From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Thursday, October 24, 1996

LOCAL
City Workers Injured When Meter Explodes
Nearly News
City Files for Court Order To Stop Mechanical Work
Prisoner Booking System At PCPD Nears High-Tech
Oklahoma Born Native American From Fairfax To Receive Coveted Award
Board Nominations Sought By Mental Health Officials
Fire Department Judges 637 Contest Posters
Centennial Statue Brought Standing Bear Memorial
Standing Bear Princess To Be Named
Arkansas City's Arkalalah Set Friday, Saturday
County Forming Entomology Club

DEATHS
Opal A. Guthrie Mitchell

NEWS BRIEFS

SPORTS
Pressure Building for Area Teams
Bentley's Abilities Unique
Bruins Get Yearly Stunner
Hoop Festival Set For Here Saturday


LOCAL

City Workers Injured When Meter Explodes

By LAURA TREADWAY
News Staff Writer
Two Ponca City Electric Department linemen sustained injuries from an explosion at the Ponca Plaza Shopping Center at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, reported Gary Martin, city manager.
Charles McCloud and Jim Epperson were replacing an electrical meter when the meter exploded. Jana Howell, personnel director, said city officials did not know how the accident occurred.
Ponca City Fire Department ambulances took the men to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. The victims were later taken to the Alexander Burn Center of Hillcrest Healthcare System, in Tulsa. A hospital spokesperson verified the men were released Wednesday evening.
The linemen are at home recovering, according to Howell.
These men present electrical safety programs to local elementary students. Epperson has been employed with the city since 1971. Though McCloud began working for the city in 1994, he has a long history of electrical work, Howell confirmed.
"We would like to thank the business people at the shopping center who were so quick to respond with help," Howell said.

Nearly News

One of the Queen Alalah finalists in Arkansas City for the Friday-Saturday Arkalalah Festival has ties to Ponca City, according to information received by NN. Amanda Mott, daughter of Michael and Nancy Mott of Ponca City, is one of the five who will vie for the honor Friday night. She worked the past summer as a lifeguard at Wentz Pool, a swimming instructor at the YMCA, and is currently employed at The Buckle in Ponca City. She is a sophomore at Cowley County Community College. Other Ponca City relatives include aunt Jane Kerr and cousins Kelby Kerr, Jan Leach and Craig Stafford. Good luck Amanda!
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In honor of the approaching hunting season, deer have been hanging out in town for safety. Recently on the way to work a newsroom person thought they were seeing a large dog crossing Pecan Street. However, the dog turned out to be a small fawn and two of its larger friends were waiting across the street for a romp on the lawns of the neighborhood. Others have mentioned seeing the deer when they are out walking in the area.
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Leadership Ponca City plans to collect donations of non-perishable items from Wildcat fans at Friday night's game. Patrons can make their contribution at either gate. Donations will be delivered to New Emergency Resources.
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Doors open at 7:15 this evening for the much-anticipated "Songs of the Heart - Every People's Native Music" at the Poncan Theatre. The 8 p.m. concert features Native American singers Dr. George and Camille Stevenson, accompanied by Lillian McConnel. Admission is free.
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Standing Bear Powwow Chairman Thomas Roughface notified Nearly News today that "because of the 40 percent forecast for rain on Friday evening and Saturday, all Standing Bear Powwow activities will be held indoors at the Hutchins Memorial Auditorium, Fifth at Overbrook." He said the rain and colder temperatures outdoors would keep many Tribal Elders and others from enjoying the celebration and could keep some contestants from dancing. The rain could also be damaging to the very expensive handmade dancing regalia. The Traditional Indian Feast will also be served at the Hutchins at 5 p.m. Saturday. Admission and the meal will be free. The powwow will begin at 7 p.m. Friday and again at 2 p.m. Saturday. All other activities will proceed as scheduled at Standing Bear Park as announced in the Oct. 23 MidWeek.
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Inquiring minds want to know, and in answer to a local history buff's question, sculptor Jo Davidson was not French as a recent story on the Marland statues indicated. Further research indicates Davidson was born in New York, but did much of his work in France. Also the finishing touches on the Marland Statue was apparently done here in a "temporary" studio.

City Files for Court Order To Stop Mechanical Work

By LAURA TREADWAY
News Staff Writer
The City of Ponca City has filed in municipal court to stop a Ponca City man from operating an auto mechanic shop considered in violation of city zoning codes.
In the filing, the city asks that Roy Buford not conduct any commercial activities on the premises, 511 South Fourth Street, not consistent with R-1 zoning. Commercial businesses are not permitted to operate in areas zoned R-1.
To date, Buford has filed an entry of appearance and is set to answer on Tuesday, according to his attorney, James Schaefer. Schaefer indicated the litigation could take as long as a year.
Schaefer stated that the process will include the city's response to Buford's answer, a scheduling conference, and the opportunity for each party to conduct discovery before a pre-trial conference is set. During the pre-trial conference, issues are discussed with a judge, Schaefer confirmed.
City Planner Harold Harris confirmed that Buford applied for a building permit, in 1990. The city knew of Buford's wrecker service, which is allowed as a home business. It was assumed that the building would be used for the wrecker, according to Harris.
As a result of the filing, Buford applied for a permit to rezone the property. Wednesday, Buford and his attorney made a presentation to a member of the Zoning Committee. The request will go before the Planning Commission after a Public Hearing on Nov. 5, at the Public Safety Center, 200 West Oklahoma Avenue, at 7:30 p.m.
Harris confirmed that the Planning Commission will make a recommendation on the request and submit it to the city commission on Nov. 25.
Harris noted that if the rezoning is recommended and subsequently approved by the city commission, the case against Buford would be dismissed. In his opinion, three options exist: relocating the mechanic shop, rezoning the property or granting the injunction.
"We are currently in the process of rezoning the property. We were unaware that he could not work as a business when he built the building in 1990. We had no ability to know he was improperly zoned," Schaefer shared. "Buford does not advertise his mechanic business, it has evolved over the years by word-of-mouth," he stated.
The attorney commented that Buford first began working on cars in the back along the alley when he moved onto the property 20 years ago. He also owns Gillock Wrecker Service.

Prisoner Booking System At PCPD Nears High-Tech

By LAURA TREADWAY
News Staff Writer
The prisoner booking system of the Ponca City Police Department will soon be high-tech, according to Capt. Daniel Tebow.
The department plans to purchase computer software which will automate the way the officers handle mug shots.
A grant from the Federal Bureau of Justice Assistance in the amount of $13,600, matched with $1,500 from the PCPD, will enable the department to purchase a photo imaging system.
The software captures data and digitized video images in a data base system. It uses modern digital photography to capture, store and manage mug shot photos. Soon the PCPD can create a photo-lineup on a monitor or single sheet of paper in a matter of seconds.
Victims, witnesses and officers will be able to browse through displayed images, matching a variety of criteria. The computer will perform searches which include physical characteristics, offender types as well as gang affiliation.
The system will have a camera to capture images. Pictures can be taken either in the field or at the station. They can be entered from video cameras, scanners or electronic files. The data base will be capable of storing four poses of each suspect.
This new technology will reduce the amount of time, space and cost associated with the current process.
"The imaging system will place the police department ahead of other law enforcement agencies. We will be one of the first in Oklahoma to have the technology," Tebow stated.
Tebow handles planning and research at the police department. Additionally, he manages the jail, police records, computer programing and network maintenance. He has been in law enforcement for 25 years; 22 of those have been with the PCPD.
The PCPD has been computerized since August 1984.

Oklahoma Born Native American From Fairfax To Receive Coveted Award

By KATHY ZEHR
News Staff Writer
On Dec. 8, the "Kennedy Center Honors," the most coveted award for a lifetime of service to the arts in America, will be awarded to Maria Tallchief an Oklahoma born Native American from Fairfax.
Maria was born on the Osage Reservation near Fairfax, the proud descendant of an Osage Tribal member father and an Irish/Scot mother.
The family later moved to Los Angeles, where Maria began music lessons and soon found she had perfect pitch. But is was the dance that captured her young girl's heart, and she continued to be one of the most highly acclaimed ballerina in International history.
After five years of ballet with nationally known instructors in Los Angeles, she achieved solo status with the Russe de Monte Carlo and danced in a variety of ballets from "Scheherazade" and "Gaite Parisienne" to "Serenade."
In the 1940s, she danced for George Balanchine who was known around the world for his famous ballet creations. She would marry Balanchine in 1947, and was the inspiration for his "Symphonie Concertante," "Sylvia; pas de deux," "Orpheus," "Night Shadow," "The Four Temperaments," and "Scotch Symphony." He featured her in his all productions of his (later named) New York Ballet Company.
As she danced up to eight performances per week critics were mesmerized and described her as electrifying, a prima ballerina, a creature of magic, enchanting audiences with her radiance of being, and dancing with effortless beauty.
Later, Tallchief and Balanchine were divorced and she returned to the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo. She remarried and left the ballet for a short time to become a mother in 1958.
She then joined the American Ballet Theatre in 1960, where she dance with Erik Bruhn and was chosen by Rudolf Nureyev as his partner for his famous defector's American debut in 1962 on television.
In 1975 Maria became the artistic director at the Chicago Lyric Opera ballet, retired from dancing in 1965, and founded the Chicago City Ballet in 1981, serving as its artistic director until 1987.
She has said of the ballet, "New Ideas are essential, but we must retain respect for the art of ballet - and that means the artist too - or else it is no longer an art form."
Ms. Tallchief will be in Washington to receive her honor and attend the surrounding events during the weekend of Dec. 7-8, along with other notables Jack Lemmon, Benny Carter, Edward Albee and Johnny Cash, who were nominated in their fields of art.
The culminating event, at the Kennedy Center on Dec. 8, is to be taped by CBS Television Network and will be broadcast this year on Dec. 26, 1996, at 9 p.m. EST.

Board Nominations Sought By Mental Health Officials

Eight regional advisory boards have been established by the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to work with the department to develop an integrated system of services for persons with mental illness or substance abuse disorders and victims of domestic violence or sexual assault. Nominations are now being sought for persons who can serve three-year terms on these boards.
Board members will evaluate weaknesses and strengths of regional service delivery systems; facilitate involvement of regional service providers and other community leaders in problem-solving; educate community residents about mental illness, substance abuse, and domestic violence/sexual assault issues and service needs; and build proactive partnerships with state and local decision makers to address area service needs.
Nominations are needed from current or former service recipients or their families; parents of children with severe emotional disturbance; law enforcement, judicial, or local government officials; business and civic leaders; social services, education, and youth services personnel; representatives of aging advocacy groups; members of the religious community; and other area residents.
Board members will attend six to eight meetings per year at a central site in their region, and travel expenses will be reimbursed. Members may not concurrently serve on a governing board of a community agency providing mental health, substance abuse, or domestic violence/sexual assault services.
Those who wish to nominate an individual for one of the regional advisory boards can contact Keith Hammer at the department's Oklahoma City office, 405-522-3856.
Kay County is included in the Northeast Region.

Fire Department Judges 637 Contest Posters

The Ponca City Fire Department had 637 entries for their annual poster contest during Fire Prevention Week. Scott Didericksen from Trout School and Sheridan Moss were grand prize winners.
"This year, we had triple the reply, thanks to the cooperation of teachers. Students were able to work on their posters in the classroom," Firefighter David VanBuskirk stated.
Firefighters judged the posters of local first, second and third graders who participated and awarded three winners at each school. The department donated fire pup smoke detectors and Play It Safe, fire safety games.
John Badley, Brandon Humble and Daniel Seaton were chosen from 38 students at First Assembly Christian School. Moss, Mandy Rutherford and Ray Sandoral, from Washington School, received recognition out of 79 students who entered.
Liberty School students Daniel Hays, Micah Wright and Amanda Shultz were selected out of 120 participants. Stephen Chicoine, Angelica Contreras and Mildred Warrior received noted for their posters out of 82 students at Roosevelt School.
Out of 52 students at First Lutheran School, Clint Goodger, Blair Turney and Kristina Kirsch were selected. Amanda Bordovsky, Marcus Golay and Raul Montenegro were chosen from Lincoln School from 20 participants.
Forty-two students submitted posters from Garfield School. Aniesha Chambray, Whitney Kizzar and Rashawna Pollard received recognition. At St. Mary's School, Molly Meyers, Jake Munyon and Catherine Smith were selected from 54 student entries.
Of the 150 student entries from Trout School, Didericksen, Morgan Bishop and Leslie Sanders were also chosen.

Centennial Statue Brought Standing Bear Memorial

Editor's Note: This is the fifth in a mini-series on the statues of Ponca City to be published during this special week when the Standing Bear Native American Memorial is to be dedicated.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
Out of conflict often comes good. This is the case of Jo Saylors' land run statue, which stands in Centennial Plaza in front of the Civic Center. Because of that statue, the Native American Standing Bear came into being.
Saylors statue depicts a horseback homesteader staking his claim in lands opened for settlement by the U.S. Government.
The bronze was the subject of a protest from Native Americans because it was originally tagged "This Land is Mine," by the Centennial committee because this is what the rider would probably have said when he staked the land.
In a move for community harmony, the 1993 Cherokee Strip Committee, which had worked for two years on the project, acquiesced and named the monument the Centennial Statue, but without the quotation marks.
When the statue was dedicated, a small group of Native Americans carried protest signs and played drums in an attempt to drown out the unveiling ceremony.
Ponca City had more national network television coverage during the celebration than any other town in the Cherokee Strip including more populated Enid, due to the controversy.
Historically it has been proven that the more controversial a statue, the better known the artist becomes.
Saylors' homesteader statue was funded by selling miniature bronzes. The names of those donors are inscribed on the statue base. The Centennial Committee along with others are recognized in granite and brick memorials at the plaza.
Centennial Committee
Larry Stephenson, chairman of the 1993 Cherokee Strip Centennial Committee, also thinks good came out of the conflict and wishes the Standing Bear project well.
He told how the first label of the centennial anniversary statue came about. Stephenson, a well known civic leader said, it was because "there are different interpretations on how we regard the land. We (Centennial Committee) said 'This land is mine' because that is probably what the person said when staking his claim.
"At the same time, people who have historically been here so long had the interpretation that all land belongs to everybody and the use is designated but not actually owned.
"This is what brought about the Native Americans objections to the statement 'This land is mine' for the statue. It was felt they needed one (statue) of their own that they could pay greater homage to."
Stephenson added, "Carl Renfro had done a lot of good things for Native Americans and I'm confident that is the reason he was selected (as chairman) and he has certainly worked very hard to bring it about. I have nothing but complimentary remarks to make about Carl giving the leadership and working with so many people to bring this (Standing Bear Memorial) about."
After the 1993 celebration a committee was formed to create a Native American Memorial. The committee was headed by banker Carl Renfro.
Native Americans and many others, some from the Centennial Committee, joined the effort to recognize an important part of America's heritage by creating not only a statue of monumental proportions but a park, educational center and museum.
Renfro brought together a blending of cultures to bring to fruition an ambitious plan - but not an impossible task. Renfro has spent many hours on the project as a mediator and negotiator. He has left no stone unturned calling in chips from corporate entities, and governmental bodies for the project to recognize Native Americans and to enhance Ponca City.
Backed by Native Americans, the Ponca City community, Conoco and others, the committee has labored endlessly to make the complex a meaningful one for Native Americans and educational for others.
Additionally, the project will bring visitors to Ponca City from all races and around the world, who wish to learn more about the Native American culture.
The Memorial Park complex is expected to be a place where Native Americans can come to pay homage to those that have gone before and those who continue to play important roles in the present and the future of the United States and Oklahoma in particular.
Monumental Statue
In size the Pioneer Woman Statue is 17 feet high, while Standing Bear is 22 feet tall. The Pioneer Woman stands on a base 13 feet tall, and Standing Bear is based on a three-foot foundation. The Pioneer Woman weights 12,000 pounds while Standing Bear is probably not more than 10,000 pounds, according to the crane company that put the statue on the base.
The Pioneer Woman stands on a flat spot on a four-acre park at a major intersection in Ponca City at Fourteenth and Lake Road, although this was not a high traffic area in 1930 when the statue was dedicated.
Standing Bear has been placed on a hill in a 63-acre park at the south edge of Ponca City overlooking U.S. 60 and the Arkansas River.
Saylors, of international credentials, was one of the five finalists for the Standing Bear statue, which was awarded to Native American Oreland C. Joe of New Mexico, an artist of impeccable reputation.
Saylors' work is well known to Ponca Citians. She did the "Through the Eyes of a Child," that sits at the entrance to the Ponca City Municipal Library. The bronze shows a young girl reading to another youngster. Saylors has a talent for breathing life into her bronzes, giving them the feeling of motion.
Her works have been placed in galleries throughout the United States and a number of her art pieces can be found in 12 foreign countries.
It is interesting to note that although Saylors, is self taught, the most profound influence on her work is, no doubt, her study with her idol, the late Jo Davidson. The French artist sculpted the Ponca City statues of George, Lydie and E.W. Marland, as well as one of the 12 models for the Pioneer Woman.
Saturday, will be another monumental day for Ponca City. When the Standing Bear Native American Memorial is officially unveiled at 11 a.m. The heroic sculpture will add yet another dimension to the diverse and colorful tapestry of Ponca City's culture.

Standing Bear Princess To Be Named

Area Tribal Students Vie For Princess Title
By KATHY ZEHR
News Staff Writer
It is traditional at powwows and other Native American celebrations to select a special princess to reign for a year following the event. The Native American Foundation has followed that custom for the Standing Bear Memorial celebration and recently sent the call to area tribes for entries.
Six young ladies from the area have entered the competition to be crowned 1996-97 Standing Bear Princess and represent the Foundation, including six area tribes, for the 1996-97 year. The winner will be announced and crowned Friday evening at the Standing Bear Powwow.
Contestants include Rosetta "Muffin" Arkeketa a member of the Ponca/Otoe tribes; Carolee Ann Bible, a member of the Otoe/Seminole tribes; Cher Marie Eagle a member of the Ponca Tribe; Sarah Elizabeth Kauahquo, a member of the Ponca/Kiowa tribes; Roberta J. McClellan, a member of the Ponca Tribe; and Regan McDonald, a member of the Ponca/Otoe tribes.
Rules for entry include that candidates be a high school or college student under the age of 22 years and unmarried. Contestants must be enrolled as a member of one of the six north central Oklahoma tribes, Kaw, Pawnee, Ponca, Osage, Otoe-Missouria or Tonkawa.
A contender must also be able to be outgoing, able to meet people, converse knowledgeably about Native Americans in general and her tribe in particular. She should know about her tribal history, heritage, customs, tribal dress and traditions. Also the young lady should be a good dancer and able to lead traditional dances at powwows.
The young woman selected as Standing Bear Princess will be expected to be a good representative/ambassador and available for public appearances for all six north central Oklahoma tribes and the Ponca City Native American Foundation.
An educational scholarship provided by the Native American Foundation accompanies the crown for the winning applicant.
Chairman for the Standing Bear Princess was Marcie Hudson, an employee of the Ponca Tribal Council office, and a member of the Standing Bear Memorial Committee.
Each contestant was required to complete an application listing her tribal affiliation, school and tribal activities and a statement about why she would like to serve as Standing Bear Princess for 1996-97.
That information and the statements from each candidate are as follows:
Rosetta "Muffin" Arkeketa
Rosetta is a student at Ponca City, and has served as 1994-95 Oo-Kee-Hee Princess. She says she would be honored to be selected Standing Bear Princess.
"I am proud to be a Native American. I am proud to be Poncan and I am grateful for what Standing Bear has done for the Native Americans. What he has accomplished was a significant turning point in the plight of the Native American.
"I would bring honor and respect to the title of Standing Bear Princess and gladly attend as many functions as possible to promote the cause. I would do this with confidence because I know my family and friends back me 100 percent."
Rosetta, who is age 15, was a member of the Sports Challenge USA Team Austria-Vienna Cup Soccer Tour 1996, and has served as Head Lady Dancer at various powwows and has participated in competitive dancing.
Carolee Ann Bible
Carolee Ann Bible is 15 years old and lives in Red Rock. Her activities include basketball, softball, fast pitch, traditional dancing and art.
Carolee whose Otoe-Missouria Tribes Indian name is "Cho-Dache-Me" meaning "my home, and my heart will always be full of enriching plenty," writes, "I am proud of my Native American Heritage, my tribal affiliations and my family.
"My family has always supported me in everything I have accomplished, simply because I had the gumption to say 'I want to do or be,' a certain way. I have always been taught to respect people and their ideas, be myself and look to myself for the best possible solution, should I have doubts in my life.
"I have been taught to pray when people are happy and pray when they are sad. Our history tells us, our Indian people always had honor and courage for themselves even though times were hard, yet we have endured because no matter what, we are 'Native American Indian.'
"I would like to represent the memoriam of Standing Bear because he is a part of our Indian history and I am capable of holding onto the respect our elders hold for all our traditions and our people.
"My great-grandmother told me 'When people ask you to do something, no matter what it is, you do the best you can, be the best you can possibly be and that is all you can do.' Thank You."
Cher Marie Eagle
Cher Marie Eagle is 18 and a senior at Ponca City High School. She is a member of the Oo-Kee-Hee Club, DECA, and the Ponca Tribal Youth Council.
Cher Marie writes, " I would like to be the Standing Bear Princess because I feel it would be a great opportunity for me to represent not only the Ponca Tribe but also the Native American Foundation and surrounding tribes.
"As Standing Bear Princess I would attend various powwows and dances and invite others to come to the Standing Bear powwow. I would use the title to encourage children to stay in school and also to participate more in our dances and powwows.
"A way I would promote the Memorial Park project is by explaining to people exactly what the park is, who Standing Bear was, and why he was chosen to be honored. I would also encourage people to visit The Park.
"If I am chosen to be the Standing Bear Princess, it would be an honor and I will use the best of my ability to represent the Ponca Tribe, the Native American Foundation and everyone else who supports me."
Sarah Elizabeth Kauahquo
Sarah is 17 and a senior at Hobart High School. Her high school activities include memberships in the Future Teachers of America, Future Homemakers of America, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Student Council and National Honor Society. She is a Lady Bearcat for the Hobart basketball and softball teams and attends the Hobart First Methodist Church.
Sarah writes, "I have a proud heritage with both the Ponca and the Kiowa. My grandparents, Richard and Diana (Roughface) Kauahquo helped us to know both tribal traditions. My grandfather is one of the leaders of the Kiowa Tia-Piah Society for which I served as Princess for two years.
"On the Ponca side, I am a great-great-great granddaughter of Chief RoughFace, one of the last chiefs of the Poncas and the brother of Standing Bear.
"We travel to White Eagle to take part in the dances and the annual powwow in August. I have served there as Head Lady Dancer many times.
"In the spring I will go to Washington, D.C. with the Close Up Program, representing Hobart High School. This trip will enable me to see how the government and judicial system works."
"I will promote the Standing Bear Memorial Park project however the Native American Foundation instructs me to, and am willing to come to Ponca City and White Eagle any time the Foundation calls. I would appreciate the opportunity and be proud to serve as the Standing Bear Princess."
Roberta J. McClellan
Roberta is a student at Northern Oklahoma College and a member of the Ponca Indian United Methodist Church, and is the Church Youth Group president.
Roberta writes, "Being Standing Bear Princess would mean a lot to me. It would give me a great honor to represent my Native American Indian people and great to wear the banner that has a great chief's name bestowed upon me.
"It would also mean a lot because if it wasn't for Standing Bear who fought for the civil rights of Native Americans, so they could be equal as the white man, we, the Native Americans, might still be treated the same as way back in the 1800s. Also, I heard Chief Standing Bear was a good man and he overcame his struggles as many of us overcome our struggles today.
"To help promote the project I would work with the six tribes and the Foundation to make the project a success in any way I know how. I would also help promote the project by speaking to people about how this Chief of the Ponca's struggled for the civil rights of Native American Indian people. I would also help the people with my knowledge of Chief Standing Bear to understand why he was chosen to have a Memorial Park made in his memory."
Regan McDonald
Regan McDonald, 18, is from Stillwater and has attended basketball camp, served as Otoe Princess and has served as president and vice-president of the Indian Club. She has attended numerous powwows.
Regan says, "Being Standing Bear Princess would allow me to represent my Native American heritage, of which I am very proud and also continue my education.
It would be of great honor to me and my family to be the first to represent Standing Bear. To further my education is very important to me, but only as important as representing our people."

Arkansas City's Arkalalah Set Friday, Saturday

ARKANSAS CITY - Kansas Governor Bill Graves will be a participant in the 65th Arkalalah Parade at 2 p.m., Saturday in downtown Arkansas City.
Arkalalah events set for Friday include the Pumpkin Fest, a craft show from 8 a.m., to 6 p.m., at Recreation Center, 225 East Fifth, and Sacred Heart, 310 South B.
From 12:30 to 4 p.m., there will be free kids movies (Pinocchio) at Burford Cinemas. At 2 p.m. will be the crowing of Little Miss and Mr. Arkalalah.
The Children's Parade is at 3 p.m. At 7:30 p.m., the Arkalalah Coronation for the 66th queen will be held at W.S. Scott auditorium. Music will be by Cowley County Community College Jazz Band.
Saturday a number of events are planned including the Arkalalah Big Parade slated for 2 p.m. The craft show continues and there will be Street Games for youths beginning at 11:30 a.m., downtown.
That evening there will be pre-round dancing and Levi and Lace Square dancing.

County Forming Entomology Club

NEWKIRK - Any teachers, youths or parents interested in collecting insects are welcome at the first meeting of the Kay County Entomology Club to be held from 1-3 p.m. Nov. 2, at the Newkirk High School Ag-Ed Room next to the gymnasium.
County Extension 4-H Agent Larry Klumpp said the charter meeting, known as "Bug Out '97," is an opportunity to learn more about the entomology program and become successful competitors and have fun.
Ponca City High School science teacher Tonya Scott will be the instructor. Scott is a former 4-H'er experienced in many areas of the entomology program.
The club is trying to plan events such as a field trip to the OSU entomology department and insect museum, as well as collecting trips and a countywide contest.
Klumpp said participants should register by Oct. 28, at the county OSU extension office, by telephoning 405-362-3194.


DEATHS

Opal A. Guthrie Mitchell
RALSTON - Opal A. Guthrie Mitchell, Ralston resident, died at Tulsa (Okla.) Regional Medical Center, Tuesday, Oct. 22, 1996. She was 82.
The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Friday in the Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home Chapel in Fairfax with the Rev. George Weston, Fairfax First Christian Church, officiating. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Ralston. Friends may visit at the funeral home until 9 p.m. today.
Opal A. (Graham) Guthrie Mitchell was born Oct. 11, 1914, in Bentonville, Ark., the daughter of Joseph Andrew and Relda Jane (Pugh) Graham. She attended schools in Siloam Springs, Ark. Mrs. Mitchell was a homemaker and a member of the Baptist Church. She enjoyed crocheting, quilting, canning and picking strawberries.
Survivors include four sons, Harry O. Harris of Sand Springs, Vernon Eugene Harris of Greenville, Ky., John J. Guthrie of Ralston and Jerry W. Guthrie of Tulsa; one daughter, Joan R. Durham of Elmo, Utah; two step-sons, Wayne Mitchell Jr. of Ralston and Paul Homer Guthrie of Worling, Wyo.; 15 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband W.C. "Ike" Mitchell on Jan. 5, 1994; her parents; two brothers and four sisters.
The family will be at the Mitchell home.


NEWS BRIEFS

Salad Luncheon - The Fall Salad Luncheon and Craft Sale at St. Paul's United Methodist Church, Hartford and Pecan, will be Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tickets are $4 at the door. The main food item will be a hot chicken salad. The public is invited.

Parents Night Out - Parents Night Out is scheduled Friday from 6-10 p.m. at the Ponca City YMCA. Children ages three to 12 are invited to the Y for some Halloween fun, games and crafts. Children are invited to wear their costumes. Parents Night Out, scheduled the fourth Friday of each month, is designed to provide parents of young children quality time to spend together. Discounts are given for two or more children from the same family, and one does not have to be a member of the YMCA. For more information, contact the YMCA, 765-5417.

Free Dance Saturday - A free public dance, sponsored by County Line Music Players and Country Music Makers will be held Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Blackwell Nutrition Center, 320 West Blackwell in Blackwell. Those attending are asked to bring cookies to share. Everyone is welcome.

Ponca Indian Methodists Plan Sale - The Ponca Indian Methodist Church is holding a yard sale at the Old Mission building on the church grounds on Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. They will have clothes, a bicycle, knick knacks of all kinds and household items. The public is invited to come by and browse.

Accident - A Ponca City police officer took a report of an accident at West Hartford Avenue and North Union Street at 6:58 a.m. Wednesday.

Found - A resident in the 900 block of North First Street notified the Ponca City Police Department at 7:42 a.m. Wednesday of an abandoned bike by the railroad tracks.

Arrested - A Ponca City police officer arrested a 26-year-old woman in the 300 block of South Franklin Street at 10 a.m. Wednesday on four Kay County warrants.

Burglary - A Ponca City police officer took a report of burglary to a vehicle in the 400 block of South Palm Street at 10:06 a.m. Wednesday.

Subject Held - An 18-year-old man was arrested by a Ponca City police officer at Po-Hi at 10:20 a.m. Wednesday on a Kay County warrant for unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.

In Custody - A Ponca City police officer arrested a 37-year-old man at East South Avenue and South Thirteenth Street at 1:23 p.m. Wednesday on charges of public intoxication and a city warrant.

Collision - The Ponca City Police Department received notice of a non-injury accident at North Ash Street and West Hartford Avenue at 3:36 p.m. Wednesday. A report was taken.

Stolen - An employee of Dick Stanton Honda, 3415 North Fourteenth Street, requested a Ponca City police officer regarding a lost or stolen dealer tag. An officer responded at 3:44 p.m. Wednesday and took a report.

Assault - An employee of St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, advised the Ponca City Police Department at 3:51 p.m. Wednesday that the hospital was treating a 15-year-old boy who was reportedly assaulted at Po-Hi after school. The boy suffered a broken nose. An officer took an assault and battery report.

Arrested - A Ponca City police officer arrested a 16-year-old girl in the 1500 block of North Seventh Street at 4:14 p.m. Wednesday for unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. A report was taken and the girl was released to her mother's custody.

Graffiti - A resident in the 100 block of North Palm Street advised the Ponca City Police Department of graffiti on the house. An officer responded at 5:20 p.m. Wednesday and a report was taken.

Stolen - A resident in the 200 block of South Osage Street notified the Ponca City Police Department that a concrete angel was stolen out of the front yard. An officer responded at 7:18 p.m. Wednesday to take a report.

Subject Held - A Ponca City police officer arrested a 21-year-old man in the 3500 block of North Union Street at 1:01 a.m. Thursday on a city warrant for failure to pay and domestic assault and battery.


SPORTS

Pressure Building for Area Teams

By DAVID BROWN
News Associate Sports Editor
With just three weeks left in the regular season, area high school football teams are starting to feel the pressure of the district races. Only three of the nine area schools have unblemished district marks while one is still winless. The other five are in near must-win situations.
One of the biggest games in the area this week is in district A-5 where Newkirk travels to Woodland. That is the News' featured Game of the Week.
Also Friday, Pawnee hosts Nowata, Blackwell hosts Glenpool, Tonkawa is at Drumright, Morrison is at South Coffeyville, Deer Creek-Lamont is at Pond Creek-Hunter, Billings hosts Kremlin-Hillsdale and Shidler entertains Bluejacket.
Newkirk at Woodland, 7:30
Third-ranked Woodland is riding high with a 7-0 record and a 5-0 District A-5 mark. Newkirk currently sits fourth in the district standings at 3-2. The Tigers are 4-3 overall.
"I think this is a bigger game for Newkirk than it is for us," Woodland head coach Bill Pascoe said candidly. "If they win then they have their destiny in their own hands. If they lose, their destiny is in the hands of Mounds.
"Our motivation is we want to win them all."
Woodland has won them all so far and got starting quarterback Tyler Barnard last week in a 48-18 rout of Barnsdall.
But Newkirk is not overwhelmed.
"I think it's going to be a tough game, but if we play well I feel we have a chance to beat them," Newkirk head coach David Caffey said.
One area the Tigers are likely to try and exploit is Woodland's pass defense.
"Looking at the films, some teams have had success throwing the ball against them," Caffey said, "and we'll need to throw to beat them. I feel like our running game is good but throwing a balanced attack at them will be a key for us."
Nowata at Pawnee, 7:30
The Pawnee Black Bears have been the surprise of District 2A-5 with a 4-0 mark after getting off to an 0-3 pre-district start.
Nowata sits in a jumbled tie for third with Hominy and Metro Christian at 2-2. The Ironmen are 4-3 overall.
With wins already over Hominy and Metro Christian, a win over Nowata would guarantee at least a second-place district finish for the Bears, who still have an upcoming game against second-ranked Berryhill, which is also 4-0 in the district.
A loss leaves Pawnee in a mad scramble to stay ahead of those other three schools.
Glenpool at Blackwell, 7:30
Last week's upset loss to Tecumseh all but ended any real hopes of a District 4A-2 crown this season for the Maroons. Blackwell is now in a fight for second place with a 2-2 district mark (5-2 overall).
Glenpool comes in at 1-3 and 1-6 and should be just the opponent to get the Maroons back in the winning spirit.
Tonkawa at Drumright, 7:30
The Buccaneers continue to roll along in anticipation of a District A-5 showdown against Woodland Nov. 1 for the district title.
Drumright (2-4, 3-4) is the last opponent Tonkawa will have to worry about before all attention is focused on the third-ranked Cougars.
Tonkawa is coming off a 42-6 win over Kiefer while Drumright was handled quite easily by Newkirk, 35-0.
Morrison at South Coffeyville, 7:30
South Coffeyville is the new kid on the District B-3 block this season and were welcomed rudely last week in a 46-0 run-rule loss to Yale. The game was called at the half.
Morrison nearly defeated fourth-ranked Yale in a wild game a few weeks back and should have little problem against South Coffeyville.
"They are not a strong opponent," Morrison head coach Joe Sindelar admitted. "They run a 4-2 defense which restricts what we can do, so we'll be pretty basic. But when they put six guys up in the box and Bob (Berkenbile) breaks through they're not going to catch him."
Berkenbile exploded for 228 yards rushing on just seven carries last week in a 50-28 win over Copan and added four rushing TDs. He also scored once on a pass reception.
The Wildcats are now 5-2 overall and 1-1 in the district. South Coffeyville is 4-3 and 1-1.
DCLA at Pond Creek-Hunter, 7:30
After recording its first District C-3 win last week with a 37-6 win over Billings, DCLA now takes on Class C second-ranked Pond Creek-Hunter (7-0, 4-0).
The Eagles are now 3-4 and 1-3 and have to win to keep their faint playoff hopes alive.
Kremlin-Hillsdale at Billings, 7:30
Billings fell to defeat for the fifth straight week last Friday by a 37-6 count to DCLA. The Bulldogs are now 1-6 overall and 0-4 in District C-3.
With the playoffs no longer feasible, first year head coach Steve Kile must now work on preparing his squad for the future.
Kremlin enters the game with a 3-4, 2-2 record and is still in the playoff hunt.
Bluejacket at Shidler, 7:30
Shidler took a week off from the District C-4 wars last week but still came up short in a 30-18 loss to Oaks.
The Tigers (4-3, 1-2) will try to bounce back against a Bluejacket squad that is just 3-4 overall but 2-0 in the district after a 26-16 win over Welch last week.
The statistics favor Shidler as the Tigers have outscored Bluejacket 194-134 on the season.

Bentley's Abilities Unique

By FRED HILTON
News Sports Editor
Ponca City's Jay Bentley would be a good linebacker even if he wasn't deaf.
The fact that he is makes him an exceptional one.
Bentley is 6-0, 182-pounds, fast, smart and tough. That makes him good.
He also has some intangible attributes that make him outstanding.
"Jay has the ability to focus better than most people," says Sam Canaday, Po-Hi teacher and sometimes interpreter for Bentley.
Bentley lost his hearing to spinal meningitis and like many people who lose one sense, his others have become more intense.
"He has great peripheral vision," Canaday says. "I can stand sightly behind him, wave my hand and he'll see it."
His ability to see the whole field and to detect movement out of the corners of his eyes is a valuable asset in football.
"When we tell the officials that Jay is deaf," says head coach Rick Sodowsky, "we also tell them that if he ever offsides, it is because someone on the other team moved. He is not distracted or fooled by snap counts or what people say."
Bentley also has a sixth sense about where people are around him.
"You can't sneak up behind him," marvels assistant coach Larry Degan.
Bentley explains through the interpreter that he feels people coming behind him, even on the field.
That astounds Canaday.
"That blows me away," she says. "I know deaf people can feel people walking when they are on a floor, but I hadn't heard of them being able to feel things through the ground,
Bentley also says he "hears" the band when he's on the field.
His physical and extra-sense abilities has made Bentley the second leading tackler on the team even though he has started only the past three games.
Bentley had 20 tackles against Tulsa Washington Friday, two behind the line of scrimmage. He now has 51 on the season and is tied for second place with tackle David Newland. Linebacker Stockton Graves is the leading tackler with an even 100 through seven games.
But Bentley can do more that just tackle. He has one pass interception to his credit, has broken up two other passes and recovered a fumble.
His ability to sniff out the ball is helped by his knowledge of the offense. He is also the backup fullback for the Cats.
On offense, he wears a wrist band with the numbered plays to receive the call in the huddle. If the play changes at the line of scrimmage he gets that signal from the quarterback as he does from Graves when defensive plays are changed.
Bentley gets his defensive schemes - more than 25 of them - from the coaches on the sideline. The entire Wildcat coaching staff took lessons in signing from Canaday during the summer.
Bentley says the coaches do a pretty good job of signing, but then he adds something that Canaday won't translate.
But some football terms are not in any book of signings. So Bentley, the players, the coaches and his friends in school make up their own.
"That's fine as long as he understands he can't use those made-up signs with signing with another deaf person," Canaday who teaches Bentley and other deaf students English and history.
Bentley takes all of his other subjects in a regular classroom using his ability to lip read.
Bentley's sports career - he also plays baseball and wrestles - started in the third grade with the YMCA flag football program. He started out as a quarterback before becoming a running back for Woodlands and Roosevelt schools.
He has never been told by a coach that he couldn't play because he was deaf.
"They all told me that as long as learn, be strong and work hard it doesn't matter," he signs. "They all encouraged me."
He concedes his parents worry about him getting hurt, "but I wanted to play football. I prefer football to school (classes). I like to catch people."
But his first love is baseball, where is a pitcher.
He has a fastball over 80 mph, and "I am good at throwing strikes," he signs.
He also throws pretty good "strikes on opposing ball carriers.
---
Defensive Notes - Linebacker Stockton Graves has a shot at the season an career record in tackles. Graves got his 100th tackle of the season at Tulsa Washington last Friday.
He owns the single season record for tackles with 149 set during his junior season. He needs 50 more in the last three regular season game to set a new single season record and break the career mark of 387.
Defensive Stats
After 7 Weeks
Player A U T FR Int
Graves 83 17 100 1 1
Newland 42 9 51 1 0 Bentley 43 8 51 1 1
Chapman 36 10 46 2 0 Throop 36 5 41 1 1
W. Swyg. 27 11 38 1 0
Shields 21 7 28 1 0
Kreger 22 6 28 0 0
B Swyg. 17 7 24 0 0
Guess 15 9 24 2 0
Taylor 15 9 24 0 0
Tillman 12 7 19 0 2
DiFeo 14 0 14 0 0
Treadway 12 2 14 0 0
Keller 7 6 13 1 0
Burkett 7 1 8 0 0
M. Smith 6 2 8 0 0
Harrison 5 2 7 1 0
Jones 3 1 4 0 0
Redleaf 2 1 3 0 0
Hill 2 0 2 0 1
Steichen 1 1 2 0 0
Redleaf 0 1 1 0 0
Fowler 1 0 1 0 0
Stewart 1 0 1 0 0
Brune 1 0 1 0 0
Foster 0 0 0 1 0
Caused Fumbles
Kreger (3),Taylor, Throop, Chapman, W. Swygert, Graves, Newland, Guess, DiFeo, Meredith
Broke Up Pass
W. Swygert (4), Guess (4), Throop (3),Taylor (3), Shields (2), B. Swygert (2) Treadway (2), Graves (2), Tillman, Bentley (2) Harrison, Jones,
Blocked Field Goal
W. Swygert

Bruins Get Yearly Stunner

By FRED HILTON
News Sports Editor
Bartlesville pulled off its yearly District 6A-5 stunner Friday, but as soon as the joy wore off coach Lee Brower started worrying about this week's game.
Last year the Bruins shocked front-running Tulsa Washington. This year is was Sand Springs' turn. A week after Bartlesville went four overtimes against Ponca City to drop to 1-5, 0-3 in the district, the Bruins shocked previously unbeaten Sand Springs, 20-14.
"We made some of the big plays we had been expecting to make all year," Brower said as his team came from a 14-3 deficit. "We played as inspired a second half as we had played all year."
Bartlesville held the high flying Sandites to just 68 total yards in the second half while exploding for 186 after being held in check for the first 24 minutes.
"We were deeply disappointed in the loss the Ponca City (35-33 in four overtimes during Ponca City's Homecoming). We thought we had that game won several times.
"But the kids came back and played well."
Brower admits than Sandites may have been overlooking the Bruins a bit.
"I know they gave a lot of emotional effort against Enid (a 21-0 win). They came in here against a 1-5 team and it fell apart for them in the second half."
The upset shook the district standings. It left Tulsa Washington, which escaped upset-minded Ponca City 24-6, alone atop the district with a 4-0 record, 6-1 overall.
It also dropped Sand Springs into a three-way tie for second place with Stillwater and Enid, all at 3-1.
The bubble for a playoff spot is crowded with Ponca City, Sapulpa and Bartlesville at 1-3.
Only Shawnee, winless and 0-4 in the league, seems to be out of the district race,
That has Brower worried.
"Our coaches are deathly afraid our kids, after that big upset, will just go to Shawnee thinking all we have to do is show up," Brower said. "Shawnee is not that bad a team and if we don't play well, we could be the one to get upset."
In other action this week, Washington will be favored to continue its jaunt toward the district title as the Hornets visit Enid.
Stillwater and Sand Springs clash in Sand Springs for at least a share of the second-place spot in the standings.
The bubble will burst for the loser as Sapulpa and Ponca City clash in the Wildcats' final home game of the regular season.
Washington seems to have the easiest route to the playoffs. After visiting Enid, the Hornets travel to Bartlesville before ending the season at home against Sand Springs.
If Stillwater can get past the Sandites, the Pioneers host Shawnee and travel to Enid in a bid for a home berth in the playoffs.
Sand Springs plays host to Ponca City between the crucial tilts with Stillwater and Washington.
Enid also has a tough end. The Plainsmen visit Sapulpa after this weeks game and close out with Stillwater.
Ponca City goes on the road after this week, traveling to Sand Springs and Shawnee in a bid to gain a spot in the state Class 6A playoffs.
District 6A-4
Standings
Dist. All
School W-L W-L PF PA
Washington 4-0 6-1 187 115
Stillwater 3-1 6-1 241 129
Sand Springs 3-1 6-1 212 55
Enid 3-1 4-3 159 122
Sapulpa 1-3 4-3 212 120
Ponca City 1-3 4-3 98 157
Bartlesville 1-3 2-5 117 177
Shawnee 0-4 0-7 73 254
Week 7
Washington 24, Ponca City 6
Bartlesville 20, Sand Springs 14
Stillwater 48, Sapulpa 28
Enid 42, Shawnee 16
Week 8
Sapulpa at Ponca City
Stillwater at Shawnee
Washigton at Enid
Bartlesville at Shawnee

District Standings
District 4A-2
Dist. All
School W-L W-L PF PA
Cushing 4-0 7-0 275 92
McLoud 3-1 4-3 145 148
Tecumseh 3-1 4-3 180 114
Blackwell 2-2 5-2 227 109
Mannford 2-2 3-4 117 142
Harrah 1-3 2-5 62 223
Glenpool 1-3 1-6 80 238
Cleveland 0-4 1-6 96 165
This Week's Games
Glenpool at Blackwell, Tecumseh at Cleveland, Harrah at Mannford, Cushing at McLoud.
District 2A-5
Dist. All
School W-L W-L PF PA
Berryhill 4-0 7-0 276 25
Pawnee 4-0 4-3 118 121
Nowata 2-2 4-3 153 104
Hominy 2-2 3-4 113 148
Metro Chr. 2-2 3-4 120 131
Perkins 1-3 4-3 192 77
Sperry 1-3 1-6 102 188
Caney Valley 0-4 1-6 72 293
This Week's Games
Nowata at Pawnee, Caney Valley at Berryhill, Perkins at Hominy, Sperry at Metro Christian.
District A-5
Dist. All
School W-L W-L PF PA
Woodland 5-0 7-0 237 63
Tonkawa 5-0 6-1 212 76
Mounds 4-2 5-2 224 129
Newkirk 3-2 4-3 158 113
Barnsdall 2-3 3-4 155 143
Drumright 2-4 3-4 95 160
Liberty 1-4 3-4 84 159
Okla. Union 1-4 2-5 86 199
Kiefer 1-5 1-6 117 221
This Week's Games
Tonkawa at Drumright, Newkirk at Woodland, Mounds at Oklahoma Union, Barnsdall at Liberty.
District B-3
Dist. All
School W-L W-L PF PA
Yale 2-0 7-0 362 110
Foyil 2-0 6-1 268 68
Morrison 1-1 5-2 202 160
So. Coffey. 1-1 4-3 198 154
Prue 0-2 2-4 76 182
Copan 0-2 1-6 144 233
This Week's Games
Morrison at South Coffeyville, Yale at Foyil, Copan at Prue.
District C-3
Dist. All
School W-L W-L PF PA
PC-Hunter 4-0 7-0 252 118
Medford 3-1 5-2 193 108
Ringwood 3-1 4-3 163 82
Cov-Douglas 2-2 4-3 230 176
Kremlin-Hills. 2-2 3-4 157 161
DCLA 1-3 3-4 175 231
Wakita 1-3 3-4 198 207
Billings 0-4 1-6 106 275
This Week's Games
Thursday: Ringwood at Medford. Friday: DCLA at Pond Creek-Hunter, Wakita at Covington-Douglas.
District C-4
Dist. All
School W-L W-L PF PA
Bowlegs 3-0 4-2 160 99
Bluejacket 2-0 3-4 134 230
White Oak 3-1 5-2 202 129
Shidler 1-2 4-3 194 120
Butner 0-2 1-5 68 208
Welch 0-4 1-6 106 237
This Week's Games
Thursday: Christian Heritage JV at Bowlegs. Friday: Bluejacket at Shidler, White Oak at Sallisaw Central, Butner at Welch.

Hoop Festival Set For Here Saturday

The first North Central Oklahoma Girls' Hoop Festival will be held Saturday at Ponca City High School.
Seven area teams including the Lady Wildcats, will take part in the festival which will play at two gyms at the high school starting at 8 a.m. The games will be played at Robson Fieldhouse and in the old fieldhouse. The admission is $2 . A concession will be available

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