LOCAL

PC Fire Traced to Electricity
Formal Charges Filed Against PC Husband and Wife
Sylvia Unleashed by Playhouse
West Honors One Student From Each Class
Letters to the Editor

PC Fire Traced to Electricity

By JEFF POLITTE

News Staff Writer

Preliminary reports indicate an electrical failure as the cause of a fire that destroyed two structures in downtown Ponca City early Thursday morning.

The fire, which started just before 2 a.m., began in the old O.V. Black building at the intersection of Second Street and Central Avenue. Buried beneath the rubble and remains of the 70-year-old structure are 22 burned-out husks of automobiles that were stored inside.

Snyder Electric, located just south of the old parking garage and gas station, was also destroyed by the blaze. Car Quest Auto Parts, 208 South Second Street, sustained water damage.

No damage estimates have been given at this time.

“Preliminary findings from the state fire marshal’s office point to an electrical failure on the south wall on the first floor, toward the west end” of the old garage, said Ponca City fire chief Gary Denny.

He said the final report is expected within two weeks.

Denny indicated the ignition source was in a storage room along the south wall and spread to some paper products stored inside.

“Put this in conjunction with a 70-year-old building with a heavy timber interior construction that is probably oil soaked from being a service station for years, then put 22 vehicles with various levels of fuel in them, and that equals a tremendous fire load,” he explained.

Denny suggested the flames had already spread across the first floor before three young men discovered its existence.

“That’s what heavy timber construction does. It holds in the flame. It allows the fire to build and magnify without compromising the integrity of the building,” he continued. “The pitfall is, when it does compromise the integrity of the structure, it results in failure.”

The fire chief said he didn’t know all the contents of the two structures.

“The stability of the structures are unquestionable,” he said. “Once the building is put in a safe condition — which is the responsibility of the owners — it would be up to the [individual’s] insurance company to evaluate the contents,” he added.

“The liability of the scene is up to the owners of those structures [at this time].”

Formal Charges Filed Against PC Husband and Wife

By JEFF POLITTE

News Staff Writer

A Ponca City real estate agent and his wife were formally charged in district court Thursday afternoon on several drug-related charges following their arrest last week.

Jimmy Mark Smith, 46, and Connie Jane Smith, 42, agents with Gold Key Realty of Ponca City, were arrested Sept. 15 after police discovered 24 marijuana plants growing in a field in the 4800 block of Lake Road.

Jimmy Smith, arrested near the marijuana field, was charged with one count of cultivation of a controlled substance, two counts of unlawful possession of a controlled drug with intent to distribute and three counts of possession of a controlled dangerous substance without tax stamp affixed.

His wife, arrested later while their home on Ramblewood Road was being searched, was charged with one count of unlawful possession of a controlled drug with intent to distribute, two counts of possession of a controlled dangerous substance without tax stamp affixed and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

“We are definitely looking forward to working with the District Attorney’s office in this matter,” said James Schaefer, Smith’s attorney. “I think it is something that will be handled fairly by that office.”

“The case is in a developmental stage for both sides at this time,” indicated Kenneth Holmes, attorney for Connie Smith. “We intend to meet with the D.A.’s office, and believe they will handle the case in a professional manner, as will we.”

According to court documents, a team of investigators with the district attorney’s office, members of a multi-county task force led by Freddie Garza, had the field where the plants were growing under video surveillance for at least three days before the actual arrest. Smith was caught on tape tending the plants during this time.

On Friday morning the team again had the field under surveillance. This time, when Smith went to tend the plants, he was approached by officers who identified themselves to the suspect. According to police, Smith ran, but was arrested a short time later.

Investigators, after obtaining a warrant, searched the couple’s home and found, in addition to the plants removed from the field, several gallon-sized bags containing marijuana (totaling approximately five pounds), a set of triple-beam scales and several items normally used to smoke the controlled substance.

In the attic, officers found evidence indicating marijuana had been cultivated in that area. This included marijuana stocks, marijuana stems, marijuana, hanging grow lights hooked to a timer and small containers beneath the lights.

The couple was released on a $1,500 bond on Friday.

Sylvia Unleashed by Playhouse

By JOYCE NEWMAN

News Staff Writer

An enthusiastic audience barked its approval Thursday night at the dress-rehearsal of the 2000-01 Ponca Playhouse season opener. Sylvia, a two act comedy, written by A.R. Gurney and directed by Playhouse veteran Jo Ann Muchmore opens tonight at 8 o’clock at the Poncan Theater.

Sylvia is the story of a street-smart dog, part Lab and part poodle, who is found in Central Park by Greg, a middle-aged man in the throes of a mid-life crisis. He takes her home, where she becomes a bone of contention between him and his wife, Kate. Their marriage is put in serious jeopardy when jealousy develops between Kate and Sylvia. Through a series of hilarious and touching complications, Greg and Kate learn to compromise and Sylvia becomes a valued part of their lives.

In the best sense of the word, Christina Rich-Splawn as Sylvia, is a real dog. Thanks to her superb canine skills the laughs are immediate, and continue throughout the play. For just under two hours, she suspends our disbelief and thoroughly entertains. She makes us forget that this Sylvia doesn’t have four legs and fur and that the fleas aren’t really biting.

Tom Cowley’s performance as husband Greg and new dog owner, is flawless and worthy of the term professional.

Jose Cervantes has the challenge of portraying three entirely different characters. He more than meets the challenge. As Greg’s male friend, Kate’s female friend, and as the gender challenged psychiatrist of both, his characterizations are subtle and on the mark. He only needs to pump up the volume a bit so that the audience does not miss a single one of his laugh producing lines.

As Greg’s beleaguered wife Kate, Cheryl Mauk gives a creditable and funny performance. She was also, a tad bit hard to hear at times, but by the second act had raised her volume enough that we didn’t miss her inebriated show-down with Greg.

The play contains some language, so keep that in mind when deciding whether or not to take the kids. Otherwise, be prepared to sit back and enjoy a few laughs.

The production staff, lead by Don Bishop as stage manager, has their job down to a fine art. If there were any flaws in last night’s production they were known only to them. Members of the production staff, along with Bishop, include: Kathy Beer, assistant stage manager; Marta Maril, light board; Gary Beer, sound board; Diane Malone, and Loretta Wilson, props; and Carey Emig as set dresser. Also included are Pete Shields, running crew; Marlys Cervantes, costumes; Ruslyn Hermanson, wigs; Dave May, sound design; Dave Guinn, light design; and set construction by Tom Cowley and Pete Shields.

The cut-out of the Manhattan skyline as background view from Greg and Kate’s apartment, with its changing lighting to mark the passage of time, was simple and well done.

Thanks to corporate sponsors The Gift Shoppe and Offshore Consulting Services, Sylvia will open tonight and be presented again on Sept. 23, 24, 29 and 30th. All performances are at 8 p.m. except the Sunday matinee which begins at 2 p.m.

The Playhouse box office (phone 765-5360) is located at 105 East Central and is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

West Honors One Student From Each Class

On Friday mornings, West Middle School honors a homeroom student from each class. Albertsons, West’s PIE (partners-in-education) partner, donates donuts, and coffee and juice are provided.

Parents are also invited to the informal presentation of certificates and achievement.

Last Friday, Sept. 15, the following students were recognized: John Sharp, Risa Brown, Joe Young, Andrea Bibbs, Kayla Carter, Jenna Dickison, Billy Glaser, Andrew Alvey, Phillip Northrup, Chuck Robbins, Mika Starbuck, Damon Smith, Dennise Sandoval, Levi Garrison, Tanisha Copeland, Dustin Gurley, Luis Loera, Todd Walling, Rashawna Pollard, Ben Marchington, Abigail Zoski, Mark Chaney, Shabray Parker, Julian Gamboa, Calah Lynes and Destiny Pollak.

Today, the following students were honored: Courtney Helm, Kody Crowell, Crstal Moore, Michael Clinton, Toby Jeffcoat, Levi Carter, Chris Hess, Andrew Dorman, Tyler Mcdaniel, Curtis Rhodd, Randi Barnard, Anita Rhodd, Jacob Bell, Tasha Willard, Josh Widener, Lynette Lena, Teal Morris, Heather Scarbrough, Kimberlee Burgess, Taryn Postman, Alicia Shoptese, Eric Caughman, Shealyn Golay, Jalisa Lee, Sonny Biggoose and Cameron Terry.

Letters to the Editor

Farewell, Joe! Kiwanis Will Miss You

Joe Miller. The very name brings thoughts of the 101 Ranch, early Ponca City, leadership, pioneer spirit, and the list goes on ...

To the Kiwanis Club of Ponca City, Joe Miller was the epitome of the Objects of Kiwanis:

• To give primacy to the human and spiritual, rather than the material values of life.

• To encourage the daily living of the Golden Rule in all human relationships.

• To promote the adoption and the application of higher social, business, and professional standards.

• To develop, by precept and example, a more intelligent, aggressive, and serviceable citizenship.

• To provide, through Kiwanis clubs, a practical means to form enduring friendships, to render altruistic service, and to build better communities.

• To cooperate in creating and maintaining that sound public opinion and high idealism which make possible the increase of righteousness, justice, patriotism, and goodwill.

Joe Miller didn't just talk the talk. He walked the walk. He led by example all his life.

Mr. Miller joined the Kiwanis Club of Ponca City in June of 1927. By 1933, he volunteered/was drafted to be the district lieutenant governor. A district lieutenant governor presides over all the clubs in the district. The district is only as enthusiastic, as service-minded, as caring as the lieutenant governor. While individual clubs may excel, the success of the district depends on the lieutenant governor. Joe Miller was outstanding. The local Kiwanis club was pleased to recently bestow on Joe Miller his lifetime membership in the Past Lt. Governor's Association.

In 1936, Joe Miller led the Kiwanis Club of Ponca City as president. He could lead and others were drawn to his leadership. He could also encourage others to lead and he would back them with everything he had. Joe did this throughout the remaining years of his membership.

For 70 years of his 73 years of membership, Joe Miller maintained a perfect attendance. A member maintains perfect attendance by attending weekly meetings, going on inter-club visits to the other Kiwanis clubs in the district, and working service opportunities in Ponca City. Only in the most recent years did Joe Miller miss meetings. However, he always asked Kiwanis friends when they visited what was going on. He read the club bulletin and wanted to do as much as he could to help serve the Ponca City community through Kiwanis.

Because of the Kiwanis slogan of "Serving the Children of the World," the club always budgets an amount to give in scholarships. Because of Joe's generosity and continued concern for helping others, this year's amount was doubled. The Joe Miller Kiwanis Scholarship was presented this year to Mindy Worley, a lovely young woman who graduated from Ponca City High School and is now a freshman at Oklahoma Baptist University. This typifies the kind of person Joe Miller was.

Joe, your friends will miss you, Ponca City will miss you, and Kiwanis Club will miss you!

Jody Sanford

DEATHS

Charlette Ann Buzzi
Flora Aline Choate

Charlette Ann Buzzi

ARKANSAS CITY, Kan. — Charlette Ann Buzzi, resident of Arkansas City, died Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2000, at the Via Christi Medical Center on the St. Francis Campus in Wichita, Kan. She was 71.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 23, at the Tonkawa IOOF Cemetery in Tonkawa. Arrangements are under the direction of Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home of Arkansas City.

Charlette Ann Buzzi was born Oct. 12, 1928, in Seminole, the daughter of Norman T. and Garnette J. Pickard Maassen. She attended school in St. Elmo, Ill., where she graduated from high School in 1947. She later attended East Central State in Ada.

On Oct. 31, 1954, she married Ed Buzzi in Ringwood, and they made their home in Arkansas City. She taught first and second grades at the Lincoln and Pershing elementary schools in Arkansas City from 1950 to 1980 and substitute taught for another two years. She was a longtime member of the First United Methodist Church and the Arkansas City Retired Teachers Association.

Survivors include her husband of the home and a brother, Stephen E. Maassen of Topeka, Kan. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Memorial contributions may be made in her name with the First United Methodist Church, c/o Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home, 100 East Kansas Avenue, Arkansas City, Kan. 67005.

Flora Aline Choate

San Bernardino, Calif. — Flora Aline Choate, resident of San Bernardino, Calif., died Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2000, at her home. She was 84.

The funeral was held at 11:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 11, at the Todd Memorial Chapel in Pomona, Calif., with the Rev. Ray F. Kibler officiating. Eulogy was given be her daughter, Billie Wehrle of Ponca City. Burial was in the La Verne Cemetery in La Verne, Calif.

Flora Aline Choate was born Jan. 29, 1916, in Larmar, Ark., the daughter of Erin and Eliza Crane Graham. She lived the majority of her life in San Dimas, Calif., and was employed as a nurse at the La Verne Convalescent Hospital for 18 years.

Survivors include two sons, James Allen Choate of Covina, Calif., and Roy Wendall Choate of Russellville, Ark.; four daughters, Billie Wehrle of Ponca City, Anna Jo Martinez of Hesperia, Calif., Betty Sue Young of Ontario, Calif., and Flora Louise Perez of San Bernardino, Calif.; a brother, Rex Graham of Hesperia, Calif.; two sisters, Pauline Cagle of San Dimas, Calif., and June Bewley of Russellville, Ark.; 21 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, James Choate; and two brothers, John Graham and Weaver Graham.

NEWS BRIEFS

Delivery Day — Po-Hi Vocal Music Frozen Food Fund Raiser Delivery Pick-up Day Saturday, Sept. 23, 10:30 a.m. to noon. Orders may be picked up at the Po-Hi Fine Arts Building. Extra frozen food items will be available for walk-in orders. Proceeds from this fund raiser will go toward the Po-Hi Chorale and Girl’s Chamber Choir trip to New York City for Nationals in May 2001.

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.

Business as Usual — Fire destroyed some of our equipment, but we have electricians available and can take care of our customers problems. Call us, Snyder Electric, 765-3575 or 762-1044.

Summer Clothing 4 for $1. Fall clothing putting out daily. Twice as Good Thrift Store. 209 S. 2nd. adv.

VFW, Auxiliary Dinner — Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1201 and the Ladies Auxiliary will hold their September Family Dinner at 1 p.m. Sunday at the post home on East Prospect Avenue. Gold Star parents and POW/MIAs will be honored. The meal is a covered dish brisket dinner; bring a dish to compliment the dinner.

Golden Appledoorn tulips only 19˘. Large selection fall bulbs.

Keathly Nursery 2448 Bridge Ave. adv.

Subject Held — An officer in the 500 block of North Osage Street reported a man was taken into custody on a city warrant for failure to pay at 3:22 p.m. Thursday.

Power of One - Garland McWatters, Fifth District Democratic Congressional candidate will start his Power of One walk Monday at 5:30 p.m., at the north city limits on U.S. 77 at 5:30 p.m. He will continue to Pioneer Park where he will hold a rally complete with homemade ice cream. Volunteers will be serving ice cream at 6:45 p.m., and the rally will begin at 7 p.m. The public is invited.

Pauline Steak and shrimp dinner $11.95 Friday the 22nd. For

reservations call 765-5460. adv.

Fight — A fight in the 1300 block of North Seventh Street involving several students was reported to Ponca City police at 11:05 a.m. Thursday. Three officers responded to the scene. Two 18-year-old men were taken into custody for obstructing an officer.

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.

Subject Held — An officer at the Ponca City Police Department, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue, reported a 25-year-old man was court committed for failure to appear for transporting an open container and no drivers license and failure to pay court costs at 2:22 p.m. Thursday.

Subject Held — An officer at the Ponca City Police Department, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue, reported a 19-year-old man was taken into custody on a Kay County warrant for failure to appear and failure to obey and a 20-year-old man for failure to appear and failure to obey at 5:53 p.m. Thursday.

Gas Drive-Off — A clerk at a business in the 2500 block of North Fourteenth Street reported a $2 gas drive-off to Ponca City police at 10:30 p.m. Thursday. A description was given of the vehicle. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential. Hours: Monday 1-3 p.m., Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and

Thursday, 6-8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. 765-9689. adv.

Accident — A hit-and-run accident in the 1700 block of Sykes Boulevard was reported to Ponca City police at 12:35 a.m. Friday. A man reported his vehicle had been struck while parked in a parking lot. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Stormescape Shelters, perfect

for garage, under vehicle, instal-

lation. $1,695. 765-2633. adv.

Subject Held — An officer at the intersection of West Ponca Avenue and South Waverly Street reported after a traffic stop two subjects were taken into custody at 12:35 a.m. Friday. A 29-year-old man was taken into custody for driving under intoxication, transporting an open container, no insurance and defective equipment and a 41-year-old man for public intoxication.

D & S Pool/Spa Services. General Maintenance - Cleaning -

Closings - Openings. Free estimates. Phone 762-3289, 762-1868. adv.

Burglary — A woman in the 2100 block of North Union Street reported her ex-boyfriend had just unlocked and entered her apartment to Ponca City police at 6:29 p.m. Thursday. She said the locks were supposed to have been changed. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. An extra patrol was requested.

LIFESTYLES

Brandy Blalack Becomes Bride of Shaw W.B. Minor
Miss Ponca City Contest Set
Little News
ABWA Chapter Elects New Officers
‘Fountain of Youth’ Topic for Laureate Phi Chapter
55 and Older Group Holds Fair Fun Day

Brandy Blalack Becomes Bride of Shaw W.B. Minor

Brandy Dawn Blalack and Shaw W.B. Minor were united in marriage in a 1 p.m. ceremony Aug. 11, 2000, in Miami, Okla. The couple resides in Stillwater. The bride is a receptionist for the Journalism department at Oklahoma state University and the bridegroom is currently a web developer for Poncacity.net, Ponca City Publishing Company.

Parents of the newlywed couple are Loyd and Sharon Blalack of Stillwater and William and Joanne Minor of Fairfax. The bride is the granddaughter of Kenneth and June Blalack of Miami, and Raymond and Betty Watson of Commerce. The bridegroom is the grandson of Adrian Minor of Spokane, Wash.

June Blalack hosted a reception in Miami following the ceremony. Assisting with the event were Eryn Minor and Sarah Puckett.

Miss Ponca City Contest Set

The Miss Ponca City Queen Contest will be held Sunday, Oct. 1, at the Conoco Fourth Street Club House. Tickets are available from the contestants or by contacting Jackie Cutler Ingram, 762-0437, or Vicki Graves, 765-4736.

This year’s contestants are Jennifer Lynn Doughty, Lisa Marie Lechtenberg, Jennifer Ann Nimmo, Crystal Bounds, Jennifer Diane Tippin, Megan Niccole Clark, Natashia Lynn Copple, Heather Rena Brown and Ashly Dawn Sawyers.

The contest begins at 6 p.m., and Master of Ceremonies will be KIXR personality R.J. Masters. The winner of the contest will be awarded the traditional crown and sash, a trophy, a scholarship and many other prizes. She will represent Ponca City as a “Visiting Queen” in the Arkalalah, Arkansas City’s annual Halloween Festival., slated for Oct. 27-28.

Miss Ponca City also acts as a goodwill ambassador, and attends various functions and speaking engagements throughout her year’s reign as her personal schedule allows.

Contestants will be judged on poise, appearance and personality. They will also be judged on a three-to-five minute presentation to include personal resume information, and the answers to the questions of “Why I Want to be Miss Ponca City” and “What Ponca City Means to Me.”

The title of Miss Ponca City is currently held by Halli Kay Huffman, daughter of Darlene and Bill Flegler and Gary and Carmen Huffman.

Contestants will appear in the order of a random drawing. Among the contestants is Lisa Marie Lechtenberg, daughter of Mike Lechtenberg and Nancy Hollaway. A junior at Ponca City High School, Lisa is a reading tutor for the Garfield Academy HOST program and St. Mary’s School. The honor student is a student council representative and is the council historian for 2000-01.

Lisa is her homeroom’s president, a student representative for the Po-Hi Building Level Team Advisory Council, vice president of the Po-Hi Blood Drive committee, and a section editor for the Po-Hi yearbook. She has attended leadership workshops and has been a member of the Pepperettes. A member of St. Mary’s Catholic church, she is employed at United Supermarkets, and enjoys spending time with family and friends.

Little News

Rex and Anna Maloney of Ponca City announce the birth of a daughter at 7:39 a.m. Sept. 12, 2000, in St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. Robyn Marie Maloney weighed 7 pounds, 3 ounces, and measured 21 inches. She has two sisters, Amanda and LaTisha, and three brothers, Stedman, Josh and Preston.

Maternal grandparents are Floyd and Teresa Kemmerer of Ponca City, and paternal grandparents are T.D. and Genevia Kitchen of Enid.

————

Announcing the birth of a son are Daryl and Julie Vap of Ponca City. Carson Christopher Vap was born at 6:58 a.m. Aug. 15, 2000, in St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He weighed 7 pounds, 3 ounces, and measured 19 inches long. The baby has two brothers, Bryce, 7, and Dylan, 4.

Maternal grandparents are Les and Dorothy Leaming of Newkirk and Bill and Sharon Adams of Ponca City. Paternal grandparents are Jerry and Charlene Vap of Ponca City.

Great-grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. A.E. Leaming of Springhill, Kan., Betty Jean Preble of Cherryvale, Kan., the late Kenneth Preble, and the late Elizabeth Vap.

————

Kenlie Dian Adkins is the name chosen by Kevin and Shari Adkins of Ponca City for their daughter born at 10:50 a.m. Aug. 4, 2000, in St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. The baby weighed 7 pounds, 11 ounces, and measured 19 1/2 inches long. She has two brothers, Brannon, 9, and Taber, 2.

Maternal grandparents are Tom and Sheila Montgomery and Ray and Linda Luis, and paternal grandparents are Jim and Sandra Adkins. Great-grandparents are Jim and Ruby Shaw, Kenneth and Clara Payne, and the late Emma Evans.

ABWA Chapter Elects New Officers

Members of the Ponca City Charter Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association are observing ABWA day Sept. 22. Hilary A Bufton, a Kansas City businessman, recognized the positive impact women could have on the business world and saw the need for an organization to help women reach their career goals and make the most of their potential.

With the help of three “enthusiastic” businesswomen, he turned this concept into reality. On Sept. 22, 1949, the American Business Women’s Association was founded and the headquarters for the national association was established in Kansas City, Mo.

In 1949 17.5 million American women held jobs outside their home. Today that number has grown to more than 50 million.

Ponca City Charter Chapter was established in March 1967. Since then the chapter has given more than $30,000 in local scholarships and has secured a number of ABWA national grants for local young women.

Ponca City Charter Chapter meets at 6:30 p.m. the third Monday of each month at the Holiday Inn. Any working woman wanting more information about the chapter should contact Johnnie, 765-5608, Bonnie, 765-8429, or Lana 762-2242.

‘Fountain of Youth’ Topic for Laureate Phi Chapter

Members of Laureate Phi chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority discovered the ancient secret of the Fountain of Youth when they met recently in the home of Alice Beman with Meire K. Harris as hostess.

Ms. Harris reviewed a book written by Peter Kelder which portrays the search for and finding of “a group of Lamas living in a monastery in the far reaches of the Himalayas. When a retired British Colonel began practicing the mode of living he found, his health improved, he slept better and only needed his cane when climbing in the mountains.”

She added, “The exercise ‘rites’ were described and breathing and diet were discussed.” Ms. Harris closed with a statement by Sophia Loren, “There is a fountain of youth. It is in your mind and talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of the people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age.”

Roberta Streeter, president, led the opening ritual and presided during the business session. The BSP Millennium Cookbook was displayed. Elsie Rosenbaum read the City Council minutes which said that the Preferential Tea will be held in Rose Stone Inn Oct. 15 from 2 to 4 p.m. Each chapter will bring two dozen cookies and a door prize. City Council By-Laws and Standing Rules were also reviewed.

Members brought paper goods for the Domestic Violence Center. Virginia Starks explained an AT Children’s Project which receives a percentage of each purchase made at Albertsons Food Stores. Ms. Beman, service chair, will obtain cards for members. Fran Smith gave the traveling basket to Ms. Beman who then gave it to Ms. Harris.

Ms. Starks advised that the next program meeting will be at “It’s in the Basket” on Lake Road and Rosedale. The program subject will be “Herbs.” Pat Hill will serve as hostess.

The Sept. 3rd social was a Fall Breakfast in the home of Lillian Williams. The social committee served as hostesses. Ms. Streeter led the closing ritual and Mizpah.

55 and Older Group Holds Fair Fun Day

Members of the 55 and Older Club hosted a “Fair Fun Day” Sept. 19. Ribbons were given for the best crafts. Lorene Delaney won grand prize for her crocheted dolls and Faye Hunt won second grand prize for her needlepoint placemats, coasters and napkin holder.

Third place awards went to Betty Engle, crocheted Christmas tree skirt, and Norma Bellmard, oil-painted pictures. Following refreshments, the group played cards.

RELIGION

St. Luke’s ... Debt Free!
Lutheran Picnic Set For Sunday Service
Swift Brothers Plan Revival
Blood Drive Set At First Christian
Temple Emmanuel Preparing for Holidays
FUMC Welcomes Guest Artist Manuel
Wimberley Reception Set Sunday
Living Without Absolutes Seminar Slated in October
First Methodist Youth Make Plans for Fall
‘Character First’ Program on Tap
Church Briefs

St. Luke’s ... Debt Free!

St. Luke’s Church of the Nazarene will be celebrating a Mortgage Burning Ceremony at 10:30 a.m. Sunday.

The ceremony will include the history of the church and messages from some former pastors. The guest speaker, Dr. Don Stelting, was a former pastor of the church from June of 1973 to August of 1977 and presently is the vice president for academic affairs and extension education at Nazarene Bible College in Colorado Springs, Colo. Special music will be performed by Stelting and his wife, Pam, and son, Don Jr.

The mortgage burning will occur at the end of the service with a pot-luck dinner to follow. The Rev. Terry N. Barker is the present minister.

The public is invited to attend this memorable day for the church. The church is located at 1715 East Prospect Avenue.

Lutheran Picnic Set For Sunday Service

The 8:30 a.m. service for First Lutheran Church Sunday will be held in the sanctuary and the Rev. Mr. Ramsey’s sermon will be “Loving the Lord; Love One Another.” Gale Mueller will sing the anthem Thanks Be to God.

The 11 a.m. service will be the final picnic service for the year and will be held at Lake Ponca Park. The Praise Band will lead that service.

Those attending are to bring their lawn chairs and either a salad or dessert to share at the lunch following the service.

The 6:30 p.m. service will continue its study of prayer. During the discussion and Bible study time, various aspects of prayer are analyzed, and then each worshiper is given an opportunity to practice the suggestions given to improve prayer life.

On Oct. 8, First Lutheran will observe Lutheran Women’s Missionary League Sunday with members of the local group leading most of the service for the day. On Oct. 15, the former minister of the congregation, the Rev. Marvin Henschel, will be the guest speaker.

Swift Brothers Plan Revival

Crestview Baptist Church members will be holding a series of meetings of messages and music Sept. 24 through 27.

Ray and Randy Swift will be leading the revival, and Becky Dye will be the accompanist for this event. The services will be 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, and 7 p.m. Monday through Wednesday.

Ray has been pastor of Dickson Baptist Church in Oklahoma City for 10 years. The first two of those years were served as minister of music and youth. He has served as youth director at a Navajo Indian Mission in Cuba, N.M. He is enrolled at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, attending off-campus classes and is expected to graduate next spring with a master’s degree in religious education.

Randy is minister of music and senior adults at the First Baptist Church of Woodward and has held similar positions in other churches throughout the state. He is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University and is working toward his graduate degree from Southwestern Seminary. He had the baritone lead in Buryl Red’s Dawn’s New Light, and performed in What is Man?

Dye is an OBU graduate and an pianist. She is a member of Northeast Baptist Church, involved with the music program both as pianist and vocalist. She also performs with the group Sweet Harmony that has appeared in many religious and civic events in the community.

The church is located at Highway 60 and Indian Hills Road, four miles east of the New River Bridge. For more information, call 765-6730 or 762-7817.

Blood Drive Set At First Christian

First Christian Church will sponsor a blood drive Sunday for the Oklahoma Blood Institute from 8:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m., in the gym of the church.

Every Sunday morning 40,000 units of blood are needed in the United States. It cannot be manufactured; only another human can provide this gift, Plan to attend and donate.Blood pressure checks will also be taken. .

The Renaissance Ringers Handbell Choir will perform at the 10:30 a.m. service.

The Celebration Service, a casual, come-as-you-are worship service at 6 p.m. will include a message from Kent Dorsey, “Who Wants to be the Greatest?” based on Mark 9:30-37.

Judy Fu will conduct an hourly beginning Tai Chi class every Friday morning at 11:15 a.m. in the fellowship hall. A $6 donation to Friendship Feast is the only cost.

On Oct. 1, the membership department will sponsor a fellowship luncheon following the 10:30 a.m. service.

Temple Emmanuel Preparing for Holidays

Rosh Hashannah, Yom Kippur Observances Slated over 10-Day Period

The blast of the ram’s horn brings and end to the drowsiness of the summer season. Jewish people throughout the world are roused by the resonant sound of this ancient instrument.

The blast marks the beginning of the High Holy Days, Rosh Hashannah and Yom Kippur.

The 10-day period from Rosh Hashannah through Yom Kippur is traditionally called The Days of Awe because it is at this time that Jews stand in awe of the world and its Maker.

This year the High Holiday period commences on Sept. 29 at sundown and ends Oct. 9 at sundown.

Rosh Hashannah, the Jewish New Year, is a celebration that blends joy with solemnity. There are various customs on this sacred day, some having to do with prayer, others with food.

Rosh Hashannah

On Rosh Hashannah, Jews praise God for the creation of the world. As the prayers proceed, individuals turn from looking out at the world to looking in at themselves.

In communal and private prayers, Jews consider the uncertainty of life and pray for Reshuvah (reconciliation with God). Most rabbis offer weighty sermons, inspiring congregants to begin the process of self-examination.

Dr. Perry Gethner from Stillwater will conduct the High Holy Day services at Temple Emanuel in Ponca City.

During the service, the distinct sound of the shofar or ram’s horn is heard in observance of a commandment which originates in the Bible. At home, the festive meal begins with blessings over sweet wine and a round challah — a rich egg bread — to reflect the continuing cycle of years and seasons. A blessing is said before eating apples and honey, symbolizing the hope of a sweet year to come.

During the 10 Days of Awe, Jews are encouraged to draw closer and closer to God and to their higher selves until they reach the spiritual heights of Yom Kippur — the Day of Atonement.

On Sunday evening, Oct. 8, Jews will observe an intense day of fasting and praying. The haunting prayer Kol Nidre, literally meaning “all vows,” is chanted as the congregation stands.

Yom Kippur

The Yom Kippur liturgy focuses on forgiveness, repentance and for life and peace in the new year. The observances of this solemn and sacred day dates back to biblical times. Each year, the Israelite community observed a day of self-denial, petitioning God for forgiveness by offering sacrifices on the Temple Mount.

In keeping with the solemnity of the day, some Jews wear white garments and simple canvas shoes.

The Book of Jonah is read in the afternoon — its narrative recalling an entire community spared from destruction because the community repented.

The melodies and chants on Yom Kippur are haunting and evocative, setting the mood for serious self-reflection.

A memorial service, held on Yom Kippur afternoon, called Yizkor, honors deceased relatives. Then, with a single extended blast of the ram’s horn, the 10-day period comes to a close.

Twenty-four hours of fasting and praying for forgiveness come to an end as Jewish communities near and far break bread together.

Dr. J.B. Smith, president of Temple Emanuel, announces that service for Rosh Hashannah evening, Friday, Sept. 29, will be held at 8 p.m. The Rosh Hashannah morning service on Sept. 30 will commence at 10 a.m.

Kol Nidre services for Yom Kippur eve will be held Sunday, Oct. 8, at 8 p.m.

The Yom Kippur morning service will commence at 10 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 9. The Monday afternoon Yizkor service and the concluding evening service begin at 2 p.m. Temple Emanuel is located at 1201 East Highland.

Call 765-2500, 765-8990 or 765-2252 for further details.

FUMC Welcomes Guest Artist Manuel

First United Methodist Church will welcome Ralph Manuel as guest artist on Sunday, Oct. 1. Manuel serves as a music missionary in Recife, Brazil, and is a composer of many sacred works for chorus, piano, solo voice and organ.

Manuel is a native Oklahoman and a graduate of Oklahoma City University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. He serves on the music faculty of the north Brazil Baptist Theological Seminary in Recife, Brazil, where he has taught since 1981.

He is the recipient of the John Ness Beck award for music composition, and is pursuing doctoral studies at Southwestern Seminary during his missions furlough.

Manuel will appear with the choirs of First United Methodist Church, 200 South Sixth, in a concert at 6 p.m. For more information, contact Donna Butler, 762-1681.

Wimberley Reception Set Sunday

Kathy Wimberley, minister of music at the First Presbyterian Church, a is retiring from the position she has held for ten years. A reception honoring her will be held following the 10 a.m. worship service Sunday. The public is invited.

In 1960, she started singing in the Presbyterian Church choir, serving as director of children’s choir for several years in the 60s and 70s. She regularly engages in piano duets with the organist at First Presbyterian Church.

She graduated from the University of North Texas with a bachelor of music degree. Since that time, she has been a member of the Ponca City Piano Quartet which played at the OK Mozart Festival in 1996, the Beethoven International Festival at the University of Southern Illinois in Carbondale, Ill., and the Beethoven International Festival at Southwestern Oklahoma State in Weatherford

The quartet also gas-played at Oklahoma State University, Phillips University, University of Tulsa, Oklahoma Baptist University and for the Tahlequah Music Educators and the Tulsa Music Educators.

Wimberley has taught piano in Ponca for over 30 years. She also serves as a piano judge for the Oklahoma Music Teacher’s Association at music festivals and auditions all over the state of Oklahoma as well as serving as past president of the association.. She is a past president and board member of the Ponca City Music Club, where she also directed the Choral Music Workshop for many years.

As a member of the Ponca City Arts and Humanities Council, she served as secretary for six years. She has served several terms on the Community Concert board, co-chaired the membership drive for the Ponca City Art Association. She has served on the planning committee for the formation of Arts Adventure, serving as chair and, later, co-chair for the piano section for eight years.

Living Without Absolutes Seminar Slated in October

“Living in a World Without Absolutes” is the theme for a free Christian living seminar to be presented at the Hartford Avenue Church of Christ Oct. 1-4. This timely seminar will address issues of critical importance to all who are concerned with the cultural and spiritual war taking place in our nation today.

“Our culture is dominated today by attitudes and philosophies that are largely divorced from absolutes” reports Don Huddleston, minister for the Hartford Avenue congregation. “For too many, there is no absolute truth, no absolute standard, and no absolute morality.”

The goal of the seminar is to help participants frame a Christian response to a world without absolutes.

Jim Baird, associate professor of biblical studies at Oklahoma Christian University, will speak Sunday at 9:30 a.m. on “How Did the World Lose Its Absolutes?” At 10:30 a.m., he will address the subject “What is Absolute?” and at 6 p.m. will discuss “Opening Minds in a World Without Absolutes.”

Seminar sessions Monday through Wednesday will be at 7 p.m. nightly. Stafford North, distinguished professor of Bible at Oklahoma Christian University, will speak Monday evening on “Being God’s People in a World Without Absolutes.”

Leon Dennis will speak Tuesday evening on “Raising a Family in a World Without Absolutes.” Dennis is a national certified counselor and serves as minister of the Westside Church of Christ in Norman.

Steve Parker will bring a thought-provoking message Wednesday evening entitled “Does Jesus Fit in a World Without Absolutes?” Parker is currently the minister for the Church of Christ in Chickasha and is involved in family and marriage counseling.

The public is invited to attend this free seminar. A nursery will be provided for all sessions and transportation is available.

In conjunction with the seminar, a collection of Bible artifacts will be on display Saturday, Sept. 30, at the fellowship center of the Hartford Avenue Church of Christ. The exhibit contains an original King James Bible dating back to 1611 AD, and a page from the first book printed with movable type, the 1450 Gutenberg Bible. Manuscripts in Hebrew, Greek, Ethioptic, and Latin, including early Christian papyrus (AD 250-450), and a complete Jewish Torah will be available for examination.

Rusty Maisel, curator of the exhibit, will give presentations about the documents at 11:40 a.m. and 3:40 p.m., and will be available throughout the day to answer questions. Maisel, a recognized authority on the authentication of rare Bibles, is a graduate of Dallas Baptist University and pursued graduate study in ancient history and archeology at Hebrew University in Jerusalem.

The display will be open to the public at the Hartford Avenue Church of Christ fellowship center, 304 Fairview, on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Hartford Avenue invites the community to attend the free seminar and the Bible exhibit. For further information about the seminar or exhibit, or to arrange transportation, please call 765-3610.

First Methodist Youth Make Plans for Fall

The Youth Group at First United Methodist Church directed by Tom Howard plans for a busy fall.

Last Sunday, the youth hosted the fifth annual Talent/No Talent Show. For this Sunday’s “That Youth Thing,” which is every Sunday at 6 p.m., the youth will be celebrating Banana Night at the church, located at Sixth and Central, so BYOB.

The youth are working on several fund raising activities to benefit mission projects. They will be working the canoe rides held at the upcoming Oktoberfest at the Marland Mansion. The proceeds from this activity will go towards their missions.

On Oct. 15, the FUMC youth will be hosting a spaghetti dinner at the church to help raise money for the caring fund (a mission within FUMC). On Oct. 22, they are planning on attending a Prayer and Praise gathering at the Northern Oklahoma College Wesley House. Then, to wrap up October, on the 29th, the youth will be treated to a Holiday Mystery Dinner.

The youth group continues “That Youth Thing" every Sunday evening at 6 p.m. and WOW every Wednesday at 7 p.m., both held at the church in the youth room.

The children’s ministry at FUMC has lots of activities scheduled for October as well. The children’s choirs will be performing twice in October. As well as FUMC, they will be celebrating Children’s Sabbath on Oct. 15. Family Fun Night is tentatively scheduled for October.

The weekly events for the children include Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. each Sunday, along with choir rehearsals on Wednesdays prior to Prayer and Praise. FUMC has special activities planned for the children who attend Wednesday night’s Prayer & Praise. The dinner begins at 5:30 p.m., and the children’s activities begin at approximately 6:30 p.m..

Coming on Oct. 1, First United Methodist Church will be hosting a guest artist, Ralph Manuel, a music missionary to Brazil. He will be performing during the morning services and be giving a special performance on Sunday, Oct. 1, at 6 p.m. The evening performance will be featuring FUMC’s adult, youth, and children’s choirs.

Surf the First United Methodist Church’s webpages located at www.members.fullnet.net/fumcpc, along with the Youth Page at www.fumyland.net to see everything FUMC has to offer.

‘Character First’ Program on Tap

Second Baptist Church will host the “Character First” coaches from Western Hills Baptist Church from Oklahoma City during the morning services Sunday.

These coaches will work with children and young people from kindergarten through senior high and their teachers during the Sunday School hour from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.. They will also conduct the morning worship service from 10:45 a.m. to noon.

Character First is a character building program designed to be used in schools, in industry and in public service organizations.

The coaches from Western Hills Baptist Church have worked in many of the schools in the Oklahoma City area. They have been involved in the business community and in public service organizations in many cities in Oklahoma. Many of the young people from Western Hills Baptist Church serve as character coaches. They recently traveled to Mozambique where they taught the character program to young people.

In addition to being in the Second Baptist Church this Sunday, the Character First coaches will conduct a community service project at the American Legion Home on Saturday.

Church Briefs

Prairie Chapel Homecoming

Prairie chapel United Methodist church, northwest of Ponca City, will observe its 71st annual homecoming on Sunday. Sunday school with Harlan Overman as superintendent will be at 10 a.m. Worship service will be 11 a.m. followed by a basket dinner and informal program in the afternoon. The Rev. Don Martin invites all past members and friends to the celebration.

Albright UMC

Neighborhood Cookout

Members of Albright United Methodist church will host the fifth annual Neighborhood Cookout from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday in the church parking lot, 128 South Palm. The picnic is free with hamburgers and hot dogs for those who live within a few blocks of the church. Sunday school classes and the youth will assist. The event will continue rain or shine in an effort to show appreciation and concern for the neighboring families.

New Mount Olive Baptist

New Mount Olive Baptist Church, 520 North Pine in Newkirk, will sponsor a fellowship service Sunday beginning with Sunday school at 10 a.m. followed by worship service at 11:15 a.m. The Rev. Irvin J. Bobb of New Mount Olive with deliver the message. An extended invitation is given to all who wish to attend.

Hartford Avenue

Church of Christ

Members of the Hartford Avenue Church of Christ, 1905 Joe Street, invite the public to share God’s word each week. Sunday Bible classes are at 9:30 a.m. followed by worship service at 10:30 a.m. Sunday evening worship is at 6 o’clock and Wednesday worship is at 7 p.m. There are classes for all ages. Watch the Search program Sunday at 8 a.m. on Channel 5 or Channel 8; this week’s topic is “Casual Christianity.” The Bible thought of the week is Psalms 27:1, “The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the defense of life; Whom shall I dread?”

Prince of Peace Lutheran

Prince of Peace Lutheran, ELCA, at 2800 Turner Road will celebrate the 15th Sunday after Pentecost. The theme is taken from the ninth chapter of Mark, where Jesus points out the people should be in humble service on behalf of those who are often forgotten in society. This Sunday is “Bring a Friend Sunday.” Sunday school begins at 9 a.m. The adult class is studying Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a Lutheran pastor and theologian. Worship service is at 10 a.m. The Rev. Bruce Keck’s spiritual growth class, Wednesday at 7 p.m., will focus on Christian Mystical Theology. The church now has a new website at www.onlineshops.com/princeofpeace.

Search TV

The Newkirk Church of Christ is sponsoring the Search TV program Sundays at 8 a.m. The congregation also sponsors the International Gospel Hour Sundays at 8:30 a.m. on KSOK FM 95.9.

First Nazarene Revival

The First Church of Nazarene, 1900 West Grand Avenue, will hold a revival Sunday at 10:45 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Monday through Wednesday at 7 p.m. John Lewis is the guest speaker.

Special Services

At Wesleyan Bible

The Rev. William Gale will be holding a series of special services Sept. 27 through Oct. 1 at the Wesleyan Bible Church, 410 Fairview Avenue. He is a former conference president in the Wesleyan Church and also served as president of Brainerd Indian School. For many years, he has toured the world directing and encouraging various missionaries and serving as evangelist. Gale will tell stories and talk of answers to prayer. Services will be held nightly at 7 p.m. and on Sunday at 10:45 a.m. and 6 p.m. For more information, call the Rev. David Hamer at 765-7212.

EDUCATION

ULC Expands Financial Needs
School News
ACT Prep Courses Scheduled For Several Months at OU
Title IX Indian Education Meeting Scheduled Oct. 2
School Calendar

ULC Expands Financial Needs

The fall 2000 semester has brought many new ventures for the University Learning Center of Northern Oklahoma. One area that has been expanded is to help individuals find financial assistance that will assist them in going back to school.

The ULC provides flexible degree programs designed with the needs of working adults in mind. But for many, the cost of going back to school is also a concern. The ULC has been working on several options that will be of benefit to future students.

Tuition Assistance

Several local employers have educational incentive or tuition reimbursement programs already in place. Ask your employer if such a benefit has already been established. Many offer 70 percent or 80 percent reimbursement and some pay 100 percent of the tuition cost.

The ULC would like to establish a file of sample incentive programs. So if you are an employer and would like to share a copy of your program, please call the ULC at 762-2856 or if you are an employee and know that your business has a good program, let us know about it.

Tax Credits Available

The Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997 is a fantastic opportunity for both employers and employees, but very few really know about it. The ULC is currently working to develop information that could be use with businesses to assist them in taking advantage of this opportunity.

How can businesses benefit? An employer can now provide education and training to employees for non-work related courses and exclude up to $5,250 of the benefits from his or her income under a qualified educational assistance program and deduct the cost or expense of the program. These tax incentives allow the employer with an avenue to provide educational benefits to its employees. The employee can exclude from his or her income up to $5,250 of the benefits received under a qualified educational assistance program. The education does not have to be work related for the benefits to be excluded.

If you would like more information about the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997, call the ULC at 762-2856. If any employer is already taking advantage of this legislation, please share your operational plan with us.

Scholarships

Each higher education institution that delivers coursework at the University Learning Center, has scholarship and financial aid information available for students. The ULC can assist individuals in connecting with the appropriate offices at the various institutions.

Community organizations, such as local chapters of PEO offer scholarships to individuals wishing to pursue degree programs. Scholarships and financial aid are also available through tribal organizations and programs for those students with Native American heritage.

A Scholarship Committee has also been formed by the ULC Advisory Board. This group plans to establish a ULC Foundation that would make numerous scholarships available to persons from local communities who want to pursue a college degree. A portion of the fees received from the Community Interest Sessions, currently being held at the ULC, will start this fund.

For more information about any of these financial assistance opportunities, call the ULC at 762-2856. The ULC is located in the North Tower of the Conoco Complex. Enter Gate F from South Avenue.

School News

Womble Completes Program

Damon M. Womble, a 1993 graduate of Po-Hi, recently completed a two-year course of study at OSU Okmulgee Tech. He graduated with honors from the Construction Technologies Division with an associate’s degree in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration. Damon's parents are David and Susan Womble and Sandy and Ken Yost, all of Ponca City.

Poulter Recognized

Stacey LeAnn Poulter has received the honors of being included in Who's Who Among American High School Students. This is the second year she has been named. Stacey attends DCLA in Oklahoma.

Larrison Inducted

Scott Larrison has accepted membership in the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. He was inducted at OSU on Sept. 10. He is the son of Stan and Donna Larrison of Ponca City.

Summer Honor Rolls

Several local students were named to the honor rolls this summer at Oklahoma State University. Ponca City kids named to the President’s Honor Roll were Andrea Crandall and Aaron Renken. Also making the honor roll were Candice Burton, Jimmy Davis, Katrina Heidlage, Tara Johnson, Jamal Williams, Evan Fleishacker and Amanda Mott.

ACT Prep Courses Scheduled For Several Months at OU

NORMAN — High school students studying for the ACT exam can get practical, time-tested advice through one-day preparation courses presented by the University of Oklahoma College of Continuing Education.

The ACT preparation courses, held on the OU Norman campus, will explore all sections of the exam, including mathematics, English grammar and usage, reading comprehension and scientific reasoning. Students will pinpoint topics and types of questions included in the test and come away with ideas to help them do better on the ACT. Each course will be offered one week prior to actual test dates to help students focus.

The next review is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 14 and runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The deadline for enrollment is Wednesday, Oct. 11. Future classes are scheduled for Dec. 2 and Feb. 3.

Conducting the classes will be Lynne Chesley, Norman High School principal, David Askey, who is a teacher at Norman High School and Robert Newman, assistant principal at Chickasha High School.

“We review English, math and science while integrating test-taking strategies. We also try to help students become familiar with the test content and format, and we give them a practice test,” Chesley said.

Chesley knows of at least one student who said the course helped him raise his ACT score by 10 points. While not all students will raise their scores by that amount, Chesley said dedicated students would benefit from taking the class.

“Almost every student who has the motivation and self-discipline to practice the strategies we teach in these courses will improve their scores,” Chesley said.

Cost for each course is $60 and includes instruction, materials and refreshments. Students are responsible for their own lunch.

For enrollment, more information, or to arrange accommodations on the basis of disability, contact Precollegiate Programs at (405) 325-6897.

Title IX Indian Education Meeting Scheduled Oct. 2

The Title IX Indian Education Parent Committee of the Ponca City schools will host the annual community-wide meeting on Monday, Oct. 2, at the West Middle School cafeteria from 6 to 8 p.m.

Business to be conducted will include the elections of parent committee members. Present committee members are Garland Kent Jr, Benett Arkeketa, Betty Primeaux, Jayne Lynch, Lori Franklin, Andrea Cook, Liz Delp, Renee Alexander and Vicki Ward.

In order to be nominated for membership, a person must be the legal guardian or parent of a Native American student that is enrolled in the Ponca City schools.

The guest speaker for the evening will be Archie Mason, consultant with the Title IX Indian Education of the Tulsa Public Schools.

There will also be a pot-luck supper. All parents of Native American students, administrators, teachers and counselors are extended an invitation.

The Title IX Indian Education staff for Ponca City includes Lucy Kent, Nellie Roughface, Jeana Rush, Carolyn Steeprock, Anna Adams, Jo A. Keating, project coordinator; and Dr. Patty Ladd, director of Title IX Indian Education.

For further information contact Garland Kent Jr., chairman of the Title IX Parent Committee, at 762-5509, Jo A. Keating, project coordinator, at 767-9500, ext. 128, or Dr. Patty Ladd, director of Title IX Indian Education, at 767-8000, ext. 238.

School Calendar

Remaining holidays and school calendar for the Ponca City Public Schools are as follows:

Holidays

Nov. 22-24, Thanksgiving Break

Dec. 21-Jan. 2, Winter Break

March 19-23, Spring Break

April 13, Good Friday

School Calendar

Oct. 19-20 — Fall Break

Oct. 27 — Parent/Teacher Conferences, no school

Nov. 13 — Work Day and Site Improvements, no school

Nov. 22-24 — Thanksgiving Break

Dec. 21-31 — Winter Break

Jan. 3 — Students return to school

Jan. 15-16 — Strand 3 and 4, no school

Feb. 9 — Zone 10 Day, no school

Feb. 23 — Parent/Teacher Conferences, no school

March 19-23 — Spring Break

April 13 — Good Friday, no school

May 24 — Last day of school

SPORTS

Wildcats Open District 6A 3 Play Tonight
Volleyballers Defeat Enid In Three Sets
OSU Offensive Line Gets Test
Sooners’ Offense Key Against Rice
PC Harriers Pick Up Two Individual Wins
TU Foe Pass Happy
Cougars Score Quickly Again Top Sand Springs

Wildcats Open District 6A 3 Play Tonight

Ponca City Hopes for Turnaround Aganst Enid

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

Ponca City’s Wildcats could be looking at their future tonight when they host Enid in the District 6A-3 opener. Kickoff is at 7:30 in Sullins Stadium.

Only, coach Frank Piccirillo and the Cats are hoping their future is now.

Last year Enid struggled to a 1-9 finish, taking a full season to get used the new system brought in by coach Ed Jones. This season the Plainsmen are off to a 2-1 start, having scored 77 points with Jones’ split backs veer offense.

“Enid is a much better team than it was last year,” Piccirillo says, noting the players have had a full season and the off-season to get Jones’ system down.

Piccirillo says the Wildcats have bee running hot and cold in an 0-3 start, mainly due to them trying to get use to his system, the one-back, two-tight end offense and 4-4 defense.

“I blame the system,” Piccirillo says of the mistakes the Poncans are making. “Remember, these seniors have been through four systems in four years.”

But the Po-Hi coaching staff does see a light at the end of the tunnel.

“Practices have been real good this week,” Piccirillo said. “The kids are feeling confident. They think they can play well.”

Despite a 40-7 loss to No. 6 ranked Owasso last week, the Wildcats could take hope in some of the “hot” runs they had.

Having giving the Rams great field position twice in the opening minutes of the game, the Wildcat defense held Owasso scoreless in two tries from inside the Wildcat 20.

“And Owasso has a real explosive offense,” Piccirillo said. “The defense did a great job.”

The Ponca City offense has sputtered, moving the ball, but not with the consistence it needs to put points on the scoreboard or control the ball.

Piccirillo feels his team could be ready to make the turnaround now,

“I know our players are prepared,” the coach said. “If they tackle well, block on offense and don’t make turnovers we can win this game.

“We have to play assignment football against the kind of offense Enid runs. Each player has an assignment and they have to carry it out. If we tackle well, we’ll be in great shape.”

Offensively, the Poncans will go against one of the biggest defensive fronts they faced so far.

“Enid has 6-6, 260; 6-5, 270; and a 280 pounder up front,” Piccirillo says.

The Wildcats will have to use their quickness to overcome that.

The Ponca City coach says having the district opener at home could be an advantage for the Wildcats.

“Having a big crowd and being on the home field will be a big help.

We were on the road for two weeks and it seemed a lot longer.”

Volleyballers Defeat Enid In Three Sets

The Ponca City Lady Cat volleyball team led by seniors Abbie Gehlert and Jeri Wright defeated Enid 15-9, 12-15 and 16-14.

Coach Steve McKay said the current team of Lady Cats has the potential to be the best team he’s ever coached.

“Physically, they are in better shape than anyone else we’ve played,” he said.

In the first game of the match, the Poncans jumped out to a 9-1 lead while playing almost perfect ball.

“At times we are playing as well as anyone in the state,” McKay said. “We just need to keep that focus and concentration for an entire game and match.”

In the second game, the Lady Cats were behind from the beginning. They clawed their way back to a 12-12 tie before giving up the final three points to lose the second game to Enid.

“Enid is a better team right now than Stillwater,” McKay said. “They didn’t give up and stayed after the ball all night. They worked hard.”

In the third game, the Poncans jumped out to an 8-2 lead, but then watched as Enid put runs together throughout the game to keep the score close. The scrappy Enid team dug balls from the gymnasium floor and dove hard for balls out of their reach. The Enid girls never let up for an instant and eventually tied the score 14-14.

The officials prematurely declared the Lady Cats the winner due to an error on the scoreboard. Instead of winning the game 15-13, the score was actually 14-13.

Both teams returned to the court where Enid promptly tied the game before the local girls finally won the game and match, 16-14.

“I’m really proud of the way they fight back and win, but it’s a learning process on how to win,” he said.

OSU Offensive Line Gets Test

STILLWATER (AP) — Oklahoma State’s bulky offensive line has opened holes for running back Reggie White and protected quarterback Tony Lindsay in two successful outings.

But the Cowboys’ men in the trenches face their toughest test Saturday at Lewis Field against a quick Southern Mississippi defense that proved to be a potent offense in a 21-0 upset win over Alabama last week.

Oklahoma State (2-0) and No. 22 Southern Mississippi (1-1) face each other for the first time.

Stout defense is a Southern Miss trademark and the defending Conference USA champ has earned a reputation as a formidable opponent for ranked teams.

Against the Crimson Tide, their seventh-ranked scoring defense forced four turnovers — scoring on two — and held Alabama to 118 yards in three quarters until switching to a prevent defense to protect the lead.

Defensive lineman Cedric Scott was considered a preseason All-America candidate.

Tennessee eked out a 19-16 win over the Golden Eagles in the first game of the season.

‘‘If we’re going to win, we’re going to have to be solid,’’ Cowboys coach Bob Simmons said.

A strong performance from the offensive line — the interior five averages 6 feet 4 inches and 308 pounds — is imperative, Simmons said.

Guard Bryan Phillips — 6-foot-4 and 335 pounds — said he and his fellow blockers are a good unit but will have to prove it Saturday.

‘‘This is the game where we find out how good we really are,’’ he said.

So far, the line has helped spring White for 317 yards and a 6.6-yard average per carry. Lindsay’s completed 52.8 percent of his passes for 359 yards.

The Cowboys hope for their 18th straight win at home against nonconference opponents. Oklahoma State won 23-0 last week over Division I-AA Southwest Texas but faltered at times with what Simmons said were missed communications and an occasional lack of discipline.

With a win, the Cowboys would undoubtedly earn respect among Big 12 rivals. They beat unranked Tulsa 36-26 in their season opener. Conference play begins next week at No. 15 Texas.

‘‘A lot of people question how good are we playing Tulsa and Southwest Texas State. I think Southern Miss is a good measure,’’ said defensive tackle Zac Akin. ‘‘They’re a ranked team and they’ve played two national powerhouses in their first two games.’’

The home defense faces a young offensive line that Southern Miss coach Jeff Bower said needs improvement.

The Golden Eagles line aided an 80-yard performance from running back Derrick Nix against Alabama. Nix averaged 3.5 yards a carry. He rushed for more than 1,000 yards last season.

Bower said he and his team aren’t taking Oklahoma State lightly and are guarding against a letdown after the big win in Birmingham last week.

‘‘We played well against Alabama because we were prepared well, and that’s why we won the football game,’’ Bower said. ‘‘That’s the same key this week.’’

Alabama’s defense pressured quarterback Jeff Kelly, who has completed 68 percent of his passes this season. Kelly is 19th nationally in passing efficiency.

A win would put the Cowboys at 3-0 for the first time since 1997. It’s been two years since Oklahoma State has beaten a ranked opponent and that against Mississippi State.

Sooners’ Offense Key Against Rice

NORMAN (AP) — While talk is focused on Rice bringing the wishbone back to Owen Field Saturday — where it was perfected by the Sooners in the 1970s and ’80s — Rice coach Ken Hatfield said stopping Oklahoma’s newly balanced offense is the key to the game.

Led by quarterback Josh Heupel, No. 17 Oklahoma (2-0) has emerged as one of the Big 12’s premier offensive powers this season, averaging 50 points in each of its first two lopsided wins.

And if Oklahoma jumps out to a quick start again Saturday, Rice (1-2) may find itself having to alter its grinding option attack in favor of something more efficient.

‘‘Heupel will pretty much throw the ball any down, any time,’’ Hatfield said, ‘‘and by spreading people out and the strength of the proficiency of the quarterback it’s certainly made it an exciting offense.’’

Rice’s offense has never been so accused. Running a wishbone attack that has all but disappeared from the face of major college football, the Owls ran up 335 yards on the ground against Tulsa last weekend but still lost the game, 23-16. Behind in the fourth quarter, Rice found itself in the uncomfortable position of having to pass the ball to try to catch up. It did not work.

Rice has completed only 16 passes in three games this season and on Saturday will be without injured quarterbacks Jeremy Hurd and Kyle Herm. Instead, the Owls will start junior Corey Evans, who is 6-of-26 this season for 103 yards.

Still, OU coach Bob Stoops said his team can’t afford to dismiss the Rice passing attack.

‘‘It’s impossible to stop the option without the secondary,’’ Stoops said, ‘‘and if your secondary quits reading for the pass and is just concerned about the run then that tends to sneak people behind you and can create some big plays.’’

Oklahoma, which used the wishbone exclusively for 14 seasons, now has a more balanced approach.

Freshman Renaldo Works has emerged from being a backup to sophomore tailback Quentin Griffin at the beginning of the season to being his complement. Splitting time with Griffin, Works is leading the Sooners with more than 100 yards per game. He has scored four TDs in the Sooners’ two wins.

Stoops said he plans to continue having the two split time.

‘‘Obviously with Quentin not being an overly large person there’s probably a certain number of hits he can take throughout an entire game and he does an excellent job when he’s in there,’’ Stoops said. ‘‘I think it is good the two of them can help each other and carry the load and it’s never on one person solely.’’

Hatfield said his Owls will need to play a flawless game to stay with the quick-strike Sooners, who come into the game favored by more than four touchdowns.

‘‘Our goal is really to make Oklahoma earn everything they get and not try to give them anything,’’ Hatfield said.

OU defensive tackle Ryan Fisher said the Sooner defense doesn’t plan on giving the Owls anything, either.

‘‘It’s going to take a certain intensity to shut them out and that’s what we always go for is the shutouts. To get out there and bring it on every series,’’ Fisher said. ‘‘So I don’t think our intensity is going to go down any. There’s just more out there for us to prove and we have to go out there and work harder.’’

PC Harriers Pick Up Two Individual Wins

ARKANSAS CITY, Kan. — Ponca City freshmen Chelsie Baldwin won the varsity girls’ race while Noah England and Derek Viljoen finished first and second in the freshman race at the cross country meet in Ark City on Sept. 21.

Baldwin and teammate Jessica Jorgensen ran one and two until the very end. Tightness in the chest due to asthma caused Jorgensen to drop back to fifth with a time of 12:44. Baldwin won the 1600-meter race with a time of 12:15.

Coach Kelly Chaney said Jorgensen, who runs with asthma, sometimes experiences an opposite effect after taking her medicine. He said her chest tightened towards the end of the race and caused her to lose her breath.

“I’m not worried,” Chaney said. “She’ll be fine. We just need a good rain to settle the dust and pollen.”

The next Ponca City runner, Melissa Stangeland, finished in 47th in 14:25. Mandy Bacher finished close behind at 14:34 for a 52nd place finish. Jessi Gwin finished 57th in 15:07; Maria Mena finished 62nd in 15:29 and Andrea Harris finished 65th in 15:45.

“Everything is going as it should and we’re really pleased with the results,” Chaney said. “Some of the girls took 30 seconds off their times. Training in the hot weather is beginning to pay off in the cooler weather.”

Coach Chaney moved England, Viljoen and Aaron Worley from the varsity squad to allow them to race as freshmen. England finished the 3200 meter race in 11:09, a full 50 seconds ahead of Viljoen. Worley finished ninth in 12:51.

England jumped out with a time of 2:32 at the 800 meter mark with Viljoen on his heels only 6 seconds behind. At the halfway point, England ran a 5:19 and opened up the lead on Viljoen and Worley, who passed the halfway point with times of 5:42 and 6:02.

Chaney said there was very little difference between the third and tenth place finishers.

Two Wild Cats finished with medals in junior varsity. Graden Hardy finished 13th and Chad Patterson finished 15th with times of 20:12 and 20:27 for the 3200 meter race.

Kyle Karnish was the top Wild Cat In the 5000 meter boys’ varsity race. Karnish finishe3d in 23rd with a time of 18:25. Cris Upchurch came in at 25th in 18:40 and Briyon Olson finished 35th in 18:56.

Ark City Cross Country Meet

Varsity Girls

Runner Time Place

Chelsie Baldwin 12:15 1

Jessica Jorgensen 12:44 5

Melissa Stangeland 14:25 47

Mandy Bacher 14:34 52

Jessi Gwin 15:07 57

Maria Mena 15:29 62

Andrea Harris 15:45 65

Varsity Boys

Runner Time Place

Kyle Karnish 18:25 23

Chris Upchurch 18:40 25

Briyon Olson 18:56 35

K. C. Corn 20:02 66

David Corn 20:04 67

Trevor Viljoen 20:53 73

Sean Lunsford 21:03 75

Team Standings

Varsity Girls

School Points Place

Bishop Carroll 65 1

Winfield 104 2

Derby 115 3

East Wichita 118 4

Kapen 129 5

Bartlesville 130 6

Ponca City 162 7

Wichita High School 165 8

Wichita North 205 9

Wichita Southeast 213 10

Wichita South 285 11

Varsity Boys

School Points Place

Bishop Carroll 49 1

North Wichita 117 2

Winfield 138 3

East Wichita 143 4

North Wichita 147 5

Bartlesville 164 6

Kapen 175 7

South Wichita 197 8

Derby 199 9

Ponca City 216 10

Wichita 235 11

Southeast Wichita 254 12

TU Foe Pass Happy

TULSA (AP) — For the second week in a row, Tulsa faces a ball-control offense when Louisiana Tech visits Skelly Stadium on Saturday.

But Louisiana Tech (1-3) finds itself without its starting quarterback after a 34-31 loss to Stephen F. Austin last week. Still, Tulsa (1-2) must defend against the passing of a redshirt freshman with two touchdowns tosses.

The Golden Hurricane will have to guard against the big play from Louisiana Tech in order to get the second win of the season, coach Keith Burns said.

Tulsa managed to handle Rice’s wishbone option last week in a 23-16 win at Houston. Louisiana Tech brings a wide-open offense that’s similar to Rice’s because the two attempt to control the ball and grind out the clock, Burns said.

But while Rice runs, the Bulldog offense tries to frustrate defenses with screens and underneath passing before opening up with the long ball, he said.

‘‘We’ve got to be patient, we can’t give them the deep passing game,’’ Burns said. ‘‘They are going to throw for 400 yards most likely.’’

The Bulldogs will attempt to maintain a passing threat with redshirt freshman Max Causey starting at quarterback. Causey, who’s completed 22-of-30 passes for 230 yards and two touchdowns, replaces Brian Stallworth.

Stallworth went out for the season last Saturday with a torn ligament in his left knee. He had completed 82-of-129 passes for 855 yards and seven touchdowns.

Causey said he expects Tulsa to come after him with blitzes. He said he remembers Burns’ tendency to call blitzes as defensive coordinator at Arkansas.

‘‘I was amazed at how many people they would bring,’’ Causey said. ‘‘I think they will come after us, and we are going to have to be ready for that.’’

In three games, the Golden Hurricane defense has recorded just three sacks for 10 total yards. TU’s defense has recorded one interception and broken up 11 passes but recorded two quarterback hurries.

The Bulldogs’ offense will have to contend with Tulsa linebacker Ashon Farley, the team leader in tackles with 17 solos and 12 assists.

Tulsa’s offense will again be in the hands of Josh Blankenship, who’s completed 48.2 percent of his passes for 788 yards in three games. Receiver Donald Shoals continues to lead the team with 301 yards and a 15.8-yard average per catch. Shoals is 10th nationally in receptions and receiving yards per game.

Tulsa’s run offense continues to struggle, averaging just 1.7 yards per carry.

The win at Rice was the first for Burns since taking over at Tulsa in the spring. Louisiana Tech coach Jack Bicknell III, now in his second season, is 9-6.

Louisiana Tech has won all four meetings between the two teams.

HURRICANE NOTES: Louisiana Tech moves to the Western Athletic Conference next season, but Tulsa coach Keith Burns already considers Saturday’s matchup a conference game of sorts. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. Burns interviewed for the head coaching position at Louisiana Tech in 1998.

Cougars Score Quickly Again Top Sand Springs

For the third time this season, the Ponca City eighth grade Cougars scored on their first offensive play in topping Sand Spring Central, 37-8, in the Poncans’ home opener.

The Ponca City defense was as overwhelming as the offense, scoring three touchdowns as the Cougars moved to 3-0 on the season.

Tailback Matt Brown took his first carry of the night 65 yards for a touchdown and the scoring spree was on.

The Cougars drove the ball on their second series with Brown scoring from 25 yards out. Brown booted through another extra point for a 14-0 lead.

Then the defense took over. Jared Kelle jarred the ball loose from a Sand Springs receiver and Josh Williams fell on the ball in the end zone as the score went to 21-0 in the first quarter.

The Cougars started strong in the second half. On the kickoff, Michael Detten forced another Sand Springs fumble and Derek Kuehner scored to run the score to 28-0.

On the visitors’ next possession, Williams grabbed an interception and returned it 35 yards for a touchdown.

Sand Springs got on the scoreboard in the fourth quarter vie an interception.

When Sand Springs turned the ball over on downs late in the game, coach Brad Parent broke out his kicking game with Brown booting through a 35-yard field goal.

The defense put an apt ending to the game when Marcelle Miller intercepted a Sand Springs pass.

The Cougars travel to meet Sand Springs Boyd next Thursday. Game time is 6 p.m.