LOCAL

Commission Incumbents Win
Area Voters Cast Votes In Elections
Taste and Tasteless Sign of Millennium End
Nearly News
NOC Redbud Jazz Festival Concert Set
Fine Art Wilderness Photographer Giving Two Presentations Sunday
Lake Ponca Clean-Up Saturday
High School Shows Hike in Early Enrollment
Pre-Enrollment Set for Kildare Kindergarten
American Legion Donor Program Being Discussed
Time Brings Change in Local Crime

Commission Incumbents Win

Voters Change Election Date

By PATTI PFEIFFER

News Staff Writer

The incumbent city commissioners will remain incumbents as voters overwhelming reelected Commissioners Dick Stone and Lyn Boyer.

For position one Stone carried 72 percent of the votes, with a total of 1,488 to 581 votes for his opponent Marvin Rider. In the position three race Boyer won by 78 percent of the votes, receiving 1,586 votes while his opponent Bedford “Ron” Smith received 453 votes.

The landslide victories came as a relief to the commissioners who waited among friends as the results trickled in. It was only 45 minutes after the polls closed that both Stone and Boyer breathed a sigh of relief.

“These results are much better than the last election results,” Stone joked in reference to his mayoral bid last year. “Commissioner Boyer and I have worked hand in hand over the past three years for the betterment of this community and I appreciate the opportunity to have another three years.”

Commissioner Boyer was also happy with the election results.

“I am pleased that people turned out to vote and I look forward to serving the citizens of Ponca City for another term as city commissioner,” Boyer said.

Both of the men took the time to thank all those who had assisted in their campaign, voted and supported them, especially their wives who were present at their sides.

Voters also approved a change in the city charter. City elections will now be held a month earlier as voters approved the change to the city charter by a large margin. There were 1,703 votes in favor of the change, which will allow for municipal elections to be held in March instead of April. There were 210 votes against.

Area Voters Cast Votes In Elections

By MARK GALVIN

News Staff Writer

Area voters went to the polls Tuesday to decide a number of offices and questions.

In Blackwell, incumbent Mayor Louis Gose retained his seat as public safety commissioner by outpolling challenger Lin Barnett, 566-493, according to unofficial results from Kay County Election Board Secretary Carol Stafford.

In Kaw City, incumbent City Clerk Carolyne Goodwin retained her seat by outpolling challenger Cheryl Vazquez, 98-45, unofficially.

In Tonkawa’s unofficial results, voters elected John David Manley in a race with Paul L. Wood, 288-254, for the Council Member No. 3 post, and they elected Grady A. Jarvis over Jackie Cyrus, 297-230, in the race for the Council Member No. 4 post. For the Council Member At-Large seat, Tonkawa voters elected Ronnie Blubaugh, with 291 votes, over Johnny Thornburgh, with 251, and Marvin R. Minix, with 11 votes.

In Newkirk, voters rejected a question that would have allowed funding for constructing a new municipal center. The vote was 81 “yes” to 288 “no.” However, by a vote of 219 to 149, Newkirk voters approved a question to shorten the candidate filing period for local elections.

For Frontier School’s Board of Education office No. 4 seat, Dwight D. Buffalo Head outpolled Edward A. Root, 178-142.

For the Billings Board of Education office No. 4 seat, Richard G. Vann outpolled Billy D. Whitchurch, 133-60.

For the Deer Creek-Lamont Board of Education office No. 4, Tiara Darling outpolled Janie Meade, 183-123.

For Red Rock elections, the Noble County Election Board reported Jim Potter, with 72 votes, and Billy L. Clark, with 31 votes, outpolled Ted Black (30 votes) and Sidonna J. Jeans (23 votes) for two Red Rock Board of Trustee seats. And Leda J. Green outpolled Cristin Hutchison, 72-22, for the Clerk/Treasurer seat.

For three board of trustee seats in Marland, Steven J. Dummer, with 51 votes; Tyrone Poore, with 40, and Jack Sikes, with 30, outpolled Angel Moxley Hinton, with 19 votes.

For Billings Clerk/Treasurer, E. Joann Parrish outpolled Suzanne Panach, 107-27. And for three board of trustee seats in Billings, the three top vote-getters were Diane Waggoner with 71, Jack Graves with 58, and Tammy Dene Brown with 52. There were nine candidates in that election.

In other Grant County results, voters in Lamont approved, 85-61, a question to allow the town clerk/treasurer to be appointed by the board of trustees for a period of time to be determined by the trustees.

In the Medford council member race, Donna J. Frazier outpolled Betty Arlene Hodges, 65-46.

Taste and Tasteless Sign of Millennium End

Lock your doors and hide your children. It’s almost time for the 1999 “Taste and Tasteless,” says Poncan Theatre director Kenn Wessel.

“Taste and Tasteless,” the annual fund raiser for the Poncan Theatre, will be held at the theater on Friday, April 23.

The event has two parts. In the “Taste” part, some of the finest foods Ponca City restaurateurs have to offer are available behind the theater beginning at 6:45 p.m. The “Tasteless” part, a selection of the worst entertainments Ponca City (or anyone else) has to offer, follows immediately after in the theater.

“The last ‘Tasteless’ of any millennium is very, very special,” says Wessel. “And of course, our fondest hope is to usher in the new millennium tastelessly.” “I’ve seen the script, and I predict success,” Wessel adds.

The last “Taste” event of the millennium will also be glorious. The foods promise to be excellent. The food vendors are presently selecting menu items, catering to the keen palates of the fine Poncan Theatre patrons.

“Our title is ‘The Millennium Bugz Me,’” Wessel says. The subtitle is “Y2K or Not 2K (Is that a question?)”

“There are certain nuances and subtleties in the title, we think. We’re very proud.” One spokesperson pointed out that the millennium is a once-in-a-lifetime event.

“With this year’s ‘Taste and Tasteless’ we’re at the vanguard,” says an unnamed source. “We’ve started a movement to make people aware of the millennium.” “I mean, like, some don’t even know about the information age.” “Information is cool,” the informant said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

But the millennium bugs some people. So Tasteless writers have started a counter-movement to let them express their irritation. It’s fullest statement is in the title, “The Millennium Bugz Me.” “Taste and Tasteless” promises to be a democratic event. It reaches out to those who favor having a millennium and to those who favor sleeping through it.

The Taste part will feature some of the favorite concoctions of Ponca City’s best chefs. The list of restaurants will include the Amarillo Grill, Dougan’s Bar-B-Q, El Chico, Golden Corral Family Steakhouse, Head Country Bar-B-Q, Hero’s Bar and Grill, Marriott at Conoco, Perkins Family Restaurant, the Ponca City Country Club, Rusty Barrell Supper Club, Schlotsky’s Deli, and the United Supermarket Deli.

Tickets to “Taste and Tasteless” are $20. This year, the entire amount is a tax-deductible donation, according to Wessel. And this year, the State of Oklahoma recommended that the theater stop including wine as part of the total packaged price. A cash wine bar will be available in the food area.

Tickets may be bought at any of the main Ponca City banks, or from Poncan Theatre board members, or from the Poncan Theatre at 104 East Grand. The Poncan phone number is 580-765-0943.

Nearly News

Water service to residents on Rice Street, between Princeton Avenue and Meadow Lane, will be interrupted as city crews replace a broken water main Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

NOC Redbud Jazz Festival Concert Set

TONKAWA — Tickets for the annual Northern Oklahoma College Redbud Jazz Festival Concert are still available. The concert will be held Saturday, April 10, in the Northern Performing Arts Center on the Tonkawa campus, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available from the college Office of Financial Affairs, 580-628-6231.

Grammy award winner Randy Brecker along with drum set legend Ed Soph, the Baron of Bass Lynn Seaton and Oklahoma’s own trombonist John Moak are featured. Brecker and his fellow stars will appear with the Redbud Festival Orchestra, the Northern Jazz Band and Combo and two representative bands of the day, chosen from top high school jazz bands performing before adjudicators throughout the day.

Brecker, the original trumpet player in the legendary jazz/rock group Blood, Sweat and Tears, has headlined at International jazz festivals such as Montreaux, Switzerland.

Currently, part of the legendary jazz faculty at the University of North Texas, Soph earned a reputation as one of the best big band drummers on the planet for his work with such giants as Clark Terry and Woody Herman.

Seaton, a Tulsa native, worked with the famed Cincinnati Pops Orchestra and was asked to join the Woody Herman band where he recorded four albums. A move to New York City established him as one of the finest bass players in the jazz scene.

Tickets are $7.50. Advance reservations are advised for choice seating.

Fine Art Wilderness Photographer Giving Two Presentations Sunday

Charles Phillips, internationally acclaimed fine art wilderness photographer, will give two presentations Sunday at the Ponca City Art Center, 819 East Central.

Phillips anecdotes and exquisite prints will take the audience into some of the most rugged and pristine wilderness areas of America. His capture on black and white film of the details of scenes he encounters are sure to delight even the most avid photographer.

The public is invited to attend either the 2 p.m. presentation or the 7:30 p.m. presentation, and refreshments will be served a half hour before each presentation.

Phillips, a student of Ansel Adams during the 1970s, travels alone, except for a pack mule, for weeks at a time into the most remote and unspoiled American wilderness to capture just the right scene at just the right moment. It sometimes takes many days of trying and many not-quite-right shots to achieve the desired effect. Many of these photographs are taken in weather and under conditions that are not idyllic. However, Phillips would not trade jobs with anyone.

“I guess I am about the luckiest guy alive! You see I make my living doing the two things I most love to do: experiencing the extraordinary beauty of the wilderness and expressing its powerful forces through my photography,” reveals Phillips.

Phillips has developed a highly technical craft, adapted from aerial reconnaissance and graphic arts photography. The resulting photographs posses an extraordinary subtlety of tone and a degree of detail that is far beyond what the human eye can see at the original scene.

Working with an 8 by 10-inch large format bellows view camera, Phillips is able to capture scenes and produce them in high contrast, finely detailed black and white photographs. They are available in two types of limited edition series — the Special Edition series are printed in three sizes ranging up to 32 by 40 inches large and the Handcrafted series available as large as 54 by 68 inches and which include a wider variety of images. His museum quality photographs hang in many corporate and professional offices as well as in individual homes.

Lake Ponca Clean-Up Saturday

Recognizing the need to spruce up for spring, the Lake Ponca Users Association is planning a lake clean-up slated for Saturday.

The clean-up is scheduled for 8 a.m. through noon. Registration will be held between 7 and 9 a.m. at the shelter house at Lake Ponca Park. Because gift certificates will be given to the lucky finders, volunteers must be registered to qualify for prizes. Notifications of winning will be hidden in bottles, and registration is required to claim the prizes.

Coffee and donuts, donated by United Supermarkets, will be available to all volunteers while they last starting at 7:30 a.m. Barbecue sandwiches, courtesy of Conoco, will be provided at noon.

Organizations sponsoring and participating in the event are Ponca City Park Department, Lake Ponca Users Association, Pioneer Bank and Trust, Home National Bank, the Employment Environment Action Group of Conoco, The Boat House, United Supermarkets, Dollar Saver Discount Center, Installations Unlimited, Auto Intintions and Take Ten.

Individuals and groups are encouraged to participate. Boy Scout troops and Girl Scout troops are participating, and the troop which gathers the most trash will win $200 for its organization with the second-place troop awarded $100.

In case of rain, the clean up will be rescheduled for Saturday, April 17.

High School Shows Hike in Early Enrollment

By LAURA CORFF

News Staff Writer

In a recent meeting of the Ponca City Board of Education, Superintendent William White reported a record number of students are pre-enrolling at the high school. All board members were in attendance.

White indicated that the board may be asked to approve up to six additional positions at Po-Hi, due to a record high in the number of students enrolling for the 1999-2000 school year. According to White, the number of high school students is approaching 2,000, which the school hasn’t seen since the mid-70’s. The additional positions are expected to be mainly in the areas of mathematics and English. The request will be included with the initial budget projection.

The superintendent also spoke of the $50,000 Distance Learning Grant, which is a one time grant requiring no matching funds. Although the program is still in the planning phase, White said a classroom in the old field-house will be remodeled. The location will provide easy and direct access to the facility.

The Distance Learning Lab will allow students and staff to utilize video system learning, saving the commute to Northern Oklahoma College. Funds are expected to be available in June.

Curriculum Committee Report

Board member Mike Kruck reported on the progress of the curriculum committee. He noted that Literacy First training continues to be a focus. All principals and approximately 80 percent of the elementary teachers have completed Phase I training. Also, instructional in-service training will be held for administrators on May 3 and May 17. The sessions will focus on dimensions of learning.

Later this month, the committee plans to consider granting one unit of English credit for Limited English Proficient students who successfully complete the secondary English Language Learner course.

Additionally, Kruck reported that selection for Language Arts is in progress. The state textbook list of 33 publishers was reviewed and samples of 12 publishers were ordered for review. The district adoption will be made at the textbook meeting on April 13. All publisher samples are available for public review.

The committee also reported that proficiency testing dates have been set for May 11 and 12, with additional testing offered in August. Testing is obtained by written request from a parent.

Property Committee Report

A progress report on various construction projects consumed most of the meeting of the Property Committee. At the new Lincoln Elementary School, the sidewalk in front of the south entry was replaced. The contractor also repaired the gym flooring. A letter was sent to DACO Construction informing them that the retainage of $5,000 would not be released until the leaks around the gym were proven to be fixed.

In other projects, a contract is signed for work on lighting for the girls’ softball field. A Notice to Proceed has been issued and the contractor plans to move on site around May 1. The work is expected to take up to two weeks.

Summer projects developing from the 1999 bond issue were discussed, but projected costs are not complete. The Middle School kitchen expansion/renovation will begin in June. The major portion of the Middle School renovation and the beginning of the new classroom construction will begin during the summer of 2000.

Finance Committee Report

The Finance Committee discussed using forms to sanction booster club organizations. A form used by another school district was reviewed. According to Jeff Denton, the district is on target with the budget. The board unanimously approved the financial reports.

Energy Management Report

According to Dr. Joe Surber, costs of electricity, gas and water remained constant from 1997 to 1998. For 1998, electricity comprised 69 percent of utility costs, at $316,494. Water made up $20,409, or four percent and gas comprised 27 percent, or $121,358.

Although the sprinkler was used more during last year’s hot summer, energy was increased due to construction, remodeling continued on weekends, and additional space was added, costs were less than anticipated.

This is the third year the district has participated in an energy management program with an energy manager to monitor usage of facilities as well as administer an energy conservation program.

Though the high school may be increasing its population, White reported that the elementary schools were losing students. Within the last two months, he reported 40 students transferred out of the elementary schools. In previous years, drop outs have primarily been from the high school. White observed the number of elementary teachers may have to be reduced.

The district has lost 99 students within the last two months, 43 students were lost in March. Looking ahead to 1999-2000, White noted the developmental first grade program will be taken out and replaced with a full day Kindergarten.

In other business, the board approved a change order to the Anderson Building remodeling project and agreed to additional items originally considered as alternates. Additionally, members approved renewal of the license and system support agreement with the HOSTS Language Arts Program, for Garfield Academy. The annual license fee is $5,600. No proposed changes are expected to the contract.

Approval was also given to continue the Summer Feeding Program at Lincoln and Union Elementary Schools. According to Denton, the program is paid by the federal government and doesn’t cost the district. Approximately 400 children are served. This will be the sixth year the program has been offered.

Additionally, a policy, which should have been updated when the membership of the board changed from nine to seven members, was authorized for revision by the board.

There were no comments during the public hearing scheduled for parents of Native American children, teachers, students and members of local Indian Tribes. The hearing offered an opportunity to present views regarding impact aid projects and comment on whether Indian children participate on an equal basis with non-Indian children in the education program and activities provided by the Ponca City Public Schools.

During award presentations, Valerie Ehardt was recognized as the certified employee of the month for April. Ehardt is a Spanish teacher at Garfield, Roosevelt, Trout and Woodlands. Additionally, Teresa Epperson received recognition as a Friend of Education, for her volunteer support at the Liberty Elementary. Although Pearly Roland received April’s support employee of the month award, the presentation will be made at the May meeting, since Roland was unable to attend.

Executive Session

After concluding an executive session, the board approved a new policy regarding the employment of teachers. The ACT and board’s Negotiations Team met on March 10, and recommended the revision.

In other action, members renewed all but one of the certified teacher contracts for the 1999-2000 school year. A hearing is set for May 24.

Pre-Enrollment Set for Kildare Kindergarten

Friday from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., Kildare school will hold its kindergarten pre-enrollment in the school library.

Parents or guardians need to bring a copy of the child’s birth certificate, immunization record, and social security number. All five-year-olds must have two MMR, four polio, five DPT, a varicella (chickenpox), two hepatitis A, and three hepatitis B shots before starting school. Four-year-olds need to begin getting their hepatitis A and hepatitis B shots. A nurse from the Kay County Health Department will be available to give immunization inoculations.

All children who will be four on or before the first day of September 1999 may attend kindergarten. The four-year-olds will attend classes in the morning at the same time the five-year-olds attend.

The kindergarten teacher, Jana Lambring, will have curricular material available for preview and will answer questions. School supply lists will also be available.

Before-school care, afternoon day care, and after-school care will be available for a fee. For further information, contact the kindergarten teacher, Jana Lambring, or call the school office.

American Legion Donor Program Being Discussed

A preliminary meeting was held at the American Legion Post 14 concerning the establishment of a memorial or donor program for veterans and citizens wishing to donate funds to the Legion in the memory of a loved one or friend.

Over the years, a number of people have left funds to the American Legion. Chuck Gregg, commander, noted that the Legion would like to recognize donors on a bronze or alum cast plaque. He explained names could be added as donations come in to recognize individuals and families who have given to the American Legion. With the loss of World War II members, which makes up about 50 percent of membership, the dynamics of the Legion are changing.

The American Legion is considering options to make available avenues for people to donate funds and be recognized for the donations. Three levels of giving was discussed with two companies supplying information on their programs. Attending the first meeting were Gerald and Nancy Hope Sober, Mike Daugherty, Ollie Heady and Chuck Gregg.

Those interested in getting involved in the donor program are encouraged to call the Legion, 765-9073.

Time Brings Change in Local Crime

By PATTI PFEIFFER

News Staff Writer

Editor’s Note: This is the fourth in a series addressing changes within community and the future of Ponca City.

Not only the change in crime, but the presence of crime itself, is a true indication of the change Ponca City has undergone this century.

Where once local citizens where able to leave house and car doors unlocked without fear or uncertainty an unlocked car, an unprotected purse may, and often does, result in theft.

As time has elapsed citizens of smaller communities are having to adapt to crime that once upon a time happened “only in other cities, but not here.”

The change and increase in crime is a subject that haunts the Ponca City Police Chief daily — a change he says is directly correlated to other changes within the community.

“Since I became chief in 1990 the community has undergone a drastic economic changes and it is not the same,” Chief Raymond Ham says. “It is no longer totally white collar but more of a blue collar city — and there is nothing wrong with that. But at the same time you have an influx of more people with different cultural backgrounds which have caused some problems here locally.”

Those demographic and economic changes have lead to undesirable changes within the community.

“People are laid off of work, forced to retire early and then rehired — this all goes to make people angry,” Ham says. “Violent crimes have risen, both aggravated assault and domestic violence. The drop-out rate has risen, and the suicide rate has also risen. And then there has been an increase in robberies across the line.”

According to the Chief not only have robberies increased but the targeted items have changed as the population has changed with more domestic items and furniture now being among the more desirable.

While the increase in retail sales from out-of-town shoppers is a positive in some respect however from a law enforcement aspect it has its draw backs.

“Being highlighted as a trade center brings people into our community, but it also brings in forgers, shoplifters and fraud and that come in from the outside area and that adds to that element which already exists here,” the Chief explains.

There are several solutions to the current change in the crime wave and the chief says education as well as community cooperation and involvement are a beginning.

“People have changed and crime has changed. Before this year, this was a crime-free environment but not any more,” Ham says. “You used to be able to leave your engine running and doors open, but not anymore. Now you are likely to find that someone is in your home, or that your car is missing. What we didn’t have to worry about ten years ago we do now and we need to educate people to this change so that they become aware and we need to educate citizens on how to prevent themselves from becoming a victim.”

A more “neighborly” Ponca City will also lead to a decrease in crime.

“What we need is the community to become more involved in the fight against crime,” Ham says. “Our officers intervene, but only after a crime has been committed. I feel that the community could become more involved and become a place where citizens help citizens and neighbors help neighbors — a community-wide effort where everyone watches out for one another.”

There is no doubt that the Chief believes unity is necessary for the current wave of crime to recede.

“I have lived here all my life and my wife and I love this city. I hate to see what is happening now,” Ham says. The solution to the change in crime is 100 percent involvement from all of us. We need to accept the fact that this community has changed and bring this community back together. When that happens people will become happier and that will hopefully be reflected in a decrease in crime.”

Next: The conclusion of the series.

DEATHS

Lester Leroy Ray
Florence Lorene Lawson
David Cleal Andrews
Bill Ramsey
Eldon E. Shaw
Goldie Marie Armstrong
Robert E. Firrel
Carol Scott Woolsey
Barnet Morrison Jr.

Lester Leroy Ray

BRAMAN — Lester Leroy Ray, longtime Braman area resident, died Tuesday morning, April 6, 1999, at the Blackwell Regional Hospital in Blackwell. He was 81.

The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, April 9, at the Braman First Christian Church with the Rev. Jerry Crenshaw officiating. Burial will be in the Braman Cemetery under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home.

Lester Leroy Ray was born Sept. 22, 1917, in Argonia, Kan., to Lawrence Leroy and Edith (Martin) Ray. At the age of six he moved with his family to Medford and within a year to Braman. He attended Braman schools, graduating there in 1936.

He married Opal Sodowsky on Aug. 11, 1937, at the Newkirk (Okla.) First Christian Church, and the couple made their first home in Blackwell. In 1947, they moved to a farm southeast of Braman where Ray was engaged in farming and raising cattle. He also worked for the Blackwell Zinc Company for 34 years, retiring as foreman of the furnace department. Ray was a lifelong member of the Braman First Christian Church, where he served as church elder and in numerous other offices. He enjoyed attending the sports and special events of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife, Opal Ray of Braman; two sons, Leroy and Larry, both of Braman; one daughter, Louise Alexander of Kaw City; 12 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and three step great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Dale Clinton Ray.

Casket bearers will be Keith Ray, Randy Ray, Don Ray, Bob Ray, Mike Sindelar, Todd Ray and Jeff Ray. Honorary bearers will be Harold Fox, Butch Wolfe, Chris Coons, Duncan Coons, Wilfred Blay, Lyle Tripp, Carl Storck and Bob Kaupke.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Ray’s name to the Braman First Christian Church, c/o Roberts Funeral Home, 120 West Padon, Blackwell, OK 74631.

Florence Lorene Lawson

Florence Lorene Lawson, longtime Ponca City resident died Monday morning, April 5, 1999, at her home. She was 85.

The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Friday in the Grace Memorial Chapel with the Rev. David Bigger officiating. Burial will follow in the Odd Fellows Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.

Born Nov. 17, 1913, in Bokchita, Okla., she was the daughter of Edward and Lillie Mae (Barkley) Gee. She grew up in Ponca City and attended Ponca City schools graduating from Ponca City High School, and attended the Blackwell Nursing School.

She was married to Azem Lawson in Newkirk, on July 17, 1929. They made their home here in Ponca City. Mrs. Lawson worked for a time for the Ponca City Hospital before going to work for the Grandview Hospital for 21 years. Following the closing of Grandview Hospital she worked for the Highland Nursing Home until her retirement at age 72. She enjoyed crocheting, painting and other handcrafts.

Surviving are four daughters, Mrs. Robert (Doris) Elkins of Clinton, Ind., Linda Driskell of Enid, and Mrs. Emery (Helen Cook and Mary Kirchenbauer, both of Ponca City; five sons, A.G. Lawson of Winfield, Kan., Harold Lawson of Lexington, Okla., and Kenneth Leroy Lawson, Steven Wayne Lawson and Donald Lawson, all of Ponca City; two sisters, Bernadine Clinton and Catherine Trussell, both of Ponca City; one brother, Edward Gee, of Concord, Calif.; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; two daughters, Florence Carson and Blanche Bookout; three brothers and three sisters.

Casket bearers will be Bryan Lawson, Troy Lawson, Kerry Lawson, James Driskell, Ronny Driskell and Keith Lawson.

The family will be at 1127 North Sunset.

David Cleal Andrews

CHICKASHA — David Cleal Andrews, former Kay County resident, died Monday, April 5, 1999, in Chickasha. He was 84.

The funeral was to be held at 1:30 p.m. today, April 7, at the Sevier Funeral Home Chapel in Chickasha. A graveside service is set for 11 a.m. Friday at the Blackwell, (Okla.) Cemetery.

David Cleal Andrews was born Dec. 7, 1916, In Kay County, the son of Harry and Ethyl (Branine) Andrews. He grew up in Newkirk and later graduated from the William Institute of Mortuary Science in Kansas City, Kan.

He served in the U.S. Army during world War II as a Technical Sergeant and medic in the China Burma India Theater. Andrews was manager of the Chickasha Funeral Home and later a dealer in Chickasha for the Chrysler-Plymouth-Desoto Dealership. He and a partner were later in the used car business in Chickasha. Andrews was active in the Fin and Feather Club, IOOF, VFW, American Legion and the DAV. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting quail and pheasant and trap shooting.

Survivors include one nephew, Craig Andrews of Lawton; and two grand-nephews, John and Thomas Andrews.

Obituaries

Bill Ramsey

Bill Ramsey, a resident at 325 North N Street, Newkirk, beloved husband and grandfather died on Easter Sunday April 4, 1999 at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Ponca City. He was 75 years old when our Lord and Savior called his name and took him home to be with Him in Heaven.

His funeral service will be held Thursday, April 8, 1999, at 10 a.m. at the Northeast Baptist Church. His brother-in-law, the Rev., Douglas W. Scott Sr. and the Rev. Dr. Larry Nigh, pastor, will officiate. Burial will follow in the Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.

Bill was born April 5, 1923, in Hominy, the son of Albert Franklin and Maude (Duree) Ramsey. He received his education in the Hominy schools. After leaving school he worked on the Mullendore Ranch near Pawhuska for a few years before being called to service with the U.S. Army.

On Dec. 21, 1948, he was married to Betty Ann Scott in Siloam Springs, Ark. Following his discharge from the Army in 1949 he worked in the oil fields in Osage County for a number years with Falcon Seaboard Drilling Co.. He later worked for several years with D&R Pipeline and Farms before going to work for General Electric at Strother Field in Arkansas City, Kan. Mr. Ramsey retired from General Electric.

Mr. Ramsey is survived by his wife of 50 years, Betty Ann, of the home; three children, Randy Ramsey of Houston, Texas, Merrill and Vickey (Ramsey) Chance of Ponca City, and Dean and Barbara (Ramsey) Fauchier of Kaw City; five grandchildren, Joe and Jennifer (Chance) Mangelinkx of Ponca City, Kim Chance of Ponca City, Lori (Cox) Carlisle of Ponca City, Leslie (Cox) Johnston of Austin, Texas, Ronnie and Leesa (Cox) Goad of Ponca City; three great-grandchildren, Brandon Carlisle, Megan Carlisle, and Jesse James Mangelinkx.

Casket bearers will be Jeff Scott, Wayne Scott, Tim Scott, Ronnie Goad, Joe Mangelinkx, and Wyman Goodno. Honorary casket bearers Frank Patterson, Bob Martin, Wayne Williams, Bill Buttram, and Glen Pitts.

Memorial contributions may be made to Feed the Children, P.O. Box 36, Oklahoma City, OK 73101.

The family will be at the home.

paid obituary

Eldon E. Shaw

NEWKIRK — Eldon E. Shaw, Newkirk resident, died Monday, April 5, 1999, in Ponca City. He was 79.

The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, April 9, at the Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home in Arkansas City with pastor Lynden Howard, officiating. Burial will follow in the Parker Cemetery in Arkansas City, Kan.

Eldon E. Shaw was born Feb. 14, 1920, in Friend, Neb., to Edward and Hulda (Brandt) Shaw. He attended schools in Nebraska and later attended a trade school. Eldon served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He married Isabel Gillespie and they were the parents of one daughter, Lois Austin-McGlasson.

He was later married Beulah Fildes McGlasson on April 16, 1954, in Gainesville, Texas. They made their home in Arkansas City, Kan., until moving to Missouri, and then to Newkirk in 1987. Eldon was employed with Skyline and was also a self-employed construction worker and operated Shaw Ditching Service. He was later employed as a machinist with Plessey Aircraft in Wellington, Kan. He was a life member of the Newkirk VFW.

Survivors include his wife, Beulah, of the home in Newkirk; one daughter, Lois and her husband Carl McGlasson of Ponca City; two step-sons and their wives, Boyd and Marilyn McGlasson of Auburn, Kan., and Loyd and Connie McGlasson of Salt Lake City, Utah; two brothers, Loren Shaw of Portland, Ore., and William Shaw of Amarillo, Texas; two sisters L. “Winnie” Ochsner and Luella Kenney, both of Lincoln, Neb.; four grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and two step-great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters, Sarah Cox, Norma Allen, and Lois Shaw; and a step-grandson, Jay McGlasson.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Shaw’s name to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 North Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, OK 74601.

paid obituary

Goldie Marie Armstrong

Goldie Marie Armstrong, Ponca City resident, died Tuesday, April 6, 1999, at Westminster Village Nursing Home. She was 84.

The funeral will be held Thursday, April 8, 1999, at 11 a.m., graveside at the Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Oklahoma City. The Rev. Hance Dilbeck, pastor, Ponca City First Baptist Church, will officiate. Arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home.

Goldie was born April 7, 1914, in Choctaw to Edward and Inez (Dann) Mitchell. She was married to Cecil L. Kessler and to this union were born two sons and one daughter.

She later married Joe Armstrong Jr. Her hobbies included both vegetable and flower gardening. She enjoyed canning, cooking, sewing, quilting and travel. She was past president of the Alpha Delta Pi’s Mothers Club and the Memorial Baptist Church Sunday School Class, both of Tulsa. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Ponca City.

Survivors include one daughter, Almeda Crook and her husband Victor of Ponca City; two sons, Carl Leroy Kessler and his wife Leah of Edmond, and Earl Edward Kessler and his wife Donna of Keno, Ore.; six grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and two husbands.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, Van Ministry, 218 South Sixth Street, Ponca City, OK 74601 or to a charity of donors choice.

paid obituary

Services Pending

Robert E. Firrel

Robert E. Firrel, rural Ponca City resident, died Tuesday, April 6, 1999, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. Survivors include a daughter, Edna Firrel, of the home. Arrangements are pending with Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home in Fairfax.

Carol Scott Woolsey

Carol Scott Woolsey, Ponca City resident, died Tuesday evening, April 6, 1999, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 60. Survivors include her husband, Kenneth, of the home. Arrangements are pending with Grace Memorial Chapel.

Funerals

Thursday

Barnet Morrison Jr.

Funeral to be at 3 p.m. at Floral Haven Cemetery in Broken Arrow. Arrangements are under the direction of Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home, Fairfax.

NEWS BRIEFS

MDA Summer Camp — Good times, smiles, caring, friendship, understanding — these are all part of MDA’s summer camp for youngsters with neuromuscular disease. You can make those a reality as a volunteer! Find out how you can make a difference by calling the Muscular Dystrophy Association at (918) 749-7997.

Great Fundraiser: Booths at Victorian chocolate and craft fes-

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

Klinger Reunion — The Klinger family reunion will be held at the Blackwell Red Cross Building, April 18. Call 765-6319 for more information.

Mike’s Lawn Care. Experienced lawn care to fit any budget.

Call 767-1636 for free estimates. adv.

Birthday Meeting — The children of the late Gilbert Cole Jr. and Florence Calls Him Cole will be celebrating Mrs. Cole’s 72nd birthday Friday with a Native American Church birthday meeting at 6 p.m. at the Gilbert Cole residence. The traditional feast will be held at noon Saturday.

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

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

Community ICDBG Meeting — The Otoe-Missouria Tribe is planning a community ICDBG meeting on Friday, April 9, 1999 at 3 p.m. to be held at the Enterprise Building training room. Please plan to attend, as input is needed for the upcoming planning for the HUD Tribal proposal.

Termites Are swarming! Call LG Pest Control for termite pre-

treats, inspections and treatments. We offer competitive pri-

ces and free estimates. Licensed and insured. Larry Griffin 765-

5584. adv.

Stolen Tag — At 8:28 a.m. Tuesday a vehicle tag was reported stolen at Snyder Electric, 205 South First Street.

Don’t Miss out on the last scheduled dart tournament at the

Blue Lite Lounge. Saturday, April 10 3:30 p.m. Mystery out will

be won. Check with Martha on pay-outs. adv.

Prescription Fraud — Police were alerted to an attempted prescription fraud at O’Connor Pharmacy, 1113 East Hartford Avenue, as a man tried to pass a forged prescription. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential.

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

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

Arrest — A 26-year-old man was arrested at 10:43 a.m. Tuesday from North Fifth Street and East Hartford Avenue for driving under suspension and no insurance.

Windshield Chips repaired professionally. Guaranteed and

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

Attempted Arson — At 12:10 p.m. Tuesday police were informed that a student at the Middle School had attempted to start a fire in a bathroom. An officer was assigned.

Reverse Osmosis water 25 cents per gallon. Pure Water Wagon. 1717 North 5th. adv.

Accident — An accident in the 100 block of South Fourth Street was reported to police at 12:30 p.m. Tuesday.

Jim Bowen Construction - Custom homes, room additions and

remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv.

Accident — At 12:41 p.m. Tuesday an accident in the 3200 block of North Fourteenth Street was reported to police.

Jueschke Carpet Cleaners. For professional carpet cleaning, call

the professionals. Jueschke Carpet Cleaners. 765-3421. adv.

Arrest — A 33-year-old man was arrested at 1:34 p.m. Wednesday from the 3400 block of North Fourteenth Street for driving under suspension.

Spring Special on truck windshields. 73-87 Chevy pickups $125.

88-up Chevy pickup $275. 80-89 Ford pickups $200. 90-up Ford

pickups $220. All prices include tax and installation. We use fac-

tory OEM replacements exclusively! Call today for your ap-

pointment. Johnson Glass, 515 S. 1st. 762-2012. adv.

Arrest — A 40-year-old woman was arrested from Wal-Mart, 1101 East Prospect Avenue, at 10:05 p.m. Tuesday for grand larceny.

Mailbox Hit — At 3:09 p.m. Tuesday police were informed that a business mailbox in the 2400 block of Industrial Boulevard was hit. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

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

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

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

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

adv.

Bike Theft — A woman in the 1600 block of Shirlee Avenue called police at 4:07 p.m. Tuesday to report the theft of a bike from Trout School.

WCW/NOW Spring Stampede. Gripping wrestling action coming

on Pay Per View. Sunday, April 11th at 7:00 pm. Be sure and order

early call Cable One at 762-6684. adv.

Arrests — A 34-year-old woman was arrested at 4:50 p.m. Tuesday from the 800 block of South Twelfth Street on a city warrant and a 40-year-old man was arrested on a city warrant for dog violation.

Court Allen Construction. Concrete and flagstone walkways, pa-

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

Arrest — At 5:23 p.m. Tuesday a 23-year-old man was arrested from the police station for embezzlement by an employee.

Arrest — Police arrested a 21-year-old woman at 5:47 p.m. Tuesday from North Fourteenth Street and East Hazel Avenue for driving under suspension.

Arrest — A 20-year-old man was arrested at 7:28 p.m. Tuesday from West Oklahoma Avenue and South Sunset Street for driving under suspension, no insurance and no inspection.

Arrest — At 9:40 p.m. Tuesday a 29-year-old man was arrested from the 3000 block of North Fourteenth Street for driving under suspension.

Assault — A police report on an assault was taken at 10:19 p.m. Tuesday in the 2500 block of East Hartford Avenue after a man reportedly pulled a gun on another man and threatened him.

Arrests — At 1:06 a.m. Wednesday police arrested a 27-year-old man from the 600 block of West Highland Avenue for possession of drug paraphernalia, on a city warrant for failure to appear and a Kay County warrant for failure to appear. A 24-year-old woman was arrested on a city warrant for failure to appear and on a Kay County warrant for failure to appear.

Arrest — A 38-year-old man was arrested at 3:34 a.m. Wednesday from the 100 block of West Comanche Avenue for driving under the influence and failure to stay on a maintained road.

LIFESTYLES

Auxiliary Helps American Legion Celebrate Event
Class of 1950 To Hold Meeting
Mozart Club Meeting Will Be Held Sunday
TOPS Chapter Meets
Prehistorical Life To Be Topic at Meeting
Newcomers Club Schedules Meeting

Auxiliary Helps American Legion Celebrate Event

Members of the American Legion and auxiliary recently celebrated the Legion’s 80th birthday with a combined dinner. Betty Brown, auxiliary president, presented Chuck Gregg, Post 14 commander, and the Legion members with a cake decorated with the Legion emblem. Following the dinner both groups met for their business meetings.

During the auxiliary meeting Cecelia Easky, secretary, read the minutes and Dora McGee gave the treasurer’s report. Chairman reports were given by Dora Adkins, community service and children and youth; Clara McCollum, membership; Helen Landis, poppy; Kay Landis, canteen; Evelynn McCutcheon, Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation. Mrs. Adkins gave the report on the progress of the Americanism essay contest.

Ditty bags were exhibited, examined and discussed. Mrs. Brown reported that Ms. McCollum, Ms. McCutcheon had attended the 8th District Legion and Auxiliary Convention in Woodward with her. Joyce Chrisler’s poppy arrangements won several prizes.

The next meeting for auxiliary members will be at 1:30 p.m. April 8 at the American Legion Childrens Home, 1300 Summers Place. Members are asked to bring useful items for residents of the home.

Class of 1950 To Hold Meeting

0All members of the Class of 1950 are invited to the “Brain Storming” session on April 15 at the home of Jane Wilkinson Johnson, 217 North 11th Street at 7:30 p.m. to begin planning their 50th reunion.

Please come with ideas, address changes of which you are aware, your 1950 annual (if you can find it), names of deceased classmates, or any other news.

Everyone is needed to help with the reunion plans.

Mozart Club Meeting Will Be Held Sunday

The final Mozart Club meeting for this season will be held April 11, 2 p.m., at the Ponca City Cultural Center. There will be one performance time and all students who are entering the poster contest must have posters turned in by 2 p.m. for judging. For information sheets on the poster contest call Suzi Lenhart, 762-9895. Gold Cup presentation will begin at 2:45 p.m. For arrangements for the gold cup contact Mrs. Lenhart.

TOPS Chapter Meets

TOPS OK 308 Chapter met Monday evening with Ann McCool calling the meeting to order, and Loretta Riley giving the devotional thoughts, entitled “A Man After God’s Own Heart.” The TOPS pledge was led by Mary Bryant, and Ruth Garroute led the KOPS Kreed.,

Natalie McCoy called the roll and Betty Flower gave the weight report. Best Loser was Blanche Pontius. Edith Smith won the HaHa Pot.

Ann Steuver and Natalie McCoy tied for Angel of the Month for March. Each was awarded an angel.

The program was general discussion of different topics, including the upcoming TOPS convention to be held at Hutchins Memorial on April 16.

Takes Off Pounds Sensibly is a non-profit organization whose members desire to lose or maintain weight. Brief programs are presented each week. Weigh-in time is 6:15 to 6:45 p.m., and meetings are at 6:45 p.m. on Mondays. For more information, contact Betty Flower, 765-5448 or Delpha Clemens, 762-2844.

Prehistorical Life To Be Topic at Meeting

Kay County Chapter of the Oklahoma Anthropological Society will meet April 8 at 7 p.m. Fourth Street Clubhouse, 1500 South Fourth Street.

Speakers will be Paul Minnis and Patricia Gilman from Norman. Their topic will be “Prehistoric Life in Northern Mexico.” The public is invited to attend.

Newcomers Club Schedules Meeting

The next monthly meeting of the Ponca City Newcomers Club will be held April 15. Beginning at 6:30 p.m. for a social time, the group will have dinner at 7 p.m. For information on the after dinner program or to make necessary dinner reservations contact Joyce Fox, 762-9578, before April 11. Current members are reminded to bring recipes for the cookbook. Callers for the group will have further information.

SPORTS

Wildcats Blast Pioneers
Lady Wildcats Win By One
Cat Baseballers Nearly Pull It Out
Hectic Week For Golfers

Wildcats Blast Pioneers

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

STILLWATER — Striker Bret Skaggs feels the Wildcat soccer team is peaking at just the right time with the start of district play next week.

Skaggs is certainly hitting his peak as he scored four goals in the Wildcats’ 7-1 victory over Stillwater Tuesday night.

It was the Cats most productive match of the season, not only in the number of goals scored, but also in the margin of victory.

“We’re playing pretty good as a team right now, which is good because when we get into district we’re going to have to play our best,” Skaggs, who has scored seven goals in the past two matches said.

“We’re playing with more confidence,” said co-captain Andrew England, who had two goals. “But we can play even better.”

That may be a scary thought for opposition teams as the Wildcats head toward the stretch run.

“We can play better,” agreed coach Marco Castillo, who saw his team dominate Stillwater for most of the match.

The Cats grabbed a 3-0 first half advantage then went in front 4-0 with 14 minutes left in the match.

Stillwater scored with 10:20 left, but that just got the Wildcats’ attention as they poured in three more goals in the next seven minutes.

“We didn’t like the way they celebrated after their goal,” Skaggs grinned.

It took the Cats just 12 minutes to get on the scoreboard against Stillwater with Skaggs scoring from point-blank range off a throw-in by Jerimy Cox.

A few minutes later the Cats got a gift as a Stillwater defender headed a free kick by D.J. Scarbrough into his own net.

But for the rest of the way, the Poncans needed no help.

Just before halftime, Skaggs got his second goal of the match, heading in another free kick.

There was a lull in the scoring for most of the second half.

“We really didn’t let up,” England said. “We knew we hadn’t played all that well in the first half and were trying to play better as a team.”

England broke the drought with 13:40 remaining, scoring on a penalty kick, by putting the ball in the left corner, out of reach of the Stillwater goalkeeper.

Three minutes later Stillwater ruined the Wildcats’ shutout bid with an attack on the Ponca City goal. The Pioneers scored on their third shot in a row after a great save by Wildcat goalkeeper Matt Morris left him on the ground.

The Pioneers got a little vocal in their celebration, raising the ire of the Poncans.

England made them pay a minute later with his second goal of the evening.

Skaggs scored the final two Wildcat goals, both on headers — first off a corner kick by Scarborough and then on a throw-in by Kip Quiram.

The Wildcats host Muskogee Friday for Homecoming at Sullins Stadium before starting District 5A-5 play next week for a berth in the playoffs.

Lady Wildcats Win By One

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

STILLWATER — Ponca City’s Lady Wildcat soccer team got another one-point win Tuesday night, but this time it wasn’t their only goal of the match.

The Lady Cats scored early, then held off Stillwater 3-2 to run their record to 4-3 on the season.

The only downside to the win was a red card against a Ponca City player that left the Po-Hi girls playing shorthanded for much of the second half.

“That red card changed the whole momentum of the game,” Ponca City coach Steve Hermann said.

Hermann disputed the red card, which was issued when the Stillwater goalie was kicked in the hand during a scramble in front of the Stillwater goal. The Lady Cats claimed the Lady Pioneer goalkeeper did not have firm possession of the ball as the Poncans were attacking.

Hermann also noted that twice as many penalties were called against his team, again slowing down the Ponca City offense.

Still it was one of the Lady Cats’ better offensive showings of the season. They had scored just four goals in the previous six matches.

Junior midfielder Audra Ramsey got the Lady Cats on the scoreboard in the 12th minute of the match, rebounding a missed Ponca City shot in front of the goal.

Stillwater tied the score with 7:03 remaining in the first half when a long 25-yard shot found the upper corner of the net.

But the Poncans stormed back, scoring 30 seconds later as freshman Sherina Wood scored from the right side to give the Poncans a 2-1 lead at intermission.

The Po-Hi girls went up 3-1 on Elizabeth England’s goal midway through the second half.

But the Poncans had to hold on as Stillwater scored with just over seven minutes left and threatened to tie the score with a final assault on the Ponca City net.

Hermann was more pleased with his team’s effort as they rebounded from a 3-0 loss to Sapulpa last Friday.

The Lady Cats are at home Friday against the Lady Roughers of Muskogee in their final warm up before District 5A-5 play starts next week.

———

The Lady Wildcat JV continued their unbeaten string with a 9-0 win earlier in the day.

The JVs, now, 3-0-1 on the season, have outscored their opposition 27-2.

They got a four-goal performance from freshman Charley Daniels in Tuesday’s match. Christian Seivert and Rachael Gilliland each had two goals while Sherina Wood had one.

“I was very pleased with the way the girls play,” said coach Ryan Quinn, “especially the consistent play of Hallie Godbehere and Abby Cantrell — and the consistent scoring of Charlie Daniels.

‘The girls made some great crosses into the box and kept possession of the ball. They played very well as a team.”

Cat Baseballers Nearly Pull It Out

By MATTHEW KOENIG

News Sports Writer

STILLWATER — While a boring win is better than an exciting loss, an exciting loss is definitely better than a boring loss.

After too many double-digit blowouts this season, the Wildcat baseballers nearly pulled out a thriller, falling in a seventh inning comeback attempt to the powerful Stillwater Pioneers, 4-3.

For Ponca City coach Mike Krehbiel, the agony of a 1-run loss is eminently preferable to the sagging depression that sets in after a string of double-digit losses.

“I was saying (on the bus ride down) how I’d like to be in a 1-run game,” he says. “And guess what? We’re there. I told the kids I was proud of them. They worked their tails off. Now we just gotta get over the hump.”

If Tuesday’s game was a fair indicator, that hump is getting progressively smaller for the Cats.

After a huge loss to the Pioneers three weeks ago, the Cats fell this time only after an 11th hour comeback attempt fell short. Leading off at the top of the order in the top of the seventh, the Cats managed to load the bases. With two outs, however, Stillwater reliever Dwayne Walsh struck out the Cats’ 6-hole hitter to lock the win. Walsh also struck out the 3-hole, and forced a fly-out from the Cats’ lead off man.

“That was the situation we wanted to be in,” Krehbiel continued. “In the seventh inning, we had two in scoring position, and the 6-hole up — what do you expect? I’ll take those chances any day of the week. Eventually, the law of averages is going to catch up with us.”

Senior left hander Toby RedLeaf took the loss for the Cats, despite a courageous effort against the powerful Pioneer bats. RedLeaf gave up just six hits and six walks, while striking out seven in five innings.

“Toby’s probably our best thrower, overall,” Krehbiel says. “He’s got enough speed, and he can nullify those lefties. It’s only when he loses a little discipline and gets the ball up that it hurts us.”

After shutting the Pioneers down for two innings, RedLeaf gave up three hits — including a 2 RBI double to second baseman Jared Szlichta — to open the scoring. The Pioneers added another run in the bottom of the fourth.

With no hits through four innings, the Cats finally came alive in the top of the fifth. Jeff Furnas led off with his second home run in two games, launching J.T. Severe’s pitch 370 feet, beyond the big, green left field wall.

Two walks and a Stillwater error then loaded the bases at the bottom of the Cats’ order, and 2-hole hitter J. Michael Sharon came through to tie the game, skipping a 2 RBI shot through the infield.

The Pioneers wasted little time re exerting control, however, getting a bases loaded, RBI sacrifice from catcher Lucas Daves in the bottom of the fifth.

The Cats crumpled a bit in their next at-bat, as Walsh sent three batters down looking.

“Those were good pitches (to hit), too. That’s what ticked me off the most,” says Krehbiel, whose Wildcats struck out 12 times in the game. “Right now we’ve got to start swinging the bat, making contact, and putting the ball in play. We’ve got to put pressure on teams.”

The Cats, now 4-14 on the season, continue their quest for a big win on Thursday, as they begin play in the Wildcat Classic.

“We’ve gotta learn to relax and just play,” Krehbiel concludes. “That’s what we’re going to work on (today), and in about two weeks we’ll be playing our best ball.”

For the game, Sharon accounted for two of the Cats’ four hits, while designated hitter Justin Ross and Furnas had one each.

Todd Stewart did a good job in one inning of relief pitching, forcing a ground-out, a pop-out and a strikeout in the bottom of the sixth.

Game Notes — Catcher Jerrod Spears got his fourth throw-out at second in two games ... shortstop Wes Murrie made a fantastic diving stop in the fourth inning ... with two in scoring position, RedLeaf worked back from an 0-3 count in the fifth inning to strike out a batter and end the inning.

Hectic Week For Golfers

Continuing their hectic week of golf, the Lady Wildcats took the short trip to Blackwell for the Lady Maroons Invitational today.

They are back on the bus Thursday, headed for the Edmond Tournament at Oak Tree.

This comes fresh on the heels of a sixth place finish at the Enid Invitational Monday in the wind that blew golf balls in all directions.

“I was surprised the scores were as good as they were,” Po-Hi coach Jerry Orr said. “I saw several putts blown off the greens.”

Edmond North appeared to be the only team not hampered by the wind Monday as the Lady Huskies posted a 355 total to win the Enid title by 45 strokes over second place Stillwater.

Putnam City North was third at 412, Edmond Memorial and Tulsa Union tied for fourth at 415 while the Lady Cats shared sixth with Enid in the 14-team tournament.

Jenni Nimmo led the Po-Hi girls with a 102 while Ashley Mott finished with a 103. Heather Staires posted a 108 while Calyn Howe and Christi Rutledge each scored 113.

Edmond North’s Jacque Litsch, Whitney Bryant and Claire Sullivan were 1-2-3 in the individual scoring with 84, 86 and 90, respectively.

Amber Leffelholtz of Norman North also managed a 90 while Amy Lee of Putnam North had a 91.

Team Scores

Edmond North 355, Stillwater 400, Putnam City North 412, Edmond Memorial 515, Tulsa Union 415, Ponca City 426, Enid 426, Moore 445, Midwest City 456, Enid B 480, Sand Springs 482, Woodward 497, Westmoore 525, Edmond Santa Fe 535.