LOCAL

Carbon Fiber Key To Conoco Plans
Burglary Rash Hits Ponca City Residential Area
4 Arrested in Motel Meth Lab Bust
Federal Funds Matching Grant To Provide Estate Walking Trail

PCTA Provides Several Grants
Po-Hi Spring Concerto Concert Friday Features Seven Seniors
Seven Large Smokers To Prepare Conoco Meal
Young Attendees May Want To Interview Up With People Cast
Magazines Feature Ponca City Facilities

Carbon Fiber Key To Conoco Plans

HOUSTON — Conoco plans to redraw the image of the traditional oil company customer ... and the new carbon fiber plant planned for Ponca City will play a big part in the remake.

The energy giant will use its strength in petroleum technology and manufacturing to market the carbon fiber offering to people who build cars, construct roads and bridges, assemble batteries for use in cell phones and computers and engineer the latest technology into brakes on automobiles and airplanes.

The first step in this new business entry is the construction of a manufacturing facility in Ponca City, scheduled to come on-line in the fall of 2001.

Conoco's new business will produce a pitch-based carbon fiber. When the plant is expanded to full capacity, it will be capable of producing eight million pounds of carbon fiber per year.

The new facility under construction is near Conoco's carbon fibers pilot plant where the company has tested fiber since 1997.

Sober Brothers, a Ponca City firm, was awarded the first in a series of construction contracts for the plant.

Sober Brothers will do civil site work such as grading, drainage and road construction. Additional contracts will be issued through the year for building construction, mechanical and electrical work.

“This innovative venture will bring a completely new high-tech Conoco product into markets outside the traditional energy sector,” said Archie Dunham, Conoco's chairman and CEO.

“The carbon fibers business is aligned without commitment to increase shareholder value and builds on our global core competency in carbon upgrading.

“Today, 40 percent of the world's delayed coking capacity is produced under Conoco licenses. In the near future, Conoco's capability to produce petroleum-based carbon fibers will allow engineers and designers to create stronger and lighter products that last longer.

“Ultimately,”Dunham added, “this new business holds tremendous potential to redefine how business is done in the carbon fibers industry.”

Leading the aggressive new marketing initiative is Andrew D. Roberts, a veteran marketer who brings two decades of experience to the task, and a team of marketers Conoco has recruited from major corporations in the past several months.

“Andrew has a solid track record at Conoco of building dynamic, new businesses in diverse situations and I know that the veteran professionals we have recruited will bring considerable expertise to our business,” said Jim Taylor, Conoco carbon fibers general manager.

“The common theme of each of their successes is an outstanding ability to think outside the box and deliver fast, top-quality results. Conoco's carbon fiber business is an excellent case in point where creativity and unique technical skills will help us create a world-class operation.”

Burglary Rash Hits Ponca City Residential Area

A rash of auto burglaries in the vicinity of the Overbrook Avenue and Virginia Avenue intersection Wednesday night are currently under investigation by Ponca City police.

Car windows were smashed in six vehicles “from Viola Avenue to Fairview Avenue,” said Sherry Bowers, public information officer for Ponca City Police Department.

During the spree, items from CDs to purses were taken from the vehicles, said Bowers.

According to reports, the first call came into the Communications Center at 5:28 a.m. from a resident in the 100 block of Viola. The resident’s car window had been smashed in and several CD’s were stolen.

The final call was reported at 8:19 a.m.

“Not only have each of these victims suffered a loss when items were removed from their vehicles,” commented Detective Sergeant Richard Brown, who is involved in the investigation, “they have also suffered damages to their vehicles when they were forcibly entered.”

Brown is asking that anyone with information regarding these auto burglaries call Crime Stoppers at 762-5100.

4 Arrested in Motel Meth Lab Bust

By JEFF POLITTE

News Staff Writer

Four suspects were arrested in a methamphetamine lab bust Wednesday night following an investigation by members of the Kay and Noble Counties Major Crimes Task Force Unit.

According to investigator Freddie Garza, officers received information late Wednesday afternoon that a 37-year-old man wanted on four Wichita, Kan., warrants for check forgery and a parole violation planned to stay at a local motel and might be in possession of contents used in manufacturing methamphetamine.

“The man had been on the run for some time,” said Garza.

Acting on the information, Garza and two other officers, master patrolman David Hill of the Ponca City police and special investigator for the district attorney’s office Russel Busby, set up a watch.

“[We had a] surveillance behind the motel in a vehicle by the dumpster,” Garza explained. “That’s when we saw the suspect walking out of the motel” and made the arrest.

“We took him into custody without incident,” he said.

Afterward, investigators obtained consent from a 50-year-old woman who had rented the motel room where the suspect stayed and made a search for illegal drugs.

“We found the first process in the manufacturing of methamphetamine,” noted Garza.

Investigators also obtained permission to search the woman’s two vehicles which were parked at the motel. The search turned up the rest of the drug lab. Investigators also discovered a .22 caliber rifle and a 20-gauge shotgun.

According to Garza, further investigation provided a bonus.

“Through investigation we found out that two more suspects were on their way from Kansas with more ingredients,” he explained.

Garza said they arrested a 49-year-old man and a 42-year-old woman who was unpacking methamphetamine ingredients from the car. The man knocked on the motel room door.

“If you could have only seen the look on their faces when we answered the door,” recalled Garza.

All four suspects in the investigation were arrested for manufacturing of methamphetamine.

Also confiscated from the scene were methamphetamine, marijuana, alleged drug money and drug paraphernalia. There was also an opossum with babies, a 25-pound African turtle and two dogs belonging to the woman who was staying at the motel.

Federal Funds Matching Grant To Provide Estate Walking Trail

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Staff Writer

The Marland Estate will have a new walking trail thanks to a $50,000 National Recreational Trails Grant through the Oklahoma Tourism, and Recreation Department. This amounts to $40,000 in federal funds with a $10,000 matching grant from the Marland Estate Foundation.

Chaired by Phyllis Kennedy, the Commission voted to accept the grant for the Marland Estate Walking Trail.

In other action the Commission accepted the nominating committee’s report by Eldridge Manering to elect Sherry Muchmore chairman and Gerald Nield, vice chairman for the coming year. It was announced that Lana Jones and Betty Ziegenhain, have been appointed to the Commission, and next month Chuck Greenwood is expected to be named to the Board.

The meeting was held in carriage house, which is the annex to Lydie’s Cottage. Jon Kennedy, who was responsible for the remodeling project, reported that the renovation of the building is completed with the exception of more lighting. The carriage house is available for rent for social events and meetings. There is a large patio off of the building for outdoor events.

Sherry Muchmore, chairman of the grounds committee, reported on a meeting with the committee about a landscaping plan for the cottage area. She said a letter has been prepared to give to grant writer Candy Thomas to be used for an application.

On the Petroleum Museum, Eldridge Manering told that a museum consultant and the Southwest Fabricators will be here this week to advise the committee on an overall plan for the facility. Manering said the contents will be boxed up and the renovation will begin. Conoco is furnishing the financing for the project.

Manering also told about the moving of the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission monument from the Pioneer Woman Museum grounds to the Marland Estate. E.W. Marland initiated the organization in 1935.

Karen Furman and Kathy Adams reported a two-day seminar by the Oklahoma Museums Association had been held how to take care of artifacts and other collections.

Furman also told the Boomer Affair slated for May 27. This event will include an award for Conoco’s 125th anniversary and the Pioneer Woman will be awarded for the first time in seven years. A separate story will be published on the event later.

During the director’s report Kathy Adams read a letter from Wanda Betow telling about conversations she had with Lydie Marland about the Marland family statues. She reported that Apple Cart catering has moved out of the conference center.

Adams said April had been a good month. She passed out a calendar for May and June showing the bookings for May and June for the Mansion and Lydie’s Cottage.

A list of the items for the Millennium time capsule was shared with the group.

PCTA Provides Several Grants

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Business Editor

Ponca City Tourism Authority (PCTA) Wednesday approved funding for attending the Motorcoach Marketplace show in Eureka Springs Ark., on Nov. 14, 2000. The cost of the show is $695, plus travel expenses for coordinator Missy Morland.

Authority members gave their blessing to the 2000-2001 tourism budget of $107,213. The budget is funded from a three-percent motel-hotel tax.

A total of $17,167 has been allotted for community promotions including grants for local events and attendance at travel shows. In April they granted $1,000 to the Po-Hi Great Race Team; $1,000, to the Irish Festival and Cinco De Mayo celebration, and $2,500 to the Ponca City High School Tip-Off Club to be used for the Cat Classic Basketball Tournament to be held May 26-28. To date this tournament has 55 teams entered and play is slated on Saturday and Sunday. A number of overnight guests are anticipated.

Morland presented statics showing an economic impact report for Kay County. Travelers spent a total of $40,330,000. This generated a payroll tax of $8,380,000 and generated $2,110,000 in state tax and $1,010,000 in local taxes. Also 680 jobs were provided by traveler spending.

For a second month the Authority tabled action on renewing billboard signs over the next five years at $3,000 per year.

Po-Hi Spring Concerto Concert Friday Features Seven Seniors

The Ponca City High School Symphony Orchestra and Full Orchestra II takes to the stage Friday evening, May 19, to present their Spring Concerto Concert.

The program will begin at 7 p.m. in the Howell Auditorium at Po-Hi. The orchestras are under the baton of Dan P. Larson with Valerie Huffman assisting. Featured in the concert will be seven outstanding senior members of the Ponca City orchestra program.

The concert will begin with the Full Orchestra II group. This 71-member organization will present the contest selections they performed at the OSSAA State Orchestra Contest and in St. Louis for the National Dixie Classics Festival.

The concert will open with M. Ippolitov-Ivanov’s Procession of the Sardar from Caucasian Sketches, as arranged by Merle J. Issac. The 46 strings will then present Short Overture for Strings by Jean Berger. Their third contest selection is Reinhold Gliere’s exciting Russian Sailors Dance, as arranged by Merle J. Issac.

The Full Orchestra II group will conclude with Millennium by Richard Meyer. Winner of the 1998 N.S.O.A. composition contest, this contemporary-sounding overture is extremely powerful and full of emotion from beginning to end. The scoring of this work features every section of the symphony orchestra.

Following a brief intermission, the award winning Ponca City Senior High Symphony Orchestra will take to the stage for the remainder of the concert.

This 70-member organization will open with Gioacchino Antonio Rossini’s William Tell Overture. The famous Swiss story of William Tell, adapted from the play by Schiller, is the subject of Rossini’s last opera (1829).

Following the overture, seven outstanding senior orchestra members will be performing with the Symphony Orchestra.

Holly Dailey and Jessica Felix, violinists, will begin the program with the first vivace movement from Concerto for 2 Violins in D Minor by Johan Sebastian Bach. Next, James Barraclough will be featured on the horn to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Horn Concerto No. 3 in E-flat Major. He will perform the first Allegro movement.

The next four seniors were members of the All-State band or Orchestra this year. J.B. Accolay’s Viola Concerto No. 1 will feature Maria Simpson performing the first Allegro moderato movement, with her mother Renee Simpson accompanying on piano. Next will be bassoon soloist Lacey Goodger. She will perform a contemporary piece by compose John Williams entitled The Five Sacred Trees Bassoon Concerto, from which she will present the first Eo Mugna movement.

Ralph Vaughn Williams Concerto in F Minor for Bass Tuba is up next with Tim Connelly, tuba soloist. He will present the first Prelude movement. Robert Hwang will complete the concerto portion of the concert with the first Allegro non troppo movement of Edouard Lalo’s Symphonie Espagnole.

The Symphony Orchestra will complete the concert with two selections. The first will be Selections from The Phantom of the Opera, a musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber. Bringing the concert to a close will be a performance of our National March, The Stars and Strips Forever. Featured in this selection on the famous piccolo part will be Tim Connelly on tuba, as well as Beth Berry on piccolo.

The public is invited to attend the concert. There will be no admission charge.

Seven Large Smokers To Prepare Conoco Meal

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Business Editor

Seven large smokers are slated for action at the Conoco Complex Saturday as Head Country B-B-Q prepares 5,200 pounds of brisket for the largest crowd ever to be served a meal in Ponca City.

The meal for the Conoco 125th anniversary celebration is being served for Conoco employees, retirees and their families from 4 to 7 p.m.

Paul Schatte, marketing manager Head Country, said in addition to the company’s cookers, several other smokers have been borrowed from Southern Pride out of Marion, Ill. Schatte said about 50 persons will be involved cooking and serving the meal.

Potato salad and baked beans, 2,300 pounds each, are being brought in by Vaughn Foods of Stroud, Okla. Additionally 1,000 gallons each of tea and lemonade are in the works.

Between Conoco and Head Country a total of 6,000 pounds of ice is to be used for the event, which is anticipated to draw about, 8,500 persons.

Leach Paper, slated to provide the paper goods for serving the crowd, is to park a truck with those supplies at the Conoco complex.

Cooking of the brisket is expected to get under way about 4:30 a.m., Saturday. Both wood and propane are to be used to fuel the cookers.

Saturday Schedule for Conocoans

Although the Saturday anniversary activities are for Conoco employees and retirees, the public is welcome to enjoy a daylight fireworks display at 7:30 p.m. from Dan Moran Park. Synchronized music will be provided by Radio Station KPNC.

Entertainment includes memorabilia and displays in the gymnasium. The Atrium Stage features karaoke and impersonators from 1:30 to 2:30 p. m.; followed by Kids’ Rock n’ Roll.

Young Attendees May Want To Interview Up With People Cast

“Up With People” is a terrific international experience for young people, according to the “Up With People” advance team. And they should know. They’ve had an incredible cultural experience for the last three months. They are Sylvia Napetschnig from Austria, Katrin Lehtmets from Estonia, and James Burns from the foreign land of California.

“Up With People” performs A Common Beat, an incredible display of multi-cultural song and dance, at the Poncan Theatre at 7:30 on Friday and Saturday. “Plenty of tickets are still available,” says Kenn Wessel, director of the theatre.

“If anyone wants to find out about us, they can talk to us after the show on Saturday,” says Sylvia. “We have brochures, and we can interview anyone who might be interested,” she says. All three agree that the best way to learn about “Up With People” is to see the show itself.

A Common Beat is a tremendously exciting show, filled with music and movement. “This will be an impressive event,” says Wessel. “Just imagine 120 cast members on stage at the Poncan! And imagine the vivid colors of international costumes.”

He also says “‘Up With People’ are bringing their own lighting instruments, and this could be the most powerful light display we’ve ever had here.”

“You’ll have a great time at the show,” Katrin says. “Everyone who’s seen the show has loved it,” she adds.

James feels the show “is very intense.” It’s colorful, with beautiful costumes and powerful, invigorating music. The three team members all say “it’s an emotional experience.”

Being a company member of “Up With People” is great for people who want to experience different cultures,” says Katrin. “It can change your life,” she says, by expanding your perspectives.

Cast members travel, sometimes to two or three continents. And the cast is international, so you collaborate with people from other cultures every day. “It’s also a great chance to be on stage,” Sylvia adds, “but stage experience is not necessary to be accepted.”

“Up With People” gives young adults a chance to live with as many as 80 different host families in different parts of the world. They share meals, learn about the family’s experiences and traditions, and encounter diverse cultures and lifestyles. As members of a team, they develop skills in communication, teamwork, and creative problem solving. They develop leadership skills. Sylvia says “I’ve learned that I can do things I thought I couldn’t do.” The experience empowers and enriches almost everyone.

The “Up With People” cast coming to Ponca City is typical. They include young adults from 22 countries, including Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Haiti, Hawaii, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Mexico, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, United States, and Venezuela. The host families of Ponca City will share in the rich cultural experience. Some of the “Up With People” team will provide community service at various not-for-profit organizations in Ponca City.

For tickets to the spectacular A Common Beat, call the Poncan Theatre at 580-765-0943. The box office at 104 East Grand is open 1 to 5 pm, Monday through Friday, and at the door before performance.

Magazines Feature Ponca City Facilities

Two magazines, the Old West Journal, summer issue, and TrueWest, June issue, features or mentions Ponca City. But this might be natural because the editor is Marcus J. Huff, and editorial assistant is Betty A. Mitchell, both 1987 graduates of Ponca City High School.

The Old West Journal tells of the 101 Ranch, the Standing Bear Memorial, the Pioneer Woman Statue, the Pioneer Woman Museum and the Marland Mansion. TrueWest features the famous 101 Rodeo Ranch performer Bill Pickett, who made history by inventing bull-dogging.

Included is a five page story, by Michael Wallis, and a poster of Pickett. Wallis, who authored a book on the 101 Ranch, is the featured author of the month.

DEATHS

Charley Warren Smith
Georgia Garnet Van Cleve
Virgil Neal Harrington
Mary Kathryn Unfried
Ross P. Demas
Patricia Louise Caudillo
Rita LaVone Porter

Charley Warren Smith

BLACKWELL — Charley Warren Smith, resident of Blackwell, died Wednesday morning, May 17, 2000, in the Blackwell Regional Hospital. He was 83.

A graveside service is scheduled for 10 a.m. today, May 18, at the Blackwell Cemetery under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home.

Charley Warren Smith was born April 26, 1917, in Laverne, Okla., the son of Dick and Georgie (Rule) Smith. He grew up in Blackwell and attended Blackwell public schools, graduating in 1936. He married Gladys Rose Faussett on June 6, 1938, in Sand Springs, and they settled in Blackwell. He began his employment at the Blackwell Zinc Company and continued there until the plant closed in 1974. He was also involved in the antique business for many years.

Survivors include three daughters, Sharlene Morrill of Bella Vista, Ark., Juanita Owens of Wichita, Kan., and Sharon Payne of Del City; two sisters, Lee Ellen Foren of Springdale, Ark., and Gladys Hunt ; eight grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife in May of 1993; a brother, Bobby Smith; two sisters, Georgetta Jones and Rowena Campbell; and a grandson.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Breast Cancer Fund, c/o Roberts and Son Funeral Home, 120 West Padon, Blackwell, Okla. 74631.

Georgia Garnet Van Cleve

BLACKWELL — Georgia Garnet Van Cleve, former resident of Blackwell, died Wednesday morning, May 17, 2000, in the Good Samaritan Village in Winfield, Kan. She was 91.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, May 19, at the Blackwell Cemetery with the Rev. Jeffrey Pfaff of the First Presbyterian Church officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home of Blackwell.

Georgia Garnet Van Cleve was born on Oct. 9, 1908, in Coin, Mo., the daughter of Jessie Milton and Nola May (Jones) Romine. As a small girl, she moved to Bartlesville with her family and lived there until 1913 when they moved to Blackwell.

She married Edward Van Cleve on April 13, 1925, in Blackwell, where they settled. In 1946, they moved to the state of Washington, living there until 1969, when they moved to Winfield, Kan. Her husband preceded her in death on Nov. 9, 1974. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church.

Survivors include a daughter, Billie G. Lindly of Winfield, Kan.; a son, Ronald H. Van Cleve of Kennewick, Wash.; 14 grandchildren; and 29 great-grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; two daughters, Ruby Geraldine Conover and Shirley Ann Van Cleve; a son, Edward Van Cleve; four sisters, Ruby Shoaff, Lusta Wynn, Mabel Huddleson and Edith Pendleton; and a brother, Bill Romine.

Honorary casket bearers will be Michael Conover, Kevin Conover, Ronald Lindly, George Lindly, and Nicholas White.

Virgil Neal Harrington

TAHLEQUAH — Virgil Neal Harrington, resident of Tahlequah, died Wednesday, May 17, 2000, in Tahlequah. He was 80.

The funeral will be held 2 p.m. Friday, May 19, 2000, at the Park Hill Baptist Church in Tahlequah with the Rev. Herb Patterson officiating. Burial will follow in the Tahlequah City Cemetery under the direction of Hart Funeral Home in Tahlequah.

Virgil Neal Harrington was born Sept. 5, 1919, in Ward Springs, Okla., the son of Benjamin Franklin and Pearl (Reading) Harrington. He received his bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma State University in soil conservation. He married Esther Bernice (Benson) Harrington in Kiowa, Okla. He was employed with the Bureau of Indian Affairs for 31 years and served as the area director for 10 years. He was employed in Pawnee, Ignacia, Colo., and Hollywood, Fla., retiring from the area office in Muskogee in 1973.

He was a member of the McAlester Masonic Lodge where he was a 33rd Degree Mason and was also a member of the Scottish Rite of McAlester, American Legion Post 15 of Muskogee and the Park Hill Baptist Church of Park Hill. He was also an avid outdoorsman and loved to hunt, fish and golf.

Survivors include his wife of the home; two daughters, Sharon Fisher of Tahlequah and Gayle Edwards of Fairfax; a son, Gary Harrington of Tahlequah; a foster daughter, Donna Frank of Florida; nine grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and numerous other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and one sister.

Honorary casket bearers will be Marie Wadley, Overton James, Drew Edmondson, J.B. Ray, Merle Wortham, D. John Fisher, Bill Settle, Homer Henshaw, Bill Roberts and Ed Moore.

Mary Kathryn Unfried

BALTIMORE, Md. — Mary Kathryn “Kathy” Unfried, formerly of Ponca City, died Saturday, May 13, 2000, at the Christian Science Nursing Home in Alexandria, Va. She was 51.

The funeral was held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, May 17, with the Rev. Eric Peacher officiating. She was cremated in Towson, Md., under the direction of Leonard J. Ruck Funeral Home of Baltimore, Md.

Mary Kathryn Unfried was born in Ponca City on Nov. 13, 1948, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alvin C. Holmes. She grew up in Ponca City, graduating from Ponca City High School in 1967. She was currently a resident of Delta, Pa., and had been employed as a grant manager for the Division of Public Safety for Maryland.

Survivors include her husband, Gary S. Unfried of the home in Delta, Pa.; her father of Ponca City; two sons, Samuel C. Conver VI of Maryland, and Brian G. Unfried of the home; two daughters, Sayshan L. Conver-White of Maryland and Susan R. Unfried of the home; three stepsons, Kenneth Unfried of Redding, Conn., Matthew Unfried of Baltimore, Md., and Michael Unfried of Lisbon, Ohio; and four grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her mother, Wanda Holmes.

Ross P. Demas

LAWTON — Ross P. Demas, M.D., former resident of Ponca City, died Monday, May 15, 2000, at his home. He was 77.

The funeral will be 2 p.m. Friday, May 19, at the Calvary Assembly of God in Lawton with the Rev. Byron G. Elmore, pastor, officiating. Burial will be in Sunset Memorial Gardens under the direction of the Becker Funeral Home of Lawton.

Ross P. Demas was born July 12, 1922, in Ponca City, the son of Peter and Francis Demas. He attended Ponca City High School, Oklahoma Baptist University in Shawnee and received his M.D. from the University of Oklahoma. He did his internship at Wesley Hospital in Oklahoma City. He was drafted in 1950 and served with the U.S. Army at Fort Hood, Texas, with two years surgical training at the Veteran’s Hospital in Oklahoma City. On Aug. 28, 1943, he married Geraldine Morton in Ponca City; she died March 8, 1974.

He practiced medicine in Stroud then moved to Lawton, where he practiced medicine and opened his own practice in Gore Medical Arts. He owned a partnership in two Lawton nursing homes. He married Edie Nading on July 3, 1984, in Wichita Falls, Texas. He was a member of the Calvary Assembly of God and the American Medical Association.

Survivors include his wife of the home; two sons, Dr. Larry Demas of Portland, Ore., and Mike Demas of Santa Fe, N.M.; a daughter, Pam Hunt of Adkins, Texas; a sister, Karolyn Margerum of Henderson, Nev.; a brother, George Pete Demas of Albuquerque, N.M.; three stepchildren, Bridgette Smart of Evans, Ga., and Brenda Valentine and Kraig Nading, both of Lawton; 16 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents and first wife.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Lawton Area Inc., P.O. Box 2074, Lawton, Okla. 73502.

Patricia Louise Caudillo

BLACKWELL — Patricia Louise Caudillo, resident of Ponca City, died Tuesday, May 16, 2000, at her home. She was 33.

The funeral will be 11 a.m. Friday, May 19, in the Roberts Funeral Home Chapel in Blackwell with the Rev. Don Loftis of the Covenant Community Christian Church of Ponca City officiating. Burial will be in the Blackwell Cemetery.

Patricia Louise Caudillo was born April 7, 1967, in Sioux Falls, S.D., the daughter of Jack and Betty (Payne) Hundley. As a small girl, she moved with her family to Phoenix, Ariz., before moving to Blackwell in 1983.

She married Eric Caudillo on May 29, 1985, in Blackwell, where they settled. She then attended Ponca Beauty School in Ponca City and received her cosmetology license. She was employed at Pro Cuts Salon before beginning her employment with Barney’s Barber in Ponca City. She was a member of the Covenant Community Christian Church in Ponca City and a member of the 700 Club.

Survivors include her husband of the home; two daughters, Tiffany Caudillo and Kayla Caudillo, both of the home; a son, Sean Caudillo of the home; and three brothers, Ed Hundley of Ponca City, Rick Hundley of Port Wynemee, Calif., and Roy Hundley of Minnesota. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Casket bearers will be Ed Hundley, Rick Hundley, Jerry Griffith, Jim McBride and Tim McBride.

Memorial contributions may be made in her name to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Cancer Fund, c/o Robert and Son Funeral Home, 120 West Padon, Blackwell, Okla., 74631.

Obituaries

Rita LaVone Porter

CHANDLER, Ariz. — Rita LaVone Porter, formerly of Ponca City, passed away at her home in Sun Lakes, Ariz., on Wednesday, May 10, 2000, following a short illness. Private services were held May 15, 2000, under the direction of Bueler Mortuary in Chandler, Ariz.

LaVone was an avid golfer, housewife and traveling companion to her late husband. In the last year, to occupy her time, she had fulfilled a lifelong desire to be a writer and joined the Sun Lakes Writers’ Workshop. She also traveled between her home, her two daughters’ and son’s home.

Survivors include daughters, LaRita Taylor of Ponca City and Jeanie Fehringer of American Falls, Idaho, and son Duncan Porter of Carefree, Ariz,; six grandchildren, including Suzie Lunger of Montgomery, Texas, Bob Taylor of St. Louis, Mo., and David Taylor of Phoenix, Ariz.; and 14 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Willard Porter; son-in-law, Robert Taylor; her parents; one brother; and one grandson.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to a charity of choice or to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 East Flower Street, Phoenix, Ariz. 85014-5699.

paid obituary

NEWS BRIEFS

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Race Relations Taskforce — Race Relations Taskforce will meet 6 p.m. Tuesday at United Way of Ponca City, 205 North Second Street, to work on a speakers bureau to speak to youth about cultural diversity. All interested in joining this committee, contact Katina Combes at 765-2476. This taskforce is a part of Ponca City Alliance for Youth.

Allergy Season got you sneazen. Call 718-0532 or 762-0351 for immediate relief. 10 am to 5 pm. adv.

Drug Store 2000 — Drug Store 2000 Committee will meet at 4 p.m. Tuesday to plan Drug Store 2000 scheduled during Red Ribbon Week, Oct. 23-27. All interested in helping with this community project to prevent youth drug use, contact Katina Combes at 765-2476. This taskforce is a part of Ponca City Alliance for Youth.

Auction: Saturday, May 20th, 9:00 a.m. Location: 5 miles West of the Int. of Hwy 177 and 15 then 1 mile North from the Int. of Hwy 77 and 15 go 7 miles East. (Just past Frontier School) then 1 mile North. Starling Miller Auctions, 1-580-336-2030. adv.

Burglary — Someone in the 300 block of South Thirteenth Street reported to Ponca City police at 11:49 a.m. Wednesday that items had been stolen from a vehicle overnight. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Anyone Who witnessed an accident where a blue four door vehicle struck a man on a bicycle at Highland and 7th Street on April 22, 2000, between 10 and 10:30 pm,

please contact Kenneth Jean at 765-9967 as soon as possible. adv.

Theft — Ponca City police reported from the 200 block of North Elm Street at 11:57 a.m. Wednesday the theft of city utilities and a report was taken. Code enforcement was advised and will issue a citation.

John Deere gift items and toys for the whole family now in stock at Throop Lawn and Garden, Hwy

177 South. adv.

Accident — A two-vehicle accident was reported to Ponca City police at 4:17 p.m. Wednesday in the intersection of West Grand Avenue and Pine Street. Two officers were assigned and a report was taken. An ambulance was requested and a woman was treated at the scene for head injuries.

Pauline’s Shrimp peel. All you can eat $11.95, Friday 19th. For reservations call 765-5460. adv.

Burglary — Someone in the 500 block of South Eleventh Street reported to Ponca City police at 4:18 p.m. Wednesday that items had been taken from a residence. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Come Let us eat bugs and party. Third Annual Bug O’Mania, 10AM-??PM, Saturday May 20th at Parker Pest Control. All proceeds go to Northern Oklahoma

Youth Services Center. Call Brad

762-6614 for details. adv.

Shoplifting — A clerk in the 2000 block of North Fourteenth Street reported to Ponca City police at 4:35 p.m. Wednesday that a juvenile was being held for shoplifting. An officer was assigned and a juvenile citation was issued.

Mother’s Day Out at First United Methodist Church meeting Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 10am to 3pm beginning August 2000. Public enrollment Friday,

May 19, 12-2pm. Information call 762-3069. adv.

Accident — Someone in the 2500 block of Industrial Boulevard reported a minor accident involving a motorcycle to Ponca City police at 7:51 p.m. Wednesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Ponca Language Arts Council of the Ponca Nation of Oklahoma is sponsoring a dinner for all Ponca elders, those who speak the Ponca Language, and other

interested people at noon Friday, May 19th, Ponca Indian United Methodist Church in White Eagle.

Commissioner of Indian Affairs of the State of Oklahoma, Barbara Warner will be here to discuss clanship with us. For information or rides call 762-4126 or 765-3001. adv.

Subject Held — An officer in the 3200 block of Kingston Avenue reported at 8 p.m. Wednesday that a 22-year-old man was being held for driving under suspension after being stopped during a routine traffic stop.

www.HeartandHealth.com -Buy or sell Rexall natural

health products online. adv.

Subject Held — An officer at the intersection of East Otoe Avenue and South Seventh Street reported at 9:14 p.m. Wednesday that a 50-year-old man was being held for driving while intoxicated, traveling with an open container, no insurance and running a red light.

Dougan's Bar-B-Q Friday special from 4-8 p.m., all you can eat ribs with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $7.49. 215 South 14th, 765-7979. adv.

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

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

Braman Rodeo — The third annual Braman Rodeo is set for May 26-27 with grand entry kicking off action at 8 p.m. each night. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for 6-12 year olds and 6-and-under free. Besides regular events, there will be wild cow milking.

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.

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GARDENING

Diggin in the Dirt
Winners Named for Iris Show
Future Greener at State Parks Due To Beautification Project

Diggin in the Dirt

By Kathy Zehr

A long-standing discussion between gardeners has always been “which is best — annuals or perennials?” I like and use them both, since the combination of the two makes the most beautiful yard and garden. Today, we will discuss annuals and their care and particular characteristics and problems.

Annuals have many positive features. They are versatile, sturdy and relatively cheap, easy to grow, and produce instant color and bloom for most of the growing season. With annuals we can experiment with color, height, texture and form and if we make a mistake, it’s only for one growing season. There is no need to be conservative or refined with annuals. They can be moved, changed or taken out altogether without much time or cost. How about trying an American Flag bed this year?

Annuals are useful for filling in spaces until permanent plants are installed and can be used to extend perennial beds and fill in holes. They cover areas where spring bulbs have bloomed and died back and add beautiful color to planters, edgings, rock gardens, window boxes and hanging baskets. Most vegetable plants are annuals. Selection of good plants at the garden center includes looking for thick, sturdy stems and healthy green leaves.

Annuals are diverse, and you can find ones to use in full sun or light shade or heavy shade, so you can find just what you need for a special problem spot. The site you choose should have the correct soil texture, drainage, fertility and pH for your plant choice.

Annuals, as their name implies, live only one year, then must be resown from seed the next year. You can grow your own or buy transplants from garden centers. I really like the convenience of buying already established transplants and the earlier jump-start it gives me over seeding in beds. But sometimes the transplants are limited. Occasionally my green thumb twitches, and I try to seed annuals I can’t find as transplants.

Test Soil

Ideally, beds should be planned and prepared in the fall. If soils are tested and found inadequate, you have time to correct with lime, fertilizers, or acidic food before spring planting time. Till the soil to 8-10 inches deep and mix in the correcting mixtures.

Till the bed again in the spring, adding any nutrients suggested for the plant. Smooth the surface of the bed with a rake, and you are ready for seeding or transplants after soils have a sustained temperature of 60 degrees. Planting too soon causes some seeds to rot while they wait for the soil to warm.

If selecting seed instead of plants, I prefer to purchase hybrid seeds as they are more uniform in size and produce more vigorous plants than the open-pollinated varieties. If you have trouble getting seeds to germinate, as I often do, the Master Gardener’s book suggests we are probably letting the seedbed dry out as the seeds try to germinate. We are advised to sow the seed in vermiculite-filled furrows. Make furrows in soil about 1/2 inch deep and water the furrow. Then fill it with fine vermiculite and sprinkle it with water. Make a furrow in the vermiculite and sow the seed in it. Cover with a layer of vermiculite and mist the seeded area thoroughly.

Mulch Needed

Next, cover the seed bed with a water retaining mulch (newspaper works well). Check frequently and remove the mulch as soon as germination starts so young plants will receive adequate sunlight.

Beds should be watered deeply with soaker hoses, drip systems or water wands, and allowed to dry briefly between waterings. Do not hand water or use a system that gets water on the leaves, which encourages disease. Mulching is mandatory in Oklahoma to keep the surface from drying out. Grass clippings are excellent. Pull weeds by hand.

Tall-growing annuals such as larkspur, large marigold or cosmos should be staked. At about 1/3 of their mature height, use paper covered wire to loosely tie the stems to stakes. A teaspoon of 10-6-4 fertilizer should be applied on wet soil around each mature plant every 2-3 weeks.

Old flower heads should be removed on a weekly basis to ensure continuous bloom. If they are not removed, the plants will produce seed, complete their life cycle and die. Many annuals begin to look disreputable by late summer and need to be cut back for regrowth. Some Oklahoma gardeners just replace them with new plants in August since we have such a long growing season and plants are cheap.

Winners Named for Iris Show

The Community Iris Show was held May 6, during the Iris Festival, at the Conoco Fourth Street Clubhouse. There were 85 youth entries and 108 adult entries. An Iris wreath designed and created by Wanda Johnston was won by Clara McCollum. According to a spokesperson for the Southside Neighbors, who sponsor the annual show, there were 285 guests registered from Oklahoma, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Minnesota, California and Texas.

The Best of Show award and the award for Horticultural Excellence both went to Nettie Beal. Winner of the Junior Achievement award was Heather Wensler.

Winners in the adult division were blue/white category, Olen Branstetter, first; Mildred Taylor, second; T. Matthews, third; White, Nettie Beal, first; Leroy Rose, second; Gail Bouchard, third; purple, Roy Mattock, first; Joe Surber, second; Mildred Taylor, third; yellow, Jerry Cathey, first; Mildred Taylor, second; Mary Lampe, third.

Also blends, Trela Mattocks, first; Roy Mattocks, second; Jerry Cathey, third; reds, Nettie Beal, first; Marvin Bouchard, second; Carolyn Chansler, third; orange, Iris Peterson, first; Carolyn Chansler, second; lavender, Lori Badley, first; Diane Harris, second; Joe Surber, third; bi-tone, Kathy Whitney, first; and Kathy Gaston, second.

Also bi-color, Nettie Beal, first; Shelly Harriston, second; Iris Peterson, third; black, Iris Peterson, first; Delores Rose, second; Kathy Whitney, third; plicata, Shelly Harriston, first; Jerry Cathey, second; Iris Peterson, third; blue, Roy Mattocks, first; Kathy Gaston, second; Nettie Beal, third.

Youth winners included red category, Jennie Badley, first; Heather Wensler, second; Carder Price, third; pink, Jennie Badley, first; Gena VanCuren, second; purple, Garrit Hall, first; John Badley, second; Jennie Badley, third; orange, Alan Bechtel, first; plicata, Jennifer Creed, first; Heather Wensler, second; lavender, Jennie Badley, first; Heather Wensler, second; Gena VanCuren, third.

Also yellow, Heather Wensler, first; Jennie Badley, second; Charles Barraclough, third; others, Jamie Maniatis, first; Taylor Miller, second; Gena VanCuren, third; blends, Shannese Hall, first; Amanda Camp, second; bi-color, Arren Camp, first; Heather Bouchard, second; black, Rory Peterson, first; Ashley Camp, second; Heather Wenser, third; bi-tone, Heather Wensler, first; Nathan Larson, second; Erin Bechtel, third; white, Heather Wensler, first; Jessica Bouchard, second; Heather Bouchard, third.

Future Greener at State Parks Due To Beautification Project

Other states will be green with envy when they visit an Oklahoma State Park. After the implementation of the Reforestation and Beautification Project this spring, all Oklahoma State Parks will soon be greener and more beautiful.

1,500 trees have been planted in three different tree farm nurseries located at state parks to replace trees that have been damaged or have died. The tree farms are needed because of a continual decline and loss of native and natural trees, shrubs and existing flora in the state parks.

State Parks Horticulturist Nancy Denton says the tree nurseries are a good investment for the green and healthy environment of Oklahoma State Parks. “It is natural for trees to be damaged and suffer from environmental decline quickly when they are subjected to people pressure as they are in state parks,” Denton adds. “With this project, we will beautify our parks by replacing dead, damaged trees, and we will be doing this in an economical way because we are growing the trees ourselves.”

The tree farm nurseries are located in separate areas of the state at Walnut Creek State Park in Osage County, Ft. Cobb State Park in Caddo County, and Fountainhead State Park in McIntosh County. Student and volunteer groups planted the seedlings at the three nurseries.

The first transplanting of the trees to the different state parks is scheduled in three years.

For information on programs and activities at any Oklahoma State Park, Resort or Golf Course, visit us on the web at www.touroklahoma.com or call, toll free, 1-800-654-8240.

SPORTS

Two Northern Cagers Move To Next Level
Sooners Drop Pokes
Tennis Notes

Two Northern Cagers Move To Next Level

TONKAWA — Northern Oklahoma College’s outstanding guard Larry Reid has signed a letter of intent with the Kansas State University Wildcats and Maverick forward Sherman Rochell will join the Univcersity of Denver for the 2000-01 season.

Reid, Midwest City, was recently named a second Team All-American and was recognized as one of the top 10 junior college players in the country.

Kansas State head coach Jim Woolridge said he feels Reid will be a valuable addition to the Wildcats.

“The bottom line is that Larry has proven that he is a winner,” Woolridge said. “He has led both his high school and junior college teams to the highest levels of success. He has been well coached throughout his career which will help him make the transition to Division I basketball."

Reid averaged 18.5 points a game for the Mavericks this season and led the team in assists. Maverick head coach Mick Weiberg is pleased to seeReid move to the next level.

“Larry is a true point guard,” Weiberg said. “His leadership and presence on our team has been a real asset.”

“I picked Kansas State because I think I can help the program,” Reid, who was recruited by several major colleges, said. “Coach Weiberg said before I came to Northern that he would make me a better player, and he has. I'm going to miss Northern and the friends I’ve made there.”

Reid and Rochell helped lead the Maverick basketball team to its second ever National Tournament appearance in Hutchinson, Kan. this year.

Reid was named Region II Most Valuable Player, earned All-Bi-State-West Conference and All-Tournament honors and played in an NJCAA All-Star game in Florida asone of the top players in the nation.

Rochell became one of the top defensive players in Region II, according to Weiberg.

“He's the only player I know of that can make a mistake on defense and still recover to make the play,” said Weiberg. “He's an intense player, one of the most athletic players I've seen.”

Rochell, Oklahoma City, said the University of Denver was a good choice for him. “I think I can go in there and help them out defensively,” he said of the Sunbelt League team. “The program is on its way up and I want to be a part of its success.”

Sooners Drop Pokes

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — The University of Oklahoma Sooners continued their mastery over OSU this season, holding off the Cowboys, 9-8 in the first round of the Big 12 Tournament Wednesday.

Jeff Bajenaru hit a big two-run homer in the sixth inning and worked out of a ninth-inning jam as Oklahoma beat the Cowboys. It was the Sooners’ fourth victory in as many tries against OSU this season.

‘‘Execution is the name of the game,’’ OSU coach Tom Holliday said. ‘‘Every time you get one on and you get them in like they did, that is a sign of a good ball club.’’

Bajenaru’s 11th home run of the season gave the Sooners (38-19) an 8-5 lead after OSU had scored four times in the top of the inning to get back into the game.

Bajenaru had to work for his 19th save, which set a Big 12 record. A three-base error by right fielder Elliot Joyner put Ryan Budde at third to start the inning. After a walk, Budde scored on a sacrifice bunt by Rob Watson that put the tying run at second.

A groundout moved the runner up before Bajenaru got Jimbo McAuliff on a grounder to short.

Tommy Whiteman’s RBI triple was the big hit in a two-run first inning that gave the Sooners early control against Matt Smith (8-7). They added single runs in the second and third and, after OSU (36-21) scored once in the fourth, Oklahoma got two runs in the fifth to make it 6-1.

‘‘Smith is an outstanding pitcher, but we are swinging the bat better than we have all year, so we need to give credit to our hitters,’’ said OU coach Larry Cochell. ‘‘We have done good against Smith, but I don’t want to face him again.’’

OSU was to play Nebraska in an elimination game this morning while the Sooners went against Missouri this evening in the winnes’ bracket play.

Having their ace on the mound proved to be no advantage at all for the Nebraska Cornhuskers.

Shane Komine, who led the Big 12 in strikeouts (135) and opponent batting average (.196) during the regular season, didn’t get past the fifth inning Wednesday in a 12-10 loss to Missouri.

Komine gave up eight hits, including three home runs, and seven runs as the second-seeded Cornhuskers dropped into the loser’s bracket.

‘‘Missouri did a good job,’’ he said. ‘‘Every mistake I made they took full advantage of and hit it out of the park. I take full responsibility for our loss.’’

In other games Wednesday, top-seeded Baylor beat Texas A&M 12-3 and Texas got six RBIs from Ryan Hubele to beat Texas Tech 8-4.

Landon Brandes homered twice off Komine, including a three-run shot in the first inning, and Nick Wilfong added a solo homer. Mick Weiss and W.T. Hoover also went deep as Missouri (33-22) tied a Big 12 tournament record with five homers.

‘‘We have to worry about Oklahoma, a good baseball team,’’ said Missouri coach Tim Jamieson. ‘‘If you win, you don’t play on Friday. With our pitching staff probably being the thinnest of the teams here, that would give us a great boost. But we have to take care of business.’’

Baylor (43-14) scored six runs in the sixth inning and four more in the seventh to beat A&M. The top-seeded Bears will play Texas tonight, and Texas A&M (23-34) plays Tech in an elimination game.

Baylor got six hits in the sixth inning to break a 2-2 tie. Anthony Hensley and Mike Huggins each had two-run singles in the big inning. Jaime Bubela had a two-run single in the four-run seventh.

Chad Hawkins (11-4) pitched eight innings for the victory, allowing seven hits and striking out six. Khalid Ballouli (4-9) got the loss.

Hubele hit a grand slam and drove in six runs for the Longhorns (40-16). His six RBIs tied the tournament record set by Oklahoma’s Brian Shackelford against Tech in 1997.

The Red Raiders took a 1-0 lead in the first inning on an RBI single by Chaz Eiguren. But Texas took the lead for good with two in the bottom of the inning, including a run-scoring single by Hubele.

His home run came in the third off Blake McGinley (5-3) and made the score 6-1.

D.J. Jones (11-5) went 8 2/3 innings for the victory. Charlie Thames came on with two on and two out and retired the only batter he faced to get his 17th save, a Longhorn season record.

Tech (33-23) was to play A&M in an elimination game this afternoon.

Tennis Notes

Registration for the summer tennis program will be held Monday 5-7 p.m. at the Parks and Recreation Department located at 905 W. Hartford.

Information of any summer schedule conflicts such as camps, summer school or band, should accomany the registration form.

Instructor for the summer tennis program is Mike Larimer, who will post all class days and times at the Wally Smith Tennis Center on May 24th after 12:30 p.m.

Lessons are from May 30 to July 21. No lessons will be given during the Bank of Oklahoma Junior Open,June 12-18, There will be two sessions per week (Tuesday-Thursday and Wednesday-Friday) with 8-12 students per class. All sessions will be held during the morning hours or early aftprnoon.

Enrollment will be open to students ages 7-18 years. A fee of $30 will be due the night of sign up.

Experience levels will consist of beginners, advance beginners, championship and tournament players. For more information contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 767-0432.