LOCAL

Etbauer Brothers Show Off Abilities
Noon Lions Set Auction, Barbecue
Keating To Push Tax Cuts
Peachtree Landing Week Highlighted by Pie Festival
District Court

Etbauer Brothers Show Off Abilities

By BOB PATTERSON

News City Editor

Talk about having the right chemistry! Three brothers were doing quite well from their home state of South Dakota and now they are Oklahomans, and Thursday night wowed a 101 Wild West Rodeo crowd with their riding ability.

The Etbauer brothers, Robert, who had moved to Goodwell first, may have coaxed brother Dan to come south to Goodwell, before he eventually ended up in Guthrie. And then along came Billy, who left his Ree Heights, S.D., home last to call Edmond home for the present time, showed his ability with a 77 in the saddle bronc riding Thursday to tie for the lead with Bobby Griswold of Moore.

Those two 77s, and a pair of 75s, one by Robert Etbauer and the other by Willsey McMahon Jr. of Cayuga, Texas and a 74 by Dan Etbauer thrilled the crowd to say the least.

All of those scores on the Rafter H stock of Del Hall were better than the official score of 73 turned in by Brent Burns of Edwardsville, Kan., on opening night Wednesday.

Not to be outdone, and actually doing it first for the lead in bareback bronc riding, Miles J. Bell of Amarillo scored a 74 to open the rodeo activity Thursday. That was better than the 70 of Jared Lavergne, Villa Platte, La., on Wednesday. Then Randy Koehn, of Dodge City, Kan., got a 69 to tie Doug Allen Sanders of Steelville, Mo., for the third spot.

Steer wrestling proved to be just as exciting, although no one was able to top the 3.1 in the second go-round of Wednesday by Rodney Burkes, Benton, Ark. Best on Thursday was a 5.0 by Daniel Adams of Butler, Okla., but Shawn Johnson of Checotah had a 5.6 to go with his slack catch of 5.0 for the 10.6 best overall so far.

Also, Chauncey Larson of Manhattan, Kan., had a 5.9 to go with a 5.6 for 11.5 and Checotah’s Sam Duvall’s 5.1 went with a 7.1 in the first go for a 12.2. Wednesday, Jeff Babek of Granite, Okla., had 6.0 and that went with a 6.4 for 12.4.

Calf ropers had a little difficulty, although Tommy Eaton of Ada got one in 10.6 to go with a 10.3 in slack for 20.9, which is currently third overall. Justin Lankford of Blanchard had an 11.5 and Ponca City’s Hank Hainzinger got a 12.4 on Thursday.

Leader in calf roping is Trevor Brazile, Childress, Texas, with a 17.5 and that’s followed by defending National Finals Rodeo champion Cody Ohl of Orchard, Texas, at 18.3.

In the team roping, Mike Cervi of Midland, Texas and Kory Koontz of Sudan, Texas, maintained a safe margin with a 6.9 and 6.2 on Wednesday for 13.1. Nothing else is close as only one team had a chance with a 6.3 in slack Tuesday, but took a no time Thursday. Maybe better luck tonight!

In the local team roping, Buddy Osborn and Doug Osborn of Ponca City should get into the final eight on Saturday with the 8.5 posted. Wednesday’s best was a 7.1 by Randy Wadsworth of Pawhuska and Paul Lee Foreman of Barnsdall.

Girls barrel racing had a 17.91 turned in by Phyllis Wells of Harrah on Thursday, and that’s third behind Sherry Cervi of Midland, 17.68 and Kim Squires, Carnegie, 17.90.

The bull riders continued to thrill the crowd, with Thursday’s Todd Fowler of Theodore, Ala., and Wes Dimwiddle of Donnelson, Iowa posting 72s. But the were six points away from the 78s posted Wednesday by David McLean of Paducah, Texas and K.J. Pletcher, Ardmore.

The rodeo continues tonight at 8 p.m., and Saturday. The 101 Wild West Rodeo Queen will be crowned during festivities at the rodeo on Saturday.

Contestants and rodeo producers will be in on the parade that starts at 10 a.m. and heads east along Grand Avenue. There will be Shriners and other units in the parade as well.

Noon Lions Set Auction, Barbecue

The Ponca City Noon Lions Club members are getting ready for the second annual Auction and Barbecue Dinner to be held Saturday, Aug. 28, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Moose Lodge. Dempewolf Transfer and Storage has donated the use of a large semi-trailer for storage of auction items.

Lions Club members will be at the trailer located at the Moose Lodge on Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m. to receive donated items for the auction or pick up of items can be arranged by calling 762-3820. Auction tickets are available from any Noon Lions Club member or at Pioneer Bank, Coldwell Bankers or any of the three Cherokee Strip Credit Union locations. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. The barbecue dinner, catered by Head Country, will start at 5 p.m., and the auction will start at 6 p.m. The grand giveaway item, which the winner must be present to win, will be a Howard Miller grandfather clock.

The auction is a major fund raiser for the Noon Lions Club with proceeds funding eye glasses for local needy children and adults. The Lions Club is very dedicated and active in sight conservation in the Ponca City area.

Donations for the auction help fund the gift of sight. To purchase a ticket for the auction, please contact any Noon Lions Club member or call Susan at 762-5657 during the day or 765-2876 in the evenings.

Keating To Push Tax Cuts

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Gov. Frank Keating says he will push for tax cuts proposed by a citizens task force.

Among other things, the task force called for creation of a modified flat state income tax and reform of the state’s estate tax.

‘‘I call on the Legislature to strongly consider these recommendations when they convene next February,’’ Keating said in a news release Thursday. ‘‘Implementing these and other tax relief measures will mean long-term economic benefits to the citizens of Oklahoma and I will push hard to make that happen.’’

One of three income tax-cut options listed by the task force would cost $80 million.

The task force’s final report was released Thursday. It contained the same recommendations in a preliminary draft released July 16.

Former state Rep. Howard Cotner, D-Altus, chairman of the group, has expressed doubt the recommendations would be implemented next year. Several tax-cut plans were proposed by Keating this year, but were not enacted because of budget restraints.

The task force recommended adoption of one of three variations of a flat income tax.

The first option would eliminate all deductions, exemptions and credits with a flat tax rate of 3.98 percent, compared with the top marginal rates of 7 percent and 10 percent for the two present computation methods.

Under this option, anyone with an income of more than $1 million a year could see a 25 percent tax reduction, while those with incomes of as much as $40,000 would see a tax increase. The first option would be revenue neutral.

The second option would create a flat tax of 6 percent with certain deductions. A couple with two children, earning $22,900 and filing jointly, would pay no state income taxes.

Those earning as much as $50,000 would see tax reductions, while those making more than $50,000 would see increases. State tax revenues would decrease by $1.6 million.

The third option, which would not eliminate any deductions, would lower the income tax rate to 5.75 percent and would decrease taxes for just about everyone except those with incomes of $1 million or more.

This option would cost the state about $80 million in revenue.

The task force also recommended the elimination of the current configuration of state inheritance taxes.

Peachtree Landing Week Highlighted by Pie Festival

Mayor Tom Leonard has proclaimed the week of August 23-29 as “Peachtree Landing Week” in the Ponca City area.

Peachtree Landing is a temporary emergency shelter for homeless persons in the Ponca City area, helping thousands find temporary shelter and other necessary social services since its beginning in 1988. The homeless shelter was named Peachtree Landing by its creators because a landing provides a safe and secure place during a storm and the blossoms of the peachtree symbolize hope and potential.

To help celebrate the special week and to help fund the shelter, the Peachtree Landing board of directors are planning their annual Peachtree Pie Festival for Saturday, Aug. 27, at Pioneer Park from 6 to 9 p.m. Delicious homemade pies, ice cream, hotdogs, chips and a drink will be served for $6. Pie will be $3.50 and ice cream $1.25 if attendees do not want a full meal.

For those who want to support the shelter and enjoy homemade pie but cannot attend the festival, the Peachtree board is offering a limited number of whole pies for sale prior to the festival. Shirley Foxworthy, board member suggests “the pies would be delicious with coffee at local businesses and would help those who cannot attend the festival support the homeless shelter.” The whole pies will be delivered on Friday, Aug. 26, and may be ordered in advance by calling 762-3208.

Entertainment at the pie festival will include the music of the Don Long band and entertainment for children, including face-painting and a magician.

District Court

Newkirk

Marriage Licenses

Jimmie Dale Patterson, 50, and Jacqueline Marie Dewberry, 44, both of Ponca City.

Shaine Thomas Miller, 20, Stillwater, and Azalea Michelle Patterson, 18, Ashdown, Ark.

James Lewis Evins, 23, Scott City, Kan., and Carrie Diane George, 25, Ponca City.

Terry Lee Meadows, 48, Ponca City, and Sandra Marie Sloan, 45, Winfield.

David Henry Broome, 26, and Janna Lea McDonald, 23, both of Ponca City.

Dennis Lee Backhaus, 44, and Glenda Sue Hall, 40, both of Ponca City.

Kevin Gene Newlin, 22, and Brooke Lynn Weatherly, 18, both of Ponca City.

Wayne Rolf Bailey, 25, and Kristi Michelle Riley, 30, both of Ponca City.

Willis Robert Noel Jr., 44, Arkansas City, and Alana Colleen Bryant, 41, Derby, Kan.

Anthony David Mull, 20, Key West, Fla., and Jamie Renee Roller, 19, Ponca City.

Divorces Sought

Robert Daniel Lyons vs. Pamela Jane Hoffman.

Divorces Granted

Brian Andrew Counterman vs. Delana Joy Counterman.

Crystal Lee Gatz vs. Mark Allen Gatz.

Victoria Lynn Dennison vs. Leonard F. Dennison.

Civil Petitions

Leslie Insurance Agency Inc. vs. Morris & Morris Inc.; plaintiff seeking judgment for $6,390.55.

Albright Insurance Co. vs. Charlie Jones; plaintiff seeking judgment for $7,412.45.

Greenwood Trust Company vs. Scott Wilson; plaintiff seeking judgment for $5,049.01.

American General Finance Inc. vs. Kathy D. Frazier; plaintiff seeking judgment for $3,356.16.

HomeSide Lending Inc. vs. Michael L. Harger, et al.; plaintiff seeking judgment for $39,831.56.

Jeremy Millard vs. Baptist Healthcare of Oklahoma; plaintiff seeking judgment in excess of $10,000.

American General Finance vs. James Pendleton and Cathy Pendleton; plaintiff seeking judgment for $3,088.26.

First Select Corporation vs. Belle Johns; plaintiff seeking judgment for $3,295.76.

Robert Flores, et al., vs. U.S. Repeating Arms Company Inc., et al.; plaintiff seeking judgment in excess of $10,000.

Pumpco Inc. vs. John Sebring; plaintiff seeking judgment for $4,251.24.

Opal Ray, et al., vs. Sukumar Chaparala, M.D., et al.; plaintiffs seeking judgment in excess of $10,000.

Countrywide Home Loans Inc. vs. Dale K. Kiser, et al.; plaintiff seeking judgment for $56,652.80.

Nationsbanc Mortgage Corporation vs. Nathan D. Berry, et al.; plaintiff seeking judgment for $34,051.05.

Saber Acceptance Co. Inc. vs. Jimmie A. Epperson; plaintiff seeking judgment for $3,061.08.

Bank of Oklahoma vs. Patrick Kiser; plaintiff seeking judgment for $3,100.

Criminal Proceedings

Casino Sentence — Jeff Jake “Bob” Hargraves, 49, charged with several counts of conspiracy and racketeering in connection with an alleged casino operation in the Bois D’Arc community southwest of Ponca City from December 1996 to February 1997. After pleading guilty to five felony counts in District Court, Hargraves was sentenced to 15 years in the state penitentiary for each count, with the sentences to run concurrently.

DEATHS

Pete Frank Dowell
Betty Ruth Pearson
Dorothy Ellen Hodges
Mary Louise Mullins
Dessie M. Bohannon
Major Henry B. Fronkier

Pete Frank Dowell

Pete Frank Dowell, longtime Ponca City resident, died Thursday, Aug. 19, 1999, at his home. He was 62.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, Aug. 21, 1999, at 10 a.m. at Odd Fellows Cemetery with the Rev. Dr. Michael Kear officiating. Burial will be under the direction of Trout Funeral Home. Flag detail will be provided by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1201.

Pete Frank Dowell was born Jan. 7, 1937, in Hobart to Jesse Lee Frank and Jennie Augusta (Stout) Dowell. He attended Ponca City schools. Mr. Dowell served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was self-employed as a roofer. He enjoyed bow hunting, archery and fishing.

He is survived by four brothers, Babe John Henry Dowell of Ponca City, David Dewey Dowell of Newkirk, Bobby Joe Dowell of Ponca City, and Everett Neal Dowell of Fort Cobb; and three sisters, Stella Elizabeth Jones of Arkansas City, Kan., Glenda Sue Randol of Newkirk, and Linda Lue Barnhart of Cashion. His parents preceded him in death.

Betty Ruth Pearson

OKEENE — Betty Ruth Pearson, mother to Bill Pearson of Ponca City, died Aug. 18, 1999, at the Fairview Fellowship Home in Fairview. She was 70.

A rosary service will be at 7 p.m. today at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Okeene, followed by an all-night vigil. Mass of Christian burial will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 21, at the church with the Rev.’s Dave Imming and Dave Cowden officiating. Burial will follow in the Isabella (Okla.) Cemetery under the direction of the Fairview Funeral Home, Fairview.

Betty Ruth (Wahl) Pearson was born Jan. 20, 1929, on the family farm near Isabella to Dane William and Hazel Lucille (Lively) Wahl.

She was married to Buel Wayne Pearson on Aug. 19, 1946. Mrs. Pearson was employed as a nurse’s aide at the Okeene Hospital for 19 years. During that time she helped deliver more than 1,000 babies. She enjoyed working with the babies and new mothers and always had a hug or comforting word for her patients. She and her husband were baptized into the Catholic Church on Easter Sunday 1987. She was devoted to the Eucharist and the Blessed Mother and was a member of the St. Anthony Altar Society. She was also a member of the Major County Genealogical Society, and served as Major County Fair superintendent of poultry and rabbits.

Survivors include her husband Buel of 53 years; two daughters, Betty Martin of Okeene, and Bessie Wedel of Isabella; one son, Bill Pearson of Ponca City; one sister, Mary Sproul of Isabella; two brothers, Mark Wahl of Soap Lake, Wash., and Tom Wahl of Moses Lake, Wash.; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and numerous other family members and friends. She was preceded in death by an infant son, George Melborne; her parents; and one granddaughter.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. Pearson’s name to the National ALS, c/o Fairview Funeral Home Inc., 221 North Main, Fairview, OK 73737

Dorothy Ellen Hodges

NEWKIRK — Dorothy Ellen Hodges, longtime Newkirk resident, died Tuesday, Aug. 17, 1999 at her home in Newkirk. She was 60.

A funeral service has been scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 21, in Miller-Stahl Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Troy Pults, minister of the Kaw City and Fairfax United Methodist churches officiating. Graveside rites will be at 2 p.m. in Sunny Lane Cemetery in Del City under the direction of Miller-Stahl Funeral Service.

A memorial fund has been established with the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation. Contributions may be made in Mrs. Hodges’ memory through Eastman National Bank, P.O. Box 468, Newkirk, OK 74647-0468.

Dorothy Ellen Hodges was born Jan. 9, 1939, in Oklahoma City, the daughter of Clyde Lee and Willie Dorothy (Precure) Pate. Because of her mother’s ill health, her grandmother, Maggie Precure of Meeker and her uncle, Chester Precure of Bethany helped raise her. She attended Oklahoma City public elementary schools, and attended Southeast High School in Oklahoma City.

On Aug. 27, 1955 she and John David Hodges of Arkansas City, Kan., were married in Oklahoma City. Mr. Hodges was serving in the U.S. Navy at the time of their marriage, so she became a navy wife and made their home where ever he was stationed. While he served overseas she and their family made their home in Oklahoma City until he returned stateside. In June 1976 they retired from the U.S. Navy and moved from Louisiana to Newkirk where they have since resided.

In 1981 she returned to school, first to receive her GED, and then to the Ponca City School of Cosmetology. She was a certified cosmetologist as well as a certified cosmetology instructor. She worked from 1983 to 1993 in cosmetology and as an instructor, inspiring many young adults to better themselves.

She was a member of the Nazarene Church in Oklahoma City. She was a very active member of the Navy Wives Club and served in all offices. She was also a member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary and the Order of Eastern Star, and she served as a notary for a number of years.

She is survived by her husband John of the home; three daughters, Denise Lure and her husband Bale of Braman, Jaqueline Bee Monsour of Newkirk, and Michelle Presson and her husband Chris of Eagle, Mich.; one brother Edward Pate and his wife Karen of Moore; one sister Margaret and her husband Everett Jay Hodges Jr. of Oklahoma City; seven grandchildren, Tina Luce of NAS Whidbey Island, Wash., Mindi Luce of Braman, Chance Presson of Eagle, Mich., Constance Monsour and John Monsour both of Wichita, Kan.; Cody Presson of Eagle, Mich., and Madison Stockton of Peckham; and nephew and nieces, Donna Jean Mills, Everett J. Hodges, III, Sheryl Lynn Krueger, and Phyllis Yvonne Montavon.

She was preceded in death by one son, John David Hodges, Jr.; her parents; and a brother, Harold Lee Pate.

Honorary bearers are Steven Buyer, Robert Buyer, Buck Mills, Brady Krueger, Everett Hodges III and Maxx Krueger.

paid obituary

Mary Louise Mullins

Mary Louise Mullins, longtime area resident, died Wed., Aug. 18, 1999 at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 86.

The funeral service will be Saturday, 2 p.m. in the Chapel of the Trout Funeral Home with the Rev. Steven Bierly, pastor, First Church of the Nazarene, officiating. Burial will follow in Longwood Cemetery under the direction of the Trout Funeral Home.

Born July 10, 1913, at Subiaco, Ark., she was the daughter of Clarence Hillman and Margaret Melinda Sivley White. She moved with her family to Fairfax where she attended schools, graduating from Fairfax High School in 1931.

On Dec. 1, 1931, she married Oscar Mullins. A lifelong homemaker, she was a member of the First Church of the Nazarene. She was also active in the Home Demonstration Club; Eastern Star where she was a Past Worthy Matron of the Burbank Chapter; and the Pythian Sisters where she had served as M.E.C.

She is survived by a son Roger Mullins and his wife Katie of Arlington, Texas; a daughter Margaret Mason and her husband, Kenneth of Goodwell; a daughter-in-law Rosita Mullins of Ponca City; grandchildren, Tripp Mullins and his wife Tracey, Thadd Mullins, and Travis Mullins, all of Ponca City; Jan Gandy and husband Steve of Houston, Texas; Jodie Frazier and husband Kevin of Ponca City; Kevin Walker and Lyle Walker, both of Arlington, Texas; Jeff Mason and his wife Cindy of Wellington, Kan.; Todd Mason and his wife Debbie of Goodwell; Lee Mason and his wife Codi of Sublette, Kan.; Chad Mason and his wife Rhonda, and Kim Mason, all of Coleman; a sister Margaret Matheson and husband Kenneth of Ponca City; and 18 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a son Gordon Mullins; and a brother J.B. White.

The grandsons will serve as casket bearers.

paid obituary

Dessie M. Bohannon

Dessie M. Bohannon, longtime Ponca City resident, died early Wednesday, Aug. 18, 1999 at Tender Heart Nursing Home. She was 81.

The funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday at the First Pentecostal Holiness Church with the Rev. C.D. Robins officiating. Burial will follow in the Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.

Dessie (Phillips) Bohannon was born March 17, 1918, in Valliant, the daughter of Deedy Forrest and Mary Frances (Harrison) Phillips. She attended school in Valliant and Madill, before the family moved to the Ponca City area where she attended McCord School.

On May 14, 1945, she was married to Albert Bohannon in Ponca City and the couple made their home here. Mrs. Bohannon was a homemaker. She had been a member of the First Pentecostal Holiness Church since the age of fourteen.

Surviving are a daughter Mrs. Clyde (Judy) Amberger of Ponca City; one brother Delbert Phillips of Denver, Colo., and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband in 1975, her parents, three brothers and three sisters.

Casket bearers will be Gary Phillips, Miles Miller, Miles Miller Jr., James West, Steve Miller and Bill Phillips.

The family will be at 320 East Brookfield.

Major Henry B. Fronkier

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Major (Ret. USAF) Henry “Hank” B. Fronkier, 83, former Ponca City resident, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 17, 1999, in Albuquerque, N.M., where he had been a resident for more than 40 years.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Imagene Alice (McKown) Fronkier; a son, Michael Fronkier and wife Katheryn of Edmond; a daughter Pamela Jean Peters and husband Jay of Albuquerque, N.M.; and grandchildren, Kathleen Lynn Fronkier and Douglas James Fronkier, both of Edmond. He was preceded in death by five brothers, Louis, David, Francis, Arvis and Arthur.

Major Fronkier was born July 15, 1916 in Ponca City. He was a member of the Osage Indian Tribe and one of the few Native Americans who served as a U.S. Air Force pilot. Major Fronkier was a command pilot whose career spanned the “golden” years of the U.S. Air Force. His remarkable flying career started in an open cockpit J-3 “Cub” in 1939. He served as an instructor pilot during the early days of World War II and flew C-46 “Commando” cargo aircraft in the China-Burma-India Theater.

After World War II, Major Fronkier served a tour of duty in Korea, spent three years in Japan and participated in the evacuation of American Embassy personnel from Hanoi and Hiphong in French Indochina. He was inducted into the “Mach Busters” by flying the F-100F Super Saber faster than the speed of sound in 1961.

Major Fronkier returned to South Vietnam in 1963, flying C-123 “Expeditor” airlift missions for U.S. advisors and the Army of the Republic of Vietnam. After his return from South East Asia, he retired from the U.S. Air Force in Dec. 1963, after 20 years of service.

Major Fronkier’s awards include the U.S. Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign, the United Nations Medal and the National Chinese Freedom Medal.

In 1966 he opened the Isleta Laundry and Dry Cleaners, which served the south valley area of Albuquerque for more than 16 years.

Major Fronkier was a loving husband and devoted father. A memorial rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. today at the French Mortuary, Wyoming Blvd. Chapel, 7121 Wyoming Blvd., N.E. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday at the French Mortuary in Albuquerque, N.M.

paid obituary

NEWS BRIEFS

Arrest — At 7:18 a.m. Thursday, a Ponca City police officer arrested a 22-year-old man in the 2100 block of North Ash Street for two county warrants.

Her Review now accepting women fall consignments. adv.

Accident — A Ponca City police officer took a report of a non-injury accident at South Fourth Street and East Houston Avenue at 9:56 a.m. Thursday.

Auction August 28th, 9:00 a.m. 3449 Enterprise Road, Ponca City, OK. Sale will be conducted by Starling Miller Real Estate & Auctions. adv.

Found — An Animal Control officer found an abandoned bicycle in the 1700 block of North Sixth Street at 10:08 a.m. Thursday. The bike was taken to the Ponca City Police Department.

Kids Review accepting fall/winter children consignments. adv.

Thefts — At 10:09 a.m. Thursday, a Ponca City police officer took four reports of thefts that occurred at Sykes, 1701 Sykes Boulevard.

Retired Beanie Babies- Bears galore, secondary market, with tag protectors. Also inventory reduction sale. All sales final. Southwest Connection, 313 E. Grand. adv.

Forgery — A Ponca City police officer took a report of forgery at Pizza Hut, 2301 North Fourteenth Street, at 10:19 a.m. Thursday.

Lots Of new merchandise. Gifts for the fireman pewter look and wood picture frames for family, sister, mom and friends. Mrs. Brown's Attic, downtown Ponca City. adv.

Arrest — At 12:24 a.m. Friday, two Ponca City police officers stopped by Spirits, 2215 North Fourteenth Street for a bar check. They arrested a 35-year-old man on two Kay County warrants.

Honesty, Sincerity & plain dealing the Mark of a Mason.

Pancake & Sausage Feed. August 21, 1999. 7:00am-11:00am. Adult-$3.00, children-$1.50 (under 12). Proceeds go to building operations. Masonic Lodge #83, 1200 West Grand, Ponca City, OK. adv.

Bike Stolen — A resident in the 400 block of North Osage Street contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 4:06 p.m. Thursday to report a bike was stolen.

New! Po-Hi cheerleader and football teddy bears, red and blue sweaters! Makes a perfect

gift! Mrs. Brown’s Attic, downtown Ponca City. adv.

Library Exhibit — Plan to visit the exhibit Showmanship and the Old West at the Ponca City Library and discover the history behind the famous 101 Rodeo. The exhibit will be open for viewing during regular Library hours through the month of August.

Head Country Saturday night special. All you can eat beef brisket with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $7.49. All day. 1217 East Prospect. adv.

Arrested — A Ponca City police officer arrested a 29-year-old man on Osage County and Noble County warrants at 11:53 a.m. Thursday.

Become Part of the Ponca City Public School Substitute Teaching Team. Required Training,

August 24, 1999, 9:00 a.m. at 111 W. Grand. High School Diploma required. Bring Drivers license and Social Security Card, (Park in Back) For more information call 767-8000. adv.

Car Wash — Oklahoma Natural Gas is holding a car wash as a fund raiser for United Way of Ponca City. The benefit will be held at the business located at 2205 North Ash Street from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. A donation of $3 is appropriate for standard vehicles and $5 contribution will be accepted for vans and trucks.

Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential. Hours: Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wed-

nesday, 1-3 p.m. and Thursday, 6-8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. 765-9689. adv.

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.

Recovery — At 4:07 p.m. Thursday, a Ponca City police officer issued a citation to a youth at Trout School for petit larceny. Apparently, the youth took another child’s bike.

Little Dance Smoke Shop. 3 miles south on 177. Marlboro $19.00; Winston-$19.00. Check our prices. 762-7071. Open 7a.m.- 8p.m., 6 days. Sunday 10-6. adv.

DUI — At 1:37 a.m. Friday, a Ponca City police officer arrested a 29-year-old man at Seventh Street and East Grand Avenue for driving under the influence and assault with a deadly weapon.

Jim Bowen Construction­ Custom homes, room additions and remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv.

Trespassing — At 3:36 p.m. Thursday, a resident in the 1700 block of Bradbary Lane called the Ponca City Police Department to request an officer make a report about disturbing the peace and trespassing. An officer responded and took information for a warrant request.

Soccer sign ups start August 17th for all boys and girls 41/2 and up. Tuesday - Friday 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. Saturday, August 21st, 9:00 - 1:00 p.m. Quantum Computer Systems, 312 East Grand. 762-9056. adv.

Warrant Served — At 10:57 a.m. Thursday, a Ponca City police officer arrested a 47-year-old man for a city warrant.

Dougan's Bar-B-Q Saturday special 4-8 p.m. All you can eat beef brisket with beans, potato

salad and coleslaw, $7.49. 215 South 14th, 765-7979. adv.

Pauline's Shrimp peel. All you can eat, $11.95, Friday the 20th. For reservations, call 765-5460. adv.

Furr’s Dining Now open continuously 11-8 Sunday-Thursday, 11-8:30 Friday and Saturday. adv.

Little Dance Smoke Shop. 3 miles South on Highway 177. Open 7am-6pm, Mon.-Sat.; 10am-

6pm, Sundays. Camel, Winston Marlboro $19.00 a carton. Skoal $25.00 a roll. Phone 762-7071. adv.

LIFESTYLES

Little News

Little News

Preston William Miller is the name selected by Mike and Melissa Miller of Kingston, Texas, for their son born at 7:02 p.m. Aug. 3, 1999, in Little Rock, Ark. The baby weighed 7 pounds, 13 ounces, and measured 20 inches long.

Maternal grandparents are Cliff and Lorene Pollnow of Bradford, Ark., and paternal grandparents are Fred and Jane Miller of Ponca City.

Kelie and Israel Solis Jr. of Bethany announce the birth of a daughter, Kennedy Dawn Solis, at 3:40 p.m. on Aug. 15, 1999, at Mercy Hospital in Oklahoma City. The baby weighed 6 pounds, 5 ounces, and was 19 inches long.

Maternal grandparents are Louise and Don Thompson of Mustang, former residents of Ponca City, and paternal grandparents are Virginia and Israel Solis Sr. of Bethany.

Great-grandparents are Avis and Ernie Hauser and Fannie Driesel, all of Ponca City, and Vivian Williams from Oklahoma.

Announcing the birth of a son are Teresa and Bryan Sensintaffar of Tulsa. Alex Hunter Sensintaffar was born at 9:18 a.m. July 27, 1999, at St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa. He weighed 7 pounds, 8 ounces, and measured 19 1/2 inches long. He has a brother, Austin Kyle.

Maternal grandparents are Phyllis and Sal Gargiulo of Broken Arrow, former residents of Ponca City, and paternal grandparents are Sue and Jerry Sensintaffar of Tulsa.

Great-grandparents are Mae and James Hazapis of Sarasota, Fla., Carl and Ina Belle Halle of Thomas, and Bernice Sensintaffar of Weatherford.

RELIGION

First Lutherans Will Install New Faculty Sunday Morning
Prince of Peace Lutherans Plan Special Sunday
‘Come Let Us Reason Together’
Peachtree Landing Pie Festival Planned
Pioneer Christian All-Youth Fellowship Set
Woodlands Christian Getting Ready for Fall
BSF International Hosts Class
Pastor’s Notes
St. Paul Methodists Celebrating 40th Year
Wesleyan Church Calls Pastor
St. Paul’s Children’s Program Set

First Lutherans Will Install New Faculty Sunday Morning

Both the 8:30 a.m. and the 11 a.m. services at First Lutheran Church on Aug. 22 will follow the theme “Sent to the Lost Sheep.” In the Gospel lesson Jesus tests the faith of a Canaanite woman by saying that He was sent only to the house of Israel. Her insistence brought praise from Jesus and healing for the woman’s daughter. Pastor Tom Ramsey’s sermon, “An Act of Faith,” is based on this story. With this theme it is very fitting that the highlight of the services will be the installation of new faculty and rededication of returning faculty and staff in preparation for school opening on Aug. 25.

Being installed are Elizabeth Watson, Principal, and Dan McGregor, eighth grade teacher and athletic director. Both Mr. Watson and McGregor bring over 30 years of experience in the Ponca City public schools to the Lutheran School. “Even more than their obvious professional experience, what I value most is their dedication to Jesus Christ and their desire to serve Him by serving the children of Ponca City,” says The Rev. Mr. Ramsey, pastor.

Returning faculty and staff being rededicated to serving Jesus Christ for the coming school year include Jim Chanslor and Ann Ozbun, custodians; Paula McDaniel, teachers’ assistant; Ruth Smith and Teresa Mason, cooks; Darl Turney, day care director; Crystal Renken, Karen Herard, and Heather Herard, day care givers; Linda Groth, school secretary; Denise Jones, band; Heather Swinehart, computer; Barbara Mayer, preschool; Jeanne Freeman, pre-kindergarten; Jernda Lawrence, kindergarten; Christy Kurtz, first grade; Carol Powell, second grade; Edith Hunt, third grade; Cheryl Klein, fourth grade; Shelly Schatte, fifth grade; Janet Goll, sixth grade; Pam Belzer, seventh grade; Paul Schatte, superintendent; Renee Young, accountant; Gina Laramy church secretary; Jean Hoffmeyer, choir accompanist; Stan Hoffmeyer, music director; Heidi Gillum, youth minister, and Tom Ramsey, pastor.

Scholarship money is still available for new families to the school. Call the school office at 762-4243 for more information.

In addition to morning services First Lutheran offers an informal Sunday evening service at 6:30 p.m.

August 29 will mark the final outdoor service for the summer. The 11 a.m. service will be held at Lake Ponca Park with a picnic lunch to follow. During the service the Sunday School will hold its promotion. The Sunday School children will serve as the choir. Also new members will be received by confirmation or transfer of membership. Those attending the lunch are asked to bring either a salad or a dessert.

“If you do not have a church home in the Ponca City area, we invite you to be a part of our 'forever family’ here at First Lutheran,” concludes Pastor Ramsey.

Church Briefs

Prince of Peace Lutherans Plan Special Sunday

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 2800 Turner Road will celebrate “Bring a Friend Sunday” on Aug. 22, 1999 at the 10 a.m. worship service. A special service with banners, drama, and songs is being planned.

Sunday School classes for ages 3 through adult also begin on Aug. 22, 1999 at 9 a.m. Bible stories, songs, and crafts will highlight the classes.

Anyone who is interested is welcome to join the Lutherans for the activities of the morning.

A fun church picnic is planned for August 29. Watch the paper for forthcoming details.

‘Come Let Us Reason Together’

The Hartford Avenue Church of Christ invites the public to share God’s word with them every week. Sunday Bible classes at 9:30 a.m., worship at 10:30 a.m., Sunday evening at 6 o’clock and Wednesday at 7 p.m. There are classes for all age levels, nursery through adult. Watch the Search program Sunday 8 a.m. TV Channel 5 or 8.

The Hartford Avenue Church of Christ, 1905 Joe Street, will offer a free community service — a Parenting Seminar tonight, Aug. 20 7 to 8:45 p.m. and August 21, 9 a.m. to noon. The theme, “What Parents Have to Give That Children Have to Have.” The guest speaker will be Leon Dennis of Norman, Okla. Leon is a national certified counselor, and can give you something to help you be a better parent, to help guide your children. Free childcare will be provided for all sessions.

Peachtree Landing Pie Festival Planned

This year’s Peachtree Landing Pie Festival will be held at Pioneer Park on Fifth Street, Aug. 28, from 6 to 9 p.m. An exciting evening of fun, food, and entertainment is planned for the many supporters of Peachtree Landing, according to Shirley Foxworthy, chairman of the event.

This event is a celebration of the caring support that Ponca Citians have shown for the plight of the homeless in Ponca city, yet, it is also a way of letting the community know that this dilemma is far from over, Foxworthy pointed out.

All Ponca City churches are asked to help by finding volunteers and providing pies for this celebration.

Pioneer Christian All-Youth Fellowship Set

Pioneer Christian Church will be hosting an All-Youth Fellowship on Wednesday evenings this fall from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. The hour-long fellowship will include prayer and singing time. The youth will be participating in games, craft projects, and service projects throughout the year. Snacks will also be provided each week.

The congregation of Pioneer Christian Church invites all area youth from preschool to senior high age to join in. The church is located at 1701 East Hubbard Road, just east of Fourteenth Street (Highway 177).

The youth group of Pioneer Christian will also be selling watermelons to raise money for their various youth projects. The cost of the watermelons is $2 each.

If you need more information or would like to order a watermelon, please contact the church at 762-8858.

Woodlands Christian Getting Ready for Fall

Woodlands Christian Church is getting ready for fall! The Ministry Team and the Official Board have met recently to propel Woodlands into planning for fall programming and activities. Soon the Chancel Choir will resume their weekly practices, and Sonsingers and Day spring Singers will begin rehearsing, and Brown Bag Bible Lunch Bunch will resume their weekly study time. CWF, Youth Groups, Committees of Woodlands will soon be back into “business as usual.”

Several “new beginnings” are on the calendar for fall: Wednesday, Aug. 25, Chancel Choir Potluck Supper Fall Kickoff; Sunday, Sept. 12, Homecoming Sunday; Sunday, Sept. 19, Congregational Meeting; Saturday, Sept. 25, CYF Annual Fall Rummage Sale; Saturday, Oct. 2, CYF Annual Golf Tournament and Oct. 8-10, General Assembly in Cincinnati, Ohio.

There will be an opportunity for service for everyone, according to the pastor, the Rev. Paul Krueger.

BSF International Hosts Class

BSF International will host a class for women and their children.

BSF will hold introduction classes Sept. 15 and 22, 9 a.m., for women wanting to enroll in BSF. Mothers who attend the class may also enroll their pre-school children, two to six, it was announced.

BSF is an interdenominational Bible study and the Book of Romans will be taught this year. No provision for child care is scheduled for the introduction classes.

For more information, call Susan Fore, at 765-7124.

First UMC Offers Disciple I

Disciple I will be offered this fall at First United Methodist with the Rev. Gail Daugherty leading. Classes will meet on Sunday afternoons from 2 to 4:30 p.m. The first meeting has tentatively been set for Sept. 12.

If interested in becoming a part of this group, call Gail at 762-1681.

Pastor’s Notes

A current advertising campaign urges parent to talk to their children about drugs. It makes it clear how important it is for parents to warn their children about the dangers of drugs and urge them to “say no” to drugs;

I think it is important that the Church also provides a clear, anti-drug message. After reading two articles in the Dallas Morning News last week, I decided to share these true stories with you.

A Stafford, Texas mother had to miss the funeral of her infant son because she was in jail. This mother left her 8 month old son in the car after a night of drinking. She left a party at 3 a.m. against the advice of friends and tried to drive 40 miles from Houston to her home in Stafford. She was unable to complete the trip, and a limousine cab driver offered her a lift home. She accepted his help and placed her 3-year-old daughter in the car. However, she was so drunk, she forgot her son. She did not think about him until noon the next day when her husband asked about the baby. She also forgot where she left the car.

The child was found dead at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 1. It was in the mid-90s in Houston that day, and the temperature inside the car reached 106 degrees. Her attorney says, “she’s heartbroken, like any mother would be.”

In the same Dallas paper, it was reported that the driver of a bus that crashed on Mother’s Day, killing 22 people, had been using marijuana. A few hours before losing control of the bus and smashing into a concrete abutment, Frank Bedell ingested marijuana. Mr. Bedell would have been charged with vehicular homicide, but he died of a heart attack on Aug. 1. A 556 page report on the crash “listed Mr. Bedell’s drug use as the main factor leading to the May 9 crash of the Custom Charters bus — the worst in New Orleans’ history.”

These two stories demonstrate the destructiveness of drug abuse. They also prove the excuse, “It’s my body, and it doesn’t hurt anyone else for me to take drugs,” is a lie. I want to make it clear “the choice for me is drug free.” I encourage you to make the same choice.

The Rev. Dr. J.D. Ward, pastor

First United Methodist Church

St. Paul Methodists Celebrating 40th Year

The St. Paul’s United Methodist Church at Pecan and Hartford will be celebrating its 40th Anniversary Saturday, Feb. 28. Former pastors and members are coming back to Ponca to participate in this celebration that will be highlighted by the ground breaking of the congregation’s new sanctuary addition which will begin construction next month.

Beginning in the Woodlands School in 1959, St. Paul’s has grown to 900 members over the past four decades. The congregation began as a Sunday School class when members from First United Methodist were sent as a mission community to build a new church in northeast Ponca City. The first pastor, Don Bradford, has since died, but his widow, the Rev. Judy Bradford, will be on hand for the celebration. She is currently the pastor of Christ United Methodist Church in Enid. Former pastors Joe Carson, now retired, and Jack Atkinson, who is the new pastor of First Presbyterian of Elk City are planning to be present. Paul Bowles, District Superintendent of Tulsa will be on hand. Former associate ministers Craig Dietert and Dyton Owen also will be returning.

Fellowship will begin at 10 o’clock Saturday morning. The ground-breaking ceremony with superintendent Denny Hook will be at 10:30 a.m. followed by singing and fellowship in the chapel. A covered dish dinner will follow at noon with more informal remembrances and music after dinner. The master of ceremonies will be Ted Matson.

St. Paul’s new addition is a nearly $1.9 million project that should take just over a year to complete. The building on two levels, provides 14,436 square feet, including the new sanctuary, elevator, stairs, restrooms, prayer room, music rehearsal, youth rooms, library and additional classrooms. New space will be added to a remodeled fellowship hall with a new, relocated kitchen.

Wesleyan Church Calls Pastor

The Brookfield Avenue Wesleyan Church, located at Third and Brookfield, has called Pastor Mark Busch as their new minister.

Pastor Busch grew up in Nebraska and Montana where his father was also a minister in the Wesleyan denomination. He attended Bartlesville Wesleyan College where he met his wife, Terri. In May of 1997 Busch graduated with a degree in Pastoral Ministries and immediately took a position in Tulsa as an Assistant Pastor.

The couple was married in May of 1998 after Terri graduated with a degree in Communications. This past July, Busch accepted the position of Senior Pastor at Brookfield Avenue Wesleyan Church. His wife, Terri is employed at KLVV as a Disc Jockey.

Mark and Terri are excited about living and working in Ponca City. They believe God has a tremendous purpose for Brookfield Avenue Wesleyan Church and the people of Ponca City.

Scheduled services are as follows: Sunday School, 9:45 a.m., Sunday Morning Worship, 10:45 a.m. and Wednesday Evening Bible Study, 7 p.m.

St. Paul’s Children’s Program Set

The after school children’s program “LIFESAVERS for JESUS” begins Wednesday, Aug. 25, at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, and will continue each Wednesday afternoon during the school year. All children in kindergarten through sixth grade are invited to enjoy stories, music, games, snacks, chimes, handbells and missions.

The program begins at 3:30 p.m. with the children all gathering for an afternoon snack. The children are then divided into two groups: Kindergarten - 2nd grades and 3rd - 6th grades. As one group sings the other group has story and game time. Each group participates for 30 minutes in each activity. At 4:45 the older children play the chimes or handbells, while the younger group participates in mission activities.

Parents are to pick up their children promptly at 5:15 p.m. so rooms can be reset for other Wednesday night church activities which soon begin. The program is open to all children in the community — please register your child on his/her first day.

WWW, St. Paul’s UMC's Wednesday night activities will begin on Sept. 1. All children and their families are invited to stay for dinner ($3-adults & $2-children) and program classes. Adult classes range from Bible Studies to crafts, and children’s classes consist of a study hall, movie room, playground/nursery groups. WWW dinner begins at 5:30 p.m. and classes begin at 6:15, completing by 7:30 p.m.

For more information on either Lifesavers or WWW, please call the church at 765-7512.

EDUCATION

Calendar for PC Schools
ACT Scores in Oklahoma Continue to Rise
Ponca City’s BOE, Teachers Reach Tentative Agreement

Calendar for PC Schools

Holidays, services, transportation, food service, important phone numbers and a calendar for the Ponca City Public Schools for the 1999-2000 school year are as follows:

Holidays

Sept. 6, Labor Day

Oct. 21, 22, Fall Break

Nov. 24-26, Thanksgiving

Dec. 17-Jan. 2, Winter Break

March 20-24, Spring Break

April 21, Good Friday

Administrative Services

The administrative offices are located at 111 West Grand Avenue. Regularly scheduled meetings of the Board of Education are held on the second Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m., at the administrative offices. The phone number is 767-8000.

Key Phone Numbers

Administration Offices — 767-8000

Athletic Director — 767-8075

Child Nutrition — 767-8027

Transportation — 767-8088

Garfield — 767-8030

Liberty — 767-8040

Roosevelt — 767-8060

Trout — 767-8070

Union — 767-8035

Washington — 767-8080

Woodlands — 767-8025

East Middle School — 767-8020

Homework Hotline — 767-8034

West Middle School — 767-8010

Attendance Office — 767-8015

High School — 767-9500

Attendance Office — 767-9523

Counseling — 767-9546

District Voice Mail — 767-9555

1999-2000 School Calendar

Aug. 18 — First day of school, first reporting period begins

Sept. 6 — Labor Day, no school

Oct. 15 — Last day of the first nine weeks

Oct. 21, 22 — Fall Break, no school

Oct. 29 — Parent/Teacher Conferences

Nov. 24-26 — Thanksgiving Break

Dec. 15-17 — Semester exams

Dec. 20-31 — Winter Break

Jan. 3 — Students return to school, first day of second semester

Jan. 14 — Parent/Teacher Conferences

Jan. 17 — Professional Day, no school

Feb. 11— Holiday, no school

March 10 — End of the third nine weeks

March 20-24 — Spring Break

April 21 — Good Friday, no school

April 24 — Professional Day, no school

May 22-24 — Semester exams

May 24 — Last day of school

ACT Scores in Oklahoma Continue to Rise

Oklahoma’s ACT scores are up this year, continuing a decade-long trend of increasing scores, the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education announced.

And the rise in scores for Oklahoma students is outpacing both the region’s and the nation’s performance growth.

Regents attribute the continued growth to more students, especially minorities, better preparing for college as a result of local and statewide initiatives.

The 1999 Oklahoma graduating class achieved an average composite ACT score of 20.6, up 0.6 point from 20.0 from 1990 and 0.1 point from 20.5 in 1998. The national average composite score of 21.0 reflects a 0.4 point increase over the 1990 score of 20.6 and equals the 1998 score of 21.0.

In addition to outpacing the growth in national scores by 0.2 point since 1990, Oklahoma has experienced the largest score growth in its ACT region over the past five years. While Oklahoma scores increased 0.3 point since 1995, Texas increased only 0.2 point; Louisiana, 0.2; and Arkansas, 0.1. Scores for New Mexico have not changed since 1995.

“The rise in Oklahoma scores reflects hard won gains that are typically difficult to achieve without vast increases in resources,” said Chancellor Hans Brisch. “But through the hard work and dedication of Oklahomans in all levels of education, we have been able to make significant progress in ensuring more of our children are prepared for college and the working world.”

Regents also reported that a record number of the 1999 Oklahoma graduating class took the ACT, which is used by Oklahoma colleges and universities as part of the admissions process. A perfect score on the exam is 36.

A total of 26,455 students, or 72.4 percent of the 1999 class, took the test, ranking Oklahoma eighth in the nation in test participation. ACT data shows that from 1998 to 1999, the number of Oklahoma high school students taking the test increased 4.6 percent. Since 1990, the number of Oklahoma students taking the ACT has increased 19.5 percent.

“When a large number of students take the ACT, composite scores often decline. In Oklahoma, however, more students are taking the test, and they are earning higher scores, an indication that a greater number of students are preparing for college-level coursework and today’s demanding jobs,” Brisch said.

Regents also reported that math scores increased from 19.7 in 1998 to 19.8 in 1999, and English scores rose from 20.3 in 1998 to 20.4 in 1999. Reading scores declined from 21.1 in 1998 to 21.0 in 1999, while science reasoning scores stayed at 20.5 over the two-year span.

Overall, students who did the best on the ACT — regardless of their ethnic background or family income — are those who completed at least the ACT 13 core academic high school courses.

Oklahoma students who took core high school courses scored 2.6 points higher overall on the ACT than students taking non-core classes. Additionally, core students also scored higher in each subject area.

The ACT core curriculum, which is designed to prepare students for college, includes four years of English, and three years of specified math, social sciences and natural science courses.

Approximately 54 percent of Oklahoma’s 1999 high school graduating class reported taking the ACT core curriculum, up nine percentage points from 45 percent in 1990. Nationally, 60 percent of the nation’s 1999 graduates reported taking the full core, up from 48 percent in 1990.

Regents noted African American students made the most significant gains in course-taking patterns. Approximately 50 percent of African American students in the 1999 graduating class reported taking the core curriculum, up 16 percentage points from 34 percent in 1990.

“While the percentage of Oklahoma students taking core courses has increased during the 1990s, both the percentage of students taking core courses and the rate of change lag behind the nation’s,” Brisch said. “We should continue to encourage students to take more core courses in order to be prepared for life after high school.”

Regents also reported that over the past five years, the rise in the scores of Oklahoma minority students surpassed those of their national counterparts.

“We are pleased by the increases in the number of Oklahoma minorities taking the ACT and in the growth of their ACT scores,” said State Regents Chairman Bill W. Burgess Jr. “The increases indicate that they realize the importance of education to their futures and are taking the right step to prepare for life after high school.”

Ponca City’s BOE, Teachers Reach Tentative Agreement

Ponca City Board of Education and Ponca City Association of Classroom Teachers (ACT) have reached a tentative agreement for a contract for the 1999-2000 school year. Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Bill White, complimented the new negotiations process that continues a long tradition of cooperation between the Board of Education and ACT. “It is our goal to always strive to begin the school year with a contract,” stated White.

Mary Ann Sudbury, ACT Chief Negotiator, stated “The ACT appreciates that we were able to get a contract before classes begin. Increased instructional time and quality time with the teachers can only benefit the students of Ponca City.”

The Board and the ACT received two days of training with federal mediators on Interest-Based Bargaining.

Interest-based negotiation uses brainstorming to resolve issues of both teams. After two days of training, both teams only went through two days of negotiations before reaching agreement.

The new agreement made changes to personal business leave allowing accumulated leave to be converted to unused sick leave for retirement benefit or redeemed for cash. It also expanded the definition of sabbatical leave to include “other personal reasons.”

A new attendance incentive for teachers was added which will pay a cash bonus each year for good attendance on a sliding scale. It will also allow teachers to accumulate additional sick leave in lieu of cash up to four days for perfect attendance.

The salary base for each teacher will be raised $400/per teacher, and teachers will advance one step on the salary schedule. New steps will be added at B-23, M-24, M+20-24, and D-25. Dr. White explained, “This will allow us to compete for additional staff next spring.” Extra duty pay was also adjusted slightly to give more flexibility in negotiating these duties.

Contracted days will increase up to 185 for the 2000-20001 school year.

The additional days may be used for staff development or additional instructional days. When ratified by the ACT, the contract will cover the employment status of approximately 400 certified teachers.

SPORTS

Cats To Test Their Skills
Lady Cats Need More RBIs

Cats To Test Their Skills

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

The bad news for the Wildcat football team is there is little experience returning at the so-called skill position.

The good news is the competition is strong as players vie for those positions.

How well they are progressing will be shown tonight as the Cats host Bartlesville in the first scrimmage of the preseason. The freshmen and junior varsity were scheduled to start at 6 p.m. on the baseball field. The varsity will scrimmage on the football field, starting about 7:30.

“We look at this first scrimmage as just an extension of our regular practice,” head coach Rusty Benson said this week. “We won’t react to what Bartlesville does. We haven’t prepared for their formations, although they will probably use a 4-3 defense which we will see during the season.

“Basically, what we want to see is how our kids will react in certain situations.”

Most of the returning starters on this year’s team are in the offensive and defensive lines.

“But when I say our strength is in the line, I don’t mean the other areas are weak,” Benson said. “The competition for a starting spot in the (offensive) backfield is tough. Most of the kids there are good enough to play on Friday nights.”

The Cats graduated last year’s starting quarterback and most of the running backs. With the backup QB also not out, that leaves the signal calling task to youngsters who have taken few or no varsity snaps. There will also be a number of new faces in the backfield.

“We don’t have any burners back there. They’re not going to break the 50-60-yard run. But they can gain 8-to-10 yards a pop.

“You can wear down a defense quicker by gaining five or six yards a play than by breaking off a 70-yard run every once in a while.”

Likewise, the defensive secondary is new, and if past performances are any indicators, there will be several good to outstanding quarterbacks for the Cats to face this season.

“The kids back there haven’t been battle tested,” Benson said. “But that doesn’t mean they’re not capable players.”

The second Wildcat scrimmage will be next Thursday, again at home, against Del City.

The Ponca Citians kickoff the season in Sullins Stadium Sept. 3 against Tulsa Hale.

Lady Cats Need More RBIs

By MATTHEW KOENIG

News Sports Writer

For the Lady Wildcat softballers, who have a rousing dugout cheer by the same name, It’s RBI Time.

Despite screaming those three words through much of the game, a failure to get runners across the plate cost the Lady Cats, as they left 11 runners stranded in a 9-5 loss to Perry, Thursday. Included in there were bases-loaded situations in three different innings.

“There’s no excuse for that,” sighed coach Tracy Scott. “I don’t care if (Perry) has played 97 games more games than us, you can’t leave the bases loaded in three innings and expect to win.”

The Lady Maroons (9-3) have played eight more games than the Lady Cats, who fall to 0-4 with the loss. Two of those losses were in tie breakers at the Davenport Festival last weekend.

The Lady Cats continue their quest for win No. 1 tonight, hosting Blackwell. Game time is at 4.

“We’re just not playing to our ability,” Scott continued. “We are putting ourselves in position to win, but it’s the little things that are getting us.”

The Lady Cats did bang out eight hits and took advantage of eight walks from Perry pitcher Kalee Johnson to get on base.

Perry scored two runs in each of the first four innings to race to an 8-2 lead, and added another insurance run in the top of the seventh.

In a desperation comeback attempt, and after loading the bases on a pair of walks and an error, Gena Osborn — who finished 2-for-4 — cracked a long fly ball to fence, which popped out of the backpedaling centerfielder’s glove. The Lady Cats scored two on that play, but Perry went on to notch three straight outs to end the threat.

After a lead off hit from Courtney Birdsong in the bottom of the first, Alana Smith pulled the Lady Cats within one, 2-1, driving in Birdsong with a sacrifice fly.

Down 6-1 in the third, Jena Birdsong and Smith beat out infield hits, and Harmony Murrie dropped a shot into left field to load the bases. Jena Birdsong, who finished 2-for-3 with a walk, was then cut down at home on a fielder’s choice, but Smith scored minutes later on a passed ball.

Murrie also finished 2-for-3 with a walk.

With the bases loaded once again in the third, Perry third baseman Timory Brand turned an unassisted double play to end the inning.

Cara Cusick finished 0-for-0, but drew three walks and was hit by a pitch in the seventh inning. In the sixth, Cusick drew a lead off walk, stole second and third and scored on a passed ball to make it 8-3.

Game Notes — Hyperkinetic radio personality Marco Castillo, challenged by pitcher Ashley Engle, got an exhibition hit before the game started. After a swing and a miss, a foul tip, and with a full count, Castillo knocked a sharp grounder up the middle...the Junior Varsity came back to top Perry in the late game, 12-11. Scott noted the excellent play of Stephanie Toll and April Fair in that game...the Lady Cats were without two varsity starters...Courtney Birdsong, at shortstop, had a highlight play in the seventh, diving on a ground ball and throwing to first from her knees for the out. Osborn also had a nice stretch at first to get the ball...Osborn was robbed of a hit and an RBI in the fifth, as Perry left fielder Anna Marie Brorson made a diving grab.

Perry 9, Ponca City 5

Perry 222 200 1 — 9 8 2

Ponca City 101 001 2 — 5 8 2

Johnson (w), and Moran; J. Birdsong (l), Helm (6) and Helm, Mitchell (6).