LOCAL

Gates: Breakup Is ‘Anti-Consumer’
State’s $$ Dwindling; Cutbacks Looming?
Visitors Abuse OKLAHOMA CITY
Girl Scouts Planning Golf Tourney May 5 at Wentz
P.E.O. International Connection In Oklahoma Here for State Event
NOC Rodeo Group Sets Fund Raiser
Special Music for P.E.O. Dinner
Korean War Veterans Museum, Library Being Planned in Illinois
Plans Proceeding for Standing Bear

Gates: Breakup Is ‘Anti-Consumer’

SEATTLE (AP) — Microsoft Corp. Chairman Bill Gates says his company would have difficulty replicating its groundbreaking technology efforts if the government decides to break up the company.

In an interview Tuesday with The Associated Press, Gates said further development of the Windows operating system, the software that powers the vast majority of the world’s personal computers, would be stunted if the Windows or Office software divisions were split from the rest of the company. He called the proposed breakup ‘‘anti-consumer.’’

‘‘We wouldn’t have Windows today if it hadn’t been for the Office group and the Windows group working together,’’ Gates said, speaking by telephone from a computer hardware developers’ conference in New Orleans. ‘‘It was the thinking that was done, being in one company, going after a new user interface, taking a huge risk, that we were able to create Windows.’’

Gates’ comments came as the U.S. Justice Department briefed White House officials for an hour and 45 minutes on what remedies the government would seek in its antitrust action against the company.

Lawyers for the Justice Department and the 19 states that successfully sued Microsoft for antitrust violations are considering breaking up the company as a way to curb anticompetitive practices.

Microsoft has said it would fight any move to break up the company. Gates said the next generation of Windows, which will help power various consumer electronics devices as well as personal computers, depends on the interaction between his company’s divisions.

‘‘We need to have our research people, our Office people, our Windows people all in one group taking breathtaking risks on this breakthrough user interface that is delivered in this next phase of the Internet,’’ said Gates, who founded Microsoft 25 years ago.

He added that any breakup of his company would be ‘‘a very inappropriate thing, even given the government’s unfortunate theory that innovation should be regulated.’’

State’s $$ Dwindling; Cutbacks Looming?

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — House Speaker Loyd Benson says state agencies will have to tighten their belts to help pay for new financial commitments — including increases in state teacher and worker salaries — approved by the Legislature this year.

‘‘You may have to go cut some budgets to come up with that,’’ Benson, D-Frederick, said Tuesday after meeting privately with House Democrats to discuss the tightening state budget.

The dwindling revenues could jeopardize a variety of spending measures that are awaiting action in the Legislature, including the second phase of the state’s ambitious $1 billion road program and a higher education capital bond issue.

‘‘We funded education first,’’ Benson said referring to a $164 million teacher pay raise package approved in February. ‘‘Now, what are we going to do with these other things?’’

In addition to the teacher pay raise, lawmakers passed a $38.3 million state employee pay raise bill.

Less than one week after passing a $4.8 billion general appropriations bill, Oklahoma has a little less than $200 million, including a contribution from the state’s Rainy Day constitutional savings account, remaining to appropriate, Benson said.

He said the general appropriations bill, signed Monday by Gov. Frank Keating, also appropriated about $60 million in gross production tax revenues that had been set aside for education.

After paying off a list of growing financial obligations, the state will have only about $30 million left to appropriate to the Legislature’s various appropriations subcommittees, Benson said.

‘‘Once you fill those holes, that only leaves about $30 million,’’ he said.

The figure represents only about 10 percent of the more than $300 million in new revenue that the Board of Equalization certified for appropriation this year.

It is also far less than the $500 million in new revenue that House Republicans have said is available for spending.

‘‘When you add up all of the numbers, that’s about what it comes out to,’’ Benson said. ‘‘That doesn’t leave much for allocation to subcommittees.’’

Benson outlined the budget figures after meeting with House Democrats to discuss the state budget. He said his figures include a proposed cut in car tag fees in a tag reform proposal that is pending in the Legislature.

The figures do not bode well for state agencies that may have to review their programs and determine where cuts can be made.

It also will make it difficult to finance a proposed $250 million capital improvement bond issue for higher education, he said.

‘‘It’s a long reach,’’ Benson said.

But Benson said there is still some hope that financial adjustments will permit lawmakers to launch the second phase of the road program.

‘‘I think there’s still some possibility,’’ he said.

Visitors Abuse OKLAHOMA CITY

(AP) — Officials with the Oklahoma City National Memorial say they’re heartened by the large numbers of people visiting the site.

They would prefer that visitors keep their coins in their pockets, however.

People have begun sticking coins into the bark of the Survivor Tree, an American elm that became a symbol of hope after the 1995. Some are even taking bark from the tree as a memento.

‘‘We appreciate the donations very much, but we would request that everyone help us protect the tree,’’ said Robert Johnson, chairman of the Oklahoma City National Memorial Trust.

Johnson said workers will soon post signs asking visitors not to leave coins or strip bark. The trust also might put a collection box near the tree.

For now, trust workers are trying to keep a close watch on the tree and be courteous to memorial visitors.

Memorial officials estimate that 35,000 people visited the site the day it opened last week, and at least 50,000 have visited since.

Girl Scouts Planning Golf Tourney May 5 at Wentz

The Girl Scouts are looking for men and women who enjoy golfing and would like to have fun while they make a donation to Girl Scouting.

The Girl Scout Bluestem Council is holding a golf tournament Friday, May 5, at Lew Wentz golf course to raise funds for Girl Scout activities in Kay County. Price for an individual is $65, and the price for a team is $250.

Included in the price are 18 holes of golf, cart fees, lunch, beverages, putting contest, goodies bag and prizes. The format of the tournament will be a scramble. Groups may tee off as early as 10 a.m. and as late as 1 p.m.

Although the registration deadline is Friday, applicants may register as late as Wednesday, May 3. To get a registration form, call the Girl Scout office at 762-9616 or Suzi Lenhart at 762-9895 and leave a message. Golfers who sign up as individuals will be grouped into teams.

Businesses that are interested in being corporate hole sponsors, call the same numbers listed above. Hole sponsor is $100, nine-hole sponsor is $500, and corporate sponsor is $1,000. Girl Scout-Bluestem Council is a United Way agency.

P.E.O. International Connection In Oklahoma Here for State Event

In addition to Jane Burtis Smith, International President of P.E.O., who was born and reared in Clinton, Okla., and will be representing International when the state convention is held in Ponca City Thursday and Friday, several other Oklahoma P.E.O.s who are membrs of honor, serving on International boards, will be present.

Katie Frank Slack, a former member of Chapter DJ, Durant, and a past president of Oklahoma State Chapter, now lives in Dallas, Texas. She is the P.E.O. International Chapter Historian writing consistently for the organization’s magazine, The P.E.O. Record. Also, she was the first chairman of the P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education when it was organized in 1973.

Additionally, Oklahoma is privileged to have in attendance past state president Jari Askins, FJ-Duncan, a member of the board of trustees of Cottey Junior College. Also attending will be past state president Emily Kiekhofer, DE-Tulsa, who formerly served on the board of trustees of Cottey Junior College, most recently as chairman, and is now serving on International Chapter’s Nominating Committee.

Preceding the opening of convention on Friday, several events are scheduled for Thursday, April 27. At 3:30 p.m. a High Tea is scheduled to be held at Lydie’s Cottage on the Marland Mansion grounds. Attending will be past state presidents, membrs of honor, and the present Oklahoma State Board consisting of President Kathy Stevens, AK-Tulsa; first vice president Donita Mitchell, FA-Enid; second vice president Vickie Koumaris, CA-Oklahoma City; organizer Kathie Kraker, EY-Tulsa; corresponding secretary Nancy Griffin, FU-Stillwater; treasurer Linda Neal, I-Lawton; and recording secretary Susan Howard, GH-Oklahoma City.

At 7 p.m. Thursday, a pre-convention dinner will be held in the ballroom of the Marland Mansion. The same group as mentioned above will be present as well as representatives of the hostess board. Co-chairman Barbara Anson of BC-Fairfax is in charge of this event.

NOC Rodeo Group Sets Fund Raiser

TONKAWA — The newly revitalized Northern Oklahoma College Rodeo Association has the solution for area residents needing help with spring cleaning and odd jobs.

Thursday the Rodeo Association will hold its first Slave Auction in the Ag Barn, located on East NOC Drive past the Maverick playing fields. At 7 p.m., members will serve a free hamburger dinner to prospective bidders, according to sponsor Tricia Hamilton. The auction will follow.

Proceeds will assist the club in beginning its operation on campus. Hamilton said Richard Connor and Clay Drake of the Oklahoma State University Rodeo Association are helping her to establish the rodeo club association at Northern. The two men will serve as coaches for the association and members plan to enter competitions in the fall.

Hamilton wants to form a Booster Club from among community residents. “There’s quite a bit of interest in the community,” she said. Any Northern Rodeo alumni interested in helping are especially invited to participate. Hamilton is also looking for information about the past college rodeo association. She can be contacted at (580) 628-6475.

In April 1961, the Northern Ag Club held the first Northern Oklahoma Junior College-High School Rodeo. Club members built fences and installed bleacher seats at the college rodeo grounds, and representatives from 20 colleges and 10 high schools participated in the three-day event. Proceeds from a Rodeo Banquet went to support the National Cowboy Hall of Fame, then under construction in Oklahoma City.

Gov. Dewey Bartlett led the traditional Saturday afternoon rodeo parade down Grand Avenue in 1967. By this time the rodeo was co-sponsored by the Ag Club and the Tonkawa Jaycees. At its peak, the rodeo attracted an estimated 3,000 spectators. In 1968, a fire destroyed the agriculture barn, 13 horses, and trophy saddles and bridles belonging to students. A year later, a new horse barn at the rodeo grounds was completed. The last rodeo was held in 1984.

Special Music for P.E.O. Dinner

A gala dinner will be held Friday April 28 in the Conoco Atrium for members of and visitors to the P.E.O. convention being held in Ponca City.

Phyllis Kennedy, EL-Ponca City, will be mistress of ceremonies. Approximately 500 people are expected. Husbands will be special guests. An outstanding musical program will be presented by Gerald L. Steichen and Mariann Cook Priboy.

Steichen, a Tonkawa native, is currently on the conducting staff of the New York City Opera. There he has conducted La Boheme, The Mikado, and Porgy and Bess. No stranger to musical theatre, Steichen spent two and a half years touring with The Phantom of the Opera. He also performed on national tours of The Secret Garden and with Cathy Rigby in Peter Pan.

Steichen, for the past nine months has conducted two evenings a week for the longest running musical in Broadway history, Cats. Steichen recently returned from Alaska where he conducted The Barber of Seville with the Anchorage Opera Company.

Mariann Cook Priboy, soprano, is director of Northern Oklahoma College’s Musical Theatre degree program. She is also an actress-singer-performer. She was an understudy for the role of Anna in the Broadway production and national tour of The King and I, starring Yul Brenner. She toured as Aldonza and Antonia in The Man of La Mancha. Other stock roles include Maria in Sound of Music, Guinevere in Camelot and Nancy in Oliver.

Priboy is the only Oklahoman to have been invited to perform on the main stage as part of the Oklahoma Mozart International Festival in Bartlesville. She rejoined the Northern family in 1995.

Korean War Veterans Museum, Library Being Planned in Illinois

The Korean War Veterans National Museum and Library planned for construction in Tuscola, Ill., will be among the first museums of national scope devoted entirely to the subject of one particular war.

The museum will be the only national repository in which to house three-dimensional artifacts such as books and manuscripts, maps and photographs, and military and civilian documents associated with the Korean War.

The purpose of the KWVNM&L is to preserve a record of the participation of the United States in the Korean War; to educate and disseminate information to the general public about the Korean War era and the country of South Korea; to promote good relations and friendship among Korean War veterans and the citizens of other United Nations allies who participated in the research; and to care for, and interpret Korean War information and artifacts for Korean War veterans, their descendants. and the general public.

The primary objectives of the KWVNM&L are to build a museum facility, a library, and a convention center; to advertise throughout the United States, in South Korea, and in Allied Nations for outright donations (no permanent loans) of objects associated with the Korean War; and to hire museum professionals to catalog and preserve all donations.

Veterans trying to locate those who served with them in various units will be assisted by a Korean War veterans registry.

A nation-wide oral history project to tape the memoirs of Korean War veterans and demilitarized zone veterans in the United States and throughout the world will also be one of the primary objectives of the museum and library. A research library will be established in the museum for books that relate perspectives of the American, Allied, and Korean history pertinent to the Korean War; reference books which provide historical information; movies and video tapes; photographs and slides; documents, and other such items associated with the Korean War and DMZ eras, and their participants.

General public use of the library, as well as scholarly research, will be encouraged. Traveling educational programs for schools will be established, and visitation by school groups will be encouraged. A museum store will sell Korean War-related educational materials.

The museum will not glorify war. Instead, it will explain that war has often been necessary to safeguard freedom. The Korean War, considered by many to be “The Forgotten War,” successfully secured freedom for the people of South Korea and helped stop the spread of communism. Impressive state and local Korean War memorials have recently been built throughout the United States, but the proposed KWVNM&L will have the power to educate the general public about the Korean War in a way that no visit to a statue or memorial can equal.

The establishment of the KWVNM&L is not federally funded. Most of the funds will come from individual and corporate sponsorship, and the sponsors will be recognized on inscribed tiles incorporated into the convention center walls. Membership is open to the general public.

For more information, contact the Korean War Veterans National Museum and Library, P.O. Box 16, Tuscola, Ill. 61953 or call 1-888-295-7212 or visit the website at www.theforgottenvictory.org.

Plans Proceeding for Standing Bear

The Standing Bear Foundation met Tuesday afternoon at the Fourth Street Clubhouse to announce the awarding of the Phase II general contract to Evans & Associates of Ponca City. Standing before an artist's rendering of one of the planned orientation courts are (L to R) Jerry Evans, Evans & Associates; Keith Franklin, LandPlan Consultants Inc.; Randy Lauritzen, Ponca City city engineer; and Glen Nickles, Evans & Associates. The Phase II portion of the project is expected to take four months with completion scheduled prior to the Standing Bear Pow Wow Sept. on 29. The Phase II portion of the Standing Bear project will be dedicated Sept. 30.

DEATHS

Ina Irene Bryan
Lethia Hamilton
Sandra Bernadette LeClair
William A. Mehojah Sr.
Lorraine F. Shiflet

Ina Irene Bryan

BRANDON, Fla. — Ina Irene Bryan, former resident of Ponca City, died Tuesday, April 11, 2000, in the Brandon Regional Hospital in Brandon, Fla. She was 94.

The funeral was held 6 p.m. Sunday, April 16, in the First Christian Church of Brandon with the Rev. Scott Riggs officiating. Burial was in the Sunset Memorial Gardens in Thonotosassa, Fla., under the direction of Hillsboro Memorial Funeral home in Brandon, Fla.

Ina Irene Bryan was born April 7, 1906, in Mulhall, the daughter of Forrest and Hattie Elliot. She moved to Brandon, Fla., from Ponca City in 1982. She was a homemaker and a member of the First Christian Church.

Survivors include her son, Lawrence Bryan of Brandon, Fla.; her daughter, Phyllis Roberts of Billings, Mont.; a sister, Thelma Hull of Ponca City; a brother, Paul Elliot of Ventura, Calif.; eight grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Russell Bryan; her parents; a daughter, Melva Mabry; a brother, Floyd Elliott; and a sister, Esther Tally.

Lethia Hamilton

Lethia Hamilton, Ponca City resident, died Monday, April 24, 2000, in the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 80.

A graveside service is scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday, April 28, in the Odd Fellows Cemetery with the Rev. Robert C. Palmer Sr., pastor of St. John Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will follow with arrangements by the Trout Funeral Home.

Lethia Hamilton was born Jan. 2, 1920, in Rosser, Texas, the daughter of Wade and Angeline (Homer) Williams. She attended schools in Rosser, Texas. She married Thomas Hamilton Sr. in Newkirk on Nov. 28, 1953.

She was a homemaker and enjoyed fishing and sewing. She was a member of the St. John Baptist Church of Ponca City.

Survivors include two daughters, Lethia Mae Bell of Ponca City and Birdie Miles of Wichita, Kan.; two sons, Thomas Hamilton Jr. of Oklahoma City and Marshall Jones of Dallas, Texas; one brother, Gillis Williams of California; 26 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, on Sept. 10, 1974; a son, Carl Henry Hamilton; two sisters, Sarah Espie and Rosie Mae Williams; two brothers, Jessie Calhoun and Henry George; and a grandson.

Memorials contributions may be made in her name to the St. John Baptist Church, 1009 South Eleventh Street, P.O. Box 1357, Ponca City, Okla. 74602.

Obituaries

Sandra Bernadette LeClair

Sandra “Sandy” Bernadette LeClair died on Sunday, April 23, 2000, at St. Francis Medical Center in Wichita, Kan., as a result of injuries sustained in an automobile accident. She was 22.

The family has an open invitation for all family and friends to attend dinner on Wednesday, April 26, at noon at the Ponca Indian Baptist Church. Bring your own dishes and chairs. The funeral will follow at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Ted Freeman, pastor of Ponca Indian Baptist Church, officiating assisted by the Rev. Toby A. Blackstar of Greater First Deliverance Temple. Burial will follow in the Ponca Indian Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.

Sandy was born June 12, 1977, in Ponca City and attended Ponca City public schools before accepting employment with the Ponca Tribal Police Department. Sandy was a certified dispatcher, receiving her certificate from FLETC IPA in Artesia, N.M. She worked as a police dispatcher for the Ponca Tribal Police Department, Tonkawa Police Department, and the Cheyenne-Arapaho Tribal Police Department in Concho.

Sandy led an active, full life and enjoyed all sports. She especially liked playing softball, tennis, volleyball, shooting pool and swimming at the beach. She also enjoyed spending time with her nephews and niece and collecting police patches.

Survivors she left behind to cherish her memory include her parents, Arlington and Eleanor LeClair Sr.; her brothers, Arlington W. LeClair Jr., Joseph LeClair, Aaron C. LeClair and Arly Ryan LeClair; her aunts, Tina Youker, Iris LeClair, Sandra Howell, Cornelia LeClair, Vera LeClair and Carol LeClair; her uncles, Jessie LeClair, Rex LeClair and Ruben Hairyback; her grandfathers, Joseph Hairyback and Curtis Lieb; grandmothers, Rosetta LeClair and Charlene Lieb; nephews, Byron LeClair, Jordan Russell LeClair, Arlington W. LeClair III, Seth LeClair, Jace LeClair and Ty LeClair; and her niece, Shala Marie LeClair.

She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Pete and Ada Grant LeClair, and maternal grandmother, Marcella Arkeketa Hairyback.

Casket bearers will be Arlington W. LeClair Jr., Joseph LeClair, Aaron LeClair, B.J. Delodge, Kendall Snake and Charles Carey. Honorary bearers will be Joseph Pratt, Francis LeClair, Robert McClelland, Arly Ryan LeClair, Gloria Turner, Amelia Fox, Farah Parker and Bonnie Warrior.

Sandy was a computer enthusiast and enjoyed surfing the Internet and made many friends in the chat rooms.

poncachild/purebadlc left the room.

paid obituary

William A. Mehojah Sr.

William A. Mehojah Sr. passed away April 23, 2000, at the Methodist Hospital in Omaha, Neb. He was 82.

Mr. Mehojah was the last pureblood of the Kaw Nation of Oklahoma. He was born in Washunga Aug. 6, 1917, to Maggie and Jesse Mehojah. He graduated from Washunga High School and attended the Haskell Institute in Lawrence, Kan., Muskogee Junior College in Oklahoma, and Idaho State University. He worked at the Pawnee Agency in Oklahoma until 1942, when he joined the United States Army and served in the European Theater of Operations for 28 months.

He separated from the Army in 1945 and began working for the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Muskogee. Mr. Mehojah also served in many leadership positions throughout his life including superintendent at the Turtle Mountain Agency in North Dakota and superintendent at the Fort Hall Agency in Idaho. After retiring from the federal government in 1976 with 35 years of service, Mr. Mehojah served as chairman of the National Flame Spirit Council and, in 1990, was elected as chairman of the Kaw Nation.

In 1995, he was honored as the Outstanding Haskell Alumnus. Mr. Mehojah received several honors during his career including the Meritorious Service Award from the Secretary, Department of the Interior, and a Certificate of Superior Performance. As a tribute to Mr. Mehojah’s life and service to his country and tribe, Frank Keating, governor of Oklahoma, proclaimed Aug. 6, 1999, as William A. Mehojah Day.

Mr. Mehojah is remembered as a deeply religious man who loved and served the Lord Jesus Christ. In addition to other religious activities throughout his life, he was an active member of the Eagle’s Nest Worship Center in Omaha, Neb. He was married to Fredericka L. Mehojah, formerly Fredericka Gray of Afton.

He and his wife have three children, Minister Sandra Mehojah of Omaha, Neb., William A. Mehojah Jr. of Chantilly, Va., and Fredericka Joseph of Hanover, Md. He has seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. His grandchildren are Maggie (and Eric) Sherman, Larry Jr. and John-Charles Chandler of Omaha, Neb.; Clarence William and Ericka Joseph of Hanover, Md.; William S. Mehojah of Lawrence, Kan.; Gregory Mehojah of Albuquerque, N.M.; and great-grandchildren, Justin Mehojah of Albuquerque, N.M., and Isaiah Poor-Bear Chandler of Pine Ridge, S.D. He is survived by a host of nieces and nephews.

His mother and father, four brothers and four sisters preceded him in death.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 27, at 10 a.m. in the John A. Gentleman Westside Chapel at Omaha, Neb.

There will be a memorial service held at the Kaw Nation Complex in Kaw City at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 27.

paid obituary

Services Pending

Lorraine F. Shiflet

Lorraine F. Shiflet, 715 Monument, died Tuesday morning, April 25, 2000, at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 85. The family will be at the home of John Shiflet. Arrangements are pending with the Trout Funeral Home.

NEWS BRIEFS

Dancing Scheduled — The Pete Coli Country Band will be playing for dancing Friday at the Senior Center in Arkansas City, Kan. from 7 to 10 p.m. Guests are asked to bring finger food to share.

Stormescape Shelters, perfect

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

AKC Obedience Trial — The Kay-9 Dog Training Club of Ponca City Inc., will be holding its 13th and 14th Annual AKC Obedience Trial and its second and third annual Agility Trial April 29 -30 at the Busy B Arena, located at 4610 North Pecan Road. Judging will begin at 8:30 a.m. The public is invited to attend, and there is no admission fee.

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

Reunion Change — The Ponca City High School graduating class of 1955 has changed the date for its reunion to Labor day weekend, Sept. 1-3.

Ponds to Koi: We build water gardens or do it yourself, filters, pumps, liners. Koi- goldfish- food

etc. Ray 580-762-7806. adv.

Iris Festival at Library — The Iris Festival is right around the corner. The Ponca City Library has some activities scheduled for Saturday, May 6 — chalk drawing contest, 10 a.m. to noon; flower planting, 10 a.m.; tours, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come join the fun.

If You are looking for guaranteed results at prices to match the competition, look no further

than Heartland Hearing Aid Center. 1302 N. 7th. 767-1961 Guaranteed. adv.

Class Reunion — The 1943, 1944 and 1945 graduating classes of Ponca City High School will have a reunion planning meeting at 7 p.m. Friday. The meeting will be held at the Pioneer Bank drive-in meeting room. All classmates are urged to attend. For more information call Bruce Davis, 765-9870.

Singles Connection Tells Plans — Singles Connection will be going to the Taste and Tasteless at the Poncan Theatre on Friday night. They plan to meet in front of the theatre at 6:30 p.m. — tickets must be purchased in advance. On Saturday, April 29, Singles Connection will be going to a cookout at Dan’s farm. Meet at Ponca Plaza by the old Federal Express drop-off box at 5 p.m. You need to bring a side dish to share and your own plates and silverware. Contact Mary Lou at 762-0578 for more details.

MDA Camp Counselors Sought — Volunteers are being sought as summer camp counselors in Guthrie June 3-9 and again on July 1-7. Campers will be between the ages of 6 and 21. Counselors will help groom, dress, feed, and help the kids participate in camp activities. For more information or to volunteer, call (405) 722-8001 or (918) 749-7997, or the national headquarters at 800-572-1717 or visit the MDA website at www.mdausa.org.

Windshield Chips repaired professionally. Guaranteed and

insurance approved. Ponca Glass, 300 W. Highland and Pine. 762-6522. adv.

Rotary Conference — The 2000 District 5750 Conference for Rotary International will take place Friday and Saturday in Stillwater at the OSU Student Union. Activities include a reception with Dr. and Mrs. James Halligan, OSU president, and golf at the Stillwater Country Club on Friday. For more information or to register, call Raleigh Jobes, conference registration chair, at (405) 372-4485.

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.

Cpl. Hodges Decorated — Army Corporal David T. Hodges has been decorated with the Army Commendation Medal. The medal is awarded to individuals who demonstrate outstanding achievement or meritorious service in the performance of their duties. Hodges is the son of Sally B. Hodges of Ponca City, and Tom W. Hodges of Stevenson Ranch, Calif. David is a graduate of Hart High School in Newhall, Calif.

Where Everyone pays the same low price everyday. Burchardt’s Furniture 114 S. Independence

Enid 1-800-233-2104. adv.

Disturbance — A woman from the 2500 block of Copperfield Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:59 a.m. Tuesday that someone had shot her cat with a BB-gun. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Guess Susie the elephant’s weight win free circus tickets, Browns Shoe Fit. adv.

Rock Damages Vehicle — A man reported from the 1100 block of South Eighth Street at 2:11 p.m. Tuesday that a youngster had thrown a rock and hit his vehicle. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Gas Line Hit — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 8:02 a.m. Tuesday that a gas line had been hit in the 800 block of North Union Street and is spewing gas. Units from the No. 1 Fire Station responded as did Oklahoma Natural Gas to take care of the situation.

Jim Bowen Construction­ Custom homes, room additions and

remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv.

Accident — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 8:44 a.m. Tuesday that a one-vehicle injury accident had occurred at the intersection of U.S. 77 and Tower Road. An ambulance from the Ponca City Fire Department responded to the scene.

Have Pet? Can travel! In-home pet sitting service. We love them when you have to leave them!

762-4205. adv.

Tool Box Stolen — A man from the 400 block of South Eighth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:09 a.m. Tuesday that a tool box had been stolen from his pickup during the night. An officer was assigned and the information was logged.

Court Allen Construction.

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

Vehicles Burglarized — A man from the 500 block of South Third Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:41 a.m. Tuesday that several vehicles in the parking lot had been burglarized. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Bearly New- New kids clothes and shoes 20% off. High chair and toy sale! 2010 N. 14th. 10% off

used maternity. adv.

Accident — A two-vehicle, non-injury accident at the intersection of North Ash Street and West Highland Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:59 a.m. Tuesday. Two officers were assigned and a report was taken.

Residence Burglarized — A woman from the 300 block of South Perry Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 6:01 p.m. Tuesday that the residence had been broken into. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Sign Stolen — A man from the 100 block of North Third Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 12:20 p.m. Tuesday that a street sign had been stolen. An officer was assigned and a grand larceny report was taken.

Yes, The two for one low price everyday. Burchardt’s Furniture 114 South Independence, Enid. adv.

Purse Stolen — A woman from the 2600 block of North Fourteenth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 1:37 p.m. Tuesday that a purse had been stolen while in a business. The information was logged.

Attention Boat and Motor Owners!!! The 2001 renewal decals are now in inventory at the Ponca

City tag office. Purchase yours

early and avoid the rush!! All

boats and motors renew in June.

adv.

Suspicious Activity — A person reported to the Communications Center from the 1100 block of North Ash Street at 4:48 p.m. Tuesday that a babysitter had hit some youngsters. Two officers were assigned and a report was taken.

Elk’s Lodge open Tuesday through Saturday 4-10. 3612 Lake Road. adv.

Accident — A two-vehicle, non-injury accident at the intersection of North Fourteenth Street and Bradley Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:59 p.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Yes, “Enid”, Home of Burchardt’s Furniture. Largest selection at the lowest prices at 114

South Independence- Enid 1-800-233-2104. adv.

Fight — The Communications Center received a report at 8:06 p.m. Tuesday that two women were fighting at the intersection of West Broadway Avenue and North Oak Street. Two officers were assigned and citations were issued for fighting in public.

Accident — The Communications Center received a report at 9:34 p.m. Tuesday that a vehicle accident had occurred at U.S. 60 and Nine Mile Road.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 100 block of South Oak Street at 5:48 p.m. Tuesday that a 22-year-old man was being held for driving under suspension and a city warrant.

Janell Moore’s wreaths and arrangements are now at Crafters Mall. 318 East Grand, downtown

Ponca City. adv.

Vehicle Towed — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of West Highland Avenue and North Sunset Street at 7:41 p.m. Tuesday that a vehicle was being towed from the scene. Information was logged that a juvenile was released on a promise to appear.

Suspicious Activity — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 12:37 a.m. Wednesday from a woman in the 300 block of West Broadway Avenue that someone had forced a friend off the roadway at North Union Street and Hazel Avenue and then took keys to the vehicle and left. Two officers were assigned, located the vehicle in the 700 block of North Palm Street, and the vehicle was towed from the scene back to the 300 block of West Broadway Avenue. Information was logged that the keys were returned to the owner.

LIFESTYLES

Bliss Homemakers FCE Wins First Place at Meeting
Little News

Bliss Homemakers FCE Wins First Place at Meeting

Bliss Homemakers FCE group met April 19 at the Marland Methodist Christian Church fellowship hall. Eight members answered the roll call question what was your first “Piggy Bank” and how did you spend it? The group contributed pennies for friendship and quarters for the quarter drill, and all had read books. A seatbelt survey was also taken.

Linda Short, president, led the association creed, and minutes were read by Catherine Robinson, secretary. A thank-you note was received from Shery Hab for her baby’s “Golden Book,” and the financial report was read. Several members brought cards to be sent to St. Jude’s Ranch for the recycle project.

Burdettya Linn, scholarship committee chairman, acknowledged Cheryl Step, counselor at Frontier Public School, for encouraging seniors to complete the scholarship application, and thanked Linda Short, Maxine Tautfest, and Catherine Robinson who served on the interview committee. The recipient will be announced May 12 at the Frontier Public School high school awards assembly.

During the Noble County Association meeting held in Perry April 13. Bliss Homemakers turned in 35 rectangles for the “Warm Up America” afghan project of Wal-Mart, the completed afghan will be given to needy families. The group also submitted five completed projects using the “green bottles.” Bliss members having recipes in the OAFCE 2000 cookbook are Shelley Cook, Alice Kelly and Soni Kodesh. These books are available at the Noble County OSU extension office.

Bliss Homemakers received certificates for first place 1999 Achievement Story, and second on the 1999 Score Card for County projects, Members Soni Kodesh, Burdettya Linn and Catherine Robinson were recognized for perfect attendance at the local meetings. It was announced that Arleta Pulliam is treasurer-elect for the Noble County Association FCE. Bliss Homemakers served as hostess.

Babies in the community to be remembered with a “Golden Book” are Jennifer Nelson’s baby boy, and Trish and Matt Shiever’s baby boy. Frontier 4-H member Rachel Kelly asked for the Bliss Homemakers help in collecting aluminum tabs for the Ronald McDonald House in Oklahoma City. Oklahoma 4-H members have challenged each county for the greatest number with results to be taken to State 4-14 Round-up in May.

The lesson material “Making Savings Work For You” was distributed by Mrs. Short, with group discussion. The objective was to realize the importance of savings in a budget and how to put it to work for the best possible gain.

Hostess were Shelley Cook and Burdettya Linn, and the hostess gift was given to Clara Jane Case. The group will meet May 17 at the Marland Methodist-Christian Church at 7 p.m.

Little News

Zoe Erin Freeman is the name chosen by Jason and Chandra (Stewart) Freeman of Ponca City for their daughter born at 8:05 a.m. April 2, 2000, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. The baby weighed 8 pounds, 6 ounces, and measured 22 1/2 inches long. She has a sister, Alexandra, 23 months old.

Maternal grandparents are Rita Stewart of Ponca City, Marshall and Carol Stewart of Tulsa. Paternal grandparents are Ted and Susan Freeman of Ponca City.

Great-grandparents are Jesse Stewart, Galen and Liz Madderra, all of Ponca City, John and Ruby Williams of Anadarko. Great-great-grandparents are Ivy Hardy of Kildare and Ray Madderra of Ponca City.

Debbie and John Comer, 809 Poplar, announce the birth of a son at 12:25 p.m. April 5, 2000, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. Christopher Wesley Comer weighed 4 pounds, 10 ounces, and was 20 inches long.

Maternal grandparents are Dixie Jones of Wellington, Kan., Jean Jones of Winfield, Kan., and the late Wesley L. Jones. Paternal grandparents are Diana Comer of Ponca City, and the late John H. Comer. Paternal great-grandparents are Dale and Sylvia Kohler of Ponca City.

SPORTS

Wildcats Nip Bruins
Baseballers Fall Again
Howells Records Lift OSU
PC Anglers Top State BASS Team
Benefit Clay Shoot Aids Warden's Son
Sailing Club Lessons Set Next Month
Arizona St. Pops Sooners

Wildcats Nip Bruins

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

It was just an “okay win,” according to Ponca City soccer coach Marco Castillo.

But it was a win and that’s what made Tuesday’s 3-2 win over Bartlesville at Sullins Stadium important.

“It’s been a long time since the boys have had a seven-win season,” Castillo said. “These seniors have never had seven wins (in a season).”

The match was also a warmup for the Wildcats’ next outing, the first round of the playoffs next Tuesday. Although the pairings haven’t been set officially, Castillo feels his Cats will be playing Broken Arrow at Broken Arrow.

“We played them close,” the coach said of the Wildcats’s 3-0 loss to the Tigers during the regular season. “I believe we can take them.”

This Tuesday’s match was a case of the Wildcats playing as hard as they needed to. Each time the Bruins challenged, the Cats stepped it up a notch and scored when they had to have a score.

The Ponca Citians got on the scoreboard in the first 10 minutes of the match off the foot of senior Fabricio Migues.

Bartlesville answered that goal with 12:15 remaining in the first half to send the match into halftime tied at 1-1.

Just two and a half minutes into the second half the Wildcats went ahead again on a free kick by D.J. Scarbrough.

A Bartlesville foul gave the Cats a free kick just across the midfield line. Taking advantage of the slight wind and the setting sun shining in the face of the Bartlesville goalie, the Po-Hi senior sailed his kick 50 yards to just over the Bruin’s goalie’s head.

But just six minutes later, Bartlesville answered again to tie the score

But the Bruins made a crucial mistake with just over 12 minutes remaining in the match by tackling sophomore forward Greg Perez in the penalty box

Perez easily beat the Bruins’ goalie on the penalty kick for what was to be the winning goal.

But the Cats had to fight off a last-minute attack by Bartlesville to pull out the win.

Baseballers Fall Again

EDMOND — Ponca City’s Wildcat baseball team got a day of today as they try to find a way to win again.

The Cats will get one more chance in front of the home crowd Thursday as they take on Tulsa Union. The varsity game is set for 6:30 p.m. as the team celebrates Senior Night.

Ponca City suffered its third loss in a row Tuesday as Edmond Memorial scored two runs in the bottom of the seventh to nip the Wildcats, 4-3.

The Cats carried a 3-2 lead into the last inning but three Ponca City pitchers couldn’t hold the Bulldog off. Three walks and two singles with one out spoiled the Poncans’ chance of breaking the losing streak.

Ponca City spotted Edmond a 1-0 lead in the first inning, but tied the score in the third.

With one out, Jarred Spears drew a walk and advanced on a single by Chris McCool. An out later. Aaron Upshaw singled to right, scoring Spears, but McCool was thrown out at the plate.

The Wildcats went ahead in the fourth as Jimmo Ozment and J. Michael Sharon collected back-to back singles. Sharon was wiped out on a force out with Ozment scoring.

Ponca City upped the lead to 3-1 in the fifth on a lead off single by Spears and a double by pitcher Bryan Coppock.

Edmond cut the lead to one run in the sixth with two outs, setting the stage for the seventh inning explosion.

Following Thursday’s home game, the Wildcats are scheduled to play at Putnam North on Friday and finish the regular season Saturday at Enid.

Howells Records Lift OSU

HUTCHINSON, Kan. (AP) — Oklahoma State junior Charles Howell shot a 10-under par 200, a Big 12 Tournament record, and the Cowboys won their third conference men’s golf tournament Tuesday at Prairie Dunes Country Club.

Oklahoma State’s team score of 851 was the lowest in Big 12 Tournament history.

The Cowboys won the inaugural Big 12 title in 1997 and again in 1998. The team title marked Oklahoma State’s 39th conference championship since joining the Big Eight Conference in 1958.

The Cowboys’ winning score was six strokes lower than the previous record of 857, set by Kansas last year. The Jayhawks finished second this year at 863, followed by Colorado at 873. Oklahoma was seventh at 893.

Howell shot a 68 in the final round after recording 66s in the first two rounds. He now owns the Big 12 Tournament records for lowest scores after 18, 36 and 54 holes.

Howell’s 10-stroke margin of victory over teammate Edward Loar is also a Big 12 Tournament record. The previous three Big 12 Conference individual championships had been decided by a combined four strokes.

Texas’ Matt Brost placed third at 212.

Team Standings

54 Holes

Par 840

1. Oklahoma St. 287-272-292 851; 2. Kansas 287-282-294 863; 3. Colorado 285-292-296 873; 4. Texas 286-286-304 876; 5. Texas A&M 284-289- 304 877; 6. Baylor 292-292-303 887; 7. Oklahoma 296-291-306 893; 8. Texas Tech 291-291-313 895; 9. Missouri 297-295-305 897; 10. Kansas St. 297-291-317 905; 11. Iowa St. 304-299-309 912; 12. Nebraska 304-306-317 927.

PC Anglers Top State BASS Team

Four Ponca City anglers have qualified for the 2000 Oklahoma State BASS Federation team which will take part in the 2000 BASS Central Division Federation Championship Tournament to be held June 7-9 on Lewis and Clark Reservoir which is located on the Nebraska-South Dakota State line.

The Oklahoma State BASS Federation held the final of three state qualifying tournaments, April 15-16, on Lake Texoma. The first two events held on Grand Lake and Eufaula earlier this year.

The team consists of the top 12 finishing anglers in the state. Those from Ponca include Robert Cartlidge, second; Dr. Bill Stuever, seventh; Don Linder, 10th; and Jody Linder, 12th.

According to Federation President Cartlidge, “Just making the Federation state team in Oklahoma is quite an accomplishment, and with a third of the team from the same town is even more of an accomplishment.”

The central Division, bay far the toughest in the nation, is comprised of eight states, (Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Kansas), and the international team from the country of Zimbabwe. Oklahoma is the defending 1999 divisional champions. The sooner state team has won this event five of the last ten years including back to back wins in 1998-1999.

One person on the Oklahoma state team will advance from the central Divisional tournament to the BASS National Federation Championship next April.

The Oklahoma B.A.S.S. Federation is comprised of 25 local B.A.S.S. affiliated chapters with over 500 members strong.

Benefit Clay Shoot Aids Warden's Son

A Benefit Sporting Clays Shoot for the Jacob Cole Education Fund will be held Saturday, May 6, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.at the Wagoner Sporting Clay Range located 21/2 miles west of Wagoner on State Highway 51 and 1/2 mile south on Old Town Road. Entry fee will be $35 for a round of 50 targets.

Jacob is the son of Oklahoma Game Warden Jerry Cole who passed away in December of 1999 after a long battle with cancer. Cole had been assigned to Kay County the last four years of his 25 year career.

Jacob is currently a junior at Pawhuska High School with a strong desire to pursue a degree in medicine aftergraduating from high school, accordingbto Kay COunty Game Warden Tracy Daniel.

If vou cannot attend the shoot, but would like to make a contribution, this can be done by making a check out to the Jacob Cole Education Fund c/o Tracy Daniel, 1704 Blackard Lane, Ponca City, OK 74604. The fund is being administered by Home National Bank in Ponca City.

Sailing Club Lessons Set Next Month

Indian Nations Sailing Association will again conduct a summer sailing class this year.

This class is open to anyone who wants to enroll and learn to sail small boats.

The two class room sessions of the sailing instruction will be given at the Pioneer Auto Bank meeting room on East Lake Road on May 18 at 7:10 p.m. and on May 25 at 7:10.

The ‘on the water” sailing instructions sessions will be given at East Lake Ponca on June 1 at 6p.m., Kaw Lake Marina on Saturday, June 3 at 10a.m. and at East Lake Ponca on Thursday, June 8, at 6 p.m.

The fee for participation in the sailing class is $35 per student. The fee includes the sailing instruction textbook, membership in Indian Nations Sailing Association for one year with a subscription to the club's newsletter.

The deadline for enrollment in this year's sailing class is May 12. Individuals wishing to enroll should contact Sam Fite (580-762-3589) or Tom Pardee (580-762-4930) for additional information.

Arizona St. Pops Sooners

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Arizona State scored in all but two innings Tuesday night, and Casey Myers, Mitch Jones and Phil Downing had four RBIs apiece as the Sun Devils beat Oklahoma 20-6.

Arizona State, ranked No. 3 in the Baseball America and Collegiate Baseball polls, had 19 hits off six Oklahoma pitchers.

Myers went 4-for-5 and scored twice, Downing was 4-for-6 with two doubles, and Jones had the only homer of the night. Leadoff hitter Jonah Martin scored four times.

The Sun Devils (36-10) led 6-2 before scoring eight runs in the fifth inning to end any doubt about the outcome.

Tommy Whiteman had four hits and three RBIs for Oklahoma (31-16), which had won five straight and 14 of 15.

At Oklahoma City

Arizona St. 130 282 310 — 20 19 1

Oklahoma 200 021 010 — 6 12 3

Kartler, Pezely (2), Switzer (6), Doble (8) and Myers, Pratt. Cuellar, Bradbury (3), Hankins (5), Coose (5), Cherry (7), Dunbar (8) and Witcher. W—Pezely, 6-2. L—Cuellar, 1-1. HRs—Arizona St., Jones.