LOCAL

Nearly News
Christy Gonterman Begins Duties As Service Site AmeriCorps Leader
Senior High Band Midterm Concert Set Thursday
PTC Board Approves Renewal Of Several Personnel Contracts
Edwin Fair Honors Pawhuska Worker
NOC Exhibit Features Chapman Paintings
‘Will to Win’ Asthma Athlete Scholarship Deadline April 15

Nearly News

The American Legion will celebrate the 80th anniversary of the organization Thursday with a family dinner at 6:30 p.m. at Huff-Minor American Legion Post 14, 407 West South Avenue. A regular meeting will follow.

Christy Gonterman Begins Duties As Service Site AmeriCorps Leader

In December the National Service Corporation selected Ponca City’s United Way/ AmeriCorps program as a Service Site for an AmeriCorps Leader. The United Way/AmeriCorps program was matched with former member, Christy Gonterman. She began her duties as an AmeriCorps Leader in January with two weeks of extensive training in Harper’s Ferry, W.Va.

Gonterman is a Ponca City high school graduate and holds a bachelor’s degree in Family and Child Development from the University of Central Oklahoma, Program Director, Ruslyn Hermanson states, “We are very fortunate to have Christy assigned to our program. She was a successful AmeriCorps member, serving during our first year with the Family Resource Center. She knows our goals and objectives and will be a strong member advocate. Because our 21 members serve at 14 different sites, communication with members is vital. Christy, along with other duties, will help function as a liaison among the members, helping with training and keeping members connected to the state and national programs.”

The AmeriCorps Leaders Program provides training and opportunities for outstanding national and community service leaders to develop and utilize their service and leadership skills. The program provides these “leaders in training” formal and informal training opportunities, coaching and mentoring, and individual development and support.

The leaders spend one year in a service site with structured, supervised service-learning experiences that address the needs of the service site, utilize the leader’s skills, and provide them with a context in which to learn and be of service to members and others. Each AmeriCorps leader receives a living allowance, health care benefits, and a post-service education award to pay for higher education or vocational training. These benefits are paid for directly by the corporation. There are no costs to the local program.

The Leaders Program is a highly competitive program for national service graduates. Only 18 leaders were selected nationally for this year’s Leaders Program, Participants in the program are nominated because of their outstanding service leadership potential. They are graduates of a full-time national service program such as AmeriCorps State and National programs, AmeriCorps VISTA, and AmeriCorps NCCC. AmeriCorps Leaders have a strong service ethic and a high level of enthusiasm for their work. These individuals are encouraged to seek out opportunities for personal and professional growth to foster a sense of accomplishment in their work. They are dedicated individuals who will respond to the overall goals of the Service Sites.

Each AmeriCorps Leader is assigned a coach that provides individual training and support for the leader as well as establishes and maintains the Leader’s Cluster Team, which is comprised of other AmeriCorps Leaders in a geographic region. There are five Cluster Coaches throughout the country. They are former AmeriCorps Members and Leaders who are familiar with the roles and responsibilities of AmeriCorps Leaders working at service sites. These coaches will be responsible for creating and maintaining a support system that encourages the personal and professional development of each AmeriCorps Leader.

Each AmeriCorps Leader undertakes statewide and national activities called ambassadorships, to strengthen the national service network as a whole. In Ponca City there are several other national service programs, including Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) and Learn and Serve America which is the service learning program at Ponca City High School. Activities include networking with other AmeriCorps programs around the state, developing a service ethic among members and communities, promoting the visibility and awareness of national service and the local program, identifying service heroes and heroines, and educating members and the community about the history and role of national service today.

“We are proud to be chosen as a Service Site for an AmeriCorps Leader”, says Hermanson. The United Way/AmeriCorps program has a successful track record of getting things done in our community. With Christy on board helping with member recruitment and development, it will only strengthen the program which in turn benefits the youth and families being served. For information about AmeriCorps call 718-0288 or stop by the United Way office at 102 South Fifth Street.

Senior High Band Midterm Concert Set Thursday

The Ponca City Senior High band will present a midterm concert Thursday night at 7 p.m. in the Howell Auditorium.

Groups performing in the concert include the wind ensemble, symphonic band, jazz ensemble, brass quintet and keyboard ensemble.

The concert will be used in preparation for the upcoming spring contest and is free to the public.

Allan Goodwin and Lonnie Foster will be the conductors.

PTC Board Approves Renewal Of Several Personnel Contracts

By KRISTI HAYES

News Education Editor

The contracts of several instructors at Pioneer Technology Center were approved at a regular board meeting of the Pioneer Tech Board of Education Tuesday.

The following certified personnel (non-career) contracts were renewed: Brenda Bennett, health science technology; Joelle Moman, horticulture; Randy Hosier, industrial electronics; and Molly Thiess, marketing education.

Other certified/career contracts included Steve Bookout, welding; Sandy Payne, cosmetology; Mike Swinehart, construction trades; Steve Ellenwood, food services; Lori Evans, applied academics; Shelia Foxworthy, business technology; David Goodacre, transportation technology; Steve Ketchum, machine tool; Nancy Miller, career specialist; Mike Wiles, counselor; Steve Waldvogel, student services; Arlene Stauffer, business technology; and Marilyn Coates, child care.

Mary Rigdon was elected president of the board, Larry Buck was named vice president, and Bill Carmichael as clerk. Larry Cannon was also sworn in by Gary Bracken, board attorney, as a reelected board member.

An audit contract with Yadon-Putnam, auditors, for fiscal year 1999-2000 was accepted along with leasing tables and chairs to Blackwell Hospital for one year at a fee of $1 per year.

Health insurance options for 1999-2000 were considered. A new option includes going to the state vo-tech plan.

Steve Ellenwood, food service instructor, gave a report on the program. He informed board members that last year he had 100 percent placement with his students. That means that after his students graduated last year a job was found for every student.

Perry Schauvliege, architect, addressed the board regarding the possibility of offering his services to PTC in the future.

The new Respiratory Therapy program was discussed. PTC is trying to establish a tentative target date for the new program for August 1999. The program will be a one-plus-one program with Northern Oklahoma College. Students involved will attend PTC for one year and then NOC for another year.

During new business board members discussed the new Opinion Leaders Network, which has been established to provide feedback from the community and help with legislative influence as school bills come up.

The next board meeting has been scheduled for April 13.

Edwin Fair Honors Pawhuska Worker

Bill Pendley has been selected as employee-of-the-quarter for the fourth quarter of 1998 at the Edwin Fair Community Mental Health Center, Inc. Bob Hefley, executive director, announced the selection of Pendley for this award at the February board meeting.

Pendley is a children’s mental health worker in Osage County with an office in the Edwin Fair Center’s Pawhuska Outpatient Clinic. He also does gatekeeping and is the emergency on-call worker for Osage County.

Pendley was nominated for this award by his fellow workers. His nominator said, “I am amazed at the amount of public relations work Pendley does in his day to day activities. He continues to build a good rapport and positive image of Edwin Fair CMHC in the community. He is an excellent mentor, knowledgeable of resources and ready to help in every avenue of client care. He has demonstrated care for clients, employees and the Edwin Fair Center.”

Pendley received a cash award of $100 and a plaque at the board meeting. His name will be added to the traveling plaque and it will hang in the Pawhuska Office during the next quarter.

He lives in Bartlesville with his wife, and has been an employee of the Edwin Fair CMHC since January of 1997.

NOC Exhibit Features Chapman Paintings

TONKAWA — “We’re Pawnee,” an exhibit of paintings recording the traditional ways of the proud Pawnee Tribe, commemorates Native American Heritage Week sponsored by “Northern Thunder,” Northern Oklahoma College Native American club.

On view in the Eleanor Hays Gallery at the NOC Performing Arts Center through March 25, the works by Pawnee artist Charles Chapman include recent original oils on canvas and limited edition reproductions depicting realistically the culture and history of the Pawnee.

Brief histories of the subjects accompany the paintings. A number of the works are available for purchase.

According to Chapman, his favorite subject is Pawnee doctors, tribal healers who were instructed through visions, what herbs to use for medicines, how to dress and how to paint themselves for ceremonies. Chapman carefully researches his subject in order to preserve accurately this facet of tribal heritage.

A self-taught painter, Chapman says he has always been able to draw and as a boy drew, especially horses, “all the time.” In school he often won prizes for his pencil drawings. He began working with oils in 1968 when, as a returning Vietnam veteran, he saw an art show at Shepherd Mall in Oklahoma City. Deciding that he could “do that left-handed,” he bought oil paints the same day and set to work. Trading and selling his work at horse sales, he was persuaded to enter his first show in 1983. He won first prize, so “there was no turning back.”

Chapman credits the late Native American artist Woody Crumbo for encouraging him to preserve the Pawnee culture in realistic oil paintings. He does not use models, preferring to paint from his own vision. Working on several paintings at once and often painting 18 hours a day, he completes about 30 works each winter and shows them in the summer.

Chapman’s paintings have appeared on the cover or in such magazines as “Paint Horse Journal” and “Western Horseman.” He has illustrated a children’s book, “The Boy Who Loved Bears,” and his paintings appear in the “Lost Universe,” a history of the Pawnee by his father, Henry Chapman, and in “Pawnee Hero Stories.” Chapman often visits area schools in Oklahoma to show his art and to explain Pawnee culture to first through sixth graders.

Admission to the Eleanor Hays Gallery is free. Hours are from 1 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The gallery will be closed during the college spring break March 15-19, according to Audrey Schmitz, director.

‘Will to Win’ Asthma Athlete Scholarship Deadline April 15

The 1999 “Will to Win” Asthma Athlete Scholarship Program has generated nearly 4,000 application requests from around the country — and many more are expected by the April 15, 1999 filing deadline. The nationwide program is sponsored by Schering/KEY.

Information and applications for the Asthma Athlete Scholarship Program may be obtained by calling the “Will to Win” hotline at 1-800-558-7305.

Celebrating its 15th year, the “Will to Win” program honors 10 high school seniors who have achieved both academic and athletic excellence in spite of the challenge with asthma. Scholarships, including the top $10,000 award, will be presented at a press conference and banquet to be held this summer in New York City.

With the new millennium and the 2000 Olympic Games rapidly approaching, the 1999 event will enlist the support of top Olympic athletes past, present and future — all of whom have overcome asthma to achieve athletic success.

DEATHS

Erbie D. Fowler
Thelma A. Jennings
Brandon M. Brown
Paul Irvin Ducotey
Alfred E. Nuttle

Erbie D. Fowler

PAWNEE — Erbie D. Fowler, Pawnee area resident, died Monday, March 8, 199, at Perry. She was 91.

The funeral is set for 10 a.m. Thursday, March 11, at Poteet Funeral Chapel in Pawnee. the Rev. Neil Peek, Word Generation Church, Stillwater, will officiate. Burial will be in the Highland Cemetery in Pawnee.

Erbie D. (Denney) Fowler was born June 22, 1907, in Burkesville, Ky., to Matthew M. and Mattie Lue (Shelley) Denney. She moved to Shamrock in 1914 with her parents.

She was married to Arthur D. Fowler, on April 24, 1926, in Pawnee. In 1937, the couple moved to a farm near Morrison. After her husband’s death on Dec. 14, 1979, Mrs. Fowler moved into Perry. She was a member of the Perry First Christian Church, and taught Sunday School Classes for many years. She also served as a Pink Lady at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Ponca City. She enjoyed bird-watching.

Survivors include two grandchildren, Mrs. Dennis (Kim) Gilliland and David Diehm, both of Morrison; one half-brother, Paul Denney of Pawnee; one half-sister, Dale Conrad of Sulphur, La.; two great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by one daughter, Shirley; two sisters, Agnes Box and Opal Gemmell.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. Fowler’s name to the First Christian Church, 701 Holly Street, Perry, OK 73077.

Thelma A. Jennings

FAIRFAX — Thelma A. Jennings, died Sunday morning, March 7, 1999. at the Fairfax Memorial Hospital. She was 82

The funeral was to be held at 2 p.m. today, March 10, at the Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. George Weston, pastor of Fairfax First Christian Church, officiating. Burial will be in the Fairfax Cemetery.

Thelma A. (Harp) Jennings was born March 11, 1916, in Fairfax, the daughter of Wilbert and Minnie (Rogers) Harp. She attended Grayhorse and Fairfax schools. Mrs. Jennings had been employed as a waitress and cook. She moved back to Fairfax in December 1993. She was an avid reader and enjoyed growing flowers and gardening.

Survivors include a son, Phil Bilbee of Grove Beach, Calif.; a daughter, Patsy Brill of Pueblo, Colo.; one sister, Alta May of Paris, Texas; 12 grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren nieces, nephews, and other relatives. She was preceded in death by two sons, Floyd Rogers Smith and Bobby Joe Smith; one daughter, Betty Peterson; her parents; five brothers; and six sisters.

The family will be at the Kent Ritchie home to receive family and friends.

Obituaries

Brandon M. Brown

Brandon M. “Blume” Brown, longtime rural Ponca City resident, left this world to go explore the unknown country on Tuesday, March 9, 1999, at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 13.

Brandon will lie in state at the Ponca Indian Methodist Church. Evening prayer services will be held nightly at 7 p.m. Wednesday through Friday. The funeral feast will be held Saturday, March 13, at Noon, followed by the funeral service at 2 p.m. The Rev. Abraham Jackson, pastor of Ponca Indian United Methodist Church will officiate. Burial will follow in the Ponca Indian Tribal Cemetery under direction of Grace Memorial Chapel, Ponca City.

Born May 17, 1985, Brandon was the son of Beverly F. (Littlehoe) Brown. He grew up in the old country home and attended Roosevelt Elementary school. At the time of his death, he was a seventh grader at the Ponca City Middle School.

Brandon was a little man with a big heart and one that was full of zest for life — this he proved when he and his fellow teammates, “The White Eagle Steelers,” won second place while playing YMCA football. He played defensive guard and took great pride in blocking and seeing how many kids he could knock down.

Brandon had a special gift of interacting with others and he showed it when he would go to summer camp. He was very affectionate with the kids and would spend more time with them than their own parents. “Blume” had a keen interest for the senior citizens and was always helpful to his neighbors whether it be helping with Christmas lights or helping with yard work.

Brandon showed his curiosity by dismantling low rider cars and bikes to see what made them go — then would rebuild them and make them run better. He loved his music and wanted everyone to know it by playing it loudly.

Brandon was a member of the Ponca Indian United Methodist Church and a proud member of the Ponca Tribe.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his mother, Beverly F. (Littlehoe) Brown of the home; his grandmother, Annabelle Littlehoe of the home; two brothers, Eagle Rhodd of the home and Lonnie Ramsey of Ponca City; six sisters, Carleda Rhodd, Roberta Roy, Carla Rhodd, Arlena Roy, Carlene Rhodd and Candice Rhodd; one aunt Ledavie Rhodd: and one uncle Robert Roy; four nephews, Kevin Rhodd, Turner DeLodge, William Rhodd and “Baby Sed” Warrior; one niece, Rebecca DeLodge; and a host of other relatives, friends and acquaintances.

Casket bearers will be Carl DeLodge, Echo Johnson, Kevin Kemble, Cornelius LeClair, Kevin LeRoy and Eagle Rhodd. Honorary casket bearers will be Dwight Howe, Anthony Arlen Rhodd, Benji Rhodd, Francis Rhodd, Penny “Bo” Rhodd and Scotty Simpson.

Memorial contributions may be made in Brandon’s name to the ADHD Support Group, c/o Dr. Jim Powell, Ponca City Board of Education, 111 West Grand Ave., Ponca City, OK 74601.

paid obituary

Paul Irvin Ducotey

LITTLE CHIEF — Paul Irvin Ducotey of Little Chief, 88, passed away Monday morning, March 8, 1999, at his home.

He was born Oct. 14, 1910, in Pawhuska. He was the son of Stanislaus “Tannis” and Verna (Dehart) Ducotey. He attended school in Pawhuska.

He and Mary Annie Pyeatte were married June 10, 1939, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Fairfax. They established their home in the Little Chief Community. He worked at Whaley’s Station, drove a bus for Fairfax schools and ran a small farm and dairy.

Rosary will be at 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 10, 1999, at the Hunsaker-Wooten Chapel. A graveside service will be Thursday, March 11, 1999, at 10 a.m. at the Fairfax Cemetery with Father Ken Lewis officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home of Fairfax.

He is survived by his wife Mary Annie of the home; son Howard Kristel and Megan of Little Chief; two grandsons, Howard “Chad” Jr. and S. Paul Ducotey, both of Ponca City; one daughter-in-law, Linda Ducotey of Abbeyville, La.; and numerous relatives and friends.

Memorials may be given to me American Cancer Society, 2233 N.W. 39th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73100 or the American Heart Association, 3545 N.W. 58th Street, Suite 400C, Oklahoma City, OK 73112.

The family will be at the Ducotey home to receive friends and family.

paid obituary

Services Pending

Alfred E. Nuttle

Alfred E. Nuttle, Ponca City resident, died early this morning, March 10, 1999 at his home. He was 83. Survivors include his wife, Alyce, of the home. Arrangements are pending with Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home, Fairfax.

NEWS BRIEFS

Free BP Check — Free blood pressure checks will be provided March 17, beginning at 1 p.m. at the Senior Citizens Center, 319 West Grand. The checks are being sponsored by the Kay County Health Department Eldercare program.

State Certified DUI School Bridgeway, Inc. is Kay Co.'s only

local non-profit organization that offers both mid week and weekend DUI Schools and Assessments. Next school scheduled Friday, March 19th, and Saturday, March 20th, starting at 5:00 p.m. We now offer the 24 hr. DUI

School. Call 762-1462 for reservations and information. adv.

Luncheon — All area women are invited to come to a “Steppin’ Into Spring” luncheon on March 17, from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., at the Ponca City Country Club. Sponsored by the Ponca City Christian Women’s Club, ticket cost is $8.50. Call Jeanette, 765-8427, or Denice, 762-2779, for reservations for the luncheon and complementary childcare. It is necessary for reservations to be honored, canceled or used by a friend.

Court Allen Construction. Concrete and flagstone walkways, pa-

tios and yard curbing. Call 765-2720. adv.

Annual Meeting Set — Dale Township Volunteer Fire Department Annual Meeting, 5 to 6 p.m. on March 13. Pork dinner served from 6 to 7:30 p.m. $4.50 for adults, $3 for kids over 6 and free for those under 6. Bingo follows dinner in St. Francis Catholic gym in Newkirk.

WCW/NWO Uncensored wrestling coming to Pay Per View

Sunday, March 14th at 7:00 p.m. Call Cable One for your ring side

seat 762-6684. adv.

Horse Exhibitors Association to Meet — Please come and join the Quarter/Paint Horse Exhibitors Association at their first general membership meeting on March 18 at 7 p.m. to be held at the Pioneer Bank Drive-thru on Lake Road (across from the Pioneer Woman). Do not park in drive-thru lanes. Please contact Chance Foley for details and to get on mailing list. Call 762-1757.

Completely Furnished and equipped one and two bedroom suites. 765-1367. adv.

Treated for Injury — The Communications Center received a call at 7:23 p.m. Tuesday that a 7-year-old girl was being treated for an injury sustained after she ran her bicycle into a moving car but the vehicle did not stop. An officer of the Ponca City Police Department was assigned and a report was taken.

Citation Issued — A man was at the Ponca City Police Department at 10:20 p.m. Tuesday to report some suspicious activity involving another subject. An officer was assigned and located the subject in the 1400 block of West Grand where a juvenile citation was issued.

Blackwell Banquet — State Superintendent Sandy Garrett will deliver the keynote address at the Blackwell Public School Foundation’s 1999 Hall of Fame Banquet on Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Kay County Electric Cooperative.

Jim Bowen Construction - Custom homes, room additions and

remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv.

Items Missing — A man from the 100 block of West Albany Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:11 p.m. Tuesday that someone had stolen parts from his vehicle during the night. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

No School — Ponca City Schools will be closed for Spring Break March 15 through 19. All schools will be closed. The Administration Office will have hours from 8:30 a.m. to noon and 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Great Fundraiser: Booths at Victorian chocolate and craft

festival. Saturday, May 1st. Call 762-6700. adv.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department requested assistance with a subject at 2:56 p.m. Tuesday at the intersection of Broadway Avenue and North Union Street. Two officers were assigned and a 19-year-old woman was held for child abuse and driving under suspension.

Subject Held — Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 200 block of West Chestnut Avenue at 6:34 a.m. Tuesday that a 41-year-old man was being held on a Kay County warrant for burglary of an auto.

Pool Opening — The YMCA Community Pool is reopening for classes Friday. Look for future information on the Super Saturday Grand Reopening on March 27 for a chance to try classes and open swim for free.

Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential.

Hours: Monday, 4-6 p.m., Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and

Thursday, 6-8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. adv.

Singles Group — The Singles Connection will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on Sunday, March 14. The group will meet at Grace Episcopal Parish Hall at 6 p.m. for potato soup and an evening of bunko. If attending and your last name begins with A-H, bring a 2-liter bottle of pop; I-P, dessert; and Q-Z, snacks for the game tables. For more information call Diane Beekman (765-7165) or Carl Searcy (762-9852).

Holyfield vs Lewis seen only on Pay Per View! Watch history

in the making live, Saturday, March 13th at 8:00 p.m. Call Ca-

ble One and order early. 762-6684. adv.

Assault — The Communications Center received a 911 call from the 1500 block of Bradbary Lane at 3:43 p.m. Tuesday concerning an assault. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Subjects Held — Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 500 block of South Lincoln Street at 5:07 p.m. Tuesday that a 23-year-old man and a 21-year-old woman were being held on city warrants for failure to pay.

Forgery — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 3:28 p.m. Tuesday that two reports had been taken concerning forgery at Kmart.

Vandalism — A man from the 100 block of West Prospect Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:15 a.m. Tuesday that some vandalism had been done at the property. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Being Relocated, or in town for a short time? We have homes

available by the month or longer. All homes are full furnished with

appliances, furniture, linens, pots and pans. Inclusive of cable,

local phone, and utilities. Please call 580-762-7980 or 580-718-0681.

adv.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 6:13 p.m. Tuesday that a 24-year-old man was being held for failure to obey.

Head Country, One half bar-b-q chicken with choice of vegeta-

bles, $4.25, Thursday, 4-? p.m. 1217 East Prospect. 767-8304. adv.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from Albertson’s, 2004 North Fourteenth Street at 8:22 p.m. Tuesday that a 25-year-old woman was being held for petit larceny.

Windshield Chips repaired professionally. Guaranteed and

insurance approved. Ponca Glass, 762-6522, 762-7957. adv.

Subject Held — Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 200 block of North Seventh Street at 4:44 p.m. Tuesday that a 23-year-old woman was being held for domestic assault and battery.

Accident — A hit and run accident in the parking lot of Kmart was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:26 p.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 8:46 p.m. Tuesday that a 14-year-old boy was being held for burglary, attempted auto theft, and auto theft.

Assault — A man from the 100 block of West Grand Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 8:47 p.m. Tuesday that he had been assaulted while in the 500 block of North Osage Street. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Abandoned Bicycle — A person from the 1000 block of South Ninth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 10:29 a.m. Tuesday that a bicycle had been abandoned in front of the residence. Animal Control was notified to handle.

Assault — The Communication Center received a 911 call from a residence at 9:45 p.m. Tuesday that a 9-year-old girl was having difficulty breathing. Two officers and an ambulance responded, and a report was taken that the youngster had several cuts but was breathing all right. The ambulance did not take her to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center for treatment.

LIFESTYLES

Bliss Homemakers Hear Lesson About Quick Meals and Mixes
Xi Zeta Lambda Elects New Officers
Xi Delta Chapter Dinner To Honor Valentine Queen
Little News
Birthday Event To Fete Grace Polkinghorne

Bliss Homemakers Hear Lesson About Quick Meals and Mixes

The Bliss Homemakers meeting was called to order on Feb. 17 at the Marland Methodist-Christian Church Fellowship Hall. The devotional, “Blessed are the Parents” and “God Uses Cracked Pots” was given by the devotional chairman, Melanie Williams.

Hostesses, Melanie Williams and Marilyn Gates, had prepared some samples of “Quick Meal” ideas for refreshments. During reports it was announced that 100% of those present wore their seatbelts to the meeting, and 100% of those present had either read to another person, or read a book for the reading survey. Members put in their pennies for friendship and quarter for the quarter drill as the Soni Kodesh, president wished Happy Birthday to Clara Jane Case, Mae Cockrell and Patsy Smithheisler for February birthdays.

Roll was answered with “What is your favorite quick meal?” The Homemakers Creed was read in unison and the Secretary, Burdettya Linn, read the minutes. The treasurer's report was given by Arleta Pulliam. The Spelling Bee Committee report was given by Burdettya Linn.

The “Tooth Fairy Pillows” were reported by Denise Kienholz as finished. All kindergarten students at Frontier will receive one in recognition of National Dental Month.

The group voted to give $25 to the church to use in their kitchen remodeling project as a thank you for allowing the club to use the building once a month.

The district meeting was announced for April 16 to be held at Guymon. Alice Kelly and Vicki Oltmann will represent Noble County. The National FCE Meeting and Conference will be held in Hawaii this summer. The Noble County Scholarship Form was also discussed.

Bliss Homemakers are planning a “Tea Party” on March 17 and those participating are asked to bring their own “tea cup”.

Linda Short, vice president, introduced Burdettya Linn as the lesson leader on “Meals in Minutes and Homemade Mixes.” Ms. Linn shared things with the group that she had researched and gained from the county lesson she attended. One item she showed everyone was the magazine, Quick Cooking. It was pointed out that many of these ideas in each publication fit in with our quick way of cooking. Each member present was given a notebook of quick mixes, recipes for quick meals, and Short-Cut Tips, a substitution chart, a list of items to stock in your kitchen, and a grocery list. Ms. Linn had made up cookie mixes to give each member to try for some “quick” cookies in their busy schedules.

The next meeting will be March 17 at 7 p.m. at the Marland Methodist-Christian Church. Hostesses will be Shelley Cook and Vicki Oltmann and the program leader will be Soni Kodesh.

Xi Zeta Lambda Elects New Officers

Members of Xi Zeta Lambda chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority gathered March 4 for dinner at the Amarillo Grill to honor Jill Sims, Valentine Queen. Following dinner the meeting was held at the home of Judy Watt. Twelve members participated in the Exemplar Ritual for Lila Logan.

President Dottie Johnstone presided at the meeting where City Council minutes were read and plans for Founder’s Day were discussed. Jill Sims volunteered to obtain the door prize for the chapter and Nida Austin will chair the committee to include Terri Whiting, Carmalita Childers and Doretta Jackson to prepare the program books.

Standing rules changes will be written up by Terri Whiting to be presented to the chapter at the next meeting for approval vote.

Terri Whiting, Social Committee Chair, announced the next social on the March 13 would be dinner at Hero’s at 6 p.m. followed by members attending the play “Curious Savage” at the Poncan Theatre. Following that members will attend a slumber party at the home of Doretta Jackson. Francie James, Historian, advised that March 11 would be the next meeting to work on the scrapbook that is to be presented to Dottie Johnstone at Founder’s Day. Co-Chairman Lila Logan distributed pages for each individual to prepare for their personal page. Service Co-Chair Melva Keen reported that the St. Patrick day favors had been delivered to Meals on Wheels.

Discussion continued on various rituals and honors for members. Cassandra Kifiak, Membership Chair advised that Judy Watt, Melva Keen, Nida Austin and herself were eligible for the Silver Circle. Members nominated Judy Watt for the honor of Order of the Rose. The form will be forwarded to International and ritual date will be set for later.

Doretta Jackson, Co-Chair of the Program committee, polled members for attendance at the April 24 meeting in the home of Tobie Neal, member-at-large, to be held in Eureka Springs Ark.

New Officers elected for the 1999-2000 year were Cassandra Kifiak, president; Lila Logan, vice president; Jill Sims, recording secretary; Terri Whiting, corresponding secretary; Doretta Jackson, treasurer. Lila Logan will be City Council Alternate. Girl of the Year secret ballot was taken and will be announced at Founder’s Day.

Melva Keen won the Friendship Basket. After the meeting was closed with ritual and Mizpah, Carmalita Childers presented the program and demonstrated how to make aromatherapy pillows.

Xi Delta Chapter Dinner To Honor Valentine Queen

Members of Xi Delta Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority met in the home of Lynda Smith March 8. Lisa Mena conducted the meeting with eight members in attendance. She gave the City Council report and reminded members that April 20 is Founder’s Day. Susan Henshaw volunteered to get the chapter’s door prize.

Linda Turner, recording secretary, called roll and read the minutes. Ms. Turner, chapter Valentine Queen, will be honored with a dinner at the Red Lobster restaurant in Stillwater on March 20. A caravan will leave at 5:45 p.m.

Dorothy Leonard reported about the upcoming Branson Getaway and asked members of the scrapbook committee to stay for a brief workshop following the regular meeting. The program was given by Ms. Smith, who gave highlights of the functions of the Planning and Community Development Departments for the City of Ponca City.

Sue May, membership chairman, announced a Ritual of Jewels will be held for Shari Magee on March 22 following the next meeting in the home of Linda Turner.

Little News

Jim and Sharla Thomas of Newkirk announce the birth of a son at 4:13 p.m. March 1, 1999, at the Stillwater Medical Center. The baby weighed 10 pounds, 9 ounces and was 22 inches long. He has been named Hunter Reid Thomas. Hunter has a sister, Lerin Elane Thomas, 4.

Maternal grandparents are Kenneth and Janet Sheik of Newkirk and paternal grandparents are Linda Danner of Blackwell, and Mr. and Mrs. Joe Thomas of El Dorado, Kan.

Maternal great-grandparents are Dorothy Abbott of Arkansas City, Kan. and the late Mary Sheik. Paternal great-grandfather is Fred Thomas of Braman.

Jaelon Jaquay Jenkins is the name selected by Jennifer Thornton and Jaquay Jenkins for their son born at 10:30 a.m. Feb. 24, 1999 in University Hospital in Oklahoma City. The baby weighed 5 pounds, 1 ounce and measured 17 inches long.

Grandparents are Richard and Cindra Jones, Jerold Jr. and Bambi Jenkins, and William Thornton, all of Ponca City. Great-grandparents are Jerold and Bonnie Jenkins of Newkirk, Marlene Porter of Del City, John and Beth Thornton of Stillwater, Doug and Ida Jones of Albion, Mich., Marquita Martin of Freedom, and the late William Mose Goldman Jr., and the late Eddie Burks.

Great-great-grandparents are Esther Goldman, and Hilton and Lois Baker, all of Ponca City.

Birthday Event To Fete Grace Polkinghorne

An open invitation is extended to friends to attend a “come and go” 80th birthday celebration for Grace Polkinghorne Sunday, 2-4 p.m., in the third floor Living Room Lounge at Westminster Village. The event is being sponsored by her children and their spouses. Mrs. Polkinghorne resides in Westminster Village.

She was born on March 17, 1919 in South Dakota and graduated from Verdon High School, Verdon, S. D. She earned a teaching degree from Moorhead State College in Minnesota. During her career she was a teacher, principal, and later a dean on a college campus.

She married Garfield Polkinghorne in August 1952 and in 1969 they moved to Ponca City where he was employed with Conoco. Mrs. Polkinghorne was an active member of the First United Methodist Church and has served as an officer in the women’s organization of the church. Mr. Polkinghorne died in 1989.

The honoree’s children are Joyce and Brad Phelps, and son Killian of Tulsa, and John and Sharen Polkinghorne of Edmond, and Sharen’s son, Lance Lenhart of Oklahoma City.

SPORTS

Lady Cat Netters First
Wildcats Stumble To Union
Wildcats Slip to Fifth
Rodeo Results
Recreation Areas Now Opening at Kaw Lake

Lady Cat Netters First

The Lady Wildcat tennis team picked up about where it left off last year, coming out on top of an 8-team field in the Ponca City Invitational, Tuesday, with 29 points. Tulsa Memorial was second, with 24 points, while Claremore was third, with 23.

The Lady Cat doubles teams led the way, winning in both brackets. After a first round bye in No. 1 doubles, seniors Romi Foreman and Abby Frick pounded Woodard-Pounds of Owasso, 6-3, 6-0, and blasted past Knoll-Alsiboori of Tulsa Memorial in the finals, 6-2, 6-1.

In No. 2 doubles, Mea Alexander and Emily Wheeler survived a thrilling finals match up, coming back from a 4-1 deficit in the third set to top Neighbors-Nelson of Sapulpa, 6-2, 3-6, 6-4.

To Lady Wildcat coach Stan Wheeler, that proved to be the most exciting match of the tournament.

“We had a little meeting of the minds, when it was 4-1,” he says. “And they rallied. Back in 1972, we’d give them the Woolly Wildcat Comeback buttons.”

Wheeler and Alexander had an easier time of it in the earlier rounds, burying Tulsa Memorial’s Farmer-Castillo, 6-1, 6-2, and Norman’s Jenkinson-Porterfield, 6-1, 6-2, to set up the championship showdown.

After a bruising final round, Ashley Roussel finished second in No. 1 singles. The Lady Cat senior bombed Norman’s Lauren Burton, 6-0, 6-0 in round one, and followed that with a wipe out of Sapulpa’s Lindsey Baker, 6-1, 6-1, to launch into the finals.

Once there, however, Roussel fell to perennial nemesis T. Smith of Claremore, who outslugged Roussel, 6-1, 6-0.

In No. 2 singles, Gina Smith came back in the losers’ bracket to finish fifth. After prevailing over Natalie Plumlee of Owasso, 6-4, 6-5, Smith fell to Tiffany Streeter of Claremore in the semifinals, 6-0, 6-0. Smith fell again to Emily Washa of Putnam City, 6-4, 6-1, but won the fifth place match in a rematch with Plumlee, 7-6(7-1), 6-2.

“She did a great job coming back in the consolation bracket,” said Wheeler, of Smith. “And she got us the points we needed.”

Overall, Wheeler was pleased with his team’s early season effort.

“We looked good, and we played well in front of the hometown crowd,” he says. “We had a lot of people in the late afternoon, and got a chance to get used to that kind of crowd that you get at state.”

In Friday’s season opener, the Lady Cats fell to Oklahoma City Casady, 3-1, but prevailed over Edmond Santa Fe, 3-1, and Putnam City, 4-0, to take second in an Edmond quad.

Foreman and Frick again captured first place in No. 1 doubles, while Wheeler and Claire Winterrowd took second in No. 2 doubles. Alexander took second in No. 2 singles, while Roussel was third in No. 1 singles.

Saturday, the Lady Cats took third place in the 8-team Putnam City Tournament, with 24 points. McGuiness won the tournament with 30 points, followed by Norman North with 25.

Foreman-Frick and Wheeler-Winterrowd both finished second in doubles competition. Roussel was also second, while Alexander finished sixth.

The Lady Cats are now off until after Spring Break, and continue their season March 23, hosting Stillwater.

Wildcats Slip to Fifth

Despite some impressive come-backs in the doubles brackets, the Wildcat tennis team fell to fifth place in the Ponca City Invitational, Tuesday.

The Cats tied with Tulsa Memorial, with 17 points, two points off Owasso’s 19, but well behind 1-2-3 finishers Claremore, Norman and Putnam City. Claremore won the 8-team event with 28 points.

“We could have helped ourselves in a couple of matches,” said coach Steve Larimer. “But we’re playing pretty well right now, early in the season.”

In No. 1 doubles, Sterling Foy and Tim Frick came back in the consolation bracket to finish third. After falling to Sherin-Bertram of Owasso, 6-1, 6-3, the Poncans blasted past Takacas-Henshaw of Sapulpa, 6-0, 6-1, squeaked by Putnam City in three sets, 4-6, 6-1, 6-4, and topped Claremore, 6-5, 6-2 in the consolation finals.

“They could’ve folded their tent, and they didn’t,” said Larimer. “After that slow start they started doing some good, and they learned something.”

The Cats also got a third place finish in No. 2 doubles, as Trevor Viljoen and Josh Pitts won their final two matches in the consolation bracket. The Poncan duo started out strong, sailing past Singh-Brown of Tulsa Memorial, 6-0, 6-0, but fell to Graham-Compton of Owasso, 6-0, 6-1, which dropped them into the consolation bracket.

From there, however, Viljoen and Pitts had little trouble, dispatching Hutton-Huskerson of Putnam City and Polk-Norman of Norman, both in straight sets, 6-2, 6-4.

“They had a close match with Owasso, and could have been in the finals,” said Larimer. “They’re playing well for a freshman and a sophomore.”

In No. 2 singles, junior Cory Landes had his hands full, falling in a first round match to Ira Koplowitz of Norman. Landes then defeated Owasso’s David Gaede to move into the consolation bracket, but fell in consecutive matches — to Putnam City’s Adam Hammack and Tulsa Memorial’s Arly Monhollow — to finish sixth.

In No. 1 singles, Daniel Lee had the longest day of any of the Wildcats, dropping his first two matches of the day to Christian Hauger of Putnam City and Brett Duffy of Owasso. Lee did prevail in his third match of the day, taking down Patrick Reiger of Norman in straight sets, 6-2, 6-2, for a seventh place finish.

In Friday’s season opener, the Cats came out in second place in the Edmond quad, one point behind Oklahoma Casady.

In No. 1 doubles, Foy and Frick didn’t drop a set en route to a first place finish, while Pitts and Viljoen also cruised past all three No. 2 doubles teams.

Landes topped Putnam City’s Daniel Johnson for a third place finish in No. 2 singles, while Lee finished in fourth in No. 1 singles.

Saturday, the Cats came up with a fourth place finish in the Putnam City Invitational, squeaking past Norman North by a point. Putnam City and McGuiness tied for the event, with 26 points each, followed by Putnam City West, with 24 points.

Pitts and Viljoen won in No. 2 doubles, while Foy and Lee finished fourth in No. 1 doubles. Shane Sample finished seventh in No. 2 singles, while Landes finished fifth in No. 1 singles.

The Cats will now have a long week off for Spring Break before returning to action March 23, hosting Stillwater.

Rodeo Results

CALF ROPING

1, Fred Whitfield, Hockley, Texas, $41,914. 2, Cody Ohl, Stephenville, Texas, $29,453. 3, Blair Burk, Durant, Okla., $26,684. 4. Johnny Emmons, Grandview, Texas, $20,559. 5, Jerome Schneeberger, Ponca City, Okla., $18,589. 6, Ronnie Hyde, Bloomington, Ind., $18,403. 7, Ricky Hyde, Conway, Ark., $17,928. 8, Herbert Theriot, Poplarville, Miss., $17,861. 9, Jim Bob Mayes, Elign, Texas, $16,833. 10, Tony Reina, Wharton, Texas, $16,787.

11, David Lawson, Newcastle, Okla., $14,325. 12, Ty Hays, Weatherford, Okla., $13,107. 13, Justin Maass, Giddings, Texas, $10,992. 14, Jeff Coelho, Long Creek, Ore., $10,585. 15, Shawn Franklin, House, N.M., $9,652. 16, Chet Keetch, Montpelier, Idaho, $9,456. 17, Brent Lewis, Eloy, Ariz., $9,100. 18, Carter Edmondson, McCaulley, Texas, $8,964. 19, Trevor Brazile, Childress, Texas, $8,645. 20, Casey Butaud, Huntsville, Texas, $8,447.

Wildcats Stumble To Union

TULSA — Tulsa Union battered the Wildcat soccer team 6-1 Tuesday at Union-Tuttle Stadium to hand the Poncans their second loss of the season .

The Lady Wildcats lost a 2-0 decision to the Lady Redskins.

“We’re not pushing the panic button,” Ponca City boys’ coach Marco Castillo said. “I have a good team. Its just that right now Union has a great team. They came out strong and didn’t take us for granted. I think by May we’ll have a great team.”

Union used its speed to full advantage on the artificial turf at Union Stadium to break to a quick 3-0 lead. The Poncans cut the margin to 3-1 on a goal by Dick Engle late in the first half.

“At halftime, I still thought we could win,” Castillo said. “Going into the game, I think the kids were confident they could win. They just didn’t show that confidence on the field.

“I’m not making excuses. But when you only play on that artificial turf once every two years, it makes a difference.

“We’re 0-2. But these are not losses in the district nor are they losses in the state tournament,” the coach said. “After all, Jenks started out 0-2 in football and came on to win the state championship.

“The kids have to love the game of soccer. If they do that and practice hard, we can be in the state tournament.”

The Wildcats are now off until after Spring Break, returning to action on March 23 against Bartlesville at Sullins Stadium.

Recreation Areas Now Opening at Kaw Lake

Kaw Lake recreation areas are now open for public use in the 1999 recreation season. Areas opening for public use are Osage Cove, McFadden Cove, Coon Creek, Sarge Creek, and Washunga Bay.

Due to light use in the early season not all camping loops in these campgrounds are open.

Camping fees for the 1999 camping season are $11 at McFadden Cove, and Sandy Park, $13 at Washunga B, $15 at Osage Cove, Bear Creek and Washunga A, $16 at Coon Creek, $17 at Sarge Creek and $8 for the non-electric area at Coon Creek.

Day use fees at selected boat ramps and swimming beaches are also in effect.

Day use fees for the 1999 recreation season are $2 at Osage Cove Boat Ramp, McFadden Cove Boat Ramp and Coon Creek Boat Ramp along with $1 per person ($3 maximum) at Sandy Beach.

Fees will not be charged at Pioneer Park swimming beach and Pioneer Park boat ramp for the 1999 recreation season.

Gate attendants will begin work on May 1 at Osage Cove, Coon Creek and Sarge Creek and at Washunga Bay on May 15. These four major parks at Kaw Lake will be staffed with volunteer camp hosts until the contract gate attendants begin work.