LOCAL

Bomb, Shooting Rumors Generate Concern at Po-Hi
‘Empty Chairs Remind Me Of Mercy Seat’
Nearly News
State May Receive $20M To Assist in Child Care
State Parks Offer Easter Fun Times at 16 Facilities
Baritone Soloist, Pianist Thrill Community Concert Audience

Bomb, Shooting Rumors Generate Concern at Po-Hi

By MARK GALVIN

News Staff Writer

The fear of copycat crimes caused commotion today at Ponca City High School where some parents were compelled to pull their children out of school on the anniversary of the Columbine shooting.

School superintendent Dr. Bill White reported that some 300 students left class after arriving at the school, though law enforcement officials reported no specific problems.

Officials said rumors were flying at schools across the country relating to the Columbine incident in which 12 students and a teacher were killed in the April 20, 1999, massacre, the worst school shooting in U.S. history. Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold, the teen-age gunmen, committed suicide.

The local commotion began when rumors circulated that students would be shot during a false fire alarm. Ironically, shortly after 8 a.m. this morning, a smoke sensor malfunctioned at the high school causing the fire alarm to ring.

According to officials, school crisis policy was followed and no students left their classrooms and order was maintained.

Ponca City police interviewed a 15-year-old on Wednesday after he “allegedly made statements on Tuesday regarding future plans he had for a bombing” at Po-Hi, police spokesman Sherry Bowers said today.

“Apparently, the student’s comments were made to another student and then overheard by a third student who reported it to school officials” on Wednesday, Bowers said.

White said the school system must regard rumors as real threats. The police department said the district attorney’s office was notified following the interview with the student and his parent.

Po-Hi principal Jerry Winkle said Police Chief Raymond Ham contacted him Wednesday night with a plan to address potential Columbine anniversary problems.

Officers were sent to the school to assist with any uneasiness, and Winkle applauded the police for providing “a calming effect” throughout the school as classes proceeded as normal today.

First assistant district attorney Phil Ross said his office has received no report of a crime being committed at Po-Hi.

Ross remarked that it’s a “terrible sign of our times” that people should be afraid of their own shadow on the first anniversary of Columbine.

“It’s a mistake to make a big deal by reporting on a tragedy on its first anniversary and its second anniversary and so on, because you invite copycat crimes,” he said.

Ross suggested that to stop the fear of copycat crimes, the names of convicted criminals “should be stricken from the human language.”

Because of continual media reporting, he said, everyone remembers the names of Harris and Klebold and Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols (the Oklahoma City federal building bombers), but few remember the names of their victims.

‘Empty Chairs Remind Me Of Mercy Seat’

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Staff Writer

OKLAHOMA CITY — “This is a day of remembrance and renewal,” President Bill Clinton told thousands of people from across the world who gathered Wednesday at the golden gates of the Oklahoma City National Memorial.

After the ceremonies, the gates were opened to the public. The crowd had waited patiently in the late afternoon’s scorching sun to visit the latest hallowed ground of an American tragedy.

The memorial was dedicated to the 168 who lost their lives in the April 19, 1995, bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City. It was the worst act of terrorism on American soil.

The late afternoon dedication ceremony followed a private service held at 9:01 Wednesday morning for survivors, victims, family members and rescue workers. The afternoon crowd was reverent as the well-planned memorial dedication service declaring the hallowed ground as a monument for the resilience of Oklahoma and America went off without a hitch.

Clinton, who may have missed his calling as a southern evangelist, ran the gamut of emotions — from Commander and Chief who keeps America safe from harm to chief consoler of the victims, survivors and families.

Of the 168-bronze chair memorial, the president said, “The empty chairs remind me of the mercy seat of the Old Testament — a place where the children of God come to for comfort and solace.”

In his remarks, Oklahoma Gov. Frank Keating quoted Abraham Lincoln speaking at the American shrine, the battlefield at Gettysburg: “The world will little note, nor long remember, what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.”

Keating added, “We have come full circle, to another American shrine, another patch of hallowed ground, another place of memories. We, too, will never forget what they did here — our friends and neighbors and so many of those wonderful helpers who have come back to be with us today.

“They showed great courage, exhibited boundless compassion, suffered and triumphed — and 168 of them gave their lives.’

Clinton mentioned the hallowed and scarred ground of both Gettysburg and Selma, Ala. He noted that it was exactly 225 years ago — on April 19 — that the American Revolution began.

The president noted, “The Oklahoma City National Memorial will also be sacred ground.”

Keating, introducing Clinton, told that the first out-of-state call he received on the day of the bombing was from President Clinton. Keating recalled that the president and first lady had been at the first memorial service, at the scholarship effort for the children of victims and survivors and “is with us again today.”

President Clinton’s Remarks

Clinton said, “Just as I said five years ago, America is still with you and with this memorial you can know that Americans will never forget.

“Five years ago when the cowards wanted to strike a blow at America’s heartland at the very core of its being, it was against all American and every American. You made the choice to choose love over despair and hatred with this monument.”

The leader of the free world quoted a “great writer,” Ralph Ellis of Oklahoma City, who said “America is woven of many strands. Our fate is to become one and yet many.” Clinton said, “On April 19, 1995, many strands became one.”

Speaking directly to the Oklahoma dominated audience, the president said, “What was meant to break you has made you stronger.”

Oklahoma Tree on White House Lawn

The president told about the dogwood tree planted on the White House lawn in memory of Oklahoma and how it has grown taller and stronger and that “Oklahoma City is blooming again. I am grateful to you and to God for leading you on.”

In his concluding remarks, Clinton — always the motivator — said he was reminded of a passage from Romans in the Bible.

Quoting, he said, “The night is far spent; the day is at hand. Let us therefore cast off the works of darkness and put on our armour of light.” (Romans 13:12.)

He concluded with, “May you keep your light shining on this place of hope, where memories of the past are lost but will live forever. God bless you and God bless America.”

U.S. Attorney Janet Reno

U. S. Attorney General Janet Reno captivated the audience by thanking Oklahoma for “showing America how to stand up to evil against that blast from hell.” She expressed appreciation for the investigating team and prosecutors who proved that “our justice system does work.”

Oklahoma’s Senior U.S. senator, Don Nickles of Ponca City, earlier commended Congress for passing legislation on limiting appeals — which the Supreme Court backed Tuesday — that justice may be served.

Speaking for the entire Oklahoma Congressional delegation Nickles was statesman-like in his remarks. He said, “We pay tribute to the spirit of recovery, courage and faith which has been an example all across the country. By this memorial, we are saying evil will not defeat good. Good will defeat evil.”

Nickles reminded Clinton that they had asked for $30 million from the federal government for the national monument, which will be under the supervision of the National Park Service, and received $5 million. The rest was raised by private donations from Oklahoma and across the world.

The senator commended Robert Johnson, chairman of the Oklahoma City National Memorial Trust, and Karen Luke, fund raising chairman. Johnson was master of ceremonies for the event.

Nickles called attention to national legislation on victims rights, strengthening the death penalty for those who cause the death of federal workers in the line of duty.

Also quoting from the book of Romans, Nickles concluded by saying, “I will look in triumph on my enemies.”

The Oklahoma City National Memorial Institute for the Prevention of Terrorism is a part of the memorial and will be located in the former Journal Record Building. The institute received $15 million by Congressional appropriation, shepherded by the Oklahoma delegation led by Nickles. Congress also approved $52.5 million to assist Oklahoma City with repairs.

Clinton was accompanied onto the podium by members of his cabinet representing the federal agencies that lost employees killed in the bombing. The rescue operation has become known across the nation as the “Oklahoma Standard.”

Other speakers were Robert Stanton, director of the National Park Service, and Oklahoma City mayor Kirk Humphreys.

The National Anthem was sung by Shawntel Smith, Miss America, 1996. The presentation of the colors was by Tinker Air Force Base.

An original anthem, Make Me a Channel of Your Peace sung by the 168-member Memorial Choir, was given a standing ovation by the thousands attending.

The rain forecast for the day did not materialize; however, those bringing umbrellas found them useful as protection from the unusually hot April sun. The Salvation Army passed out thousands of bottles of cold water to the crowd.

Security was tight for both the spectators and the press. The press was required to be in place for about three hours. Media was present from all major networks around the nation and the world.

Before the president arrived, a bomb sniffing dog was brought to the area around the podium and the front section of the seating.

Nearly News

The book signing by Jerry L. Old, M.D., reported for Sunday, will be held the following Sunday, April 30, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Brace Books and More.

Old is the author of Vintage People, which concentrates on his study of the secrets of healthy, energetic, successful older Americans.

State May Receive $20M To Assist in Child Care

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Thousands of working low-income Oklahoma families could receive help with child care expenses under a Clinton administration plan, Health and Human Services Secretary Donna Shalala says.

Oklahoma could get an extra $19 million to $20 million to subsidize its child care programs if Congress goes along, Shalala said Wednesday.

She took part in a meeting of a state task force on early childhood development, along with Gov. Frank Keating and first lady Cathy Keating.

Shalala said the money would be part of a proposed $1 billion increase in the block grant program that aids families who are struggling to pay for child care.

Howard Hendrick, director of the state Department of Human Services, said the proposed additional funding could help 3,000 to 4,000 low-income families in Oklahoma.

Shalala stressed the need to get children off to a good start in education, linking success of today’s young people with the ability of the nation in the future to pay for such programs as Medicare, whose clients are expected to double as baby boomers retire. ‘‘We can’t afford to waste one young person,’’ she said.

Shalala voiced support for quality early childhood programs. ‘‘We’re not just interested in warehousing kids,’’ she said.

But she said the administration wants families to have child care options, such as allowing parents to receive vouchers for kids kept in smaller settings, including neighborhood facilities that take in only a handful of children.

Perhaps states could work with those centers by providing materials and instruction to help development of children, she said.

She said she expects bipartisan support for that idea.

Shalala suggested the task force develop early childhood programs that work best in Oklahoma, adding the administration supports a diversified approach.

Keating said early development of children is an important part of the equation of improving Oklahoma’s economy.

Jerry Regier, director of the Office of Juvenile Affairs and a Keating cabinet secretary, said he was impressed with Shalala’s willingness to help the state, including her offer to send early childhood experts to Oklahoma to work with the task force.

State Parks Offer Easter Fun Times at 16 Facilities

From egg hunts to arts and crafts, Easter is a fun time at Oklahoma’s state parks and resorts. Sixteen facilities scattered around the state offer a variety of ways to enjoy an Easter outing.

Friday

Arrowhead State Park, Canadian, hosts area school children for a special Easter egg hunt at 1 p.m.

Friday-Sunday

Lake Murray Resort Park’s Easter weekend includes a crafts show, Easter Egg Hunt and a visit from the Easter Bunny. Lake Murray Resort Park is located near Ardmore. (918) 223-6600.

Lake Texoma Resort Park, Kingston, offers a special Easter buffet along with the traditional Easter Egg Hunt. (580) 564-2311.

Saturday

Beavers Bend Resort Park, Broken Bow, features an Easter Hide and Hunt with four age categories, beginning at 2 p.m. (580) 494-6556

Fountainhead State Park, near Checotah, holds its annual Easter Egg Hunt from 2 to 2:30 p.m. at the Deep Fork Campground. (918) 689-4607

Greenleaf State Park, near Braggs, features an all-day event with an egg hunt and games.

Heavener Runestone State Park, near Heavener, is the site of a giant Easter egg hunt sponsored by the local Vietnam Veterans from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event features free hot dogs and drinks. (918) 653-2241

Keystone State Park, Mannford, begins its fun and festive Easter egg hunt at 10 a.m. (918) 865-4477

Tenkiller State Park, Vian, includes a day of activities beginning at 9 a.m. with the traditional egg hunt and a visit from Park Pal, the Oklahoma state park mascot. (918) 489-2111

Lake Thunderbird State Park, Norman, features face painting, a cake walk, egg painting and pictures with the Easter Bunny from 1 to 4 p.m. at Crow’s Secret Nature Center. (405) 321-4633

Sunday

Alabaster Caverns State Park, Freedom, offers youngsters a visit from Park Pal while they take part in the annual Easter egg hunt. (580) 621-3381

Foss State Park, Foss, features a giant Easter egg hunt at 2 p.m. (580) 592-4701

Little Sahara State Park, Waynoka, hides eggs in the sand dunes beginning at 2 p.m. (580) 824-1471

Robbers Cave State Park, Wilburton, plans an Easter egg hunt beginning at 2 p.m. (918) 465-5154

Roman Nose Resort Park offers young guests an Easter egg hunt beginning at 1 p.m. (580) 623-7281

Western Hills Guest Ranch and Sequoyah State Park, Wagoner, plans a full day of activities from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., including Easter arts and crafts, an egg hunt and visits from the Easter Bunny and Park Pal. (918) 772-2515

Lake Wister State Park, Wister, hosts the annual Fred Martin Easter Egg Hunt with games and prizes, beginning at 2 p.m. at the Victor Campground. (918) 655-7886

Lodge rooms, cabins and campsites are available for families wanting to enjoy an entire weekend of outdoor fun. Contact each individual park or lodge for rates and availability.

For information on other activities throughout the year at Oklahoma state parks, resorts and golf courses, visit us on the worldwide web at www.touroklahoma.com or call 1-800-654-8240, Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Baritone Soloist, Pianist Thrill Community Concert Audience

By Kay Anthony

Guest Reviewer

The last concert for the season for Ponca City’s Community Concert Association was held in the Poncan Theater on April 13, featuring the baritone soloist, Douglas Webster, and the pianist, Lincoln Mayorga.

Concert goers buying memberships for next year had the concert as a bonus concert as did the current membership.

Proving they were true consummate performers on their own right, the guest artists thrilled the audience with a lengthy program, which went fast and made the listeners want more even after being rewarded with an encore after receiving a standing ovation.

Most attending expected a standard vocal concert by an outstanding singer but were surprised to see both Webster and Mayorga complimenting each other throughout their performances, making one wonder if they shouldn’t have been billed together. One board member commented that she could understand Webster’s insistence that he be booked only if Mayorga would come with him.

Mayorga played a number of solos, entered into friendly banter on stage with the vocalist, and even sang a few bars near the end. He mentioned that he had been in Ponca City before and was so glad to be able to return to our friendly city and bring his friend to perform also.

The concert was number 55 in a series of 150 the artists have booked for this year. Webster was especially pleased to be in the hometown of a former Ponca Citian, Howard Herring, a good friend and also a professional musician, who surprised him with a phone call during the concert to make sure he actually was on stage in Ponca City! A lot of good natured humor occurred during this part of the concert.

The opening portion of the program was classical in nature, featuring songs by Franz Schubert. My personal favorite was the familiar well-loved song we know as Serenade. The foreign language texts were done with good diction and a feeling of true emotion by the artist although, due to the darkness of the theater, it was impossible to follow along on the translation written in the printed program, unfortunately.

Following the Schubert vocal numbers, the pianist delighted the audience by playing some Schubert piano numbers, one of which he said had shades of Scott Joplin in it. His tremendous ability to improvise, as well as play expertly any written note, was evident in all of his selections. All his numbers showed great virtuosity, especially when he played the George Gershwin preludes.

In addition, he told stories throughout the concert, preparing the audience for the numbers. When he played Rhapsody in Blue, he completely rhapsodized the audience who perhaps listened as if hearing it for the first time, at least with a new appreciation after hearing of the brief time it took to compose it for a Lincoln birthday celebration in 1924.

A special treat near the end of the program was a ballad sung by Webster and written by the pianist, which could be on my Hit Parade any day! Unfamiliar to me, but also something I liked very much, was the section of songs by the French composer, Jacques Iber. Most interesting in this section was the song Chansons de Quichotte in which Webster came alive with expression as he became Don Quixote. As he performed these numbers, it made us almost not miss the familiar Man of Lamancha which we usually think is Don Quixote!

Also included in the classical selections were songs by Henri Duparc, another French composer, which were quite humorous and well received, providing some enjoyable comedy relief.

Another favorite of the pianist’s numbers was his rendition of some of Rossini’s Barber of Seville, commonly known as Bugs Bunny’s theme. Hearing this small portion of the opera made us wish for the whole production to be performed.

Mayorga shared many stories about his career in Hollywood where he has worked with many famous musicians. He seemed equally at home performing in small town U.S.A. as hob knobbing with the famous, and also completely happy with his career choice now. There never was a hint that we weren’t as important as any group he had performed before.

This reviewer always appreciates an artist’s attitude like this.

Webster came across as a cabaret singer extraordinaire especially when he sang the more popular songs. His rendition of Cole Porter’s haunting Night and Day was superb.

The recounting of his meeting Leonard Bernstein 12 years ago and performing his Mass in the roll of the celebrant was an interesting highlight, especially since he will be performing in this roll on June 1 at the Vatican in Rome.

He also shared a few songs from Bernstein’s West Side Story after Mayorga played Dance at the Gym from the musical. Fancy foot work even accompanied the duet of The Wrong Note Rag from Wonderful Town which brought the audience to their feet in applause and appreciation for the very special evening of music they had just been privileged to experience.

Bring Him Home from Les Miserables couldn’t have been more beautiful or effective being seated in a New York theater.

I am sure we may have had more famous musicians, but I don’t think we have ever had a more talented duo to give us just a truly enjoyable and exhilarating evening of music. Truly, Ponca Citians are blessed to have Community Concerts give us these windows of opportunity to experience and live music at its finest!

DEATHS

Dixie Weber Robino
Robin Meredia Bernabe
Elbert Lee Rutherford
Emery Wells

Dixie Weber Robino

HELENA — Dixie Weber Robino, former resident of Ponca City, died Friday morning, April 14, 2000, at her home in Enid. She was 77.

The funeral was held at 2 p.m. Monday, April 17, 2000, in the United Methodist Church in Ringwood. Burial was in the Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Lanman Funeral Home in Helena.

Dixie Weber Robino was born March 26, 1923, in Kansas, Okla., the daughter of Adam Z. and Maggie Matthews Weber. She graduated from Ponca City High School in 1941. She married John L. Robino on Nov. 19, 1947, in Bossier City, La.

Survivors include her husband of the home in Enid; one daughter, Chris Alltizer of Edmond; two sons, Robin Robino and John Robino Jr., both of Enid; one sister, Jean Spencer of Ponca City; one brother, Jim Weber of Ponca City; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Obituaries

Robin Meredia Bernabe

Robin Meredia Bernabe, former Ponca City resident, died Monday, April 17, 2000, in Oklahoma City. She was 34.

Robin was born Jan. 8, 1966, in Ponca City to Noah Franklin and Jane Kathleen (Rice, Hawkins) Phillips. She spent her formative years attending Ponca City schools until she moved to Oklahoma City. She was a member of the Prairie Band of Potawatomi Indian tribe. She was a sales clerk with Doc Holiday’s pawnshop in Oklahoma City. Robin enjoyed her pets and having fun.

Survivors include her companion, Greg Boyd of Oklahoma City; two sons, Antonio Michael Bernabe and Carlos Max Bernabe, both of Ponca City; mother, Jane Phillips of Ponca City; one sister, Sheryl Wright of Freeport, Texas.; four brothers, Max Phillips of Oklahoma City, Michael Phillips, Terry Phillips, and Tim Phillips all of Ponca City; nephews, Richard Failing and Frank Failing of Freeport, Texas, Shawn Phillips of Oklahoma City; four nieces Kristie Phillips of Oklahoma City, Carrie Kirkes of Wilburton, Lana Jackson and Laura Phillips of Ponca City; two cousins, Sandra Fulks of Tulsa and Lisa Ernest of Ponca City.

She was preceded in death by her father and grandparents.

Friends may call at the Trout Funeral Home until 5 p.m. Friday, April 21, 2000, for visitation. No service is planned.

paid obituary

Elbert Lee Rutherford

Elbert Lee Rutherford, Ponca City resident, died Tuesday, April 18, 2000, in the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 70.

The funeral will be held graveside at 10 a.m. Friday, April 21, 2000, in Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery with the Rev. Dr. Coy Whitener, pastor of Bible Baptist Church, officiating. Arrangements are with the Trout Funeral Home.

Elbert was born Sept. 8, 1929, in Seminole to Gordon and Ruthie Mae (Stewart) Rutherford. He served his country during the Korean conflict in the United States Army. He was a retired mechanic, having been employed by the city of Ponca City and Mertz. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, car racing and woodworking. He was a member of the Prairie Land Church of Ponca City.

He is survived by his wife, Jackie Rutherford of the home; three sons, Rodney Rutherford, James Rutherford and wife Lori, and Billy Carpenter, all of Ponca City; two daughters, Carol Rutherford, and Annette Payne and husband Michael, both of Ponca City; his mother, Ruthie Mae Rutherford of Ponca City; four brothers, Alvin Rutherford and wife Martha, Roy Rutherford and wife Gussy, Joe Rutherford and wife Barbara and Lewis Rutherford and wife Glenda; six grandchildren, one great-grandchild and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, and his first wife, Anna Pearl (Huff).

The family will be at 420 South Washington.

paid obituary

Emery Wells

Emery Wells, 1204 N. Oak, died early Tuesday morning, April 18, 2000, at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 80.

The funeral will be Thursday, 1 p.m. at the Polo Cemetery, south of Billings, with Jack Snyder of Pioneer Christian Church officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of the Trout Funeral Home.

Born July 21, 1919, near Covington, he was the son of Julian E. and Suzanne Eliot Wells. He was raised near Perry and attended schools there.

On Nov. 27, 1937, he and the former Emilee Floreen Hobson were married in Winfield, Kan. The couple resided in Udall for a short while before moving to Perry.

During World War II, he served for a brief time with the U.S. Army.

Following his discharge, he moved his family to Ponca City where he was a plumber.

Mr. Wells was a member of the Pioneer Christian Church and also enjoyed attending worship services at the Salvation Army.

He was an accomplished guitar and bass guitar player. Over the years he played with many groups for dances, church activities and charity events. Most of all, he enjoyed playing for family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Emilee of Shawn Manor Nursing Home; five sons, Floyd, Lloyd, Emery Jr., and Howard Wells all of Ponca City and Ron Wells of Winfield, Kan.; two daughters, Mary Ferguson and Patricia Whiting, both of Fort Smith, Ark.; 13 grandchildren; and 21 great grandchildren.

He is also survived by two sisters, Leona Trenton of Perry, and Lorene Hasenfratz of Ponca City.

He was preceded in death by his parents, six brothers, two sisters, and a grandson.

Memorials may be made to Golden Villa, c/o Angela Hall, Marland Mansion, 901 Monument Road, Ponca City, Okla. 74604.

Friends may call at the funeral home until 11 a.m. Thursday.

paid obituary

NEWS BRIEFS

Utility Pole Knocked Down — The Communications Center received a call at 9:38 a.m. Wednesday that a vehicle had hit a utility pole knocking it down at the intersection of North Ash Street and West Highland Avenue. Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department responded and information was logged that the vehicle involved was located.

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.

Accident — A two-vehicle injury accident at the intersection of North Fourth Street and East Highland Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:24 p.m. Wednesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Betty’s Boutique 10-50% off entire store through Saturday. adv.

Theft — A clerk at Save-A-Trip, 207 East Highland Avenue, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:10 p.m. Wednesday that a subject had left without paying for some merchandise. An officer was assigned and information was logged that a subject was being held for the incident in Osage County.

Violation of Protective Order — A woman from the 100 block of North Second Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 10:42 a.m. Wednesday that a man had violated a protective order. 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.

Vehicle Towed — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 6:55 p.m. Wednesday from the 2000 block of North Fifth Street that a subject had gone by in a vehicle at a high rate of speed and over the curb. Information was logged that two subjects got out of the vehicle and wee yelling. Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department responded to the scene and a vehicle was towed. A man was held on two Kay County warrants.

Suspicious Activity — A woman from the 2200 block of Havenwood reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 1:01 p.m. Wednesday that a repossession man had broken into her house. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

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

Fraud — A woman from the 2700 block of North Fourteenth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 1:11 p.m. Wednesday that an employee had reported embezzlement and fraud at Express Personnel Service. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Easter Chicken special. Friday through Sunday. Buy one tub, get eight potato’s free. Call ASAP. Synder’s Grocery 762-4686. adv.

Disturbance — A woman from the 3500 block of North Union Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 2:11 p.m. Wednesday that she had been assaulted. An officer was assigned and a 26-year-old woman was held for domestic assault and battery.

Easter Dresses and dark print (new) and new shoes 20% off. Bearly New, 2010 N. 14th. adv.

Accident — A city employee reported to the Ponca City Police department at 2:48 p.m. Wednesday from the intersection of East Grand Avenue and Sixth Street that pipe fell from a vehicle striking a city-owned vehicle and another causing damage. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 300 block of South Elm Street at 5:13 p.m. Wednesday that a 15-year-old girl was being held for uttering a forged instrument.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 200 block of East Oklahoma Avenue at 8:48 p.m. Wednesday that a 16-year-old boy was held for forgery.

Sandi Gore Evans, new note cards, magnets and greeting cards now at Carla’s Hallmark, Downtown. adv.

Shoplifter — An employee at Wal-Mart reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:06 p.m. Wednesday that a man being held as a shoplifter was causing problems. Two officers responded and a 42-year-old man was held for petit larceny.

Easter Specials; One group ladies Sag Harbar dresses sizes 8-18. Mel’s price $19.99, Nice selection ladies sails and dresses, sizes 2-18. Mel’s price $29.99 to $59.99, Ladies sandals and shoes all name brands save 50 to 60% off regular retail, Lands’ End knit tops- polo style sizes S-M-L Mel’s price $9.99. adv.

Accident — A three-vehicle injury accident at the intersection of North Fifth Street and East Brookfield Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:12 p.m. Wednesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Pauline’s Shrimp peel. All you can eat $11.95, Friday 21st. For reservations call 765-5460. adv.

Vehicle Towed — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of North Pine Street and West Overbrook Avenue at 12:30 a.m. Thursday that a 17-year-old boy was being held for DUI, following too close and transporting drug paraphernalia. A vehicle was towed from the scene.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 2000 block of Lake Road at 2:24 a.m. Thursday that a 55-year-old man was being held for DUI, driving under suspension, and failure to maintain a direct course. A vehicle was towed from the scene.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of McFadden Drive and South Osage Street at 3:38 p.m. Wednesday that a 51-year-old man was being held on a Kay County warrant.

Head Country all day Friday special­ All you can eat, smoked BBQ ribs, beans, potato salad, and coleslaw, only $7.49, all day. 1217 East Prospect. 767-8304. adv.

Accident — A non-injury accident at the intersection of South First Street and South Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:39 p.m. Wednesday. An officer was assigned and information was logged that the subjects involved had exchanged information and left the scene.

Easter Egg Hunt for children through 8 years. Saturday, April 22 at 10 a.m., south side of Hutchins. Sponsored by Century 21 Group One. adv.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 800 block of West Prospect Avenue at 3:41 p.m. Wednesday that a 37-year-old man was being held on a Kay County warrant.

Abandoned Bicycle — A woman from the 1300 block of El Camino Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 5:36 p.m. Wednesday that a bicycle had been abandoned in the front yard. Animal Control was notified to pick up the bicycle.

Window Broken — A man from the 1700 block of North Seventh Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:14 p.m. Wednesday that someone had broken a window of a rental house. An officer was assigned and a burglary report was taken.

GARDENING

Diggin in the Dirt
Thermometer Helps To Set Planting Time

Diggin in the Dirt

By Kathy Zehr

It has been said, “For everything there is a season, a time to sow... a time to reap ..." and so forth. If your soil has reached a temperature of 50 degrees down to a depth where you plant the seed or bedding plant roots, it’s time to sow vegetable and annual flower seeds and bedding plants.

If you’ve been a diligent planner and gardener, you’ve mapped out what and where you want to plant the seeds or bedding plants according to your yard’s micro-systems (shade, soil type, traffic, etc.). You already have seeds purchased or saved from last year and know where to locate the right variety of bedding plants for this area. Of course, the beds should be ready and waiting, and mulches and fertilizers on hand or already applied. Garden tools are in tip-top shape! If you’ve prepared — go for it and enjoy! If not ... get out the liniment!

Vegetable Gardens

Remember to plant new perennials in the vegetable gardens in a place where they won’t interfere with tilling in the years to come (asparagus, rhubarb, winter onions, garlic and some herbs). If you already have spring plants growing that space will be available later to plant the fall garden. Warm season vegetables requiring similar cultural practices should be grouped together for ease of care, but remember never plant the same crop in the same spot as last year to avoid fungus and insect accumulation.

Be liberal with compost if you have it, especially in areas that have too much clay or sand. For best results, use plant varieties recommended for this area, but don’t be afraid to experiment with a new plant or two.

Care of Summer Seedlings

After seeds have sprouted, thin the plants while they are small to avoid overcrowding. Use mulches to conserve moisture, control weeds and reduce fruit rots. Avoid excessive walking and working in the garden when foliage and soil are wet. Examine the garden frequently to keep ahead of pests, fungus and other problems. Keep weeds pulled while they are small. (Be sure to get those roots out or the weed just grows up again and you have to repeat the chore next week!) Wash and clean all tools and sprayers after each use.

Some practices to avoid in both the vegetable and flower gardens include excesses — planting too closely, using too much fertilizer, hoeing too deeply, and watering too much.

Beware! Sometimes retail stores in the area sell plants that are not acclimated to this area of the U.S. According to the OSU Extension Oklahoma Planning Gardening Guide F-6004, it is important to purchase bedding plants recommended for this area. The guide lists 34 common varieties of vegetables from asparagus to watermelon with information about each, including planting time, how much to plant for your family, how many days to harvest, methods of planting, spacing between rows, depth to cover seed, and frost tolerance.

Free Gardening Publications

Other free OSU vegetable gardening publications include F-1511 Trickle Irrigation for Lawns Gardens and Orchards; F-6007 Improving Garden Soils; F-6005 Mulching Garden Soils; F-6012 Growing Tomatoes; F-6013 Summer Care of the Vegetable Garden; F-7313 Home Garden Insect Control; and brochures F-7625, F-7626, F-7627, which all list common diseases of tomatoes and the best remedies. Brochure F7635 lists diseases of watermelons, cantaloupes, squash, cucumbers and pumpkins and suggestions for eradication.

In addition to vegetable and flower gardening brochures, more than 200 free brochures are also available for a variety of plants, trees, shrubs, fruits, tools, greenhouses and much more by calling the OSU Kay County Extension Office, (580-362-3194) or visiting that office in the basement of the Kay County Court House in Newkirk. A complete list of brochures available can be found on the web at the OSU Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service site located through www.hortnet.com/.

Thermometer Helps To Set Planting Time

By LEE REICH

(AP) — It’s not uncommon to hear of gardeners sticking thermometers into their soil this time of year. This is not some new way to monitor the soils health. Rather, its one way to tell when to sow seeds outdoors. Seeds sown in soil that is too cold will not germinate, and until they do germinate, seeds are liable to rot or be eaten by animals.

Lettuce, onion, parsnip and spinach seeds can be planted early because they germinate just as soon as the ice thaws in the soil. At the other end of the spectrum are melon, squash and eggplant seeds which don't germinate until the soil temperature reaches 65 F. The minimum temperature required for germination of other vegetable seeds is as follows: 40 F for beets, cabbage, broccoli, carrots, peas, chard, parsley, celery and radishes; 50 F for sweet corn and turnips and 60 degrees for cucumbers and okra.

The above are minimum, not optimum, temperatures for germination. Optimum temperature might be even 30 degrees higher than the minimum as in the case of celery which germinates quickest at 70 degrees. Waiting for the optimum temperature is not advisable, though. To delay sowing until the soil temperature reached the optimum temperature for pea germination (75 F) would result in midsummer harvest when hot, dry weather would make peas coarse in taste and texture.

There’s no need to twiddle your thumbs waiting for the soil to warm. There are things you can do to hasten the process. A thick, organic mulch, although good for the soil in many ways, also insulates it, delaying warming in spring. For early sowings, temporarily rake back the mulch to expose the soil to the sun.

Another technique for providing a warm soil for early spring planting is to grow plants in raised beds. Black plastic mulch is unsightly but it also warms the soil. An organic material like peat moss or compost darkens the soil in a more attractive manner than black plastic although the effect on soil warming is less. All these techniques warm the soil up a little faster than it would otherwise. You can measure the effect with a soil thermometer. You also could look at what’s in bloom. For instance, you might plant melons just as lilacs and dogwoods start to blossom. A soil thermometer should register about 65 F at that time.

SPORTS

OSU Stars In Benefit Game Here
Lady Wildcat Tennis
Jr. Hi Track

OSU Stars In Benefit Game Here

The Po-HI Tip Off Club is sponsoring a benefit basketball game featuring members of the 1999-2000 Oklahoma State Cowboy Elite Eight basketball team and other former Cowboy players.

The game will be played May 6 at 2 p.m. in the Allen Robson Field House. Tickets are $5 and benefit the Po-Hi varsity boys basketball team's trip to San Diego, California. Tickets are on sale at the Athletic Ticket Office at Robson Field House, Pioneer Bank, Home National Bank, all Cherokee Strip Credit Unions, and P.C. Sports Shack.

For more information call 767-8075

Lady Wildcat Tennis

Frontier Conference Tournament

Team Scores

Jenks 40, Bartlesville 2, Ponca city 23, Broken Arrow 22, Stillwater 18, Tulsa Union 17, Sapulpa 14, Sand Springs 10, Owasso 10

Ponca City Results

No. 1 Singles

Morgan Meister (5th) — lost to Jenks, 1-6, 1-6; def. Sand Springs. 7-6. 6-4; def. Broken Arrow 6-3, 6-4; lost to Sapulpa, 6-7, 4-6; def. Stillwater 9-7.

No. 2 Singles

Gina Smith (2nd) — def, Owasso, 6-0, 6-0; def. Bartlesville, 6-4, 6-3; lost to Jenks, 1-6, 2-6

No. 1 Doubles

Allison Hufnagel-Claire Winterrowd (6th) — lost to Jenks, 2-6, 0-6; def. Owasso, 4-6, 6-4, 6-1; lost to Stillwater, 0-6, 5-7; lost to Tulsa Union, 3-8

No. 2 Doubles

Morgan Mongold-Marcie Wilkerson (4th) def. Sand Springs, 62, 6-1; lost to Broken Arrow, 1-6, 6-1, 2-6; def. Owasso, 6-1, 6-0; lost to Bartlesville, 4-6, 5-7.

Jr. Hi Track

The Junior High Girls Track Team placed first out of l7 teams Tuesday at the Tulsa East Central Invitational.

The Lady Cougars beat second-place Muskogee West by 28 points.

Coach Penny Surber said, “I didn't tell the mile relay team we had the meet won because I wanted them to run a personal best. The fact that our girls were able to beat Muskogee West indicates that we can compete with anyone in the state.”

The girls final meet is the Northern Conference Tuesday at Enid.

Ponca City Results

100 — Tiffanie Pollard, 12.9 (2nd); Taryn Bradford, 13.96 (6 th);, Halli Martin, 14.4, (7th); Kim Evans, 14.76; Angelica Lampkin, 15.75; Cheyenne Cartlidge, 16.36

200 — T. Pollard, 27.4 (2nd); T. Bradford, 29.42 (5th); Abbie McChristian; Jamie;Lentz; A. Lampkin

400 — Ellie Myers, 66.5 (4th); Katie Andrews, 73.2 (4th); Kim Evans, 72.7; J. Lentz - 81 .4

800 — Janna Leach, 2:52; Jenny Mena, 3:05; Maleah Dyer, 3:07; Chelsey Teten, 3:19

1600 — Chelsea Baldwin, 5:39 (2nd); Melissa Stangeland, 6:38 (2 nd); J. Mena, 6:51; Chelsey Teten - 7:25

100 Hurdles — Hannah Garrison, 18.4; Jeniffer Jenkins, 20.1; Lauren Cartlidge; Amanda Moore

300 Hurdles — H. Garrison, 55.7 (4th); J. Jenkins, 60.1; Lauren Cartlidge

Shot — L. Cartlidge, 27-3 (3rd); Sarah Edens, 26-3 (6th); Sarah Hart, 22-9; Zareen Durrani, 49-8; Cheyenne Cartlidge; A. McChristian

Discus — S. Edens, 80-1, (3rd); S. Hart, 74-9; Z. Durrani; A- McChristian

Long Jump — Chelsey Cobb, 15-8 (2nd) and Jessica Roland, 14-10 (4th)

High Jump — C. Cobb, 4-4 (1st); Janna Green, 4-2

Pole Vault — Kim Evans, 6-0 (1st)

400 Relay — H. Garrison, Janna Green, T. Pollard, J. Roland, 53.6 (3rd)

800 Relay — C. Cobb, Janna Green, T. Pollard, J. Roland, 1:55.6 (2nd); T. Bradford, K. Andrews, Mandy Bacher, H. Martin, (4th)

1600 Relay — J. Green, E. Myers, C Cobb, J. Roland, 4:31.4, (2nd)

3200 Relay — J. Mena, J. Leach, Hope Sanders, C. Baldwin, 11:21 (2nd)