LOCAL

Boxing Program Seeks Ponca City Relocation
Nearly News
County Retired Teachers To Rally At State Capitol

Boxing Program Seeks Ponca City Relocation

By JEFF POLITTE

News Staff Writer

Ponca City’s Park and Recreation Advisory Board looked at ways of helping find a new home for a youth boxing program at White Eagle Thursday night during a regular session.

Although the youth boxing program, called the Youth Drug Intervention Program, has enjoyed some success at its current location in White Eagle, Boxing Coach Dwight E. Howe explained to the board that the group was looking to expand and make it more effective by relocating into the city’s limits.

After a brief discussion about the issue, members voted in favor of forming a special subcommittee to help the group find a new home and possibly a 501.c3 sponsor.

In a letter to the advisory board, Howe wrote: “For the past two years we have been operating a community-based Youth Drug Intervention Program in the White Eagle Ponca Indian Community. The program has been successful and well received by the young people in the community.”

He noted that the program was a merit-based program, which is based on a mentoring concept developed in New York City back in the 1950s, that encouraged positive behavior and total abstinence of alcohol and drugs. “I believe this to be a successful way to approach young people about issues that they are facing on a daily basis,” he wrote.

He also wrote that most of the young people who took advantage of the program were not actively involved in school sponsored team sports, and that the program offered a way to build the participants self-esteem while presenting a good way for them to “release built-up anxiety in a positive way.”

“The club has over $3,500 worth of boxing equipment already, with only a few items that are still needed,” Howe told the board, “If we had a 501.c3 status, or if we were affiliated with a group with a 501.c3 status, it would open the door for grant money” to help support the program, he added.

Nearly News

Shannon Ross, daughter of Jim and Jannie Ross of Ponca City, will be among the thousands of runners taking part in a marathon March 25 in Rome, Italy. She is running on behalf of the American Diabetes Association and is accepting donations for sponsorship. Those wishing to contribute can do so in her name to the American Diabetes Association.

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There will be no names given for the following to protect the potentially embarrassed:

It’s that time of year when daffodils and crocuses are blooming, with tulips next and the rest of spring and summer beauties to follow. But throughout the year, many receive beautiful potted plants and cut flowers to celebrate special days or as condolences for sadder times. Remember, when tending those special gifts, to follow the enclosed instructions for care and watering so they can thrive for as long as possible. Of course if the flowers are silk or plastic, they probably don’t need to be watered or fed or placed in the refrigerator. One birthday recipient called to sheepishly remind us of that little tidbit after she had watered her artificial plant for several days.

County Retired Teachers To Rally At State Capitol

Kay County Retired Teachers and school personnel will gather at the State Capitol on Tuesday, March 20 for a rally to enlist support for legislative goals.

The goals this year are to see change funding to benefit the Teachers Retirement Fund, a monthly increase for insurance premiums and a cost of living adjustment.

The continued rise in health insurance premiums is a serious problem and retirees need legislative action to help with this concern.

A delegate from Kay County will attend the OREA Rally and will visit with Senator Paul Muegge and Representatives Jim Newport and Jim Reese.

DEATHS

Cora Kathlyn Milligan
Warren Eugene Stout
Monty Lynn McAllister
Audrey Z. Gregory

Cora Kathlyn Milligan

ENID — Cora Kathlyn Milligan, former Blackwell resident, died Wednesday morning, March 14, 2001, in the Integris Bass Hospital in Enid. She was 77.

The funeral will be held Saturday, March 17, at 2 p.m. in the Enid Christian Church of the Covenant with the Rev. Dan Jones officiating.

Burial will be at the Blackwell Cemetery at approximately 4 p.m. under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home of Blackwell.

Cora Kathlyn Milligan was born Oct. 16, 1923 in Blackwell, the daughter of Carl and Mabel (McNeil) Thomas. She grew up and attended school in Blackwell. She married J.R. Milligan on May 9, 1946, in Blackwell and they settled in Norman where J.R. was a student at the University of Oklahoma. Following his graduation they returned to Blackwell to operate the Milligan Drug Store. She moved to Enid following her husband’s death on Oct. 15, 1994. She was a member of the Christian Church of the Covenant in Enid and an active member of the Senior Citizen Center. She also held membership in many bridge groups.

Survivors include one son, Larry Milligan of Dallas, Texas; two sisters, Geneva Burger of Alva and Esther Scheidt of Scottsbluff, Neb.; one grandchild and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; a sister, Donna Houser; and a nephew, Mike Stephens.

Casket bearers will be Larry Whitzel, Floyd Autin, John Dunkerson, Melvin Dick, Don Willhoite, and Jim Crabbs.

Honorary casket bearers will be Gale Johnson, Sylvia Snell, Ann Young, Ima Marie “Imy” Bowlan.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the Christian Church of the Covenant, 1205 S. Cleveland, Enid, Okla. 73703.

Warren Eugene Stout

NEWKIRK — Warren Eugene “Butch” Stout, Newkirk resident, died late Wednesday afternoon, March 14, 2001, at his home in Newkirk. He was 36.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 17, in Washunga Cemetery, Newkirk with the Rev. Danny Ringer, minister of the Newkirk First Baptist Church officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Miller-Stahl Funeral Service. There will be no public viewing.

Warren Eugene Stout was born May 27, 1964, at Arkansas City, the son of Warren and Frances Stout. He grew up and received his education in Arkansas City, graduating with the class of 1982. After graduation Butch joined his father as co-owner of Stout Refrigeration in Arkansas City. He and Debra L. Stone were married on March 26, 1988, in Arkansas City where they established their first home. In 1993 they moved to Newkirk where they have since resided. He was employed by BC Mechanical in Newkirk.

Butch was a member of the Kaw Tribe and an active member of the Newkirk AA Group. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and building and flying remote control airplanes.

He is survived by his wife Debra, of the home; a nephew and foster son, Jesse Houser of Blair, Neb.; his parents; three sisters, Sandy Shrewsberry of Arkansas City, and Cheryl Wood and Susan Houser, both of Newkirk; his maternal grandmother, Lucy Lee, of Arkansas City; and numerous nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by a grandmother, Opal Stout and a grandfather, Sam Lee.

A memorial fund has been established with the Newkirk AA Group. Contributions may be made through Eastman National Bank, Box 468, Newkirk 74647-0468.

Monty Lynn McAllister

PERRY — Monty Lynn McAllister, Perry resident, died Tuesday, March 13, 2001. He was 38.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 17, at 11 a.m. at the Sumner Baptist Church with the Rev. Albert Quick officiating.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Brown-Sisson Funeral Home.

Monty Lynn McAllister was born June 9, 1962 in Ponca City, the son of Jack Barton McAllister Sr. and Rotha Mae (Robinson) McAllister. He graduated from Red Rock High School in 1980 and served in the U.S. Army from 1981 to 1984. On Feb. 14, 1990, he married Korie McKee in Perry. He was employed as a sprigger for the Noble County Conservation District. He was a member of the Baptist church and he enjoyed spending time with family and friends, working on vehicles and bible study.

Survivors include his wife of the home; two sisters, Toni Zemp of Perry and Renae Prucha of Red Rock; one brother, Jack B. McAllister Jr. of Perry; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial fund has been established in his name at the First Bank and Trust of Perry, 407 7th Street, Perry, Okla. 73077.

Audrey Z. Gregory

BLACKWELL — Audrey Z. Gregory, former Blackwell resident, died Thursday morning, March 15, 2001, at her home in Oklahoma City. She was 84.

A graveside service under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home will be held Monday, March 19 at 2 p.m. in the James W. Roberts Memorial Chapel in the Blackwell Cemetery. The Rev. Rick Longcrier will officiate.

Audrey Z. Gregory was born on May 24, 1916, in Iowa Falls, Iowa, the daughter of John and Zella (Whaylen) Patrick. At the age of three she moved with her family to Blackwell attending Blackwell Public Schools and graduating in 1934. She then attended Northern Oklahoma Junior College. She was later employed by Continental Oil Company. On June 4, 1939, she married Henry W. Schilling in Blackwell. In the mid 1940s they moved to Russell, Kan. and remained there for 12 years. They lived in Ponca City, Stillwater and Tulsa before moving to Oklahoma City in 1966. Her husband preceded her in death on Jan. 30, 1987. She married David Gregory in Aug. of 1989 in Oklahoma City. He also preceded her in death. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church.

Survivors include one daughter, Joy El-Tarhouni of Oklahoma City; and three grandchildren.

In addition to both husbands she was preceded in death by her parents; one son, Patrick Schilling; three brothers, Virgil, Robert, and Kendall Patrick; three sisters, Nadine Nolan, Pauline Becker and Dora Erickson.

NEWS BRIEFS

Golden Villa Sets Carnival — A St. Patrick’s Day carnival for elementary-age youngsters has been set for Saturday at Golden Villa, located at Angela Hall of Marland Estate, 901 Monument Road. The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Noni Juice now available at Toni’s Westside Healthmart. adv.

American Legion Dance — The American Legion LS Buffalo Post 38 will hold its annual birthday dinner and dance on Saturday night at the Ponca Tribal Cultural Center. Commander Colbert Cole is inviting the public and asks those in attendance to bring a fruit or pastry dish to the dinner. The main meal will be provided.

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

Disturbance — A woman advised Ponca City police at 6:21 a.m. Friday her sister was upset over her missing wallet and was threatening to stab people. Two officers responded to the scene and a 24-year-old woman was taken into custody for domestic assault and battery.

Best Of the Best cookbooks, Oklahoma, Louisiana, New Mexi-co, California, Texas. Carla’s Hallmark, Downtown. adv.

Suspicious Person — A teacher at Woodlands Elementary School, 2005 East Woodlands Road advised Ponca City police a juvenile boy was hanging around and looking into the windows at the school at 9:55 a.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and a 14-year-old boy was taken into custody for obstructing an officer. The boy’s father later picked him up at the police department.

Pauline’s Shrimp Peel, all you can eat, $11.95. Friday, 16th. For reservations call 765-5460. adv.

Fraud — A woman told Ponca City police at 10:44 a.m. Thursday that her attorney had advised her to report a case of possible fraud. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Keathly Nursery. Seed Potatoes, onion sets and onion plants, Bulk seed, Asparagus, Rhubarb, and Horse radish now available. adv.

Accident — A two-vehicle, injury accident in the 700 block of East Prospect Avenue was reported to Ponca City police at 3:59 p.m. Thursday. Two ambulances, command one, engines one and two and rescue one from the Ponca City Fire Department and an officer from the Ponca City Police Department responded to the scene. One subject was taken to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. A report was taken and both vehicles were towed from the scene.

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

Subject Held — A Ponca City booking officer reported a 23-year-old man was taken into custody on two Kay County warrants a 4:13 p.m. Thursday.

Jueschke Carpet Cleaners are closed for vacation will return on March 22nd. adv.

Suspicious Person — An officer advised an intoxicated man had left southbound after trying to break into a vehicle in the 1000 block of North Second Street at 5:44 a.m. Friday. A description was given of the vehicle. Two additional officers responded to the scene and the vehicle was stopped in the same area. An 18-year-old man was taken into custody for public intoxication.

Theft — A woman reported to Ponca City police at 8:54 a.m. Thursday some jewelry had been stolen from her apartment in the 900 block of East Grand Avenue. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Pauline’s Prime rib special, Saturday night, March 17th. For reservations call 765-5460. adv.

Subject Held — An officer at the intersection of North Union Street and Liberty Avenue reported a 39-year-old man was taken into custody after a traffic stop for an expired inspection, no insurance and driving under revocation at 4:37 p.m. Thursday.

V.F.W. Post #1201 Ladies Auxiliary, on March 18th at 1:00 p.m., will hold a St. Patrick’s family covered dish dinner with brisket as the meat dish. All who attend are to bring a covered dish and please wear their green. See you there. adv.

Intoxicated Subject — A caller advised Ponca City police of a man in a field behind K-Mart in the 2600 block of North Fourteenth Street sniffing paint at 5:51 p.m. Thursday. Two officers responded to the scene and a 40-year-old man was taken into custody for public intoxication.

Kids Review now accepting children’s spring/summer consignments. adv.

Subject Held — An officer at the intersection of South Ash Street and West Central Avenue reported a 33-year-old man was taken into custody after a traffic stop for driving under revocation and on a city warrant for petit larceny at 6:32 p.m. Thursday.

Meeting at Thurman Buffalohead’s, 3/17/01, 10a.m. Two miles on 177, 1/2 East, and 1/4 mile south. Lunch. Important. adv.

Subject Held — A Ponca City booking officer reported a 17-year-old boy was taken into custody for grand larceny at 6:37 p.m. Thursday.

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

Reckless Driver — An officer near the intersection of Pecan Road and East Prospect Avenue requested assistance while chasing a subject for reckless driving at 7:34 p.m. Thursday. A trooper with the Oklahoma Highway Patrol reportedly stopped the subject one-half mile east of Pecan Road on Oklahoma 11. The subject was issued a citation for reckless driving and petit larceny of traffic cones.

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 at the intersection of South Tenth Street and East Cherry Avenue reported a 25-year-old man was taken into custody after a traffic stop for driving under intoxication, driving under suspension, no insurance, speeding and possession of drug paraphernalia at 10:12 p.m. Thursday.

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

RELIGION

Local Pastor of Free Will Baptist Named to Auction Committee
Methodist Women’s Day To Be Observed Sunday at Church
Church Briefs
Deadline
First Lutheran Plans Events for Week

Local Pastor of Free Will Baptist Named to Auction Committee

The Rev. David and Linda Biggers have been named to the Hillsdale Free Will Baptist College auction committee for this spring. Funds raised at the auction, “A Bid for the Future,” will provide scholarships for Hillsdale students. Biggers is the pastor of the First Free Will Baptist Church in Ponca City.

The committee is made up of Free Will Baptists from around the state who will coordinate auction donations as well as sell tickets for the event.

The event, set for Friday, April 20, includes an Italian buffet featuring Chicken Parmesan and both silent and live auctions. Items up for bid include an autographed football by the championship OU Sooners team, a seven day Norwegian cruise including airfare from Oklahoma City, a full year of tuition and room at Hillsdale, a stay at the Westin Hotel in Oklahoma and various other items.

The tickets for the evening are $50 each, half of which is tax deductible. Corporate sponsorships are available for $1,000, $500 and $250. Each sponsorship includes tickets to the event as well as an advertisement in the auction program. For additional information, check the Hillsdale web site at www.hc.edu., or call auction chair Shauna Smith at (405) 895-7111.

Hillsdale is accredited with the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools and offers courses in 20 different areas of study. With a student to teacher ratio of 12 to one, each student is assured the personalized attention and guidance deserved.

Methodist Women’s Day To Be Observed Sunday at Church

United Methodist Women’s Day will be observed this Sunday at Albright United Methodist Church.

The United Methodist Women will be participating in the worship service with Cindy Hull, Stillwater district secretary of the Oklahoma United Methodist Women, as the guest speaker. The public is invited to hear Cindy’s message “The Mission.”

Cindy and her husband, Don, reside in Drumright, where he is currently the pastor of the Drumright/Oilton United Methodist Churches. She has also held the district offices of vice president, membership secretary, and has been a member of the nominating committee. She has also held many offices in local UMW units of which she has been a member. UMW and music are high on her list of things to do.

The event, coordinated by Sally Warner, membership, nurture and outreach coordinator, will involve several UMW members who will serve as ushers and greeters. Tina Lines, LTMW supportive member, will be lay leader during the service, and Esther Brigden, UMW member, will read the scripture.

The public is invited to join with the Albright United Methodist congregation for this special morning of worship. Following the worship service, a potluck dinner will be served in fellowship hall. Church members are invited to bring their favorite dish.

Guests are welcome. Sunday school classes begin at 9:15 a.m. and worship at 10:30 a.m. Albright UMC is located at 128 South Palm.

Church Briefs

Billings Crusade

Dennis Newkirk, pastor of Henderson Hills Church in Edmond, will be the speaker for the Billings Area Wide Crusade to be held in the Billings School auditorium Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Larry Harrison of Henderson Hills will lead the music. Services start at 7 p.m. each night. The crusade is sponsored by the Billings Ministerial Alliance.

NOC Gospel Fest I

An NOC Gospel Fest will be held from 4 to 9 p.m. Saturday, March 24, in the Performing Arts Center at Northern Oklahoma College in Tonkawa. The Newtons, Fields Aflame, Side by Side and Potter’s Clay will perform. Admission is free but a love offering will be received. Concessions will be available.

Prince of Peace Lutheran

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, ELCA, at 2800 Turner Rd., will celebrate the third Sunday in Lent. The service will include Holy Communion. In Luke, Chapter 13, it says the key to peace is using the present to throw ourselves upon God’s Grace. Sunday school is at 9 a.m., worship service at 10 a.m., and fellowship at 11 a.m. The fourth in our Wednesday evening Lenten series will focus on The Confrontation Along The Way. Service is at 7 p.m., preceded by a soup supper at 6. Visit the church’s website at www.princeofpeacechurch.net.

Hartford Avenue

Church of Christ

Members of the Hartford Avenue Church of Christ, 1905 Joe Street, invite the public to share God’s Word each week. Sunday Bible classes are at 9:30 a.m. followed by worship service at 10:30 a.m. Sunday evening worship is at 6 o’clock and Wednesday worship is at 7 p.m. There are classes for all ages. Visitors are invited for lunch in the fellowship center following worship. Watch the Search program Sunday at 8 a.m. on Channels 5 or 8; this week’s topic is Does God Answer Prayers.. Bible thought for the week from is from Colossians 4:3 “Pray for us, that god may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ.”

International Gospel Hour

The Newkirk Church of Christ is sponsoring the International Gospel Hour each Sunday that can be heard on KSOK 95.9 FM at 8:30 a.m. Winford Claiborne will be the speaker. The church sponsors the program locally. The program is produced in Fayetteville, Tenn., and can be heard on many stations across the USA. The church will also be holding a series of meetings with Everett Chambers of Fort Worth, Texas. Chambers is a teacher in the Brown Trail School of Preaching. There will also be nine students from the school with him. The public is invited to these meetings that will take place at 7:30 p.m. April 2 the 4.

Deadline

The Ponca City News publishes a special page on Friday of each week to carry information for and about churches in the area. Information may be brought to the newsroom religion and obituary desk, mailed to The Ponca City News, Box 191, 300 North Third, Ponca City, OK 74602, faxed to 580-765-7800, or e-mailed to religion@poncacitynews.com. Deadline for the Friday Religion page is noon the preceding Wednesday. For more information call 765-3311, extension 138.

First Lutheran Plans Events for Week

The anthem “On Eagles Wings” will be sung by the Senior Choir of First Lutheran Church for both the 8:30 and 11 a.m. services Sunday.

The Rev. Mr. Ramsey’s sermon will be entitled “Matching Deeds to Creeds.” Holy Communion will be celebrated at both services. Elaine Marie Duff, infant daughter of Carl and Krystal Duff, will be received by the sacrament of Holy Baptism.

Appreciation will be the topic of discussion at the 6:30 evening service as one of the six qualities of a strong family. The study is geared to be helpful to all no matter in what type of family situation they are. Besides the study time, the service includes the singing of praise songs and prayer.

The mid-week Lenten service will be held on Wednesday at 7 p.m. The theme for that service on March 21 will be “The Prophets Cry Out: God’s Sign.” The ladies of the LWML will serve vegetable beef soup at the soup supper which begins at 5:30 p.m.

Both the junior and the senior youth will go to Ponca Bowl on Saturday for Glo-Bowl. The cost is $8, and the event will be from 8:45 to 11 p.m. All community youth are invited to join in this activity.

EDUCATION

Middle Level Summer School Plans Discussed by Committee
Sullins Locker Room, East Middle School Projects Near Completion
NOC To Sponsor Free Academy This Summer
Three, Four-Year-Old Classes Open
Rep. Newport Visits Phase IV School
Pioneer Tech Board Members Elect Officers
School News
Superintendent’s Corner

Middle Level Summer School Plans Discussed by Committee

Members of the Ponca City Board of Education Curriculum Committee met recently to discuss summer school plans for middle school students.

Members present were Mike Kruck, John Scroggins, Patty Ladd, Linda Powers, Chris LittleCook and Vicki Graves.

Dr. Powers shared the Middle Level Summer School recommendation. The location will be the East Middle School starting June 4, 2001, and ending June 29, 2001. School will meet Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 11:05 a.m. with breakfast served from 7:30 to 8 a.m. and lunch from 11:05 to 12:30 p.m. Teachers will report from 7:45 a.m. until 11:45 a.m. The three subjects offered will be reading, math and technology. Students will take two of the three. Class periods will run 1 1/2 hours.

Dr. Patty Ladd presented the Elementary Level Summer School Plans to the committee. There will be three elementary summer school sites. The summer session will be from June 4 to June 28. Breakfast will be served at each site from 7:30 to 8 a.m. and lunch from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. The three sites are Liberty, Garfield and Union with sessions being held Monday through Thursday.

The sessions at Liberty will be limited to Liberty students and staffed with Liberty teachers. The sessions will be from 8 to 11 a.m.

The sessions at Garfield will be limited to Garfield students and students from third through fifth grades at Lincoln. The school will be staffed with Garfield teachers providing instruction for Garfield students and Lincoln teachers providing instruction for Lincoln third through fifth graders. The sessions will be from 8 to 11 a.m.

There will be two sessions at Union. Morning students will attend from 8 to 11 a.m. Afternoon students will attend from noon to 3 p.m. Enrollment will be open to all district elementary students on RSA plans, grades K-6.

Powers also explained to the committee that the middle school restructuring focus groups met and studied five different aspects of restructuring middle schools. The five aspects are Time and Organization, Communication, Unity of Purpose, Activities and Academics, Middle Level Alternative Education and Professional Development.

During the study of the Middle Level Alternative Education Focus Group, the members realized there are different needs that would take students out of their regular classroom setting and that the district cannot address all the needs of all at-risk children next year. The program will need to grow and evolve.

The focus group suggests that the district start with three self-contained classrooms for sixth, seventh and eighth grade students to be housed at the Annex (across from East). Targeted students would be those that are at academic risk because of reading deficiencies, academic failure, low test scores and poor attendance. The children are not necessarily discipline problems, but need a smaller environment in which to feel safe and successful. The class size should not be more than 12 students per class.

The Alternative Education Program, now held at Lincoln Center, will be moved to the Annex. It is planned that sixth, seventh and eighth grade students will be housed at the front of the Annex and ninth, 10th, 11th and 12th grade students will be housed at the back of the Annex.

End of Instruction testing s new this year at the high school. There are no longer CRTs for 11th graders. The End of Instruction tests will be given in May in English 10 and American History. Algebra I and biology are being field tested this year and will be included in the End of Instruction testing for next year.

A student has to pass the End of Instruction tests in order to receive a Diploma of Distinction. They don’t have to pass to graduate, but they do have to take them.

Editor’s Note: Members of the Curriculum Committee do not take action on any item. Each topic is for discussion only.

Sullins Locker Room, East Middle School Projects Near Completion

The Property Committee of the Ponca City Board of Education met recently to discuss the Sullins Restroom/Locker Room project.

Members present were Don Nuzum, Norris Frederick, Marvin Clark, Dr. Nancy Niemann and Bret Smith.

Smith reported the project is nearing completion pending satisfactory roof repairs by LeMonnier Construction Company.

East Middle School project’s substantial completion date was Feb. 23. Due to the lack of storage spaces and weather problems associated with the fire escape door cut, the project was delayed slightly. The completion date is currently the middle of March with small areas and punch list items remaining for the next few weeks.

The West Middle School remodel is still a little behind schedule due to the weather and the fact that the construction process occurs around children. Lambert maintains that the overall construction schedule is still not affected.

The contracts arrived for the Lincoln Elementary Addition on March 5 from Lock-Wright Architects. The attorney is in the process of reviewing them for approval. The Fine Arts Chiller project is under way with final adjustments being made by the Districts Maintenance staff. The projected completion date is in May, depending on delivery of the equipment.

There were no Building Fund expenditures to discuss at the meeting, but there were two purchase requests made out to cover the electric and gas bills, totaling $74,575 and $80,000. This encumbrance is from the Building Operations General Fund.

Projected expenditures for the spring of 2001 were discussed. The West Middle School parking and Grand Avenue exit proposal were also discussed. They will be discussed more at a later date.

The committee also discussed the Class Memorial Setting for the high school. The committee asked that management come up with a list of parameters for future memorial projects on school property. There was no discussion of property east of the YMCA.

NOC To Sponsor Free Academy This Summer

Oklahoma students who will be in the eighth through 12th grade next fall can now sign up for free Summer Academies in math and science sponsored by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education.

Summer Academies are designed to enhance students’ knowledge of math and science by introducing them to new and exciting fields and concepts through hands-on learning experiences.

Academies last from one to four weeks on 24 college and university campuses across the state. Depending on the academy, students either stay on campus or commute from home.

Northern Oklahoma College, Tonkawa, will offer a Summer Academy for Math, Science and Multidisciplinary Studies, June 11-29. This will be for sophomores through seniors.

Most academy applications are due March 15 and enrollment is limited, so students are encouraged to sign up early. Students can obtain information about the academies from their math and science teachers or by calling 800-858-1840 or visit the web site at www.okhighered.org.

Three, Four-Year-Old Classes Open

Enrollment for three and four-year-olds is now being taken for the 2001-2002 school year at White Eagle Cultural Center.

Immediate enrollment is requested to insure a slot. Your child must be three or four years of age on or before Sept. 1, 2001.

Parents or guardians will need a child’s birth certificate, social security card and shot record before they will be able to attend class.

Breakfast and lunch is served at the center and transportation from Ponca City is available if needed.

The White Eagle Head Start curriculum provides experience to improve the language and literacy skills of each student and at their individual developmental level. A healthy balance of active and quiet learning activities, large and small group, activities and indoor and outdoor play will be provided.

White Eagle Head Start is a quality program with teachers trained in child development and the High/Scope (active learning) curriculum.

For more information call Ruth Lewis, center site manager, at 762-7927 or 762-8909.

Rep. Newport Visits Phase IV School

State Representative Jim Newport (R-Ponca City) recently paid a visit to Liberty Elementary School to view reading instructional methodologies.

Classrooms at Liberty have implemented many of the techniques and strategies put forth by Literacy First, Phase IV. While at Liberty, Rep. Newport had the opportunity to talk with children, dialogue with staff members about professional development and provided encouragement to students. His comments reflected the importance of reading and achieving high academic goals.

This particular instructional model, sponsored by the Professional Development Institutes of Oklahoma, strives to incorporate “best practice” related to reading methods.

Staff members of Phase IV schools receive professional development and support that is intended to assess students’ reading needs and guide instruction so that students will achieve reading goals.

Beth Grover, Literacy Resource Specialist, commented, “Our teachers bring to this process much skill and knowledge. Literacy First, Phase IV has helped us to establish a common language and has helped to reduce the isolationism of the classroom.”

Liberty Elementary School, one of the first schools in Oklahoma to be awarded this grant, has benefited greatly from this model. “By participating in Literacy First, Phase IV, we, as staff members, have gained even more knowledge about reading instruction. In addition, teachers have worked diligently in this process. Teacher study groups, teacher book talks, and grade level meetings held once a week have allowed us to examine our instructional practices and allowed us to dialogue about best practice. Research and assessment helps to inform our practice,” according to Ron Myers, principal at Liberty.

Representative Newport stated that this is “... an important undertaking for our children. The importance of reading is evident.”

Pioneer Tech Board Members Elect Officers

Pioneer Technology Center's Board of Education members elected new officers for the new term.

Serving as president will be Robert Howard. J.D. Soulek was elected as the vice-president and Orva Rothgeb was elected board clerk and Larry Buck was also elected as deputy clerk.

New board member J.D. Soulek also took the Oath of Office.

School News

Paschal Named to List

Paul Paschal, a sophomore at Grace College in Winona Lake, Indiana, was named to the Dean’s Honor Roll for the fall semester. His parents are Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Paschal of Ponca City.

Merrifield Named Scholar

Karly Merrifield, student at Ponca City High School, was named a United States National Award winner for Student Council. Karly is the daughter of Dr. Jim and Sandy Merrifield of Ponca City. Her grandparents are Wanza Merrifield and Mr. and Mrs. Don Crosson, all of Ponca City.

Spring Break

Ponca City students will be out of school March 19-23 for Spring Break. Classes will resume again on Monday, March 26.

Superintendent’s Corner

By Dr. Doug Major

Pioneer Technology Center Superintendent

Students Involved in Opportunities

Through Pioneer Technology Center's clubs and organizations, students have many opportunities to become involved in their training. Since February, students have been taking full advantage of these opportunities by competing at various levels throughout the state.

To date, 45 students have participated at different competitive events in leadership and skill development contests at the district level. We are very proud to announce that eighteen of these students will now be advancing to state competition in April!

All of these students have worked very hard in preparing and competing at these events, and I would like to congratulate each and every one of them for their efforts!

Originally designed to emulate Professional Organizations, every student at Pioneer Technology Center has the opportunity to be a part of a local Career and Technology Student Organization (formerly called vocational student organizations, VSO's). These organizations provide leadership and career development as well as opportunities for personal growth and scholastic achievement. Activities include chapter meetings, skill contests, public speaking, team competitions and “job readiness” training in areas such as resume preparation, job interviews, and proper professional dress.

Pioneer Technology Center students have access to five different Career and Technology Student Organizations.

— BPA -- Business Professional of America — prepares students for leader positions in business, government, and community.

— FHA/HERO - Future Homemakers of America — Home Economics Related Occupations, helps young men and women become leaders and address important personal, family, work and societal issues through family and consumer sciences education.

— HOSA, Health Occupations Students of America, works to promote career opportunities in the health care industry.

— SkillsUSA VICA (Vocational Industrial Clubs of America) is for the trade and technical students and works to emphasize total quality at work, superior work skills, high ethical standards, and life-long education.

— DECA, an Association of Marketing Students, provides students with educational and leadership activities to merge with the education classroom instructional program.

Pioneer Technology Center has 100 percent participation within the Career and Technology Student Organizations with membership available to both high school and adult students. The dedication and hard work on behalf of each of these students has made PTC very proud! I would like to say thank you to the parents, guardians and instructors for their support during the competitions. We truly wish our students the best at the upcoming state competition.

LIFESTYLES

Bliss Homemakers Group Announce Upcoming Events
Rho Chapter Members List Event Plans
Busy Bee Club Holds Meeting

Bliss Homemakers Group Announce Upcoming Events

Denise Keinholz, president, called the Bliss Homemakers OHCE group meeting to order March 13 at the Marland Methodist-Christian Church fellowship hall. Marilyn Balcer read the devotion “We Plow the Field.”

The quarters for the quarter drill and pennies for friendship were given and 11 members repeated the creed in unison. All reported having read to a person, or read a book this past month, and buckled up. Roll call was answered with a favorite way to prepare eggs. Correspondence was read from Noble County OHCE president Debbie Woods.

Catherine Robinson read the minutes, and Soni Kodesh gave the financial report. Members will continue to collect aluminum tabs to be given to Noble County and Frontier 4-H environmental chairman Rachel Kelly to be taken to the Oklahoma state 4-H Round-Up for the Ronald McDonald house in Oklahoma City. To date the group has contributed more than seven pounds.

A work date for the nursing home clothing protectors was discussed. Catherine Robinson announced that K-Mart stores and members had donated towels and velcro for the project. Green Valley Nursing Home has 82 residents.

Linda Short reported on the spelling bee held at Frontier School, and Janell Harman announced that tooth fairy pillows were taken to the kindergarten class at Frontier, and toothbrushes were given to pre-school through fourth grade students in conjunction with National Dental Month.

Several ideas for the program at the Noble County OHCE meeting on April 5 were discussed as were the goals for the Noble County Family Committee. Arleta Pulliam volunteered as chairman for program covers. Bliss Homemakers will hold a sandwich supper March 30 and work on clothing protectors and program covers.

A Golden Book was given to Nathan August Hoffman. Announcement was made that the Oklahoma Home and Community Education/Northwest District meeting will be March 27 in Woodward.. Linda Short will represent Noble County as Member of the Year.

Catherine Robinson gave the lesson “Eggs and Good health.” Hostesses were Marilyn Balcer and Soni Kodesh, and Chera Brewer received the hostess gift. The April 18 meeting will be held at 7 p.m. in the Marland Methodist Christian Church Fellowship Hall.

Rho Chapter Members List Event Plans

Twelve members and three pledges of Rho Chapter, Beta Sigma Phi sorority, met at the Amarillo Grill Feb. 7 to honor Valentine Queen, Carol Neilson.

A brief business meeting was held, and Founder’s Day, April 26, was discussed. Rho Chapter is in charge of the yearbooks.

The Mystery gift was won by Debbie McClaskey, and Traveling baskets went to Carol Neilson and Terri Fry. Carol Neilson also received Valentine Queen gifts from Rho Chapter. Other members exchanged gifts from Secret Valentines.

President Jan Leach called the Feb. 28 meeting to order at Gail Walcott’s home with eight members and one pledge in attendance.

A letter of appreciation was read from International regarding he donation Rho Chapter made for breast cancer research.

A thank you note was also read from Carol Neilson, Valentine Queen.

The group discussed participation for Relay for Life in April, and Rho chapter plans for the yearly fund raising Easter Bunny Pictures in April were discussed. One traveling basket went to Bambi Correll. Announcement was made of election of chapter officers during the second meeting in April.

Busy Bee Club Holds Meeting

The Busy Bee Club met March 8 at the home of Vivian Davis. Beulah McCartney, president, was in charge of the business meeting. and led the group in the flag salute and “The Lord’s Prayer.”

Viola Haley gave the devotion “Diary of the Bible,” and Helen Hiskett gave the treasurer’s report.

Craft material was turned in for the Child Development center. Projects for April were discussed, and it was voted to give a check to the Southside Mission.

The meeting was adjourned and games were played and won by Beulah McCartney and Helen Taylor. Helen Hiskett won the mystery bowl. The next meeting will be in the home of Viola Haley on April 12.

SPORTS

Lady Mavs Sweep Past Murray St
JV Golf
Sports Notes
OSU Wrestlers Third As Gophers Nab Lead
USC Crushes Cowboys

Lady Mavs Sweep Past Murray St

By TED ATCHLEY

NOC Sports Information

The Lady Mavericks’ softball team of Northern Oklahoma College swept a doubleheader against Murray State College Tuesday afternoon in Tonkawa, winning 8-0 andf 4-2.

Lady Mav Roxanne Thirion pitched well in the first game shutout against Murray.

The second game of the twinbill was closer but the Lady Mavs didn't twitch. Pitcher Shauna Harrison stepped up to the mound and earned the win with 13 strikeouts in 94 pitches with no walks. She gave up six hit.

The Lady Mavs had seven hits in the second game. Leading hitters were Lady Mavericks Shellie Dolezal with two, Bo Davis with two, Jamie Forbes, Candy Brien and Kristen Ball with one hit each. Forbes and Dolezal each earned two RBIs on the game.

Scoring for the Lady Mavs were Ball with two runs and Dolezal and Brien with one run each.

JV Golf

PAWNEE — The Wildcat JV golfers placed third in he Pawnee Tournament this week.

The Poncans posted a 314 total, finishing behind Pawnee (291) and Cushing (301), but in front of Stillwater (320) in the 15-team field.

Sean Lunsford shot a 76 for the Poncans while Kiel McCall and Zach Gales each had 79, Steven Wolff 80 and Tyler Hardesty 84.

Playing as individuals, Chris Gilbert shot 85 and Lance Highfield 86.

The JVs will be back in action April 2 in the Cushing Tournament.

Sports Notes

The Ponca Bowmen will hold a 3-D Shoot at the club’s range on East Lake Ponca Sunday. Sign-in will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. All archers are welcome to attend.

OSU Wrestlers Third As Gophers Nab Lead

By GREG SMITH

Associated Press Writer

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — Garrett Lowney recorded a pin to help top-ranked Minnesota retain its lead over six-time defending champion Iowa and Oklahoma State at the NCAA wrestling championships on Thursday.

The Golden Gophers, who are seeking their first national title, advanced eight of their 10 qualifiers into Friday’s quarterfinals.

Iowa, aiming for its 10th national championship in the last 11 years, had all eight wrestlers say alive in the championship bracket after the first two rounds while the Cowboys had six.

Minnesota had 41 1/2 points while Iowa and Oklahoma State were tied with 36 1/2, followed by Oklahoma with 28, Iowa State with 26 1/2, Illinois with 25, Michigan and Nebraska with 19 apiece, Arizona State with 18 and Edinboro with 17 1/2.

“We’re wrestling good,” Minnesota coach J Robinson said. “Other teams are going to have to step up and wrestle Iowa in a different way. If they just keep falling down for Iowa ... we can’t do it by ourselves. We have to have other people help us.”

Iowa coach Jim Zalesky was upbeat about his wrestlers’ performance, especially unseeded Mike Zadick’s come-from-behind 8-6 victory over No. 1 seed Reggie Wright of Oklahoma State at 149 pounds.

“Zadick’s win was huge. He’s wrestling like he’s finally supposed to,” Zalesky said. “We needed a day like this just to keep us in the hunt. We’re in it.”

Zadick’s win was the first upset in the tournament of a No. 1 seed.

“With a victory like this, the team will get a spark. Our team and coaches go crazy after big victories,” Zadick said. “They aren’t going crazy because I’m unranked and I beat a No. 1-ranked guy.

“They’re going crazy because it has been in me the whole time and it’s just coming out.”

Lowney, the top-seeded heavyweight, improved to 19-0 on the year after stopping Harvard’s David Rechul in 3 minutes, 14 seconds.

Other Minnesota winners were Leroy Vega at 125, Chad Erikson at 141, Jared Lawrence at 149, Luke Becker at 157, Brad Pike at 165, Jacob Volkmann at 174 and Owen Elzen at 197.

Iowa’s Jody Strittmatter, the No. 2 seed at 125, continued to dominate. Strittmatter, who had pins in his first two matches, rolling to an 11-0 major decision over Penn State’s Josh Moore.

The Hawkeyes’ No. 1 seeds also won, including Eric Juergens at 133, Doug Schwab at 141 and T.J. Williams at 157. Ben Shirk (165), Gabe McMahan (174) and Jessman Smith (184) also claimed wins for Iowa.

The field’s other No. 1 seeds who also advanced included Stephen Abas of Fresno State at 125, Donny Pritzlaff of Wisconsin at 165, Edinboro’s Josh Koscheck at 174, Iowa State’s Cael Sanderson at 184 and Mark Munoz of Oklahoma State at 197.

USC Crushes Cowboys

HAL BOCK

AP Sports Writer

UNIONDALE, N.Y. (AP) — Now comes the hard part for Oklahoma State.

Until now, the Cowboys had basketball to help them get through the grief of a Jan. 27 plane crash that killed two teammates and eight other members of their traveling party.

Now, their season is over, ended emphatically by Southern California in the first round of the NCAA tournament Thursday. The Trojans routed Oklahoma State 69-54, using a huge first-half run to put the game out of reach.

Coach Eddie Sutton knows that without the support of games and practice, the Cowboys’ grief will be more difficult than ever.

“We’ll have to keep really close tabs on them,” Sutton said. “That’s why it’s good we have spring break now. They can go home to their loved ones. I think that will help them heal up.”

For Fredrik Jonzen, who led Oklahoma State with 17 points, the end of the season is something of a relief.

“I think all of us are tired right now,” he said. “But it’s kind of hard to know exactly how we feel. It’ll take a little while to reflect on it. I think we all need a bit of a break from basketball.”

USC made sure that happened sooner rather than later.

Led by Sam Clancy and Jeff Trepagnier, the Trojans went on a first-half run of 14-0 that extended first to 23-2 and then to 29-4, turning the game into a blowout.

By halftime, the Trojans (22-9) led 48-19, a lead that was the largest of the game.

“That was the best 20 minutes we’ve played since I’ve been coaching USC,” Henry Bibby said. “The defense was flawless. It was picture perfect.”

Clancy led USC with 22 points and 13 rebounds. Trepagnier finished with 17 and Brandon Granville had 14.

USC dominated the backboards, rarely allowing Oklahoma State more than one shot each trip down the floor. The Trojans held a 26-16 rebounding edge at the half and 45-36 for the game.

The Cowboys’ task was further complicated by some miserable shooting. They made just nine of 26 shots and missed nine of 10 free throws in the first half.

Brian Scalabrine, who scored 11 points, shrugged off the suggestion the Trojans might be jittery in their first tournament game.

“That’s how we play when we’re nervous,” Scalabrine said. “We’ll be real nervous Saturday, too.”

Wearing black patches on their jerseys to remember those who died in the crash, the Cowboys hoped to put the tragedy behind them. But they looked distracted and disorganized and USC took advantage of every Oklahoma State miss and every mistake.

“We send our blessing to Oklahoma State and what they’ve been through this year,” Bibby said. “I give that team the utmost respect. It shows how tough they are and how they persevered this year.”

The rout started early, with USC getting consecutive three-point plays by Trepagnier and Clancy to begin the game. Jonzen, Oklahoma State’s tallest starter at 6-foot-10 and second leading scorer, was charged with both fouls in the first minute of play, putting the Cowboys in immediate trouble.

It just got worse after that.

Clancy and Trepagnier had two baskets apiece in the 14-0 run, and after Maurice Baker scored for Oklahoma State, USC went on another 11-0 streak, with Clancy scoring six points and Trepagnier getting five.

Oklahoma State tried to regroup in the second half and 13-straight points cut the lead to 58-44 with eight minutes remaining. But USC’s huge early margin was far too much to overcome.

SOUTHERN CAL 69,

OKLAHOMA ST. 54

OKLAHOMA ST. (20-10)

Jonzen 8-16 1-3 17, Sanders 4-8 0-0 9, A.Williams 1-5 0-7 2, Baker 5-9 0-1 10, V.Williams 4-12 1-2 9, Crawford 0-3 1-2 1, Anderson 0-0 0-0 0, Broxsie 1-2 0-2 2, Marlow 2-2 0-0 4. Totals 25-57 3-17 54.

SOUTHERN CAL (22-9)

Bluthenthal 0-3 0-0 0, Clancy 7-20 8-9 22, Scalabrine 4-11 2-2 11, Granville 5-13 2-2 14, Trepagnier 7-13 2-3 17, Turner 2-2 0-0 4, Hutchinson 0-0 0-0 0, Murphy 0-0 0-0 0, Farmer 0-2 1-2 1. Totals 25-64 15-18 69.

Halftime—Southern Cal 48, Oklahoma St. 19. 3-Point Goals—Oklahoma St. 1-10 (Sanders 1-3, Crawford 0-1, Baker 0-2, V.Williams 0-4), Southern Cal 4-12 (Granville 2-5, Scalabrine 1-2, Trepagnier 1-3, Bluthenthal 0-1, Farmer 0-1). Fouled out—Bluthenthal. Rebounds—Oklahoma St. 36 (A.Williams 13), Southern Cal 45 (Clancy 13). Assists—Oklahoma St. 10 (V.Williams 3), Southern Cal 12 (Granville 5). Total fouls—Oklahoma St. 16, Southern Cal 16. A—13,817