LOCAL

Thatcher Says Strong Defense Remains Best Peace Keeper
Crime Numbers Down in Ponca City
Jana Shafer Honored by State for Youth Efforts
Letters
Hospice of Ponca City Joining Others for Grief Teleconference
Whiting Is Champion In Elks Fund Raiser ‘Calling for the Hogs’
Crime Stoppers

Thatcher Says Strong Defense Remains Best Peace Keeper

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Staff Writer

TULSA — “This is no time to go wobbly,” former British Minister Margaret Thatcher said Tuesday in Tulsa on the subject of Saddam Hussein and other rogue states she feels are treacherous.

“Saddam is unfinished business,” Thatcher said. She also commented on Khadafy of Libya, and the danger of an alliance between China and Russia.

Thatcher said she was in Kuwait a few weeks ago and met with former U.S. President George Bush Sr. and Donald Rumsfield, U.S. Secretary of Defense, and recalled the horror of the Gulf War.

The thrust of Thatcher’s talk to the OSU Tulsa Business Forum, was “a strong defense is the best peace keeper.”

She urged the packed house at the Tulsa Performing Arts to support an antimissile defense system. She noted the disarmament agreement signed by the U.S., Britain and the Soviet Union in 1972 is no longer valid because the Soviet Union does not exist anymore.

Thatcher urged the United States and Europe to keep an eye on the “rogue” states.

Thatcher said that Russia is returning to its old ways under communism. “Russia and China are forming an alliance and this is no time to let our defenses down.

“The best defense to keep peace, is a strong defense with strong weaponry. We’ve learned this lesson of peace from the past.”

Thatcher said, “China is a rising superpower and needs to be watched carefully.” She spoke favorably of Rumsfield’s stance on defense. She said, “A global missile defense is a necessity.”

Thatcher urged that NATO should continue to be strong and she does not favor a European defense system that would go it alone.

New challenges, addressed by Thatcher are the extension of free trade and the new military threats from rogue states.

“These challenges, which are between societies, will also be mirrored by the problems within our societies. If the 21st Century is to be another ‘American Century,’ then the West must find solutions to these pressing questions,” Thatcher said.

Crime Numbers Down in Ponca City

By JEFF POLITTE

News Staff Writer

According to a report released earlier this month by the Ponca City Police Department, statistics for Part I or serious type crimes in Ponca City during the year 2000 were down by 7.6 percent compared to 1999.

The report cites that residents reported 3 homicides; 27 rapes; 20 robberies; 831 assaults; 287 breaking and enterings; 908 larcenies; and 77 motor vehicle thefts for the year.

The report also cites that thefts, which totaled $880,227, were down by 24 percent, while arrests for the year totaled 2,685. This number was 532 less than in than in 1999, which saw 3,208 arrests.

According to Ponca City Police Chief Raymond E. Ham, those reduced numbers can be directly attributed to citizen involvement. “Citizens are becoming more aware and more active in their own safety and the safety of their property and neighborhoods than they have been in previous years,” Ham explained. “They are better informed, are more visible and are reporting things they see that may prevent crimes from happening.”

Ham noted they are also more involved in programs like the Neighborhood Watch program, the Extra Eyes programs and the Westside Project.

To help foster this increased awareness, the department has been holding community meetings and crime prevention talks for civic groups and clubs to help citizens learn how to better prevent themselves from becoming victims of crime. “When people know how to protect themselves, those numbers naturally tend to go down,” he said.

Other factors Ham attributed to the overall decrease in serious crimes were an increase in drug arrests and cleared warrants, with the latter affected by an officer permanently assigned to warrant-type cases. “If people are picked up on a warrant, then they will likely spend time in city jail, rather than being arrested over and over again for different crimes,” he said. He also said the overall activity and visibility of these officers, who are out making these types of arrests, tends to prevent other crimes from happening, at the same time.

While the overall percentage of serious crimes in Ponca City was down, the report showed the actual number of rapes, robberies and assaults were up considerably for the year.

Why were these types of crimes up while other crimes down in 2000?

According to Ham, it was a result of some of the same factors that caused the overall “decrease” in crime for the year. He explains: “This is because (many of the department’s community programs) help to make the public more confident in their police department. When people are more confident in their police department, then they are more likely to report these types of crimes.

“An example of this is rape, which is probably one of the most under reported crimes any community suffers. The more confidence the victims have with their police department, prosecution and court system, the more this crime is reported.”

Assaults in particular were up, according to Ham, due to a new school resource officer, Sgt. Randy Empting, assigned to the high school, and a change in the department’s policies regarding fights among students at that school. He pointed out that today these cases are handled immediately in conjunction with the school and parents, which results in many of these students being cited for assault. “Today in our high school immediate results are expected and taken,” he said. “As a result, we expect to see a decrease in this area next year.”

“The school resource officer is a community police officer. His presence is to allow all parties to become better acquainted with his/her presence. By doing so, and by working with everyone involved, we hope to maintain the safe climate of our schools,” Ham continued.

This year, because of the program’s success at the high school, the department has also added a second school resource officer, Master Patrolman Tom Burg, to the middle school.

Jana Shafer Honored by State for Youth Efforts

NEWKIRK — Jana Shafer, Main Street board member and Junior Main Street sponsor, received a Friends of Children award from the Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy. Each year, the institute celebrates Oklahomans who have done outstanding things for the state’s children and youth.

For 20 years, Shafer has served on the Newkirk school board leading her wisdom and experience to guide the Newkirk school system during that period of time. After her retirement from the school board, she took on a new role in 1997 as the adult sponsor for the Newkirk Junior Main Street.

Although the Main Street concept was instituted in 1977, Newkirk was the first community in the nation to organize a Junior Main Street. Shafer has always been at the helm of this group and her dedication and efforts working with the students has made a significant difference in the community and in the lives of the students.

Shafer strives to teach the students to accept responsibility for their actions and instill in them a strong sense of community.

In addition to having served on the Newkirk school board, she also taught Sunday school at the First Presbyterian Church for more than 30 years. She is one of the adult sponsors for Kids Club, assists with the youth group and gives the children’s sermon in church.

Letters

Preserve Brick Streets

On March 26, the City Commissioners voted to approve the re-paving of Osage Street from Otoe to Highland.

For the last four years, the Ponca City Landmark Conservancy has identified historic brick streets as one of our most endangered and valuable historic resources. The members of that organization have consistently voted in favor of that listing. In that time, I have learned much about them, their value to a community, and their restoration and preservation.

Brick streets were first laid in Ponca City in the mid-teens; many have been in use now for nearly 80 years. Ironically, they have generally required no maintenance in that time. Compare that with a chip and seal overlay — the most common repair for a brick street. Chip and seal has a life-span of less than 10 years.

However, I certainly do not advocate preserving brick streets only because they have historic value. There are other compelling reasons.

Brick streets are not rough if you are driving the speed limit; however the improper repair of brick streets can be rough. Generally Ponca City’s brick streets are fairly smooth unless the brick has been taken up for repair to water or sewer lines beneath. When the street foundation is not properly redone, we have dips and holes.

Brick streets are a natural speed control. Most of our brick streets are in residential areas. Since they are slightly bumpy, people tend to drive somewhat slower. The 25 MPH speed limit is these areas is plenty slow enough for the drive not to be uncomfortable if the street has not had poor repair work done, and is slow enough to prevent vehicle damage. It is interesting that where streets have been overlaid with chip and seal or completely rebuilt — such as South Ash — speeds of cars have increased, the street attracts more traffic, people quit wanting to live on the street, property values drop, and safety of children is jeopardized. A well-maintained brick street is much preferable in a residential area than a street made for high-speed traffic. There is absolutely no need for building streets though residential neighborhoods that can be driven safely and comfortably at speeds of 40 or 50 miles per hour. Because that is exactly how fast people will drive — regardless of the posted speed limits.

Brick streets are greatly respected in many parts of our community. For example, residents of Virginia or South Seventh or North Sixth would show up to complain in force if their brick street was threatened. In Ponca City, they are considered attractive to home-buyers as illustrated by the number of real estate listings we see that mention a home ‘on a brick street’.

Brick Streets are also very respected across the county. Many communities advertise their historic brick streets. Some communities, such as Seaside Fla., are installing new brick streets. Seaside is a community that is completely new and has won many awards for livability and its people-orientated design. Progressive communities recognize that brick streets have value to their residents. These examples also show that brick streets can be successfully maintained and rebuilt. In fact, I have presented representatives of our city with files on how this can be done. Yet we continue to cover over brick streets with ineffective chip and seal that wont last 1/10 of the time a brick street has.

Brick streets help define our community, and they give character to our neighborhoods. They set Ponca City apart from every other place. Taking out a brick street removes a large part of that neighborhood’s character; it begins to loose its identity. It becomes ‘no place special’, just life everyplace else.

As citizens, we pay a one-cent sales tax for street repairs. South Osage from Grand Avenue to Otoe, is an appropriate project for street repair — that part of Osage is awful. But instead of spending our sales tax dollars to fix a street that is fairly smooth and has much aesthetic value — such as N. Osage — is not responsible. It is even less responsible when we consider that N. Osage has curbs and gutters and other attributes that many other streets — particularly on the south and west sides of town — do not enjoy. If this money just has to be spent, lets look at fixing South 12th near Attucks school, or other very poor streets that are really bad.

I encourage the residents of North Osage to request that their street be protected, that their property values and their children’s safety be respected, and the character of their neighborhood be considered important. I also encourage all our citizens to take a long hard look at what streets really need to be repaired in Ponca City. Look and see where we have streets that don’t have gutters and curbs or other decent improvements, and ask the city to please deal with these problems before they redo a perfectly good street simply because it is made of brick. It is a responsible use of our street tax money to make all our streets decent, it is not responsible to just spend it because it is there to be spent.

Bret Carter

Hospice of Ponca City Joining Others for Grief Teleconference

Hospice of Ponca City will join more than 2,000 organizations across the United States and Canada on Wednesday, April 18, as a local host for the Hospice Foundation of America’s eighth annual Living With Grief Teleconference.

This is the eighth teleconference hosted by Hospice of Ponca City. It will begin promptly at 12:30 p.m. at Pioneer Technology Center. There is no charge to attend, but a companion book will be available for purchase. Call Hospice of Ponca City at 762-9102 to register.

“Caregiving and Loss: Family Needs, Professional Responses,” a live-via-satellite video teleconference, will examine ways that professionals can better understand and respond to the needs of family caregivers.

“It is estimated that there are more than 25 million family caregivers in this country providing 80 percent of home care services. In many cases, this valuable work is unrecognized, “ commented Jack D. Gordon, chairman of the Hospice Foundation of America. “Caregiving is especially challenging for those coping with terminal illness and facing end-of-life decisions. It’s important for healthcare professionals to understand the unique needs of family caregivers and assist them in ways that will provide support and understanding.”

This program will offer insight and practical suggestions for those assisting family caregivers as they respond to the challenges of caregiving, make critical end-of-life decisions, and cope with their grief. The program will be moderated by Cokie Roberts of ABC News and will feature a distinguished panel of experts, with a special message from former first lady Rosalynn Carter.

The teleconference is produced by Hospice Foundation of America, a nonprofit organization that works to educate healthcare professionals and the families they serve in issues relating to terminal illness, grief and bereavement. The program is sponsored in part by a grant from the Foundation for End of Life Care, Project on Death in America of the Open Society Institute, and in cooperation with the Association for Death Education and Counseling and The Compassionate Friends. The annual broadcast reaches an estimated live audience of 150,000 people nationwide.

Roberts will moderate the two-and-one-half-hour panel discussion. The panel will include Kenneth J. Doka, Ph.D, Lutheran minister and professor of gerontology at the College of New Rochelle; Bernice Catherine Harper, MSW, medical care advisor of the Health Care Financing Administration; Carol Levine, MA, director of the Families and Health Care Project of the United Hospital Fund; Susan Reinhard, RN, Ph.D, executive director of the Center for Medicare Education, Institute for the Future of Aging Services; and Myrl Weinberg, CAE, president of the National Health Council.

Whiting Is Champion In Elks Fund Raiser ‘Calling for the Hogs’

Robert Whiting beat out defending champion Susan Pollard and three other contestants to win the “Champion Hog Caller for 2001” trophy during the recent “Calling for the Hogs” fun evening for Ponca City Elks and spouses.

Other contestants were Phil Rice, Darrell Dorman and Jensi Gann.

Elks and spouses emptied their “purple pig” banks into a big jar which benefited the Oklahoma Elks Major projects by $355.

The OEMP is funded by Oklahoma Elks for the benefit of other Oklahomans. This year the OEMP will fund scholarships for $16,000, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol Cadet Lawman Academy for $25,000 and the Special Olympics for $20,000.

In addition, two drug and alcohol treatment centers, “Valley Hope” and “The Next Step” will each receive $6,000.

Other funding for charities who help children with special needs are the American Diabetes Association Camp for $5,000, BSA Troop 999 for $4,500 and “The Sky’s the Limit” for $3,800.

Crime Stoppers

Motorcycles Missing, Vandalism Done

Ponca City police are asking for your help in solving two crimes which happened over the last two weeks.

The first crime was a burglary at a storage building, used for storing motorcycles, in the 500 block of South Pine Street sometime between Friday, March 9 and 12.

According to police, officers responding to the scene found a broken window on the east side of the storage building, and the padlocks had been cut off from the doors.

Stolen were two Kawasaki motorcycles, both green and white in color, one a 250cc and the other a 200cc, and a 250cc red Honda four wheeler with a black frame and red seat.

The second crime was a vandalism at the Masonic Lodge, 1200 West Grand Avenue. Police say the lodge had a considerable amount of satanic-type graffiti sprayed onto its exterior sometime during the night on March 18. This same type of graffiti was also sprayed onto the sign posted in front of the lodge. Officers retrieved an empty can of black spray paint from the scene.

Anyone having any information about this vandalism, the earlier burglary, the location of the stolen motorcycles or four wheeler, or any other crime, please call the Ponca City Area Crime Stoppers at 762-5100. The caller will remain anonymous and could receive a reward of up to $1,000.

DEATHS

Maude I. Schuneman
Floyd Arnold Mack
Peggy Lee Friedman
William C. Kincaid
Taliana Marie DeJesus Powell

Maude I. Schuneman

ARKANSAS CITY, Kan. — Maude I. Schuneman, resident of Arkansas City, Kan., died Tuesday, March 27, 2001, at the Medicalodge East Health Care Center. She was 95.

The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 31, at the Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. in the Lamont Cemetery. The Rev. Kathy Gann will officiate.

Maude I. Schuneman was born April 28, 1905, in Creston, Iowa, the daughter of Grant and Lavina Regina Bagley Grubb. She was reared and educated in Lamont, graduating from Lamont High School in 1923. She married Henry Schuneman on Sept. 15, 1929, in Lamont, where they made their home before moving to Tonkawa and later to Arkansas City in 1947. She was employed with the Arkansas City Memorial Hospital for 13 years in the housekeeping department before retiring in 1976. Maude was a longtime member of the Grandview United Methodist Church.

Survivors include one son, Louie Henry Schuneman of the home; one daughter, Vina May Bazil of Arkansas City; three grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a daughter, Virginia Webster; three brothers, Clarence Grubb, Orval Grubb and Arthur Grubb; and four sisters, Edna Fern Nolan, Georgia Ellen Blasdel, Estella Mae Snapp, and her twin, Mable Ailene McKee.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Grandview United Methodist Church, c/o Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home, 100 E. Kansas Ave., Arkansas City, Kan. 67005.

Floyd Arnold Mack

LAMONT — Floyd Arnold Mack, resident of Lamont, died Monday, March 26, 2001, at his home. He was 73.

The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, March 30, in the United Methodist Church in Lamont with the Revs. Kirk Moeling and Richard Leonard officiating. Cremation will follow the service with burial of the cremains at a later date in Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Salt Fork. Arrangements are under the direction of Wilson Funeral Home.

Floyd Arnold Mack was born Feb. 4, 1928, in Salt Fork, the son of Fred Joseph and Anna Margaret Hoffman Mack. He attended Lamont schools, graduating in 1946. He married Ida Camille Foss on Sept. 28, 1946, in Caldwell, Kan. They made their home in the Salt Fork-Lamont area. He was a welder, working in Tonkawa and Ponca City. He also farmed in the Salt Fork community. He was a member of the United Methodist Church.

Survivors include his wife of the home; one son, Fred Arnold Mack of Lamont; two daughters, Susan Camille Mack of Norman and Deborah Ann Helton of Oklahoma City; and one grandson.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Willa Mae Moses and Emily Ann Fitzgerald.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Association for Mental Health, c/o Wilson Funeral Home, 227 E. Aspen, Pond Creek, Okla. 73766.

Peggy Lee Friedman

WICHITA, Kan. — Peggy Lee Friedman, former resident of Ponca City, died Monday, March 26, 2001. She was 67.

A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Friday, March 30, at the Westlink Christian Church under the direction of Downing and Lahey Mortuary West Chapel in Wichita, Kan.

Peggy Lee Friedman was born Jan. 21, 1934, in Murphy, Ore., the daughter of Ernest and Delores Day Thompson.

Survivors include her husband of 47 years, Herbert Friedman; her mother of Muskogee; two sons, Gary R. Friedman and Greg L. Friedman, both of Wichita; a sister, Kay Schagunn of Muskogee; and four grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, 555 N. Woodlawn, Building One, Suite 113, Wichita, Kan. 67208.

Services Pending

William C. Kincaid

BLACKWELL — William C. Kincaid, resident of Blackwell, died Wednesday, March 28, 2001, at the Blackwell Integris Regional Hospital. He was 77. Services are pending with Hackler Funeral Home.

Funerals

Thursday

Taliana Marie DeJesus Powell

Taliana Marie DeJesus Powell — Graveside service at 3 p.m. at the Resthaven Mortuary in Wichita, Kan., under the direction of Resthaven Mortuary and Cemetery in Wichita.

NEWS BRIEFS

Military Graduate — Air Force Airmen 1st Class Bob L. Tull has graduated from the utilities systems apprentice course at Sheppard Air Force Base, Wichita Falls, Texas. Tull is the son of Robert L. and Etta M. Tull of N. Traders Bend Road, Newkirk.

Pauline’s Hot Prime Rib Open Face sandwich with mash pota-toes and mushroom gravy, $7.95. Every Wednesday night. For reservations call 765-5460. adv.

Otoe-Missouria Head Start — The Otoe-Missouria Head Start is taking applications for children three and four years of age to attend the Head Start program. If you are interested call (580) 723-4466 for an application or pick one up at the Otoe-Missouria Tribe, 8151 Highway 177, Red Rock.

Onion plants and set seed potatoes, strawberry plants, berry plants, tomato plants, cucumber and squash plants. Keathly Nursery, 2448 Bridge Avenue, 762-

2922. adv.

Primetimers — Travel show for wineries and waterways of New York State at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at the Pioneer Bank and Trust Motor Bank.

Head Country, One half bar-b-que chicken with choice of vege-tables, $4.25, Thursday, 11 am until gone. 1217 East Prospect. 767-8304. adv.

Birthday Event — A Native American Church meeting will be held Saturday evening at the Gives Water family arbor southwest of Ponca City to celebrate the birthday of Ed Little Cook Jr., son of Ed Little Cook Sr. and Georgina Little Cook. The family is inviting all relatives and friends to come and eat with them at a noon meal on April 1 in his honor.

Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential. 700 West Broadway. Call for hours. 765-9689. adv.

Accident — Conoco security advised Ponca City police at 7:01 a.m. Tuesday a semi-truck was stuck in the underpass in the 100 block of West South Avenue. An officer was assigned, but the vehicle was gone on arrival.

Before you sign the dotted line talk with Heartland Hearing Aid and hear the difference. Prices to meet or beat all others and more. 1302 North 7th. 767-1961. adv.

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

Vandalism — A man in the 300 block of South Oak Street reported his vehicle had been egged overnight to Ponca City police at 8:16 a.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

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

Theft — An employee at First Street Laundry, 612 North First Street, reported a theft to Ponca City police at 8:43 a.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Body Masters starting morning aerobics, Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 9am to 10am. Child care provided. adv.

Gas Drive-Off — A clerk at Triple T No. 3, 720 South Waverly Street, reported a $7.70 gas drive-off to Ponca City police at 10:25 a.m. Tuesday. A description was given of the vehicle. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Fake Bake, the 2 minute tan. Great results. We’ll demonstrate at Carl's Hallmark, Downtown. adv.

Miscellaneous — An employee at Champlin Motors, 401 South Fourteenth Street, reported to Ponca City police at 12:49 p.m. Tuesday several items which did not belong to the business were found in a stolen vehicle which had been recovered that morning. The vehicle had been reported stolen the night before. An officer was assigned.

Sonic 5th and Hartford will close March 28 for about 10 days to remodel. We apologize for any inconvenience. adv.

Fire Run — A grass fire at the intersection of U.S. 77 and Marland Road was reported to the Communications Center at 1:13 p.m. Tuesday. Marland Volunteer Fire Department was advised.

Fuller Brush, Watkins and Vision for Life products available at 300 West Highland, (Ponca Glass building). 762-6522. adv.

Subject Held — An officer in the 600 block of East Grand Avenue reported a 14-year-old boy was taken into custody for assault with a deadly weapon at 2:42 p.m. Tuesday.

Burglary — A woman in the 2500 block of East Hartford Avenue reported her vehicle had been burglarized overnight and several items missing to Ponca City police at 9:04 p.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Accident — A two-vehicle, non-injury accident at the intersection of Fairview Avenue and Hartford Avenue was reported to Ponca City police at 2:58 p.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Windshield Chips repaired professionally. Guaranteed and insurance approved. Ponca Glass, 300 W. Highland and Pine. 762-6522. adv.

Theft — An employee at Hartford Animal Clinic, 300 East Hartford Avenue, reported a dog had been stolen from the clinic to Ponca City police at 3:33 p.m. Tuesday. A description was given of the animal. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Theft — A student in the office at Lincoln School, 1501 West Grand Avenue, reported a stolen bicycle to Ponca City police at 3:49 p.m. Tuesday. A second student had ridden away on the bike. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. The bike was recovered and released to its owner. A juvenile citation was issued.

Subject Held — An officer in the 300 block of South Lincoln Street reported a 54-year-old man was taken into custody on a Johnson County, Kan., warrant for non-payment of child support at 6:05 p.m. Tuesday.

Theft — A man in the 700 block of North First Street reported to Ponca City police his son’s bicycle, which had been reported stolen earlier, had been recovered in several pieces at 6:06 p.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Accident — A hit-and-run accident with injury at the intersection of Oklahoma 11 and U.S. 77 was reported to Ponca City police at 9:04 p.m. Tuesday. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol and Kay County Sheriff’s Office were advised. An ambulance from the Ponca City Fire Department also responded to the scene. A woman was taken with back, neck and leg pain to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center.

Disturbance — A resident reported to Ponca City police two men were fighting in the front yard of a residence in the 600 block of South Fifth Street at 10:22 p.m. Tuesday. Three officers responded to the scene, and advised both subjects, which were intoxicated, lived at the residence. One of the subjects had fallen and hit his head on the pavement. An ambulance from the Ponca City Fire Department responded to the scene for a no haul.

LIFESTYLES

Pioneer Genealogical Society Celebrates 30 Year Anniversary
American Legion, Auxiliary Mark 82 Years
Overeaters Groups Set Meetings

Pioneer Genealogical Society Celebrates 30 Year Anniversary

Editor’s Note: The following information was provided to The News by Marlene Hume Stewart.

Thirty years ago, E.C. Rivers held a workshop at the Hutchins Memorial for anyone that might be interested in researching their family tree. From this group 14 people chose to form a genealogy group or society. On March 29, 1971, these 14 people met at the Hutchins Memorial building to organize the Pioneer Genealogical Society.

They were: Eugene C. Rivers, Howard Pruyne, Clint Hyatt, Thomas Maddox, Russell Moore, Marlene Stewart, Emma Chandler, Gertrude Scott, Johnnie Mae Franklin, Pauline Buck, Velva Rose, Edythe Gieseker, Thaylia Boxley and Sandra Moore.

At this first meeting, E.C. Rivers, as acting president, called the meeting to order and appointed a Constitutional Committee and a Nominating Committee. The Constitutional Committee included Howard Pruyne, chairman; Gertrude Scott, Johnnie Mae Franklin, Pauline Buck, Velma Rose, and E. C. Rivers as ex-officio. Nominating Committee members were Clint Hyatt, Thomas Maddox, Russell Moore, Marlene Stewart, and Emma Chandler, with E.C. Rivers as ex-officio.

At the first business meeting on April 19, 1971, the Constitutional Committee presented the first Constitution to the membership. Annual dues payment of $5 a year was set and life-time membership was to be $25. The Nominating Committee presented the nominees for the first slate of officers: President, Eugene C. Rivers; Vice-President, Howard D. Pruyne; Recording Secretary, Edythe Gieseker; Corresponding Secretary, Marlene Stewart; Treasurer, Thomas Maddox; Archivist, Russell Moore; Historian, Thalia Boxley; and Members-at-large, Sandra Moore and Pauline Buck.

The membership chose the name Pioneer Genealogical Society. Place of meeting would be in the Ponca City Library basement on the first Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. In addition to the regular slate of offices, other offices and committees were established, such as projects; books and periodicals; microfilm machine purchase-fund; finance committee; and stationery/ membership cards with the name Pioneer Genealogical Society, and the Pioneer Woman Statue as the logo.

The first project was making a list of all genealogy books locally available at the Ponca City Library and from the Pioneer Genealogical Society membership. This list included the title, author, a short resume of content and the location of each book. The group held a workshop each month for the first year. A program was also presented at each meeting.

Through the years, the Pioneer Genealogical Society has met at different locations, such as the Sunshine Room at Hutchins Memorial, the Ponca City Library, the First National Auto-Bank Club Room, Grace Episcopal Church, Oklahoma Natural Gas Conference Room, the First National Bank, and Woodlands Christian Church. Currently, they meet at the Ponca City Library Program Room in the basement at 7 p.m. on the first Monday of each month, except for the months of July and August. Because Labor Day falls on the first Monday of September, that month’s meeting is held on the following Monday.

Many changes have taken place over the past 30 years. The Genealogical research library is one of the best in the area. Many workshops have been held with nationally-known genealogy speakers, and also, by knowledgeable members of the Society. Outstanding workshops have been offered to the membership and to the public by accredited professional genealogists such as those from Everton’s Publishers, Ye Olde Genealogie Shoppe, the American Genealogical Lending Library, and more.

The North Central Oklahoma Historical Association, Inc. Ponca City, Oklahoma and their publication, “Rooted In The Past — Growing For The Future” and the Pioneer Genealogical Society Computer Interest Group are “spin-offs” of the Pioneer Genealogical Society. The PGS Computer Interest Group meets on the third Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. at the University Learning Center in the Conoco North Tower basement.

Of the original 14 members, only five are alive today. They are Marlene Hume Stewart, Pauline Buck Rouse, Edythe Gieseker, and Sandra Moore, all of Ponca City and Thaylia Boxley of Shidler.

The Pioneer Genealogical Society membership extends an invitation to all who are interested in finding their “roots” to attend the next meeting to be held on April 2, at 7 p.m. in the Programming Room of the Ponca City Library. The program will consist of mini-workshops on Civil War Genealogy, Quaker Records, and Revolutionary War Genealogy. There will be research materials available. Bring names that you are researching and “come prepared to work,” said a spokesperson.

American Legion, Auxiliary Mark 82 Years

Members of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 14 met recently with the American Legion for a dinner at the Post to celebrate the group’s 82nd birthday anniversary. A decorated cake was presented to Commander Marvin Rider by auxiliary vice president Dora Adkins.

During the auxiliary meeting Cecelia Easky read the minutes, and Dora McGee gave the treasurer’s report. Clara McCollum, membership chairman, announced a roll of 364 seniors, eight juniors, and four VIMS.

Dora Adkins reported for the Children and Youth committee and the community service donations to The Mission on South Avenue. Evelynn McCutcheon gave the Canteen report, and gave a report on Debbie Hamilton’s homecoming in Oklahoma City.

Cecelia Easky, Girls State chairman, reported that plans were finalized for junior students at Ponca City High School to participate in the Girls State convention. Other sponsoring organizations are the Daughters of the American Revolution, American Association of University Women, and the Vision Ambucs.

Betty Brown, poppy chairman, announced it was time to reorder poppies for sale in May and for the poppy arrangement contest to be conducted at the Eighth District Auxiliary convention. The single poppies are handmade by veterans and their families and proceeds are used for assistance to veterans and their families. Joyce Chrisler will be crafting the Unit 14 entries for the convention slated March 31 in Enid. Catherine Heady was welcomed as a new member of the auxiliary.

The next auxiliary meeting will be at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, April 12, at the post. Plans will be made for the annual Children and Youth weekend with festivities at the legion post and at the Children’s Home. Members are reminded to bring donations for The Mission.

Overeaters Groups Set Meetings

Overeaters Anonymous now has two meetings each week for the convenience of those who wish to attend. The meetings are to help those who feel their eating is out of control, that they need help to put food in its proper perspective. OA helps compulsive overeaters in the same way that Alcoholics Anonymous helps others.

Do you eat when you’re not hungry? Is your weight affecting the way you live your life? Are you in good shape now, but find you are constantly gaining a little weight, year after year? Do you eat to escape from worries? Do you eat sensibly with others and then make up for it when you are alone?

Overeaters Anonymous is not a group to join. There is no membership roll, no fees. Only first names are used. A small donation may be made if desired to cover cost of pamphlets to help you understand the program, and later a person may desire to order books to help understand the problem and conquer it as far as possible. Family members may attend together, with no age separations. This is a learning and support group.

One may attend once or twice a week, whichever is desired, at one’s own convenience. Meetings are Saturday morning, 10-11 , at Woodlands Christian Church (use southeast door) and Thursday evening, 7-8, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Conference Room D, downstairs. For more information, call 762-2161 or 762-8256.

SPORTS

Bucs Simpson Captures Award
Lady Cats Play Well But Lose in OT
Megenity’s Hat Trick Not Enough for Cats
Arctic Wildcats Sweep Tonkawa
Break Out the Fishing Gear
Fishing Great Activity
Apply for Special Hunts on Internet

Bucs Simpson Captures Award

TONKAWA — Senior Tonkawa running back Kolby Simpson will receive a $1,000 Scholar-Athlete Scholarship Wednesday in Oklahoma City, along with 25 other top athletes and scholars from across the state.

According to coach Steve Love, Simpson excels in the classroom as well as on the football field.

“He’s won two essay contests. He went to Washington, D.C. last year after winning an essay and speech contest by Kay Electric,” Love said. “This year, he won a Daily Oklahmoman essay contest on the subject of, sportsmanship.”

When asked what his statistics were from the past football season, Simpson said, “You’ll have to ask coach Love, he would be the one to know that.”

According to Love, Simpson carried the ball 308 times for 2,400 yards and 40 touchdowns.

“Not bad, huh,” Love said. “He’ll be hard to replace.”

Simpson, who carries a 3.83 grade point average said he is definitely going to college, but is undecided on where or what his major will be.

The Buccaneers lost four games and won back-to-back state championships in 1999 and 2000, during Simpson’s high school football career.

“It’s been an exciting four years,” Simpson said. “It was a lot of fun.”

Simpson was one of more than 65 players from nearly 325 schools in Oklahoma who were nominated for the 2001 Scholar-Athlete Scholarships being awarded at the 17th Annual Awards Dinner hosted by the Oklahoma Chapter of the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame.

The Dinner will begin at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 28 at the Petroleum Club in Oklahoma City. Each winner will receive a $1,000 Southwestern Bell Scholar/Athlete Award to be used to further his education.

University of Oklahoma football coach Bob Stoops will be the keynote speaker and Max Weitznhoffer, Jr. will be the master of ceremonies on this evening honoring the top 26 High School Scholar/Football Players in the State of Oklahoma.

Edward L. Gaylord will be honored as the recipient of the Distinguished American Award. Receiving the Contribution to Amateur Football Award posthumously will be Bill Teegins. Coach Allan Trimble (Jenks H.S.), coach Mike Lee (Clinton H.S.), and coach Steve Lykes (Piedmont H.S.) will each be a recipient of $1 ,000 stipend for the Oklahoman Football Coach Award.

The other 25 scholar-athletes at the banquet will be: William D. “Billy” Bajema, Westmore; Michael Ballard, Claremore; Caleb T.Y. Blankenship, Union; Lance Bradt, Thomas; Ryan Breeze, Lawton; Michael B. Brosey, Putnam City North; Tyler Campbell, Carl Albert; Heath Evans, Cascia Hall; Josh Fields, Stillwater; Jacob Hager, Perry; Ross Hines, Clinton; Matthew S. Hinton, Carl Albert; Nathaniel Huston HufÞnan, Casady School; Paul Long, Heritage Hall; M.Scott McCoy, Jenks; James Michael Milligan, Bishop McGuinness; Daniel Mosburg, Thomas; Christopher Pete Poison, Tahlequah; Mike Roberson, Carl Albert; Rodney Skinner, Clinton; Matt Tippett, Piedmont; Chad Tsotigh, Moore; Jared J. Vrazel, Mannford; Michael Adam Watkins, McAlester; and Landon Keith Willis, Jenks.

Lady Cats Play Well But Lose in OT

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

“This was the best game we’ve played this season,” soccer coach Steve Hermann said after the Lady Wildcats took highly ranked Edmond Memorial to overtime before losing 3-2 at Sullins Stadium in the rain and cold Tuesday.

“They (the Lady Bulldogs) are a top 10 team,” Hermann explained. “They are a good team and I couldn’t be more pleased with the way we played.

“We had a meeting Monday, coming back from spring break, and the girls decided they wanted to play better. It showed tonight.”

The Lady Cats controlled most of the first half but couldn’t find the back of he net.

Edmond finally broke through with 8:23 remaining in the half, scoring off a corner kick

But less than two minutes later, Ponca City freshman midfielder Janna Green was fouled in the Edmond box,

She beat the Memorial goalies with a bullet through the right side on the penalty kick to tie the score.

It remained deadlocked until 12:45 remaining in regulation when Edmond scored again from about 20 yards out.

The Lady Cats had a hard time mounting an attack after that and seemed headed for certain defeat in the waning minutes.

But, then junior forward Sherina Wood got free on a break-away and slid her shot past the Edmond goalie with just 1:07 left on the clock.

The teams battled evenly through the first 15-minute overtime period, but with 4:52 left in the second OT, Edmond collected the sudden death winner on a perfect header off a free kick from about 30 yards away.

“It was a great shot,” Hermann said of Edmond’s winning goal. “If you’re going to et beat, it’s best if its on a shot like that.”

The loss left the Po-Hi girls 0-1 in the seven-team district and 1-3 overall. But Hermann sees bright things ahead.

“The girls played really well and this shows we can play with anyone,” Herman said.

“Sherina played her heart out, Tiffany Smith (sophomore defender) played great and (freshman) Amanda had her best game in goal.”

The Lady Cats will be home again Friday for their second district outing, against Midwest City,

That will also be Homecoming with the celebration to be held between the girls and boys’ games. The girls play at 6 p.m. with the boys’ match starting about 8.

Megenity’s Hat Trick Not Enough for Cats

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

Wildcat striker Kyle Megenity collected the first soccer hat trick of the season, but it wasn’t enough as the Poncans lost a 5-3 decision to Edmond Memorial in the opening district match of the season Tuesday at Sullins Stadium.

Megenity, a sophomore, scored on a break-away just three minutes into the match to give the Wildcats a quick 1-0 lead.

But just served to irritate the Bulldogs, who came roaring back to tie the score a minute later and went ahead 2-1 less than halfway through the first half on a header off a corner kick

With just over 10 minutes remaining in the half, Edmond broke through again for a 3-1 advantage.

But Megenity got the Cats going again just 10 minutes into the second half, scoring from the right side on a ball that sprouted eyes to weave its way through the Edmond defenders.

Once again it took Edmond just a minute to respond, padding the led to 4-2.

Edmond scored again with 14:09 remaining in the match to build a 5-2 lead.

But the Cats kept coming and with 11:24 left, Megenity took a pass from Greg Perez and beat the Edmond goalkeeper again.

But that was as close as the Poncans could get.

“The kids never quit,” Wildcat coach Marco Castillo said. “They played hard the whole match.

“It’s a tough loss but we can come back from it.

“Kyle had a good game and Jerimy Cox (senior midfielder) played just great,” the coach added.

The Wildcats, 0-1 in district and 1-2 overall, try again to break into the district win column when they host Midwest City Friday night.

That will be homecoming for the Po-Hi soccer teams. The celebration will be held between the girls’ and boys’ games. The girls are scheduled to kickoff at 6 p.m. with the boys starting about 8.

Arctic Wildcats Sweep Tonkawa

By DAVID DAVIS

News Sports Writer

TONKAWA — The Ponca City Arctic Wildcats swept the Tonkawa Buccaneers 9-1 and 15-5, amid snow flurries Tuesday, on the frozen tundra in Tonkawa.

The area temperature was in the high-30’s with intermittent rain and snow. In spite of a bitter cold Spring, the Cats’ bats have remained warm since the team traveled to Arizona during Spring break to thaw out.

Jimmo Ozment hit his second home run in three games with a two-run shot in the second inning of the late game for one of the Cats’ 15 hits.

The Cats scored five runs in the first inning on five hits and one error. J. Michael Sharon led off with a walk. Bryan Coppock followed-up with a single. Doug Tosh walked to load the bases for Ozment, who singled on the first pitch, to drive in two runs. BJ Hayes hit a grounder to second for an out, but Ozment scored from third on the play. The Cats scored four more runs in the third and fourth innings to put the game away, 15-5.

In the first game, three of the first four Wildcats who went to the plate got a hit. J. Michael Sharon opened the game with a single. Bryan Coppock hit a double that moved Sharon to second. Doug Tosh drove them both home with a single. The only other Wildcat runs were scored in the third inning. Seven of 13 batters crossed the plate in the third inning on four walks, a hit batter, a double and two errors.

Thomas Levings scored for Tonkawa in the top of the fifth. He reached first base on a single then advanced to third on a double by Travis Reese and an error by shortstop Bryan Coppock.

Doug Tosh was the starting pitcher in the first game. He was relieved in the fourth inning by Matt Wilks. J. Michael Sharon stepped into the rotation and pitched all five innings of the second game.

The Wildcat record is 9 wins and 8 losses. The team travels to Norman Thursday for a tournament.

Outdoors

Break Out the Fishing Gear

Spring is finally here.

So, take advantage of it.

Break the rods and reels out of winter storage, load up the family and head to that favorite fishing spot. Whether fishing out of a boat or from the bank, the opportunities are endless for some great fishing action across the Sooner State.

“Oklahoma has a lot of water and everyone knows water works wonders,” said Barry Bolton, assistant chief for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation's Fish Division. “Fishing is a lot of fun and it provides a great opportunity to rekindle relationships with friends or family members. We have received good reports from across the state recently, so it would be a great time to get in on the action.”

To get a jump on the action, take a look at the following species before heading out.

White Bass

White bass are found in most waters state-wide and they are notorious for their fighting ability. They will begin spawning runs up many of Oklahoma's streams and rivers during March and April. Scattered reports indicate anglers are catching sand bass that are beginning to run in southern areas of the state.

White bass fishing is also good in most lakes across the state, as the fish begin to congregate in the mouths of most lake tributaries for their spawning run. As they stage, anglers can enjoy some very hot action by fishing with minnows, twister-tail jigs and medium running crankbaits.

Crappie

Crappie fishing around the state continues to improve as the fish begin to gather before spawning from late-March to early-May. They will continue to congregate in preparation for the spawn.

To get in on some good action, try fishing minnows and jigs around structure, 10 to 20 feet deep, off gradually sloping shorelines. Don't be afraid to move around. Crappie often move in and out of shallow water this time of year, depending on weather, time of day and water temperature. Try fishing deeper structure during mornings and evenings and along shady banks while fishing shallower structure during mid-day on sun-lit banks.

Largemouth Bass

Spring is the best time of year for anglers to catch a trophy largemouth bass. Two Oklahoma anglers have already caught fish over 14 pounds this year.

Anglers should have good results by fishing flooded timber and other deep underwater structure with crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jigs and plastic worms. Shiners and goldfish can be good choices as well.

Catfish

Catfish are abundant in streams, rivers and lakes across Oklahoma, and spring is an excellent time to experience some quality catfishing action.

Some of the best action can be found in Oklahoma's tributaries by fishing with shad, liver, worms or cut baits. Whether fishing from a boat or from the bank, using rods and reels, or limb-lines, look for eddies in these tributaries and give catfishing a spin.

To find out more about local lakes and what species are biting, check out the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation's fishing report by logging on to the Department'swebsite, at www.wildlifedepartment.com/fishrpt.htm.

Fishing Great Activity

Old man winter is slowly losing its grasp on the Sooner state, and just like the weather, fishing is warming up, offering sportsmen an escape from cabin fever.

“Water levels are up in some areas of the state due to recent rains, but that isn't slowing fishing down any,” said Barry Bolton, assistant chief for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation's Fish Division. “We have good reports coming in for a variety of species from most of our lakes. It is also hard to beat the action many anglers experience in farm ponds this time of year.

“Farm ponds are a good bet early in the year, but don't forget to obtain permission to fish from the landowner. The fish are responding to increasing water temperatures, which usually rise quicker than they do in larger bodies of water. Of course, temperatures are also rising slowly in many of our rivers and lakes, and good fishing will only get better as those temps continue to rise."

Fishing is a great way to escape from the house and spend time enjoying the spring weather and the beauty of Oklahoma's outdoors. Ponds, streams, rivers and lakes provide Oklahoma's sportsmen ample opportunity for a good fishing experience. Many of these bodies of water occur in the most scenic areas of the state, offering anglers a chance to relax and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors when the action slows down.

“It is easy to enjoy a day of fishing,” Bolton said. “The state is blessed with thousands of acres of fishable waters and there is excellent access to these areas, whether fishing from a boat or from the bank. You can enjoy some great fishing with very basic equipment, so there isn't any reason not to get out and enjoy the opportunity.”

Before heading out, anglers should consult the 2001 Oklahoma Fishing Guide for specific species and area regulations.

Apply for Special Hunts on Internet

Sportsmen who wish to submit applications for more than 1,000 controlled hunts offered by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation can now do so over the Internet.

“The on-line system not only makes it easier for sportsmen to apply for hunts, but it also helps ensure they submit an accurate application,” said Melinda Sturgess, Chief of Administration for the Wildlife Department. “We believe the system is very user friendly and simplifies the application procedure. The Department is also able to process the applications much easier and at a lower cost, which is a benefit to the state's sportsmen.

“We were the first state wildlife management agency to allow constituents to apply on-line. The initial introduction to the process took place last year and was very popular. Overall, about 45 percent of the applicants used the on-line system last year, and we expect even more to take advantage of the system this year.”

Sturgess said there are several advantages to applying on-line for the controlled hunts. The system eliminates concern about lost applications and the program lets applicants know immediately if their application was accepted.

The system will not accept any applications that are incomplete or show discrepancies, and will alert the applicant to check the information provided if something isn't correctly filled out. Applicants can confirm the applications receipt by clicking on the confirmation link provided on the Controlled Hunts Page.

Those interested in applying for controlled hunts on-line can log on to the Department's website at www.wildlifedepartment.com and click on the 2001-2002 Controlled Hunts link. The site will provide all information needed to apply, including hunt categories and area hunt dates and locations.

Controlled hunts application booklets are also available at Department installations and license vendors statewide. The deadline for applying is May 4.

Applicants will be able to check drawing results on the Department's website beginning July 23. The Department will also post drawing results at its main office in Oklahoma City and at its regional offices for those who want to check the results in person.