|
From the pages of The Ponca City News, Friday, April 7, 2000 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES EDUCATION RELIGION SPORTS LOCALPCUA Offers Tips To Prepare For Unavoidable Power Loss PCUA Offers Tips To Prepare For Unavoidable Power LossHigh winds and tornadoes in Oklahoma can mean unavoidable power outages. Ponca City Utility Authority offers these tips to help you prepare your home before it happens. • Assemble an emergency kit. It should include a battery-powered radio, a flashlight and candles, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher, bottled water and non-perishable food. • Keep an emergency supply of fuel or wood handy. For safety, always store fuel in a dry place away from the house. • Stock up on blankets. They will keep you warm and you can hang them over windows and doorways to minimize heat loss. If the power goes out: • Check your fuses, see if the neighbors have lost their power, too, and then call Ponca City Utility Authority at 767-0300. • Keep refrigerator and freezer doors shut. A closed refrigerator will stay cold for up to 12 hours. • Open faucets slightly so they drip; this prevents pipes from freezing. • Leave on one light switch so you will know when power is restored. Unplug other appliances so they aren’t damaged when the power comes back on. • Never burn charcoal indoors. If you are using a kerosene or other fuel-burning heater, use it in a well-ventilated area. • If you have a back-up generator, equip it with a double-throw switch that will disconnect your home’s circuits from your utilities. If you turn on the generator, throw the switch. “We bring you safe, reliable electricity every hour of the day, every day of the year. From time to time, we may have a weather-related outage that will be an inconvenience. But we pledge to you that we will work quickly and safely to restore your services as soon as possible, “ says Phil Johnston, General Manager of Electric Utilities. Pizzazz at the Poncan Features Stage, Screen ActsPizzazz at the Poncan, a Revue-Z-Cal, will feature show people, movie personalities and acts that at one time have been on stage or on the silver screen at the Poncan Theatre. Local talent has contributed. The show will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children 12 and under, and can be purchased at all local banks and the Chamber of Commerce. Additional cast members who are participating in the Razzle Dazzle number are Madison Bookout, Karlee Carter, Sean Cochran, Mitch Fezer, Tristin Helm, Keith Hines, Zach Mauk, Ele Myers, Michelle Powell, Stephanie Powers, Kaley Reid, Tami Teboe, Micah Wright and Britney Zarth. The number is directed by Tim Muniz and Suzanne Kem, the director, writer and choreographer for the production. Co-director and stage manager is Shana Rutz, a faculty member of Oklahoma City University, Great Escape Reveals Plans For 2000 Graduation EventBy KRISTI HAYES News Education Editor Ponca City High School senior class officers announced plans for Great Escape 2000, a traditional event designed to provide a safe, drug-free and alcohol-free celebration for the graduating class. Great Escape will be held at the Conoco complex following graduation exercises on May 26. This will be the 10th year for the event. Senior class president Alana Smith is excited about this year’s plans. “Our class is looking forward to graduation night and Great Escape. We hope every senior shows up and joins us. It’s a great way for us to get free stuff,” she said. Some of the prizes at this year’s event will include several TV and VCR combinations, answering machines and telephones. There will also be a number of other prizes that graduating seniors can utilize in college and at home. Smith said several senior class members have been busy the last few months raising money. “We went out to local businesses and asked them to donate money for the prizes. Several parents also donated their time and money to help us. Of course, we’re still taking any and everything for the event,” she said. Class secretary Audra Ramsey said the seniors are thankful for all the community had done for them. “It is great to live in a community that volunteers time and money to offer this fun and safe celebration that marks our high school graduation,” she said. Ramsey also said the evening serves a purpose. “Teenagers across the country, just like graduation seniors in our class, face the temptation to celebrate with activities involving alcohol or drugs. No one wants an alcohol related tragedy to ruin a memorable time in our lives,” she stated. Class vice president Claire Winterrowd said Great Escape is one last chance for all the seniors to get together. “This will be a nice way to end our high school career,” she said. Some of the events at this year’s Great Escape will be relay races, character drawings, karaoke and — possibly — a dance instructor. And, don’t forget the most anticipated event of the night: casino games. Conoco coordinator Keni Ray said his company is always glad to help the senior class. “This will be the 10th year for the event. It’s a great way to end the year, and it has been successful every year,” he said. The event, including food, is free to all graduating seniors. Conoco has also donated T-shirts for the event. Teachers Join Textbook FightOKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — The state’s largest teacher group is taking aim at an amended bill that would require references to God in public school science textbooks. ‘‘I think it has more to do with politics than it has to do with instruction or religion,’’ Carolyn Crowder, president of the Oklahoma Education Association, said Thursday. The language that textbooks ‘‘include acknowledgment that human life was created by one God of the universe’’ was tacked onto Senate Bill 1139 during House debate Wednesday at the urging of Rep. Jim Reese, R-Nardin. The amended bill is bound for a House-Senate conference committee, where the teacher’s group and others will likely work to remove the language. Another amendment empowers the state textbook committee, which approves all public school texts, to add a one-page disclaimer, review or summary in science books. The textbook committee attempted to require publishers to put a disclaimer in science textbooks that evolution is a ‘‘controversial theory,’’ but state Attorney General Drew Edmondson ruled that the committee lacked authority. The Oklahoma Education Association also opposes the second amendment. ‘‘We are against using a clearly established policy that’s both constitutional and statutory when it comes to the textbook committee,’’ Crowder said. Gov. Frank Keating supported the textbook committee’s disclaimer mandate. But the governor’s press secretary, John Cox, said Keating hasn’t decided how he feels about the House amendments. Instead, Keating will wait on a final version of the bill. But the Americans United for Separation of Church and State, a self-described religious liberties watchdog, warned that the Oklahoma Legislature is inviting a lawsuit. ‘‘This legislation is outrageous and unconstitutional,’’ said the Rev. Barry W. Lynn, executive director of Americans United. ‘‘This is America not Iran. Our legislators are not supposed to be judges of religious truth.’’ CPA Gets Visit from K-9 Friend The Citizen’s Police Academy Alumni were treated to a special member of the Ponca City Police Department recently, when Rocky attended as part of a program. District Attorney Mark Gibson and K-9 Officer Master Patrolman Fred Landis of the police department and Rocky, a three-year-old Belgian Malinois, were the special guests. Gibson was the guest speaker for the Alumni session. Funding for the K-9 project was accomplished by the District Attorney’s office, a fund-raising effort that was initiated by the Ponca City Noon Ambucs. Landis was selected to be the K-9 Officer from a field of applicants and he and Rocky attended five weeks of training in Braggs, Okla. The pair received certification as a (CDS) Controlled Dangerous Substance Detection team. Rocky can identify five different types of drugs, including marijuana, hashish, methamphetamines, cocaine and heroin. The final three weeks of training was spent tracking, area searches, suspect apprehension and handler protection. Landis and Rocky have already had several drug detection success in the area and have only been on the job together a few weeks. DEATHSEddy Lyn Harris Eddy Lyn HarrisNEWKIRK — Eddy Lyn Harris, Newkirk businessman and former resident, died Wednesday afternoon, April 5, 2000, in the Texhoma Regional Medical Center, Dennison, Texas, the result of a construction accident. He was 48. The funeral has been scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday, April 8, in the Newkirk First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Dale Nielsen, minister of the Skiatook First Presbyterian Church, officiating. Burial is to follow in Newkirk Cemetery under the direction of Miller-Stahl Funeral Service. Eddy Lyn Harris was born Nov. 11, 1951, in Winfield, Kan., the son of Gordon Garrett and Veatrice Ilene (Olsen) Harris. He grew up in Grainola, and he attended school in Shidler, graduating with the class of 1970. After graduation he ranched. On Jan. 8, 1972, he married Mary Ruth Houser in Newkirk. They established their first home in Maple City, Kan., moving to a ranch east of Newkirk in 1973. In 1980, he began the Bluestem Construction Company, and in 1985 the family moved into Newkirk. In 1997, he moved to Skiatook but continued to operate his construction business out of Newkirk. He attended the Skiatook First Baptist Church and was a member of the Association of General Contractors. He was also a member of the American Quarter Horse Association and the Paint Horse Association. He enjoyed cutting horses, collecting antique tractors and working on his ranch. He is survived by one son, Jacob Gordon Harris of Newkirk; two daughters, Rebekah Lyn Harris of Skiatook and Julie Christine Adams of Moore; his mother of Grainola; two brothers, David Harris of Grainola and Bob Harris of Stillwater; two sisters, Norma Roberts of Halls, Tenn., and Janice Stuber of Eureka, Kan.; and one grandson. He was preceded in death by his father. Those serving as casket bearers will be Mike Daugherty, Ken Dye, Curt Emerson, Nick Mantz, Ron Phillips, and James Raspberry. Honorary casket bearers are Pat Conwell, Tom Drummond, Rae Engelking, Kenny Mantz, Carrol Sheid, Kevin Shoenfelder, and Rhonda Stephens. Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Skiatook First Presbyterian Church, 300 East Second Street, Skiatook, Okla. 74070 or to High Impact Ministry of Newkirk, c/o Eastman National Bank, Box 468, Newkirk, Okla. 74647. Christine MeffordArkansas City, Kan. — Christine Mefford, former resident of Ponca City, died Thursday, April 6, 2000, at the Presbyterian Manor Health Care Center in Arkansas City. She was 89. The funeral will be held 2 p.m. Monday, April 10, at the Blessing Heights Church of God - Apostolic Faith in Arkansas City. Burial will be in the Newkirk Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Hawks Funeral Home in Arkansas City. Friends may call at the funeral home Sunday 1 to 9 p.m.; the family will receive friends 7 to 8:30 p.m. Sunday. The casket will be open Monday from 9 a.m. until noon. Christine Mefford was born April 21, 1910, in Parise, N.M., the daughter of Cecil and Frances Stewart Leonard. The family moved to Amarillo, Texas, when she was four years old, later moving to Leslie, Ark. After graduating from high school, she did some substitute teaching. Later the family moved to Center, Okla. Upon the death of her father, she moved with her mother and brother to Perry, where she married John Francis Mefford on Oct. 14, 1931. The moved to Ponca City where they farmed until moving to a farm near Newkirk in the fall of 1933. They moved to Arkansas City in 1941. She was employed in the wiener department of Maurer-Neuer Rodeo Meats, retiring in 1975. She was a founding member of the Blessing Heights Church in Arkansas City. Survivors include two sons, Harvey C. Mefford of Arkansas City and Dale Mefford of Sand Springs; five daughters, Donna Richey of Webb City, Yvonne Foster of Continental Divide, N.M., Gail Gammill of North Canton, Ohio, Mary Lou Deans of Rocky Mount, N.C., and Cheryl Ghram of Arkansas City; 19 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband on June 18, 1994; one brother, Alfred Leonard; and two grandchildren. Services PendingClifford Walking Sky Sr.Clifford Walking Sky Sr., resident of Ponca City, died Friday morning, April 7, 2000, in St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 68. A prayer service will be held at 7:30 this evening and Saturday evening in the Ponca Indian United Methodist Church in White Eagle. Arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home. NEWS BRIEFSRummage Sale — Rummage sale from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday at the Asbury United Methodist Church, 700 West Liberty. Proceeds go to missions. Ray Cantwell original oil paintings. Sale Saturday, April 8 at the First Presbyterian Church, 204 South A, Blackwell, 9-4. For more information, call 762-4675. adv. Memorial Dinner — A memorial dinner in honor of Jewel McDonald Farmer is planned for noon April 30 at the Ponca Tribal Cultural Center. Friends and family are invited and should bring chairs and dishes. For more information call 718-9628. Dougan's Bar-B-Q Friday special from 4-8 p.m., all you can eat ribs with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $7.49. 215 South 14th, 765-7979. adv. Youth Academy Dates — Dates for the Youth Police Academy were sent to The Ponca City News incorrectly for the second session. The first session is June 5-9 but the second session is June 26-30 instead of the previously reported June 19-23. Ghostly Complexion? Fake Bake 2-minute self tanner is here! It works! Carla’s Hallmark, Downtown. adv. Bronze Plaques Stolen — The Ponca City Police Department received a call at 9:23 a.m. Thursday that three more bronze plaques had been stolen from Standing Bear Park. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Subjects Held — Three officers of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 2500 block of Industrial Boulevard at 10 a.m. Thursday that a 22-year-old man was being held for possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia, a 46-year-old man was being held for possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia, and a 41-year-old man was being held for possession of marijuana. Going Out of business. Play Pen Ceramics. 205 South Pine, Ponca City, Ok. All Green ware 1/2 price. Monday April 10th through the 15th. 9 to 5 Daily. Bring boxes. adv. Abandoned Vehicle — The code enforcement officer requested an abandoned vehicle be towed from the area of 100 East Brookfield Avenue at 10:41 a.m. Thursday. Elks Lodge pork-poke and sock hop. Sat. 6-11? Members and guest new location. 3612 Lake Rd. 765-4045. adv. Items Missing — The Ponca City Police Department received a report from an employee at Country General, 3008 North Fourteenth Street, at 10:49 a.m. Thursday that two trailers had been stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Grass Fire — The Communications Center received call at 3:04 p.m. Thursday that a grass fire was burning behind the VFW, 3001 East Prospect Avenue. Two units from the Ponca City Fire Department responded and handled the situation. Equipment Vandalized — An employee of Evans and Associates reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 10:51 a.m. Thursday that some construction equipment had been vandalized in the area of West Summit Avenue and North Waverly Street. An officer was assigned and a report was taken that the equipment had been spray-painted. Jim Bowen Construction Custom homes, room additions and remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv. Theft — A woman from the 700 block of North Union Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:39 a.m. Thursday that someone had taken items from her residence. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Spring Fever? Step in and see our selection of bunnies, statuary, and bird houses. Mrs. Brown’s Attic, Ponca Plaza. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 200 block of West Gary Avenue at 12:13 p.m. Thursday that a 42-year-old woman was being held on a city warrant for failure to obey. Hallmark Creative Kids day this Saturday. Activities, balloons, snacks and coloring contest. Carla’s Hallmark, 405 E. Grand, Downtown. adv. Wallet Stolen — A clerk at Conoco Convenience, 1613 West South Avenue, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 2:45 p.m. Thursday that a customer had reported a wallet stolen. An officer was assigned and the information was logged. Pauline’s Shrimp peel. All you can eat $11.95 Friday 7th. For reservations call 765-5460. adv. Vehicle Fire — A motorist reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:04 p.m. from the intersection of North Fourteenth Street and East Prospect Avenue that a vehicle was on fire. Two units from the Ponca City Fire Department responded and information was logged that the incident was a cooling problem and no fire. Stormescape Shelters, perfect for garage, under vehicle, installation. $1,695. 765-2633. adv. Fight in Progress — The Ponca City Police Department received a report at 3:11 p.m. Thursday that a fight was in progress in the 1400 block of West Grand Avenue. Two officers were assigned and took an assault and battery report, and a trespassing report. Information was logged that a juvenile subject was contacted in the 700 block of North Oak Street and citations were issued. Kids/Her Review now accepting spring/summer childrens and womans consignments. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 400 block of Lansbrook at 3:18 p.m. Thursday that a 27-year-old woman was being held on a city warrant for assault and battery. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of South Fourth Street and East Maple Avenue at 3:39 p.m. Thursday that a 34-year-old man was being held for driving under suspension and having an expired inspection sticker. Head Country Saturday night special. All you can eat beef brisket with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $7.49. All day. 1217 East Prospect. adv. Missing Check Book — A man from the 1200 block of North Ash Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 5:10 p.m. Thursday that a check book had been stolen. Disturbance — The Ponca City Police Department received a report at 10:10 p.m. Thursday that a disturbance was occurring in the 2000 block of Mary Street. Four other officers responded to the scene after the first one arrived requesting assistance and information was logged that shots had been fired by the resident trying to get another person to leave. A report was taken on destruction of private property. Accident — A two-vehicle accident at the intersection of North Fourteenth Street and East Hartford Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 5:12 p.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential. Hours: Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and Thursday, 6-8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. 765-9689. adv. Accident — A two-vehicle, non-injury accident at the intersection of North Fifth Street and East Highland Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 5:34 p.m. Thursday. Two officers were assigned and a report was taken. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 400 block of South Fourteenth Street at 5:54 p.m. that a 39-year-old man was being held for failure to appear and failure to obey. Wallet Stolen — A woman from the 200 block of South Second Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 5:54 p.m. Thursday that a wallet had been stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Information was logged that a clerk at Cato would be able to identify a person that used a credit card from the stolen wallet. Hit and Run — A two-vehicle accident at the intersection of South Fifth Street and East Madison Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 6:45 p.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Information was logged that one vehicle had left the scene. Vandalism — A man from the 2600 block of North Fourteenth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 8:40 p.m. Thursday that someone had egged his vehicle inside and out. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Report of Fire — The Communications Center received a call at 8:56 p.m. Thursday that a gas range had caught fire in the 1900 block of North Seventh Street. Units from two Ponca City Fire Department stations responded and information was logged that gas had been turned off to the stove and there was no fire. Accident — An accident in the 2700 block of John Street was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 8:58 p.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Threat — A clerk at a business in the 1100 block of North Union Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 10:07 p.m. Thursday that a woman had attempted to purchase cigarettes without an identification and a threat of using a baseball bat on an assault was made. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the U.S. 60 bridge over the Arkansas River at 11:16 p.m. Thursday that a 33-year-old man was being held on two city warrants. Disturbance — A man from the 3500 block of North Union Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:21 p.m. Thursday that a problem was occurring. Three officers responded and a 16-year-old boy was held for public intoxication and simple assault on an officer. A report was taken. LIFESTYLESPC Tomorrow Sponsoring Local Earth Day Art Contest PC Tomorrow Sponsoring Local Earth Day Art ContestDo you ever feel that environmental problems are so big that you personally can’t make much of a difference? Across the world, various groups, as well as individuals, are doing what they can to reuse, recycle, and protect the environment as part of Earth Day activities. Locally, Environmental Art for Earth Day is being sponsored by Ponca City Tomorrow’s Environmental Committee. School students and other interested individuals are invited to submit items for an art exhibit using the theme “Reflections on Roadside Art,” from work by Melanie Longmore. Dates of exhibition are Tuesday, April 25 - Monday, May 1. An example of artwork using broken items, recycled articles, and things found at the roadside can be found at these websites http://www.ossm.edu/~msalama/index.html or http://www.ossm.edu/~msalama/earth2.html Contest rules are: 1. Artwork should use the principles of waste minimization-reduce, reuse, recycle. 2. Artwork should be constructed of a least 60 percent recycled materials. This could include items picked up that have previously been discarded. 3. Artwork may be created by an individual, a school class, or an outside group, for example, scout troop, 4-H group. Both individual and group categories are options for contestants. 4. Students should follow adult directions on where to pick up materials, what material is acceptable to use in their artwork, and if gloves are needed to handle material. No sharp objects will be allowed as part of the displays. 5. If you need guidance on areas that are good sources of recycled material, call Kathy Ferguson on 763-8051 6. Include with the artwork a description of your source of material and your inspiration for the work. 7. Artwork will be accepted for the show at the discretion of the juror. Calendar of Exhibition Bring art to the Marland Mansion Artist’s Studio between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 20. Matzo Balls Tradition With Soup(AP) — Jews eat matzo during Passover to remember the suffering of their ancestors, slaves in Egypt. It is flat and unleavened because as the slaves fled to freedom across the Sinai, there was no time to let the bread rise. Matzo meal is matzo ground until it resembles coarse flour. Matzo balls, or soup dumplings also known as ‘‘knaidlach,’’ are traditional in chicken soup. But how to make matzo balls is a family thing. Just like a good pie crust, ingredients and how-to are passed from one generation to the next. When Evelyn Rose asked her mother how much matzo meal to put into the dumplings, she was told ‘‘as much as it takes’’ or ‘‘enough to make a nice mixture.’’ Somehow she has now put it into writing. Grandma Rose’s Matzo Balls (recipe follows) are in Mother and Daughter Jewish Cooking’ (William Morrow) by Evelyn Rose and Judi Rose. While the dumplings may be traditional Jewish fare, the Roses’ Best of Both Worlds Chicken Soup (recipe follows) is less so. Unlike earlier versions in which the soup was crowned with golden beads of fat, this soup is nearly fat-free. ‘‘This has all the flavor of traditional chicken soup but a fraction of the calories,’’ they write. ‘‘The secret of a superb ‘brew’, as we call it, is to refrigerate or freeze the cooled liquid for several hours’’ and then scrape every particle of fat from the surface. Best of Both Worlds Chicken Soup 1/2 large stewing chicken, all visible fat removed 2 roast chicken carcasses 3 quarts water 2 teaspoons sea salt Pinch of white pepper 2 large onions, peeled and halved 3 large carrots, peeled and halved lengthwise 3 stalks celery, leaves and top 2 inches of stalk only 1 sprig curly parsley 1 very ripe tomato 2 large carrots, peeled and diced 1 fat leek, 3 inches of the white part, finely shredded Grandma Rose’s Matzo Balls Medium egg noodles, cooked according to instructions and drained Put the stewing chicken and broken-up carcasses in a large, heavy soup pot with 3 quarts of water, and the sea salt and pepper. Cover and bring to the boil. Remove any froth with a large, wet metal spoon. Add the onions, carrots, celery, parsley and tomato. Return to a boil, then reduce the heat so the liquid is barely bubbling. Cover and simmer for 3 hours. Remove the stewing chicken and reserve for another use. Discard the roast chicken carcasses. Strain the soup into a large bowl or freezer container and discard the vegetables. Cook, cover and freeze overnight. When ready to serve, remove congealed fat and return soup to a pot. Add the diced carrots and shredded leek. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until the vegetables are bite-tender. Garnish with matzo balls and noodles. Makes 8 servings Grandma Rose’s Matzo Balls 2 large eggs 2 slightly rounded tablespoons rendered chicken fat, chicken- flavored vegetable fat, or soft margarine About 1/2 cup warm chicken soup or water 3 teaspoons sea salt 1/4 teaspoon white pepper 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (optional) 1/4 cup ground almonds 1 cup matzo meal Whisk the eggs until fluffy, then stir in the soft fat, the warm soup or water, 1 teaspoon of the salt, pepper, ginger, ground almonds and matzo meal. Mix thoroughly. The mixture should look moist and thick but not quite firm enough to form into balls. If too soft, add a little more meal; if too firm, add water 1 teaspoon at a time until you have the right consistency. Chill for at least 1 hour, but overnight will do no harm. The mixture will then firm up. Half-fill a 3-quart cooking pot with water and bring to a boil, then add 2 teaspoons of sea salt. Remove matzo mixture from the refrigerator. With wet hands, take pieces the size of large walnuts and roll between the palms into balls. Drop these balls into the boiling water and reduce the heat until the water is simmering. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes without removing the lid. Strain the matzo balls from the water with a slotted spoon and lower into the simmering soup. You can cook the matzo balls in chicken soup rather than in water. They will absorb some of the soup but with it also its delicious flavors. Place two matzo balls into each soup bowl and ladle chicken soup over them. Makes 6 to 8 servings. NOTE: You can cook matzo balls in chicken soup rather than in water. They will absorb some of the soup, and with it some of the flavors. Matzo balls may be made in advance and frozen for up to 1 month. Freeze the cooked and drained balls on baking sheets until solid — about 2 hours — and store them in plastic bags. To use, defrost for 1 hour at room temperature, then reheat in the simmering soup. Little NewsAlan and Dianna (Caldwell) Monks of Oklahoma City announce the birth of their daughter, Brooklyn Shay Monks, at 6:04 p.m. March 21, 2000, at Baptist Medical Center in Oklahoma City. Brooklyn weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces, and measured 18 3/4 inches long. She has a brother, Dodger Alan Monks, 4. Grandparents include Barbara and Johnny Caldwell of Ponca City, Theresa Monks of Pawnee, and Dan Monks of Oklahoma City. Announcing the birth of a daughter are David and Sherri Bosworth of Blackwell. Leah Michelle Bosworth was born at 12:08 p.m. March 30, 2000, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She weighed 7 pounds, 7 ounces, and was 21 inches in length. She has a brother, Micah, 7, and sister, Katelyn, 6. Maternal grandparents are Jim and Marilyn Payne of Ponca City, and paternal grandparents are Charles and Barbara Bosworth of Dewey. EDUCATIONVo-Tech System Plays Major Role in Oklahoma Vo-Tech System Plays Major Role in OklahomaOklahoma's vo-tech system continues to play a major role in preparing Oklahomans for success in the workplace and in fueling the state economy, says Dr. Ann Benson, state vo-tech director. “We are the economic branch of Oklahoma’s education system,” she said. Statistics recently released by the Oklahoma Department of Vocational and Technical Education and contained in a report titled “Taking a Closer Look at the Facts” back up Benson's assertion. Among those are: — Positive student placement (which includes graduates who are either working in their field, in the military or continuing their education) in Fiscal Year 1998 was eight percent higher than 10 years ago. Job-related placement shows a 15 percent increase during the same period. — More than 481,000 enrollments were recorded in the vo-tech system last fiscal year, a number that corresponds to about one in every 10 Oklahomans. — In FY99 business and industry training accounted for more than 318,000 enrollments (66 percent), full-time secondary enrollment was about 134,000 (28 percent), full-time adult enrollment more than 13,000 (3percent) and other enrollment (displaced homemakers/single parents, Tinker Air Force Base, etc.) about 14,000 (3 percent). — Between FY91 and FY99 there was a 40 percent gain in enrollments in comprehensive school students, technology centers students and adults enrolled in full-time vocational programs. — Business and industry training programs have seen enrollments rise from 139,400 in FY90 to 318,014 in FY99. Benson said “Taking a Closer Look at the Facts” is a detailed overview of vo-tech programs in 399 comprehensive school districts, 24 skills centers sites and 54 technology center campuses. The 20-page pamphlet contains several charts and figures illustrating areas of growth in the statewide vocational system. The Department's Information Management Division coordinated production of the publication. Ruth Peace, IMD coordinator, said it is important to compile data so the state vo-tech agency can measure success and study areas that need improvement. According to Peace “Taking a Closer Look at the Facts” is aimed at educators, legislators, business leaders and other vo-tech partners. “The brochure was put together to make available a fact-based study of our complex system,” she said. “It is meant to give an annual overview of the Oklahoma vo-tech system and some of its initiatives in a format that is clear and easy to follow.” “Our vo-tech system serves a diverse population, from high school students learning new skills, to unemployed adults and underemployed adults upgrading their skills, to businesses and industries seeking better-prepared employees,” Benson said. Two Medical Assisting Students Gain Valuable Job ExperienceTwo Pioneer Technology Center (PTC) Medical Assisting (MA) students have gained more than practical experience during their on-the-job training. In fact, they both have gained employment! Donna Aston, Fairfax, and Michelle Huster, Newkirk, are working for two local health facilities in the Ponca City area while continuing to finish their Medical Assisting program. Aston, who has been working for the Northern Oklahoma Cancer Center since December, states that it is a load trying to work full-time and trying to finish her program, but that she absolutely loves it! “I come to class one day a week and do my computer assignments,” said Aston. “Most of my written work and assignments are dropped off to me so I can work on them in the evening. I was so surprised when Ms. Veal told me about the opportunity to do my training at the cancer center. We had already studied about oncology in our class and I became very interested in learning more about it then. Since I have been working at the cancer center, I have learned so much from the staff there. Dr. William Graham takes the time to explain things to me and in a way that is easy to understand.” Huster, who is working part-time for Dr. Pavel Riha at Ponca Family Medicine, also agrees that her work experience has been just as rewarding. “It has been great taking what you have learned in the classroom and actually using it on the job,” said Huster. “Working for a cardiologist has helped me learn so much more. In addition to doing routine patient care and insurance billing, I am also getting to help with the pacemaker clinics once a month.” Both Aston and Huston are also learning something else in their jobs that is just going to take a lot practice and more experience everyday. Aston states that she thinks the topic could just well be, “How to Handle Difficult Situations.” “In order to be in the health profession, I knew we would have to have excellent people skills, compassion, and a lot of patience. And in the areas that we are in, we are really seeing how valuable this is! Our instructor, Ms. Veal, had worked with us on developing soft skills and have we spent quite a bit of time doing mock patient interviews that have helped. But sometimes helping patients when they are sick or just found out that they have a serious disease is very difficult.” Aston says she feels her calling is in the field of oncology and has plans to pursue a nursing degree in this area. Huston, who is enjoying her work, says that she just knows that she loves the nursing field and is glad she is helping others. Both Aston and Huston began the MA program last August. The full-time program under the instruction of Ginny Veal, R.N., prepares students as a multi-skilled health professional who will be qualified to perform administrative, clinical, and laboratory procedures upon completion. Veal's program includes instruction in medical transcription, performing routine laboratory procedures, assisting with examinations and treatments, supervised medication administration, scheduling appointments, coding and processing insurance accounts, billing, and collections. Upon program completion, students may be eligible to sit for the American Association of Medical Assistants' Certification Examination to become Certified Medical Assistants. Other students in the classroom are getting on the job training experiences from Kay County physician offices, hospitals, and other health maintenance organizations. BrieflyMarzuola Receives Award Jeremy Marzuola, son of Randol Marzuola of Ponca City, has been awarded a NASA EPSCoR Fellowship Stipend award. The purpose of the award is to fund collaborative research activities between the University of Oklahoma and NASA Langley in the area of applied mathematics. McNamara Honored Kitty McNamara, daughter of Eddie and Norma Griffith of Burbank, has received an invitation from the College of Business Administration at Oklahoma State University to attend a March 30 banquet. She will be honored after being named to the Dean’s List of Distinguished Students. Honors at OSU Richard Balfanz and June Foreman of Ponca City were honored during the 27th annual Honors and Awards Ceremony of the College of Education at OSU. Balfanz, a trade and industrial education senior, was awarded a $500 Ray E. Brown Memorial Scholarship. Foreman, a health promotion senior, was named of the Top Ten Students in the College of Education. Ladd Honored Olivia Ladd, daughter of Marty and Patricia Ladd of Ponca City, has been named to the dean’s list of Macalester College in Saint Paul, Minnesota, for the fall semester. Cullin Receives Honor James Cullin, son of John and Celia Cullin of Ponca City, has been named a United States National Award Winner in English. He was nominated for the national award by Leann Cavener, a teacher at Po-Hi. His grandparents are Ruth DeYoe and Richard and Shirley DeYoe, all of Blackwell. Whitney Named to Honor Roll Melissa Whitney, daughter of Steve and Kathy Whitney of Ponca City, was named to the dean’s list for the fall semester at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, California. Foundation Gave Many Grants in ’99The Ponca City Public School Foundation (PCPSF) gave 23 grants to Ponca City teachers totaling $15,362.82 in 1999. The PCPSF was established in 1986 to financially support new and innovative projects requested by Ponca City school teachers. The foundation has presented 197 grants totaling $142,790 to teachers in every school within the Ponca City School System. PCPSF trustees for 2000 are Marjie Newman, president; James Roland, vice president and public relations chairman; Sandra Hudack, treasurer; Gary Bracken, fund raising chairman; Kathleen Scribner, allocations chairman; Holly Labossiere, Terri Huston, Larry Buck, Gini Carey, Yinka Ogundipe, Dan Gilliam, Steve Crank, Lisa Coy, Karen Williams, Dr. John Scroggins and Michael Grimes. RELIGIONFirst Baptist Presenting Annual Easter Pageant In Ponca City April 13-16 First Baptist Presenting Annual Easter Pageant In Ponca City April 13-16First Baptist Church, Ponca City will present their annual Easter Pageant at Hutchins Auditorium April 13-16. Once again four performances will be offered to accommodate the expected crowds. Admission for these 7 p.m. presentations is free, but tickets are necessary for admission. Each ticket will be good only for one particular night. You may secure your tickets through First Baptist Church, KLVV Radio, The Master’s Touch, Pioneer Bank & Trust in Ponca City, Lyall Insurance in Tonkawa, Eastman National Bank in Newkirk, Ruth’s Christian Book Store in Enid, The Christian Book Store in Stillwater, and Sparks Music in Arkansas City. This year’s pageant, entitled “No Name Under Heaven .. JESUS!, will tell the timeless story of Jesus Christ’s miraculous birth, life, death, resurrection and return to heaven’s throne. Many have compared this pageant favorably to the “Great Passion Play” in Eureka Springs, Ark. A cast of over 150 will be assisted by a host of crown bearers, banner bearers, technicians, ushers, and stage crew members. The pageant producer is Pastor Hance Dilbeck; the pageant director is Larry Masters, Minister of Music; the pageant administrative assistant is Marcella Johnson; drama director is Carol Green; the stage director is Margaret Price; the stage crew includes Linda Burg, Pam Veal, Marcella Johnson and Larry Weems; the lighting director is Craige Baird; the lighting crew includes Sue Ellen Worstell, George Ivie, Johnnie Parnell, Robert Stover and Frank Suess; the audio directors and crew are Dave Land, Gary Long and Pat Gladd; the construction directors are Tim Burg and Don Clinton; the choreography director is Terry Driesel; the Banner ministry directors are Ronda Williams and Cathy Ferguson; the child care directors are Carolyn May and Dorothy Osborn; make-up directors are Teresa Clark and Judy McClung; the costume directors are Pam Veal and Marcella Johnson; specialty costumes by Jan Justice; the props director is Pam Veal; the prayer campaign director is Carol Green; the counseling director is Mary Anne Potter; ticket distribution director is Pat White; ushers are headed by Jack Gosting; poster distribution director is David Myers. Scenes for this year include the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist, the calling of the disciples, the foot washing of the disciples by Jesus, and a spectacular heaven scene using angels, saints, crowns and herald trumpeters. Song titles included in this year’s pageant will feature “The Lord is With You”, “Rome Wants to Know”, and “A Savior is Born”, all composed by the team of Chris Machen and Richard Kingsmore. Other titles include the music of contemporary composer Robert Sterling. “Glorify Thy Son” by Steve Amerson and David Clydesdale will be a powerful scene in the Garden of Gethsemane. “Watch the Lamb” a long time favorite by Ray Boltz will return this year by popular request, and “Christ Arose” and “Blessing, Honour and Glory” will be an inspiring, spirited finale as the angels, the heavenly host, and the entire cast give glory and honour to the Risen savior. Playing the role of Jesus again this year is Bill Justice. Bill is making the tenth consecutive appearance as Jesus in the Greater Ponca City Easter Pageant. David Devorss will play the part of Old John (the narrator) that ties everything together for the audience. Other lead roles will be Larry Masters as Simon Peter, Guy Lyall as Andrew and David Myers as John the Baptist. Other Biblical roles will be played by: Shannon Mair as Mary, mother of Jesus; Doug Thompson as Joseph; Carson Officer as Baby Jesus (Parents: Scott and Keri); Troy Lewis as Young John; Loy Morris as James; Dwayne Black as Judas; Lanny Officer as Matthew; Chad Hall as Phillip; Lee Stout as Thomas; David Myers as Bartholomew; Mike Lane as James Alphaeus; Coburn Veal as Thaddaeus; Larry Smith as Simon; Behren Smith and Susan Smith as Jacob and Mother; Jonathan Trout as boy servant; Terry Baskin as Mary Magdalene; Karen Long as Martha; Sean Love as Gabriel; Stephanie Council, Jennifer Long, Brandon Snyder and Caleb Black as angels; Bart Snyder as Herod with fan girls, Angela Skaggs and Lindsay Weems; Tim Burg as Pilate with servants Jonet Dawson and Bobbie Short; Craig Myers as Captain Marcus; Joel Gilliland, Tommy Smith, Jordan David, and Don Williams as Roman soldiers; Jason Smith as Barrabas; Chris Primeaux and Keith Hunter as the thieves on the cross; George Ferguson as Caiaphas (High Priest); John Hereford, Jay Johnson and Bob Axtel as Pharisees; Jerry Winkle as Nicodemus; Kenn Orr as Joseph of Arimathea with servants Jim Lee and Jeff Larmer; James Barraclough and Jonathan Trout as temple guards; Michal Justice and Jonathan Myers as scribes; Charlotte Smith as the adulterer; Barbara Masters and Robyn Brown as fireside maids; Doyle Brewer, Bradley Council and Carder Price as Simon of Cyrene and his two sons; Keith Hunter and Chris Primeaux as the thieves on the cross. The kings, shepherds, entourage and trumpeters are played by James York, Angela Skaggs, Rachel Gilliland, Amanda Lewis, Joseph Skaggs, Perry Badley, Ashley Baird, Kate Burg, James Barraclough, Michal Justice, Jason Smith, Ryan Trout, Robert Lewis, Teara Lewis, Jamie Trout, Sabrie Baird, April Forcum, Jonathan Gilliland, Tiffany Myers, J.T. Burg, Anna Van Cleave, Polly Morris, Alaina Deitas. Also Dennis Manley, Tommie Campbell, Fran Manley, Lana Brewer, Carder Price, Whitney Manley, Mike Starbuck, Mika Starbuck, Tiffany Myers, Eric Cales, Molly Starbuck, Kathy Deitas, Letticia Deitas, David Simmons, Janet Trout, Sara Mair and Rebekah Mair, Ryan Stout. The miracles scene will include Callie Larmer, Jeff Larmer, Cindy Larmer, Reece Larmer, Tom Short, Gale Prather and Mike Starbuck; David Simmons as the chief money changer with Pat Batdorf, Sue winkle and Barbara Masters. Supporting the 100 voice choir will be soloists Sean Love, Shannon Mair, Doug Thompson, Stephanie Council, Jennifer Long, David Myers, Larry Masters, Guy Lyall, Doyle Brewer, Susan Smith, Bill Justice, D.H. Dilbeck, Charlotte Smith, Behren Smith, Tom Short, Terry Driesel, Jerry Winkle, Sue Winkle, Judy Burnette, Lois Lyall, Mary Jane Barraclough, Doyle Brewer, Bradley Council, and Craig Myers. The greater Ponca City Easter Pageant is constantly being upgraded with new, fresh and exciting ways to present an accurate portrayal of the biblical gospel message. That’s why people come back year after year to see it again. The folks at First Baptist hope the public will make every effort to get pageant tickets, invite others needing to hear the good news about Christ. Tickets are free ... but necessary! The message from the folks at First Baptist Church is “please don’t miss ‘No Name Under Heaven ... JESUS!’, the 2000 version of the annual Ponca City Easter Pageant at Hutchins Auditorium in Ponca City, April 13-16 at 7 p.m. nightly. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. each evening. Call 405-765-4427 for more information. FF Board Sets Fund Raiser For April 14thThe Friendship Feast board members will be hosting a fund-raising spaghetti dinner on Friday, April 14 in the Fellowship Hall of the First Christian Church, Ponca City, it was announced by Ed Nanni, publicity chairperson for the Board. The cost of the meal is $6 for adults and $3 for children. Kaye Motz is the chef for the meal, which will consist of his homemade spaghetti sauce and fresh home-baked bread, salad, home-baked cookies and lime sherbet. Guests may also buy loaves of Kaye’s delicious bread the night of the event, Nanni pointed out. Proceeds from the meal will be used to purchase food, disposable plates and utensils, and other ancillary items for the Friendship Feast. Friendship Feast is a non-profit organization consisting of volunteers from local churches and benevolent organizations in Ponca City. The mission of the Friendship Feast is to provide a good, wholesome meal to those in need in our community. Meals are served from Monday to Thursday in the Fellowship Hall of the First Christian Church at 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. Tickets for the fund-raiser can be purchased at the door on the evening of the meal, from a board member, or from your local church members. “Come enjoy a touch of Italy in the mid-continent and help support a Christian-based, ecumenical mission in Ponca City,” Nanni said. NE Baptists Invite Public To Join in ‘The Promise’Guy Cooper, minister of music at Northeast Baptist Church, 2200 Pecan Road, invites the public to join the Northeast Baptist family in celebrating this Easter season by attending “The Promise,” a pageant on the life of Jesus Christ. It presents the birth, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus in a fresh and touching way. “The Promise” will be presented on Sunday, April 16 at 6 p.m. and on Monday, April 17 at 7 p.m. Our greatest hope is that those who experience “The Promise” — as cast or audience — will come away from the encounter with an acute awareness that biblical people, places, things and events are not unlike our modern-day counterpart. The players and stages change; the Lord does not. What Jesus did then, He does today. What He did for those in the past, He does for us. He invites us daily to participate in this divine drama of the ages. “The Promise” cast includes approximately 100 adults, youth, and children in addition to the Northeast Sanctuary Choir. The main characters are: Mary (Tressa Bird), Joseph (Mark Green), Jesus (David Dowd), Jesus as a youth (Blake), and baby Jesus (Abigail Segelquist). Disciples are Carl Johnston, Troy McKain, Gene Tarr, David Mallory, Tim Short, Larry Degan, Charley Goodno, Vince Shotton, J.D. Elwood, Mike White, Dean Merz and Michael Goddard. Pharisees are Duane Gregory, Martin Trenary, Scott Richards, and Tom Hraban. Other characters are Mike Walker (Pilate) and Sean Satterfield (Herod). Narration will be done as a family with Glenda Scully portraying Grandma, Brandon Humble as Billy and Beth Satterfield as Lisa. Northeast has been blessed with amazing talent and many of those people will be soloists in “The Promise.” Soloists will be Glenda Scully, Brandon Humble, Beth Satterfield, Tressa Bird, Mark Green, Brian Reiss, Carol Johnstone, Troy McKain, Gene Tarr, Donita Cooper, Andy McGee, Mike Walker, Laurie Graham, Linda Caudle, and Patty Curl. Directing the drama portion of “The Promise” is Cindy Short. Linda Caudle will assist Cindy in the drama, as well as coordinating and assigning costumes. Patty Curl and Marlene Gregory designed and supervised the construction of scenery with help from a number of Northeast members. Dr. Larry E. Nigh as pastor of Northeast Baptist church will close out the evening of celebration. He encourages everyone who knows the joy of the fulfillment that “The Promise” brings to share that promise with our friends, family and co-workers. It is our responsibility as Christians to introduce others to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. What a better time to do so than at Easter, the time we have set aside to celebrate the sacrifice that God so willingly made for us. “The Promise” is your opportunity to share this wonderful news with your friends. The joy of the Easter story is of God’s final triumph over death and the provision of hope for the sinfulness of mankind. Bring an unchurched friend to one of the presentations of “The Promise.” Childcare will be provided at both presentations for children three years of age and younger. Pastor’s NotesLent is a season for spiritual growth. It is a time when we repent of our sin and seek to make changes in our lives. In these weeks before Easter, we are encouraged to spend time in prayer and Bible study. Many of us “give up” something for Lent. It is important to realize that Lent is more than a season of self-denial. Lent is also a time to replace old habits with new ones. It is a time to cast aside our spiritual burdens and live n the freedom of God’s grace. Grudges can be very burdensome and heavy to carry. Lent is a wonderful time to celebrate God forgiving us by forgiving those who have wronged us. This is healthy, for when we are burdened with hatred and hurt for another person, we suffer more than the person we dislike suffers. In her book, “The Hiding Place”, Corrie Ten Boom says that we need God’s help in forgiving those who have wronged us. Ms. Ten Boom and her family suffered in German concentration camps during World War II, because they dared to help Jews escape from the torture of the Nazis. A strong and devout Christian, Ms. Ten Boom traveled extensively after the War, sharing her faith with others. On one occasion in Munich, a man approached her after one of her talks. He did not recognize Corrie Ten Boom, but she recognized him. He had been a guard in the concentration camp at Ravensbruck. He had been cruel and abusive to her and her sister. She hated him! Her enemy extended his hand to her and said, “How grateful I am for your message, Fraulein. To think that, as you say, He has washed my sins away!” Overcome by horrible memories of the past, Corrie Ten boom could not even raise her hand. she prayed, “Lord Jesus, forgive me, and help me to forgive him.” Nothing happened. Again she prayed, “Jesus, I cannot forgive him. Give me your forgiveness.” What happened next was a miracle. “As I took his hand, the most incredible thing happened. From my shoulder, along my arm, and through my hand, a current seemed to pass from me to him, while into my heart sprang a love that almost overwhelmed me.” Forgiving others is not easy to do, but it is necessary. It prevents hatred and bitterness from robbing us of our joy and our ability to love. When we find that we do not have the strength to forgive another person, let us seek God’s help. The God who offers us mercy can teach us to be merciful to others! Dr. J.D. Ward First United Methodist Church Hartford Ave. Church of Christ Hosts ‘Coming Home’ MeetingBeginning Sunday, April 9, the Hartford Avenue Church of Christ will host a “Coming Home” meeting with guest speaker Jimmie Keas of Salina, Kan. According to Don Huddleston, minister for the Hartford Avenue Church, this series of lessons is designed to encourage people who have had an association with the Churches of Christ, but for various reasons are no longer active with a congregation. Keas will speak Sunday at 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and 6 p.m., and nightly Monday through Wednesday at 7 p.m. A native of Elk City, Oklahoma, Keas graduated from Oklahoma Christian University in 1963 and has ministered for churches in Oklahoma and Kansas. He has been the minister for the Church of Christ in Salina, Kansas for the past 8 1/2 years. Keas and his wife, Janet, have been married 36 years and have four children and three grandchildren. Keas conducts several meetings each year, and is best known for his love for souls. Sunday morning at 9:30, Keas’ lesson on “The Supreme Tragedy — Lost!” will discuss the saddest word in our language. The 10:30 lesson is entitled “Why Not Be Prodigal”. Prodigal means wasteful. This lesson will present six reasons why no one should ever become or remain separated from a meaningful relationship with God. Sunday evening’s lesson, “Spiritual Thermometer”, will give the characteristics of three spiritual temperatures, hot, cold, and lukewarm, and what the Bible says about each. Monday evening’s lesson, “When Your Threads Get Tangled”, illustrates how no life is so helpless and hopeless that God cannot forgive, and explains how the threads can get untangled. "Sinners Jesus will Receive” is the title of Tuesday evening’s lesson, and proves that no one can be too bad to be a Christian or to come back home to God’s people. Keas’ concluding lesson on Wednesday, “Prepare to Meet Your God”, will challenge listeners to do just that. Minister Don Huddleston encourages all members and former members of Churches of Christ to attend this series of lessons. A “Coming Home” banquet will be served following the Sunday morning service, and all visitors and members are cordially invited to enjoy this time of fellowship. The Hartford Avenue church is located at the corner of Hartford Avenue and Joe Street. Transportation for the meeting may be arranged by calling 765-3610. Church BriefsJohnson Temple Plans Evangelistic Services Johnson Temple Church of God in Christ, 1000 South Twelfth, will be holding a revival meeting from April 10 through 14 with Elder John Collins of Oklahoma City, doing the preaching. According to the pastor at Johnson Temple, Elder Timothy Johnson, services will be conducted nightly at 7 o’clock, and everyone is welcome to come and hear the Word of God preached. St. Paul’s UMW Announces Spring Salad Luncheon The Spring Salad Luncheon at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church will be held Friday, April 14 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., sponsored by the United Methodist Women of the church. The church is located at Hartford & Pecan. Cost for the luncheon will be $5 for adults and 42 for children. Cookie Bouquet centerpieces will be for sale at this time, also you may create your own Cookie Bouquet. Everyone is welcome to participate. Methodists Plan Rummage Sale The United Methodist Women of Asbury United Methodist Church, 700 West Liberty, will be holding a rummage sale on Saturday, April 8 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the church. All proceeds will go to missions, according to Audrey Jones, president of the UMW. St. John Baptists Honoring Pastor and Wife St. John Baptist Church will be honoring its pastor and wife, the Rev. and Mrs. Robert C. Palmer Sr., for their six years of service on April 9, 2000. The Rev. Raymond Petties, assistant pastor, will give the 10:45 sermon. The Rev. Earnest McClure, pastor of the Second Baptist church of Winfield, Kan. will give the sermon at 3:30 p.m. The guest choir will be from New Life Baptist Church The public is invited to worship Sunday with members of St. John Baptist. Reception for Ringer Family Planned April 9 A reception will be held Sunday evening, April 9, following worship at the Ponca City First Baptist Church, to honor Danny Ringer and his family. The Ringers will begin their ministry to the First Baptist Church of Newkirk on April 16. Albright UMC Sets Youth Dinner, Auction The youth of Albright United Methodist Church will be hosting a dinner and auction immediately following church on Sunday, April 9. A simple meal of submarine and other types of sandwiches, chips and brownies will be served, in order to start the auction quickly — donations will be received. George Brown will serve as auctioneer. The youth are hoping to raise enough money to cover summer church camp again this year and also pay for a snow skiing trip next year with the youth at St. Paul’s UMC, according to Cheri Rutledge, Youth Director. Presbyterian Women Set Monthly Luncheon The Presbyterian Women of First Presbyterian Church will meet on April 13 at noon for their monthly luncheon in fellowship hall at the church. The theme for April is Glimpses of Action by Presbyterian Women, with the Child Development Center Director, Kim Jump, leading. The Irene Nickless Circle will serve as hostess and chairs are Jody Whipple and Anna Shadan. Joan Fuller will give the blessing and Jo Garten, the devotional thoughts. Circles will meet in April, as follows: Lily Jackson Circle on April 27 at 9:30 a.m. in fellowship hall of the church with Iris Peterson and Billie Wright as hostesses; Irene Nickless Circle, April 27 at 1 p.m. in fellowship hall with Althea Wilkinson as hostess and Elisabeth Reynolds Circle on April 17 at 7:30 p.m. in the home of Marcia Black, 717 Sugar Maple with Frances Waldron as co-hostess. Earnest Seekers Visit Billings Despite cold north winds that blew cold rain recently, thirty-two members of the Earnest Seekers SS Class at Albright United Methodist, traveled to Billings recently to dine with one of Oklahoma’s First Ladies — Shirley Bellmon — now the proud owner of a cafe in her home town. The Earnest Seekers at Albright have an average of 30 folks attending each Sunday morning, it was reported, and as Jerry Stewart, their reporter, points out, that’s great for the “Oldie Goldies”. Clothing Giveaway Set for Monday Free clothing will be available to anyone with a need — Monday, April 10 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Helping Hands House, 440 Fairview. They will be have lots of spring and summer clothing available. Woodlands Christian Folks Plan “House Cleaning” Saturday, April 8, will be house cleaning day at Woodlands Christian, starting with breakfast at 8 a.m. prepared by Leland Petersen, who will be serving scrambled eggs, sausage, biscuits and gravy, pancakes, juice, and coffee. Following this hearty breakfast, Woodlands folks will spend the day cleaning up, both inside and outside the church facility. ‘Come Let Us Reason Together’ The Hartford Avenue Church of Christ invites Ponca Citians to a special meeting with Jimmie Keas of Salina, Kan. on Sunday, April 9, at 9:30 a.m. Keas will bring a powerful series of lessons designed to “revive” all of us. We encourage all to come to hear these lessons. Lesson One on Sunday at 9:30 a.m. will be “The Supreme Tragedy — Lost!”; Sunday at 10:30 a.m., “Why Not Be Prodigal”; Sunday 6 p.m., “A Spiritual Thermometer”; Monday, 7 p.m., “When Your Threads Get Tangled”; Tuesday 7 p.m., “Sinners Jesus Will Receive”; Wednesday 7 p.m., “Prepare to Meet Your God.” Dear God, thank You for Your word, the Bible, that we may know Your will for us, to know and obey and live by the truth of Your Word. In Jesus name, Amen. City-Wide Stained Glass Tour Set The Community is invited to view the stained glass art that adorns many of the city’s place of worship. A City-Wide Stained Glass Tour will be held Friday, April 14, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Currently four churches, Grace Episcopal, First Baptist, First Christian and First Lutheran, are participating in the tour which will provide information and guides to the symbolism and art of their colorful windows. Due to special Lenten Services, Grace Episcopal will only be open from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Other churches wishing to participate in the tour are urged to call the First Christian Church office, 762-1666. Mount Olive Baptists Tell Plans Mt. Olive Baptist Church at 520 North Pine in Newkirk is sponsoring a Fellowship Service on Sunday, April 9, it was announced today. Sunday School will begin at 10:30 a.m., followed by the morning worship service at 11:30 a.m., according to the Rev. Irvin Joseph Bobb, pastor, who will bring the morning message. An invitation is extended to all who wish to attend. Beatitudes of the Risen Life Blessed is the man whose heart today burns as he walks with Jesus by the way. Blessed is the man who having not seen, yet believes. Blessed is the man who hears the voice of the Risen Lord saying, “Peace be unto you.” Blessed is the man who accepts the glorious Master, Jesus Christ, as his Lord and his God, and worships him. Blessed is the man who thus lives the power of the endless life through fellowship with the risen Lord. Blessed is the man whose words and deeds are day by day and every day a witness to the living and loving Lord. Bless is the man who obeys the risen Lord’s last great command and commission, “Go ye into all the world and preach my gospel,” for unto him shall be fulfilled the Lord’s promise. "Lo I am with you always, even unto the end.” SPORTSCats Lose Streak, Start Up Another Cats Lose Streak, Start Up AnotherENID — Ponca City’s three-game winning streak came to an abrupt halt Thursday afternoon in a 17-3 shelling at the hands of Class 2A Dale in the second round of the Enid tournament. Fortunately, the Wildcats faced Enid in the nightcap and the Poncans continued their mastery of the Plainsmen, 10-7. The Wildcats return to tournament action Saturday at 10 a.m. against Tulsa Webster. If Ponca City knew little about Dale, located just northwest of Shawnee, it know more. The Pirates raked Wildcat pitchers for 12 hits and got unneeded help from nine errors. The game was called in the fifth inning on the run-rule Dale did most of its damage in the second inning, exploding for 11 runs on six hits and five Po-Hi errors. The Pirates added five runs in the third inning. The Wildcats’ maintained their hitting streak, getting seven hits on the afternoon. But they were no match for the Pirates. Ponca City had a hard time bunching its hits and no Wildcat had more than one. Ponca city tied the score at 1-1 in the top of the second. Jeff Furnas walked and advanced on Jimmo Ozment’s single to right. Furnas scored as Ozment was caught in a rundown. The Wildcats added a run in the third as Todd Stewart opened the inning with a single, took second on a wild pitch and scored on Buddy McCoy’s double to right. The final Ponca City tally came in the fifth. With two outs, Chris McCool singled and scored on Jarrod Spears’ double. While the Cats may not have known Dale, they know Enid quite well. The Poncans downed the Plainsmen twice in preseason action and more recently rallied for a 6-5 win over Enid, scoring twice in the bottom of the seventh inning on Monday. The Wildcats jumped Enid early Thursday night, scoring in the first inning on Ozment’s three-run home run. After Enid narrowed the gap to 3-2 in the second, Ponca City went with the long ball again. Furnas blasted a three-run shot to put the Poncans ahead to stay. However, Enid continued to chip away at thr lead, closing to within 6-5 in the third. But once again the Cats responded, scoring twice in the fifth. Spears walked and Ozment singled with one out. Enid’s centerfielder then misplayed Barry Geheb’s fly ball, scoring both runners. The Wildcats picked up a pair of insurance runs in the seventh on a single by Ozment, a double by Geheb and a single by McCoy. The padding came in handy as Enid scored twice in the bottom of the seventh off pitcher Todd Stewart. But Stewart put down the uprising with help from a Coppock-to-J. Michael Sharon-to McCool double play. The Wildcats banged out 13 hits in that outing.
Copyright© Ponca City News, 1998 |