Smoking” Program. Orientation is scheduled for Tuesday, March 25 at 8 p.m. at 700 West Broadway, and is free. The seven-session course is $20. Call the parish nurse, Cindy Hendrickson, at 762-6327 with any questions.

Danny Ringer to Be Pastor at Newkirk First Baptist

Danny Ringer, Student Minister at First Baptist Church, Ponca City, has resigned as of April 9, looking forward to the pastorate at First Baptist Church in Newkirk.

Danny has worked with the young people at Ponca City’s First Baptist for the past three years.

First Baptist Pastor Hance Dilbeck said Danny has served the First Baptist Church here well, and will be a great pastor for the church in Newkirk.

Prince of Peace Lutherans Focusing on Faith, Obedience

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, ELCA, will gather together on this next Sunday, the Second Sunday in Lent, focusing on faith and obedience. “We, as Christians, are called to live a distinctive style of life shaped by faith in God’s mercy and love. As followers of Christ, we take up our cross and stand with all those who suffer in our midst,” the Rev. Bruce W. Keck, pastor, pointed out. “Our Lenten journey always takes us to the cross, the heart of God’s love for the world.”

Pastor Keck said “We will also share this Sunday in the Lord’s Supper, as Christ gives us his presence to keep us strong in our walk of faith.”

Please join us for study, worship and fellowship. Sunday School is at 9 a.m., Worship at 10 a.m. and Fellowship follows the worship.

Prince of Peace Lutheran will also gather together on Wednesday evenings for the Mid-week Lenten Worship Services. These services begin at 7 p.m. and are preceded by a Soup Supper at 6 p.m. The theme for this year’s Mid-week Worship services is, “The Carpenter’s Cloth.”

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church is located at 2800 Turner Road. The phone number is 762-7698.



Pastor’s Notes

The first hint I had that it would snow, came last Wednesday night at choir practice. Donna Butler was informing us of the anthem we would be singing and then added,” ... unless it snows on sunday.” How could we think of snow when Spring was in the air and the flowers, trees and bushes were in bloom? Donna reminded us that Oklahoma weather is unpredictable, and that a Mach snow is not unusual.

I watched the weather the next couple of days to see if snow was a real possibility. the weatherman told me on Friday morning that we might receive a dusting of snow, but there would be no significant accumulations. I had to drive to Shawnee on Friday afternoon and return to ponca City for a wedding rehearsal at 6 p.m. As I drove into town, a light rain was falling. I called home from the car, and Karrie told me that it was snowing.

:It can’t be snowing,” I said.”I’m less than a mile from home, and it is raining in this part of town.” she assured me that she knew what snow looked lie and that it was snowing at 170 christmas Tree Lane. when I pulled into the driveway, I had to admit that she was correct. It was raining in one section of ponca City and snowing in the other.

It was snowing lightly as I arrived at the church for the wedding rehearsal. when i left the church after the rehearsal, I discovered that my car was covered with snow! The snow we had scoffed on wednesday had arrived. The snow didn’t care that it made a liar of the weatherman, it kept coming until there was a significant accumulation!

We need surprise snowfalls to remind us that we cannot predict and manage everything in life. we need surprise snowfalls to remind us that we do not control everything and that we have to be ready for surprises. In spite of all our technological advances, we are not equal with God and cannot control God’s world. Let us learn to embrace and celebrate the surprises that come our way! We can do that if we depend on God to help us face the unexpected challenges of each new day.

The Rev. Dr. J.D. Ward,

Senior Minister

First United Methodist Church



EDUCATION



Pioneer Tech Students Learn Skills
Developing Partnerships Is Critical
PTSA Members Discuss Test Anxiety at Meeting



Pioneer Tech Students Learn Skills

Through a joint effort between The Charles Machine Works, Inc., (Ditch Witch, Perry) and Pioneer Technology Center, four Machine Tool Technology students are learning just what it takes to be a machinist!

A new job shadowing partnership is giving a group of students the opportunity to spend two hours every Friday with employees from Ditch Witch. The Ditch Witch employees serve as mentors and work with the students in specific areas of machining.

Before students observe or participate in any of the work that is being performed, they are required to attend training sessions on safety and orientation to the company. After the safety sessions, students begin their practical training by doing whatever their mentor does.

“The result of this partnership is not only preparing our students for the workplace, but it is also giving them invaluable hands-on experience,” said Steve Ketchum, Machine Tool Instructor. “They get to take the skills they are learning in the classroom and practice them in actual workplace setting.”

Matt DeWitt, and Jared McMartin, both from Blackwell, were the first two students chosen for the job shadowing experience. Both DeWitt and McMartin have been shadowing at Ditch Witch for eight weeks and stated that they have definitely learned a lot and gained a better understanding of their skills and the total operation of a business.

According to Ketchum, the partnership between Ditch Witch and Pioneer Technology Center is a result of the efforts of School-to-Work Coordinator, Linda Thompson who worked closely with Ditch Witch officials in putting the agreement into place.

“This partnership was established so that all parties involved would benefit,” said Thompson. “All of us that were involved in the agreement were actively seeking to provide the students with an educational preparedness for furthering their education as well as a lifelong career.”

Both DeWitt and McMartin were selected by their instructor for the job shadowing experience after they completed one semester of classroom instruction in the Machine Tool curriculum. Ditch Witch officials also went through a brief interview with the students before they began job shadowing.

According to Ketchum, the purpose of job shadowing experience is not for employment or productivity purposes, but it can help serve as a recruitment tool for business and industry. “I would really like to become more involved in partnering with more businesses,” said Ketchum. “This whole process is just a win-win situation. Students are learning just what business and industry is needing in the way of education and skills training and they are also learning what it takes to be a better employee for a business.”

Pioneer Technology Center's Machine Tool program offers training in the basic foundation including basic math, blueprints, precision measuring tools, sawing operations, and safety procedures. Concentration is also given to the actual machining operation including lathe and milling operations. Students in this portion of the program learn how to make something simple to complex like nuts and bolts to hydraulic jacks.

Machine Tool also offers an advanced program in Computerized Numerical Control (CNC) that focuses more on learning the computer side of the business. Students in the CNC program learn basic computer programming skills, inspection and gauging tools, CNC controls, and the CNC operation of lathe and machining centers.

Two more students Elwood Osburn, and Bo Pannell, will begin their job shadowing experience at Ditch Witch in the next two weeks. Both will also spend two hours every Friday with an assigned mentor.

For more information on the Machine Tool program or job shadowing opportunities, call 762-8336.



Developing Partnerships Is Critical

Involving community partners and businesses is critically related to the success of a technical school.

If one does not have the proper interaction with these entities, the technical school will not be able to meet its mission of training competent, skilled employees, which in turn, will provide for strong economic development.

The crux of these partnerships depends on effective communication. Therefore, PTC discussed strategies to improve our relationship with businesses and implemented the following.

First of all, we redirected our Advisory Committee. Every technical program area has a committee comprised of area business people who met at least yearly. These meetings provide a forum for our business partners to discuss areas of concern and ways to make PTC’s training programs more effective and in line with industry needs. The PTC staff has an opportunity to hear what training problems the businesses are experiencing and then help with a solution to the problem.

PTC has also initiated occupational focus groups as another way to establish open lines of communication with our industry partners.

In these focus groups, an occupation is identified and then employer/employees related to that occupation are extended an invitation to meet at PTC to discuss needs in the specific occupational area. This year we have conducted focus groups for diesel mechanics, automotive technology, the Farm Business Management program, respiratory care, and general health needs. It is from these focus groups that we determine future direction of our training programs.

Another partner that we have worked extensively with is higher ed: We have a person on staff that works with higher ed in developing processes for articulation. The result of this has been very beneficial as we now have a college accepting most of our courses for credit towards an associate degree.

Another partnering initiative in working with higher ed was the implementation of a unique type of articulation referred to as a “one-plus-one.” In this, students take specified academic classes at NOC for one year and then they attend PTC the second year for skills training. Our new respiratory care program is based on this model.

Last, but certainly not lease, our sending schools partners. By working closely with Ponca City, Newkirk, Blackwell, Tonkawa, Braman, Shidler, Medford and Deer Creek/Lamont High Schools, we have been successful in serving many students. Students from these school districts have benefited from state of the art technical training. Other students have benefited from alternative education and GED offerings and still more have benefited from VSO (Vocational Student Organization) leadership experiences.

Community, business and educational partners have played a huge at in the success that Pioneer Technology Center has achieved. Without the willingness of these entities to share their expertise and time, PTC would be out of touch with the needs of students and clients served.



PTSA Members Discuss Test Anxiety at Meeting

Techniques for handling test anxiety were shared with members of the Po-Hi PTSA (Parent Teacher Student Association) at a recent meeting by LaDonna McCune, counselor at Northern Oklahoma College.

“Anxiety can be a helpful allie or a paralyzing fear,” she said. “The goal is to keep text anxiety in its place.”

If a person is really relaxed the answers will come more easily, she said. Some relaxation tips she offered were to act confident, walk in with your head high and shoulders back, and positively visualize yourself doing well on the test

“No single test determines how youre going to do the rest of your life,” LaDonna said. In talking about the standardized college admission tests, the ACT and SAT, she suggested taking it your sophomore year for practice and taking it at least three times by your senior year. She recommended the ACT prep courses to help you review test taking strategies.

She distributed a handout titled “How to Handle Test Anxiety.” It includes the following tips: be prepared, practice taking a sample test, dont cram, stay calm, get to class early, listen carefully to instructions, jot down notes, budget your time.

To be prepared she recommended a good nights sleep the night before a test, maintain your usual lifestyle including meals, and go to the exam feeling good about yourself.

When it comes to taking the test she suggested taking deep breaths and dont let your classmates confuse you. On an objective test scan the questions before answering and answer first those you know the answers to, make educated guesses on those you are less sure about, and review a third time for clerical errors.

LaDonne McCune teaches freshman orientation and sociology along with her counseling duties at NOC. She completed her bachelors and masters degrees at Central State University in Edmond (now UCO) and is currently pursuing a doctorate in education at Oklahoma State University.

The final two Po-Hi PTSA meetings of the year are scheduled for March 30 and May 4. Co-presidents are Bob and Sandra Caine.



SPORTS



Sooners Go Outside to Win
Mavericks Fall To Shelby St In Quarterfinals
OSU Mat Lead No Surprise to Smith



Sooners Go Outside to Win

TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — Oklahoma’s outside shooting made Eduardo Najera’s inside struggles a nonfactor in the first round of the NCAA tournament.

Najera scored just 10 points and was bothered by foul trouble, but the third-seeded Sooners went 10-of-21 from 3-point range Thursday and beat Winthrop 74-50 at the West Regional.

‘‘We’ve got a complete team,’’ reserve guard Tim Heskett said. ‘‘We’ve got an All-American in Eduardo and people sit on him, but we’ve got so many weapons besides him. People overlook us a lot.’’

Oklahoma will face sixth-seeded Purdue in the second round Saturday. Purdue beat Dayton 62-61.

First-year guards J.R. Raymond and Hollis Price carried the offense in the first half, as the Sooners built a 39-23 lead at the break. Raymond scored 11 of 14 of his points in the first 20 minutes and finished 4-for-7 from 3-point range. Price added 10, also all in the first half.

In the second half, Heskett was 4-for-4 from 3-point range to finish with 12 points. Nolan Johnson also had 12 for the Sooners (27-6).

‘‘I thought our guards would match up a little better,’’ Winthrop coach Gregg Marshall said. ‘‘We normally had a hand in their face, but they knocked down shots.’’

Winthrop, seeded 14th, shot just 26 percent (15-for-56), 2-for-20 on 3-pointers. The Eagles had held opponents to just 39 percent shooting this season, but the Sooners shot 51 percent.

Greg Lewis scored 21 for the Eagles (21-9), making their second consecutive tournament appearance, and second straight first-round exit.

‘‘Our team defense was great,’’ Oklahoma coach Kelvin Sampson said. ‘‘We defended the 3-point line well and made Lewis go left. Our help defense was good and our half-court defense was tremendous.’’

Winthrop point guard Tyson Waterman, the Big South player of the year the past two seasons, made just one of 10 shots and was 0-for-8 on 3-pointers against the tight defense of Price.

‘‘That’s a really good backcourt,’’ Waterman said. ‘‘I rarely got any open looks. I was usually forcing things.’’

Price sank an 18-footer and Raymond followed with a 3-pointer to ignite a 17-5 surge that put Oklahoma up 25-12 with 8:34 left in the first half. Price’s 3-pointer with 1:45 to play gave the Sooners their biggest lead of the half, 38-21.

Lewis’ offensive rebound and consecutive baskets by Eyo Effiong cut Oklahoma’s lead to 46-33 with 15:02 to play. But consecutive 3-pointers by Heskett capped a 13-5 run that put the Sooners up 59-38 with 10:41 remaining.



Mavericks Fall To Shelby St In Quarterfinals

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — When it came to playing offense, Shelby State seemed rather limited.

The Saluqis could beat Northern Oklahoma down court for a layup, or they could dribble out and fire up a 3-point attempt. Say, 13 of them.

Penetrating the lane? Forget it. Pounding the ball inside? Please. “Let’s face it,” Shelby State coach Verties Sails said. “They had some big bodies in there. We don’t have that many big bodies.”

But the Saluqis have versatile bodies, and they helped Shelby State adjust for a 79-74 NJCAA Tournament quarterfinal victory Thursday night at the Sports Arena. No. 6 Shelby State (30-4) will play No. 17 Calhoun State (31-4) in tonight’s semifinals.

Northern Oklahoma will attempt to avoid elimination this afternoon, going against Midland, Texas. Thecy will also try to avoid the fatal turnovers they suffered agaiunst Shelby State.

“We probably ran our offense as poorly as we’ve run it anytime, anywhere this year,” NOC coach Mick Weiberg said. “We just didn’t execute. That’s obvious when you look at turnovers. “Had we done that job, we’d have had many more attempts, and we’d have gotten the ball inside.”

Shelby State’s Jeremiah Brooks scored 23 points - nailing seven 3-pointers - and Carnevelious Stigger and John Grice added 19 and 16 points, respectively, for the Saluqis. With Northern Oklahoma’s Scott Prater, Richie Myers and Sherman Rochell plugging up the middle, Shelby State went to the outside, sinking 13 3-pointers - out of transition, off the dribble and behind screens.

“They’re going to wing and ding some of those threes,” Weiberg said, “and some of those are going to fall.”

Shelby State is a 39 percent shooting team from the arc this season. That’s exactly what the Saluqis shot Thursday. “We don’t really shoot a lot of threes,” Sails said, “but tonight wwe had to, because we couldn’t get anything going inside.”

That’s why Grice, a forward, found himself playing more on the perimeter. “They were playing me tough on the inside, so I tried to go outside and get my outside game going,” said Grice, who made three 3-pointers, two in the second half.

“He plays anywhere we need him,” Sails said. “That’s the beauty of our team. We’ve got several that can play in or out. We don’t have the strong low post guy, but we can put three or four guys in the low post, and the others can go out away from the basket.”

Brooks made a three-pointer that gave Shelby State the lead for good - 72-69 with 4:55 remaining. Northern Oklahoma (27-8) had led by as many as 10 in the first half, eight in the second. Larry Reid, who led theMavericks with 22 points, scored on a baseline drive with 1:05 left to cut Shelby State’s lead to 76-74. Grice made the first of two free throws to put the margin at three with 25 seconds left. Tyler Barnard drew air on a 28-foot jumper, and after a missed Shelby State free throw, Reid was off on a 3-pointer from the left wing with 14 seconds left. Marlon Walls then sank two free throw to ice the win.

Northern Oklahoma dominated inside. Prater had 18 points and 15 rebounds, Rochell scored 14 points with eight rebounds and Myers pulled down 10 boards, as the Mavericks held a 51-38 rebounding advantage. But even with 18 offensive rebounds, the Mavs couldn’t take full advantage. Trailing 76-72, they missed four cracks at pulling within two, watching two-footers roll out or bounce off the back of the rim.

“It was real frustrating,” Prater said. “We needed those. We just couldn’t put them back in. It would’ve really helped us.”

That, and taking care of the ball. Of Northern Oklahoma’s 21 turnovers, 15 came from their guards.



OSU Mat Lead No Surprise to Smith

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Losing five dual meets apparently made Oklahoma State stronger.

The Cowboys, who at times struggled in the regular season, held the lead after the first day of the NCAA wrestling championships. Oklahoma State, which last won the NCAA title in 1994, qualified all 10 wrestlers, and all remained alive entering the quarterfinals, including seven in the championship bracket.

‘‘I’m not saying I’m not surprised,’’ said coach John Smith, whose team had a 12-5 dual record and entered the tournament ranked fourth. ‘‘It was good to see your team do what you’re really looking for them to do.

‘‘We’ve wrestled our best the last couple weeks.’’

Oklahoma State is the only team other than Iowa to win the championship the past eight years. The Cowboys had 38 points Thursday and a 4 1/2-point lead over the top-rated Hawkeyes.

Smith was not overly excited, noting that five of his seven championship bracket winners would not be favored in today’s quarterfinals.

‘‘I don’t want to get ahead of us,’’ Smith said. ‘‘Tomorrow is a big day for us to make something happen. We’ll start hitting those people that are pretty tough.’’

Iowa had nine wrestlers remaining, six in the championship bracket. Iowa State was third with 30 points and eight wrestlers alive, six in the championship bracket.

Minnesota was fourth with 28 points, followed by Oklahoma with 25, and Illinois and Michigan State were tied for sixth with 22. The first two sessions drew a total attendance of 31,903.

Iowa State’s Cael Sanderson, who last year became the first freshman selected most outstanding wrestler, got off to another fast start. Sanderson, top-seeded for the second year, cruised in both of his opening matches at 184 pounds.

He led 19-6 before pinning Adam Schaaf of Millersville in the first round and beat Dax Pecaro of North Carolina-Greensboro 21-6, a technical fall, in the second round to improve his career record to 76-0.

‘‘I’m not worried about the streak at all,’’ Sanderson said. ‘‘I haven’t thought twice about it. I’m thinking about my next opponent, my next takedown. Everyone here is a good wrestler, so you can’t overlook anything.’’

Both of Sanderson’s older brothers also won their first two matches. Cody Sanderson, a senior and the No. 2 seed at 133 pounds, beat Brad Wright of Ohio University 15-4 in the second round, and Cole Sanderson, a junior and the No. 7 seed at 157 pounds, won two narrow decisions.

‘‘Cody and Cole, they kind of take a lot out of me,’’ Sanderson said. ‘‘I think I’m going to have to back off watching them so much.’’

Six wrestlers entered the tournament undefeated, and five made it to the quarterfinals. In addition to Sanderson, Eric Juergens (133) and defending champion T.J. Williams (157) of Iowa, Byron Tucker (174) of Oklahoma and Iowa State heavyweight Trent Hynek advanced.

Williams won two matches by a combined 29-9 and Juergens had two pins. Tucker won 14-3 and 21-9. Hynek won his first-round match by technical fall but struggled in the second round, beating Chris Miller of Brigham Young 3-2 in overtime.

Heavyweight Antonio Garay of Boston College, who had been 13-0 and the sixth seed, lost 10-6 in the first round to Russ Davie of Cleveland State.

Other top-seeded wrestlers generally had an easy go of it. Jody Strittmatter of Iowa beat Nathan Navarro of Oregon State 10-1 at 125 pounds and followed with a 7-2 decision over Jeremy Sluyter of East Stroudsburg. Defending champion Doug Schwab of Iowa (141) beat Grant Hoerr of Wisconsin 13-3 in the second round, Tony Davis (149) of Northern Iowa beat Brian Roskovich of Ohio State 12-2 and Mark Munoz (197) beat Dan Bednar of Ohio University 13-5.

‘‘Seeds really don’t matter here,’’ Strittmatter said. ‘‘You’ve got to perform. Everyone starts out 0-0.’’

Heavyweight Brock Lesnar struggled, but only in the first round, beating Bart Johnson of Boise State 4-2. In the second round, he pinned Shawn Laughlin of Lehigh in 2:18.


Copyright© Ponca City News, 1998