LOCAL

Police Seek Help Finding Two Women
Sirens To Signal The Great Escape
Nearly News
State Hospice Award To Ponca City Man
PTC Planning Public Vote
PTC Planning Public Vote For Expansion of Facility
Officials Indicate Teen Suicide in Kay County Second Highest in Oklahoma
Indian Fancy Dance Style on TV Friday
Tonkawa Sets Be My Guest Event Sunday
Emergency Meeting Set Today on Bad Sewer Line
Scouts Do Stringalong
October Is National Minister Appreciation Month
Child Advocacy Program Reaches First Anniversary
Area Landowners Among Recipients of Centennial Awards

Police Seek Help Finding Two Women

By PATTI PFEIFFER

News Staff Writer

Being good hearted and willing to help others have cost a local elderly couple. According to police, a woman knocked on the door of a home in the 500 block of East Comanche Avenue Tuesday night complaining of car trouble and requesting the use of a phone.

The couple allowed the woman into their home to use the phone. She then asked for a milk bottle to fill with water for her car. That request was also granted.

She left only to return a short time later asking for more water. This time she was accompanied by a “heavy set” black woman. Once again they were invited into the home.

Sometime after the pair left, the residents discovered that a purse was missing from their home and in it was an undisclosed amount of cash.

Police are now warning citizens to use caution when strangers ask to enter their home.

“This could happen anytime, to anyone, so just be careful and use caution in these situations,” said Police Spokesperson Sherry Bowers.

The first woman is described as white, short and wearing broken glasses and the pair was seen leaving in a small red vehicle.

Police are asking anyone with any information regarding this incident to contact the police at 767-0370 or Crime Stoppers at 762-5100.

Sirens To Signal The Great Escape

By PATTI PFEIFFER

News Staff Writer

Today is the day that people all over the nation will be practicing fire safety during the “The Great Escape” — a nation-wide, life-saving fire drill.

Locally, the Ponca City Fire Department will be taking steps to prompt Ponca City residents to join in the event.

At 6 p.m. fire trucks will roll out of the stations and their sirens will sound. “We are hoping that the sound of the fire truck sirens will remind people to practice their home escape plans, especially with their children,” Fire Chief Larry Mullikin said. “Practice is vital because many times windows can be stuck or pathways become blocked so these drills can become life saving measures.”

In preparing for home escape drills the following tips are recommended:

• Plan your escape route. You should have a primary and a back-up route mapped out for each room. Practice getting out. It may seem foolish to do so, or unnecessary, but when there is fire and smoke, your reasoning and thought patterns may be affected by the emergency. If you have practiced escape routes, your memory and instinct will help you move in the right direction and in the right way. Check all windows from which escape is planned and make certain windows are not painted or nailed shut.

• If you use a wheelchair or walker, check all the exit routes in advance to be sure you can get through the doorways. If not, map out escape routes that are accessible, and discuss your escape plans with your family, the building manager or neighbors.

• If you have impairments that might make it more difficult for you to escape from fire, consider talking to your Fire Department and letting them know of your special circumstances in advance.

• Always sleep with your bedroom door closed. If you are awakened by the sound of a smoke detector, follow these steps: go to the door; feel the door to see if it is hot. If the door is not hot, open it slowly and check to see if you can get out safely. Leave immediately, if possible — bending low or even crawling to keep your head below smoke. If the door is hot, don’t open it! Stuff towels or clothing under the door to prevent smoke from entering. Do the same at the top of the door if you can reach it. Exit the room using your back-up plan.

• Your first priority in the case of a fire is to get out of the building. Don’t stop to call the fire department until you are safely outside. If you cannot escape by the door, the telephone allows you to call for help while attempting to escape by your back-up route (e.g., a window, etc.).

• Do not delay escape because you want to collect valuables and memorabilia. Leave them behind — your safe escape is too important to jeopardize. Once you are safe, remain outside. Do not reenter the building. Call the Fire Department from a neighbor’s home, but first make sure other family members know you have gotten out safely. They may be looking for you while you are elsewhere alerting the Fire Department.

• A telephone, a whistle, and your eyeglasses should be kept by your bedside. You need your glasses to see how to escape from fire and to avoid injury. The whistle serves two purposes: it lets people know where you are so that you can be rescued, and it enables you to warn other family members of fire.

• If you cannot escape from the room, open the window a crack and hang a white sheet or light-colored blanket out the window. Call the Fire Department. Blow your whistle to let rescuers know where you are. Stay low and remain calm.

According to statistics there are more than two million residential fires every year causing over 6,000 deaths, 100,000 injuries and $7 billion in property damage. The Federal Emergency Management Agency offers the following tips to make your home more fire safe:

• Install smoke detectors on every floor of your home.

• Plan an escape route in your home.

• Don’t smoke in bed.

• Do not place smoke heaters within three feet of flammable materials, use extension cords with portable heaters or leave them unattended or sleep while they are on and make sure to unplug the heaters when they are not in use.

• Do not place ashtrays on the arms of a sofa or chair.

• Do not run electrical cords under rugs, over nails or in high traffic areas or staple then to walls or otherwise pierce their insulation covering.

• Do not leave food unattended on the stove or wear sleeves that can come into contact with the burners.

• Do not use an oven to heat the house.

• Do not let crumbs build up in your toaster oven or grease build up on your stove or oven.

• Do not overload electrical outlets with appliances.

Nearly News

Nancy Albers at Tender Heart Living Center says “Thanks!” for all the cards sent in during the recent effort to collect greeting cards by the center’s residents. Now they have more than enough cards, so please don’t send anymore.

It looks like the annual monarch butterfly migration is in full steam. One NN contributor reported being “attacked” by a cloud of monarchs while mowing his lawn Tuesday evening. Seems as though he disturbed a mess of monarchs accidentally. In their ensuing flight several bumped into him, leaving him stunned by their beauty but otherwise unharmed.

Carman and Dusty, our wandering cat and dog depicted on the 1998 Ponca City Humane Society porcelain ornament, can also be found at Just Yesterday, 324 South Fourteenth Street, as well as Christy’s, Angel Central, Frames & Things and, of course, the Humane Society. This ornament is the second in a series done by Audrey Schmitz of Tonkawa and will be available also for in the Oktoberfest booth sponsored by the Ponca City Humane Society.

State Hospice Award To Ponca City Man

Local resident Joe Fowler has been awarded the Virginia Staples Volunteer of the Year Award for 1998 by the Oklahoma State Hospice Association.

Born and raised in Ponca City, Fowler is the son of Dorothy Fowler and the late Fred Fowler Sr., and brother to Trudy Fowler-Smith and Fred Fowler Jr., all of Ponca City. Joe is employed by Conoco and in his spare time volunteers for Hospice of Ponca City.

The Oklahoma State Hospice Association awards one volunteer a year from the 78 hospices in the state of Oklahoma. Fowler is the fourth Ponca City volunteer to win the state award. Sally Stimpson, Terry Lawler, and Lois Willoughby were previous recipients.

Fowler says, “I was in shock and felt humbled. There are so many hospices in the state it’s really an honor to be recognized. It was nice to be there and to represent the volunteers as a whole, but as I stood there, I was thinking about all the patients. I want to thank the patients and their families for the things they’ve taught me. I’ve learned so much. They have taught me about life. Hospice is not about dying; it’s about living. I’ve seen patients acquire a quality of life through their illness. Everyone thinks the volunteers do all the giving. I often feel I’ve received more from the patient than I gave. It’s a humbling experience.”

Fowler attended the volunteer training program in 1995 and became familiar with the Hospice organization through his sister, Trudy Fowler-Smith who works as a Hospice nurse.

Joe began delivering medical equipment to patients’ homes and became interested in the patients and their families. He began visiting patients on a weekly basis, and when one of his patients could no longer speak, Joe was able to comfort him by playing his guitar.

Hospice employee and friend, Herb Rains, remembers, “When the patient passed, Joe’s response was exactly what one would expect from a dedicated Hospice volunteer. His compassion was without boundaries, he turned his attention to the surviving spouse and family.”

In just three years Joe has initiated and organized events that are now Hospice traditions. He helped organize the yearly Christmas caroling and Volunteer Banquet.

Volunteer Coordinator, Tami Barnes, explains, “In short, Joe Fowler is the kind of volunteer any Hospice would love to have. He is there when you need him, he is compassionate and he is, above all, dedicated to the concept of Hospice care.”

PTC Planning Public Vote

By KRISTI HAYES

News Education Editor

Discussion was held Tuesday night by the Pioneer Technology Center Board of Education about going to the voters in February to ask for one mill in the building fund. The mill would generate about $200,000 to the vo-tech.

According to Dr. Sally Downey, superintendent, the school needs to expand its facilities to accommodate new health programs. She commented that Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy programs need to be added at PTC but no room is available. The programs, if added to the school, will be modeled after the programs at the Gwinett Vo-Tech in Atlanta.

“We need to start setting aside money to expand with,” said Downey. “The bond passed in 1990 will be paid off in the year 2000, and the voters didn’t have a building fund levy to pass last year.”

Discussion was held about holding a math and science center at PTC similar to the one in Oklahoma City. Students attending would be attending school part-time and PTC would only offer the facility to hold the school. Rep. Jim Newport has been leading this issue to model the schools after two centers at the vo-tech’s in Drumright and Lawton.

Erwin Anderson gave an update on the Farm Business Management program at PTC, which is designed to work with farm families to be in a better financial position and to improve their quality of life. Anderson said about 15 people are enrolled in the first year program and about 10 in the second year program. Class discussions are held monthly on several issues concerning farms like income tax, farm records and budgeting.

The estimate of needs and budget appropriations for fiscal year 1999 were approved. PTC will work with a budget of approximately $6 million next year.

The board approved the resignations of Sally Williams, instructor in Medical Assisting, and Shawna Beck, child care. The two will be moving out-of-town.

Vernon Steelmon and Ty Thryone were hired as part-time maintenance staff and an extra duty contract with Mike Wiles, counselor, was accepted.

The next regular board meeting has been scheduled for Nov. 10.

PTC Planning Public Vote For Expansion of Facility

By KRISTI HAYES

News Education Editor

Discussion was held Tuesday night by the Pioneer Technology Center Board of Education about going to the voters in February to ask for one mill in the building fund. The mill would generate about $200,000 to the vo-tech.

According to Dr. Sally Downey, superintendent, the school needs to expand its facilities to accommodate new health programs. She commented that Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy programs need to be added at PTC but no room is available. The programs, if added to the school, will be modeled after the programs at the Gwinett Vo-Tech in Atlanta.

“We need to start setting aside money to expand with,” said Downey. “The bond passed in 1990 will be paid off in the year 2000, and the voters didn’t have a building fund levy to pass last year.”

Discussion was held about holding a math and science center at PTC similar to the one in Oklahoma City. Students attending would be attending school part-time and PTC would only offer the facility to hold the school. Rep. Jim Newport has been leading this issue to model the schools after two centers at the vo-tech’s in Drumright and Lawton.

Erwin Anderson gave an update on the Farm Business Management program at PTC, which is designed to work with farm families to be in a better financial position and to improve their quality of life. Anderson said about 15 people are enrolled in the first year program and about 10 in the second year program. Class discussions are held monthly on several issues concerning farms like income tax, farm records and budgeting.

The estimate of needs and budget appropriations for fiscal year 1999 were approved. PTC will work with a budget of approximately $6 million next year.

The board approved the resignations of Sally Williams, instructor in Medical Assisting, and Shawna Beck, child care. The two will be moving out-of-town.

Vernon Steelmon and Ty Thryone were hired as part-time maintenance staff and an extra duty contract with Mike Wiles, counselor, was accepted.

The next regular board meeting has been scheduled for Nov. 10.

Officials Indicate Teen Suicide in Kay County Second Highest in Oklahoma

Teen suicide in Kay County has the second highest suicide rate among teens in Oklahoma, according to a spokesperson from Edwin Fair Mental Health Center.

Suicides among young people nationwide have increased dramatically in recent years. Each year in the U.S., thousands of teenagers commit suicide. Suicide is the third leading cause of death for 15 to 24 year olds, and the sixth leading cause of death for 5 to 14 year olds.

Teenagers experience strong feelings of stress, confusion, self-doubt, pressure to succeed, financial uncertainty, and other fears while growing up.

For some teenagers, divorce, the formation of a new family with step-parents and step-siblings, or moving to a new community can be very unsettling and can intensify self-doubts. In some cases, suicide appears to be a “solution.”

Depression and suicidal feelings are treatable mental disorders. The child or adolescent needs to have his or her illness recognized and diagnosed, and appropriate treatment plans developed. When parents are in doubt whether their child has a serious problem, a psychiatric examination can be very helpful.

Many of the symptoms of suicidal feelings are similar to those of depression. Parents should be aware of the following signs of adolescents who may try to kill themselves. Child and adolescent psychiatrists recommend that if one or more of these signs occurs, parents need to talk to their child about their concerns and seek professional help when the concerns persist.

* Change in eating and sleeping habits.

* Withdrawal from friends, and family, and regular activities.

* Violent actions, rebellious behavior, or running away.

* Drug and alcohol use.

* Unusual neglect of personal appearance.

* Marked personality change.

* Persistent boredom, difficulty concentrating, or a decline in the quality of schoolwork.

* Frequent complaints about physical symptoms, often related to emotions, such as stomach aches, headaches, fatigue, etc.

* Loss of interest in pleasurable activities.

* Not tolerating praise or rewards.

A teenager who is planning to commit suicide may also:

* Complain of being “rotten inside.”

* Give verbal hints with statements such as: “I won’t be a problem for you much longer,” “Nothing matters,” “It’s no use,” “I won’t see you again.”

* Put his or her affairs in order, for example, give away favorite possessions, clean his or her room, throw away important belongings, etc.

* Become suddenly cheerful after a period of depression.

If a child or adolescent says, “I want to kill myself,” or “I’m going to commit suicide”, always take the statement seriously and seek evaluation from a child and adolescent psychiatrist or other physician. People often feel uncomfortable talking about death. However, asking the child or adolescent whether he or she is depressed or thinking about suicide can be helpful. Rather than “putting thoughts in the child’s head,” such a question will provide assurance that somebody cares and will give the young person the chance to talk about problems.

With support from family and professional treatment, children and teenagers who are suicidal can heal and return to a more healthy path of development.

For more information, call Edwin Fair Mental Health Center at 762-7561.

Indian Fancy Dance Style on TV Friday

Of special interest to Ponca Citians, the Oklahoma Education Television network, Channel 11, will broadcast a locally produced video documentary, “Fancy Dance” on Friday evening, Oct. 9, at 9 p.m.

The 30-minute video explores the beauty and history of the fancy dance, a dance style created by Oklahoma Indians, that has become the symbol of the powwow. Created by young Ponca dancers in the 1920’s, it was first called “the crazy dance” by Indian elders because of the quick and wild moves of the young dancers. Today, the fancy dance is known around the world for the brightly colored, ornate feather outfits, and the fast moving and acrobatic footwork.

Produced by local videomakers, Scott Swearingen and Sandy Rhoades, the video features interviews with Indian elders, including Paul Little Voice, Ponca elder, champion dancer, and long-time Ponca City resident. He recalls idolizing the dancing skill of Gus McDonald (Ponca), the first world champion Fancy Dancer. Says Paul, “Gus made it look so easy.” McDonald’s sister, Jewel, and his descendants live in Ponca City.

“This is truly an Oklahoma story,” says Swearingen. “The best dancers are still from Oklahoma and this style has spread throughout Indian Country.”

Rare movie footage shows early fancy dancing and historic photographs illustrate how dramatically dance outfits have changed with the times.

The program features champion fancy dancer, Pete Moore Jr., (Pawnee-Otoe) getting ready for competition with fascinating close-up details of the handmade outfits and intricate eagle feather bustles. “Hundreds of hours go into making an outfit,” observes video co-producer Sandy Rhoades, “and often the whole family helps with the beadwork and design.”

Interviews with head singers explore how special fast-paced music is created for dance competition.

The tape concludes with the exciting finalist competition for the World’s Championship title at the Ponca Powwow. Close-ups show the prize-winning footwork of George Alexander (Otoe-Ioway), who lives in Ponca City.

The video is also available for home viewing, school and library use and costs $19.95. It is available at Sharp’s Native American Craft Supply, 123 North Third Street in Ponca City. For more information, call Full Circle Videos, (918) 712-8849.

Tonkawa Sets Be My Guest Event Sunday

TONKAWA — Innovative ideas for creating beautiful table settings will be displayed at the sixth annual Be My Guest event in Tonkawa from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 11. Admission is $3.50 per person at the door, and children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Approximately 50 small tables in the Service Bank Community Room, 111 East Grand, and First National Bank of Oklahoma Annex, 107 South Main, will feature settings for a variety of dining occasions including luncheon, supper, dinner, party, holiday and novelty.

Styles range from the formal, complete with heirloom china and crystal, to contemporary casual, incorporating paper and plastic products. Novel centerpieces and other table accessories will enhance the settings.

Dawn Huff, co-coordinator of the event, has created displays for the Community Room windows, anticipating the event. Judy Finton chairs the hospitality committee, which will serve refreshments in the First National Bank Annex. Live musical entertainment will be provided in the Community Room throughout the afternoon.

The admission price includes entry to both display sites, refreshments, a descriptive souvenir booklet and the opportunity to register for the door prize — a large china pitcher handpainted by Viola Nardheim of Tonkawa.

The Tonkawa Historical Society is sponsoring the event to raise funds for various projects, including maintaining the Tonkawa Centennial Park and the Museum of Tonkawa History.

Emergency Meeting Set Today on Bad Sewer Line

By PATTI PFEIFFER

News Staff Writer

Due to the recent collapse of a sewer line located underneath Garfield Elementary School, an emergency meeting of the city commission has been scheduled today at 4:30 p.m.

City Commissioners will be deciding whether or not the situation constitutes an emergency and if so what action will be taken.

In order for an emergency to exist it must be determined that the conditions resulted from a sudden or unforeseen occurrence or it is a situation where in the public health of safety is at risk.

According to Public Works Director Ken Parr, the sewer line collapsed last week and has since been partially cleared.

“We were able to partially open the line with a rodder but due to the location, the collapse section can not be accessed,” Parr stated. “Since the line could collapse at anytime, which would adversely affect the school, we are recommending that an emergency be declared.”

Once an emergency is declared, the requirements under the State Bidding Act, such as the 21-day bid process, can then be waived.

Among the options that will be considered are rerouting the line around the school at an estimated of $20,000 to $25,000. If an emergency is found to exist and the required bidding process is waived, staff would solicit written quotes from local contractors and award the lowest and best bid.

There are, Parr says, at least 10 areas around the city where buildings have been allowed to be constructed on top of existing sewer line which makes repairing them almost impossible.

“This is why we no longer allow buildings to be constructed on top of existing sewer lines,” Parr said. “If this was not located where it is, this problem would not exist.”

Scouts Do Stringalong

By S.L. Dickey

News Staff Writer

A hundred miles is a long way — especially when one is talking about a string of popcorn.

As part of the Boy Scouts of America's annual popcorn sale promotion, national organizers came up with the idea of creating the world's longest string of popcorn. Scouts from the U.S. and Canada are involved in this joint venture.

To accomplish this goal, here in the States an 80-city sweep was planned, with Scouts contributing strings of popcorn at every stop.

The United States was divided into four sections. The odyssey began on Sept. and will end this Saturday with four Trail’s End brightly-colored semi-trucks converging in Washington, D.C. to assemble their sectional strands.

Ponca City was selected as one of the 80 sites. “We were thrilled that Ponca City was chosen as one of the stops,” stated Chuck Rager, Scout Executive for Will Rogers Area Council.

Last Tuesday, area Scouts met in the United parking lot on North Fourteenth Street to add their contributions to the enormous roll of popcorn. Attendees were treated to a real celebration — free popcorn and soft drinks, as well as plenty of string, were provided to all.

The traveling truck also carries a 28-foot, four-sided inflatable climbing tower. Trained instructors demonstrate proper climbing techniques and help the daring and bold to don safety harnesses and climb.

A Pinewood Derby Track was also set up for any interested in racing. Known as a hallmark of the Cub Scout program, all scouts from Tigers to Eagles, as well as adult leadership, enjoy the thrill of Pinewood Derby car competition.

Scouts here in Ponca City delivered their contributions between the hours of 4 and 7 p.m. and added approximately 700 feet to the huge spool of popcorn. The stringed popcorn was dipped in hot wax to preserve and protect it prior to attachment to the huge roll.

The Western Tour truck, after its stop in Ponca City, is carrying over 17,000 feet of strung popcorn. The truck has three more stopovers — Kansas City, St. Louis and Louisville — prior to arrival in D.C.

If their total goal of 100 miles is met in October, over 15 million kernels of popcorn will be connected together. It is the hope of the Boy Scouts of America to set another world record with this feat.

Last year Scouts from the U.S. and Canada built the world's largest popcorn ball — an amazing 6,400 pounds.

Sales of Trail’s End popcorn, sold exclusively by Scouts, reaches 12 million households annually. The money raised from the annual popcorn sale is used to make Scouting activities available to more youth.

Funds are also used to send underprivileged Scouts to camp and to purchase supplies for Scouts — everything from canoes to computers.

“It’s events like these, that continue the rich Scouting tradition in the United States,” relayed Rager.

October Is National Minister Appreciation Month

“The pastor teaches, though he must solicit his own classes. He heals, though without pills or knife.

“He is sometimes a lawyer, often a social worker, something of an editor, a bit of a philosopher and entertainer, a salesman, a decorative piece for public functions, and he is supposed to be a scholar.

“He visits the sick, marries people, buries the dead, labors to console those who sorrow and to admonish those who sin, and tries to stay sweet when chided for not doing his duty.

“He plans programs; appoints committees when he can get them; spends considerable time in keeping people out of each other’s hair; between times he prepares a sermon and preaches it on Sunday to those who don’t happen to have any other engagement.

“Then, on Monday, he smiles when some jovial chap roars, ‘What a job — one day a week!’ — Anonymous.

October is national Minister Appreciation Month. It is an attempt to counter the negative erosion in the lives of ministers with positive affirmation. Many ministers feel isolated, insecure, and only rarely affirmed.

This event presents a great opportunity to say thank you to a servant of God who has made a difference in your life. Give consideration to what you might do — send a card or plaque, give a gift, plan a special appreciation for your ministerial staff and their families, plant a tree in their name, make banners, or whatever else unique you can think of.

Remember that Minister Appreciation Month is not about glorifying a man or a woman. It is an opportunity to recognize and encourage those whom God has called to proclaim His message and lead His people.

To help in this endeavor, KLVV is giving away a Minister Appreciation Package which includes an overnight stay at Edmond’s Arcadian Inn Bed and Breakfast and dinners at Cafe 501.

To enter your minister(s) in the drawing, send your minister’s name, church name, your name, address, and phone number plus a short paragraph about your minister to KLVV at P.O. Box 14, Ponca City, OK 74602 (you can register more than one minister but only one entry per person per minister). Many of the letters will be read on the air throughout the month of October. The winner of the drawing will be announced on 88.7 FM Oct. 30 at 5:30 p.m.

But most of all — Remember your ministers this October!

Child Advocacy Program Reaches First Anniversary

It’s a tough job with no money, so others decided to say thank you.

Some 50 people attended an appreciation dinner last week to honor the volunteers and advisory board members of the judicial district’s new Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program.

The CASA program, already a year old here, was established to help the juvenile courts stay sensitive to the needs of foster children.

Along with the 27 CASA volunteers, honorees included members of the CASA advisory board such as civic leaders Carl Renfro and Barry Bickle, both of Ponca City.

Some of the CASA volunteers who were saluted are also members of the group’s advisory board, such as attorney Carolyn Smith, organizers Maxine Thompson, Lynda Clark and Gini Carey.

CASA program director Janice Bell said the dinner was to salute the “very concentrated effort” to organize a group of prepared volunteers who can speak up for children in court.

The CASA often becomes the most knowledgeable person regarding a child’s situation.

Volunteers each have received 40 hours of training by local professionals such as Bruce Lutz of the Kay County Guidance Center, Leonard Williams of Edwin Fair Community Mental Health Center, detective Chris Primeaux of the Ponca City Police Department, Wendy Burg of the Department of Human Services Child Welfare Division and assistant district attorney Elizabeth Hocker and District Judge D.W. Boyd.

The volunteers each are assigned one case at a time and make a commitment to stay with the case until it’s closed. They also commit to monthly staff meetings.

Although the individual CASA volunteers seldom work on the same case together, they develop a teamwork atmosphere.

Bell said the reason for the camaraderie is also evident.

The volunteers “work with some very sensitive issues that can be stressful, and they’re a support group for each other,” she said, describing the relationship that develops between the volunteer and the child as one similar to the familiar Big Brother program.

“Kids who feel they have someone they can trust tend to be able to develop that trust with other people in other areas of their life,” Bell said.

Area Landowners Among Recipients of Centennial Awards

OKLAHOMA CITY — Families owning 48 farms or ranches in 16 counties for at least 100 years will receive Oklahoma Centennial Farm and Ranch Awards on Oct. 18 at Robert Funk’s Express Ranch in Yukon, it was announced by the Oklahoma Historical Society.

In addition, eight Historic Structures Awards will be presented. The Oklahoma Historical Society and the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture will present the awards during the 10th annual reception at 2 p.m., said Historical Society Executive Director J. Blake Wade.

Agricultural Commissioner Dennis Howard and President Marvin E. Kroeker of the Oklahoma Historical Society will attend the reception at the ranch owned by Robert Funk, chairman and chief executive officer of Express Services. Les Gilliam, known as the Oklahoma Balladeer, will entertain.

“There is no way to describe the tremendous accomplishment of these families maintaining their farms and ranches for a century,” said Wade. “For that reason, the winners of these awards have earned the respect and admiration of all Oklahomans.”

With these awards, the 10 year total for the program will reach 522 farms and ranches in 47 counties, said Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer Melvena Heisch. Of these, 74 families also have received Historic Structures Awards.

“That’s a good indication of the impact family farms and ranches have had on the settlement and development of Oklahoma and its agricultural industry,” said Howard. “These awards were established in 1989 to recognize that impact.”

Each winning family will receive a metal marker for display on the property and a certificate. The reception will be coordinated by Georgiana Rymer of the Oklahoma Historical Society.

To qualify, a property must be owned by a family member for at least 100 years and must be operated or lived on by a family member or leased out by a family member over 65. It must include a minimum of 40 acres and gross annual sales of at least $1,000.

Historic Structures Awards are presented for Centennial Farm and Ranch properties with four or more structures that are at least 50 years old and have not been altered significantly.

For further information on the presentations, contact Rymer at (405) 522-5203. For Centennial Farm and Ranch future applications, contact Jill Gray at (405) 522-6387.

ALFALFA COUNTY

Helen A. Anderson of Kiowa, Kan., owner of the Anderson Farm, four miles south of Kiowa and one-half mile east.

Edith Weber Jones of Aline, owner of the Weber Farm, one mile west of McWillie (east of Aline).

Hattie Joan Wallenstein Tolle of Aline, owner of the Wallenstein Farm, three-and-a-half miles east and two miles north of Aline.

BEAVER COUNTY

Stanley and Junetta Barby, Jim and Debbie Hilton, Rodney and Vickie Barby of Beaver, owners of the Bar-B Ranch, four miles west and six miles south of Knowles.

BLAINE COUNTY

Jim D. Strack of Watonga, owner of The Hills Place farm, five miles south and one-half mile east of Hitchcock.

Orval and Elberta Swaim of Okeene, owners of the Meier Farm, one mile west and six-and-one-half miles south of Okeene.

Otto F. Nicolai Jr. of Geary, owner of the Nicolai Farm, one mile north and 12 miles west of Geary.

CANADIAN COUNTY

Rosalie Pendleton, Mike Pendleton, Lila Pendleton Shroyer and Shirley Pendleton Morse, owners of the Pendleton Homestead, three miles north of U.S. Hwy. 6 on Garth Brooks Blvd., and one-half mile west on Wilshire.

Norma and James Schritter, Loretta and James Crist, and Eileen Krivanek Waite, owners of the John Krivanek Homestead farm, two miles north and one mile west of Mustang.

CUSTER COUNTY

Clyde and LaVene Rawson of Clinton, owners of Rawson’s Farm, three-and-a-half miles south and five miles west of Putnam.

Dolores Archer of Hammon, owner of the William Stinson Homestead farm, one mile east of the junction of State Hwys. 33 and 34 near Hammon.

DEWEY COUNTY

Bessie Cole of Putnam, owner of the Cole Farm, four miles north and one mile west of Putnam.

Lois Parry of Vici, owner of the Parry’s Kiser Creek Farm, eight-and-one-half miles east of Vici.

LaVene Rawson of Clinton, owner of the Williams Farm, three-and-a-half miles west of Putnam.

Leaford Thornbrough of Sayre, owner of the Thornbrough 1898 Ranch, one mile south of Rhea.

GARFIELD COUNTY

Edith A. Davis of Enid, owner of the Ada N. Fisher Farm, two miles south and two miles west of Carrier.

Mae Beth Hartman of Enid, owner of the John F. Hartman Farm, one mile east and four miles north of Breckenridge.

John E. and John D. Lovell of Enid, owners of Lovell Farms Inc., two miles east of Waukomis.

Richard and Vivian Luckert of Enid, owners of the Luckert Farm, three miles south and three-fourths of a mile west of Carrier.

William Floyd Parker Sr. of Enid, owner of the Sargent-Parker Farm, two miles south of Garland from U.S. Hwy. 412 and one-fourth mile west on Southgate Rd.

Everett Ray Cutter of Douglas, owner of the Everett Cutter Farm, two-and-one-eighths miles south and one mile west of Covington.

Louis W. Schweer of Covington, owner of the Windler/Schweer Farm, one-and-one-fourth miles north and two miles east of Covington.

Ted Worrell of Garber, owner of the Worrell Farm (1), five miles west and one-half mile south of Billings, and the Worrell Farm (2), one mile north and two-and-one-half miles east of Garber.

Wilma Bird Sullivan of Albuquerque, N.M., owner of the Frantiska Fuksa Ptacek-Bird Farm, one mile north and one mile east of Breckenridge.

GRANT COUNTY

Nelson and Lorene Ingmire of Enid, owners of the John J. Dodson Homestead, 14 miles north of Garber.

Beulah Pierce Scott of Manchester, owner of the J. P. Pierce Hill Farm, one mile south and one-and-one-fourth miles west of Manchester.

GREER COUNTY

Hallie M. and Norma Lee Lauer of Granite, owners of the Norma Lee Lauer Farm, four miles north and one mile east of Granite.

William A. Schwenn of Lawton, owner of the Annie Lee Homestead, four-and-one-half miles north and one mile east of Granite.

JACKSON COUNTY

Terry and Patricia Hunter of Blair, owners of the Hunter Ranch, seven-and-three-fourths miles east and one mile north of Blair.

Silver Roach Yates of Blair, owner of D.P. Roach Homestead, eight miles east and one-and-one-half miles north of Blair.

KAY COUNTY

Leopoldine Decker of Wichita, Kan., owner of the Francis S. Decker Farm, eight miles west, one-half mile south of Newkirk.

Wayne and Robert Shepherd of Blackwell, owners of the Shepherd Farm, four miles west, one mile south and one-forth mile east of Blackwell.

Karl G. and JoAnn Stone of Newkirk, owners of the Frank M. Constant Homestead, three miles east, two miles south and three-eighths of a mile west of Blackwell.

KINGFISHER COUNTY

Larry and Paige Kraus of Loyal, owners of the Sarah Keith Farm, two miles east and one-and-one-half miles south of Loyal.

Tom Schaefer of Okarche, owner of the Mathias B. Schaefer Family Farm, five miles west, one mile north and three-eighths of a mile west of Okarche.

OKLAHOMA COUNTY

Virginia Lee and Charles Fuchs of Oklahoma City, owners of Spencer’s Homestead at 3801 E. Britton Rd. in Oklahoma City.

Elvin R. Moore of Edmond, owner of Moore Acres on Int. Hwy. 35 in Edmond.

ROGER MILLS COUNTY

Floyd Clem of Leedey, owner of the William Clem Farm, nine miles northwest of Leedey.

Karl M. Lovelace of Hammon, owner of the Karl Lovelace Farm, five miles north and one mile west of Hammon.

WASHITA COUNTY

Paul and Edna Bergmann of Corn, owners of the Daniel D. Wiens Homestead, one mile east and one-and-three-fourths miles north of Corn.

Johnny C. and Viola Funk of Corn, owners of the Greenfield Farm, three miles west and one mile north of Corn.

James C. Jr. and Donna Rea Dean of Canute, owners of the Rea Homestead, two miles south of Canute.

Maurice M. and Ruby Huls of Foss, owners of Maurice M. and Ruby Huls Farm, two miles south of Int. Hwy. 40 on State Hwy. 44 and one-fourth mile east.

WOODS COUNTY

John E. Corbin of Enid, owner of the Deeg-Corbin Farm, 10-and-one-half miles west of Alva.

Fred J. and Marie Isenbart of Alva, owners of the Isenbart Family Farm & Ranch, seven miles west and five miles north of Alva.

Glen D. Sacket of Aline, owner of the Sacket Farm, six-and-one-fourth miles west of Aline.

Nancy Lyon (of Bethany), Ruth Zahorsky, Betty Angle and Shirley Lane, owners of the Zahorsky Homestead farm, three miles east and one-half mile north of Dacoma Rd. and U.S. Hwy. 281.

DEATHS

Mabel Louise Beard
Irma Pauline Soucek

Mabel Louise Beard

PAWNEE — Mabel Louise Beard, lifelong Pawnee area resident died in Stillwater on Monday, Oct. 5, 1998. She was 68.

The funeral is set for 2 p.m. Friday, at the Pawnee Indian Baptist Church in Pawnee with the Rev. Warren Pratt, Jr. officiating. Burial will be in the North Indian Cemetery at Pawnee under the direction of Poteet Funeral Home.

Mabel Louise (Leading Fox) Beard was born March 26, 1930 in Pawnee the daughter of Albin and Miriam (Pratt) Leading Fox Sr. She was married to Gilbert Beard Sr. on Dec. 27, 1950, in Gainesville, Texas. They made their home in Pawnee where Mrs. Beard was a member of the Pawnee Indian Baptist Church.

Survivors include her companion, Herbert Rice of Pawnee; 10 children, Gilbert Beard Jr., Alba Jo Beard, Robin Sue Pickering, Johnnie Mae Tiger, Sharon Beard and William L. Beard, all of Pawnee, Jacob Keith Beard of El Reno, Lena Denise Beard of Stillwater and Lorenzo “Bo” Beard of Moore; two sisters, Elizabeth Blackowl of Pawnee and Charlene Button of Baxter Springs, Kan.; 26 grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; and numerous other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband on May 31, 1967; two daughters, Kit and Kip Beard; one son, Jimmy Dale Beard; and her parents.

Irma Pauline Soucek

LAMONT — Irma Pauline Soucek, longtime Lamont area resident died Monday, Oct. 5, 1998, at Bass Hospital in Enid. She was 86.

The funeral is set for 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8, at the Lamont United Methodist Church with the Rev. Richard Leonard officiating. Burial will be in the Lamont Cemetery under the direction of McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home, Tonkawa.

Irma Pauline (Shirer) Soucek was born June 2, 1912, in Grafton, W.Va. to Sidney C. and Minnie G. (Reed) Shirer. In 1916 she moved with her family to Three Sands, where she grew up and attended schools. After graduation from Three Sands High School in 1931, she continued to live and work in the Tonkawa area.

On April 17, 1948, she was married to Joe M. Soucek in Perry and the couple lived in Blackwell until moving to the Soucek Farm near Lamont. The couple farmed until their retirement in 1981. She was a member of the Lamont United Methodist Church.

Survivors include one daughter, Mrs. Jim (Joan) Kirby of Flint, Mich. She was preceded in death by her husband on April 4, 1991; her parents; one sister and four brothers.

NEWS BRIEFS

Legion Plans Meeting — A meeting of the American Legion is scheduled for Thursday — Color Guard meeting at 6:30 p.m. and the Legion meeting at 7 p.m. at the American Legion Hut on South Avenue.

Simply Massage, Therapist Linda or Lisa Spore, (580)362-3850 or

pager 1-800-256-1990 ID#3231. adv.

Cancer Awareness Luncheon Set — The Fourth Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon will be held at the Marland Estate and Convention Center Oct. 21 from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. The luncheon is sponsored by St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Soroptimist International Club of Ponca City and St. Joseph Cancer Center. Tickets are $10 and can be obtained from Soroptimist members or by calling 580-765-0301.

Book Your holiday parties now with Deb’s Karoake and DJ Service. 765-6920. adv.

Area Sailors Complete Exercise — Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class William B. Dickerson, son of Harley B. and Elizabeth L. Dickerson of 611 Boulder, Pawnee, and Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Chris W. Graham, son of John and Susan Romero of Red Rock, recently completed Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC), 1998 while aboard the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson, home ported in Bremerton, Wash. During the final evolution of the exercise, Dickerson’s and Graham’s ship led 10 ships across the Pacific Ocean in front of Waikiki Beach, Hawaii, for a pass and review. Dickerson, a 1990 graduate of Pawnee High School joined the Navy in March 1995, and Graham, a 1995 graduate of Billings High School joined the Navy in September 1995.

Windshield Chips repaired professionally. Guaranteed and

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

Carnival Time is Here — Roosevelt Elementary School is having a grand carnival Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. Lots of fun, games, food, beanie babies and a silent auction. Come and join the fun.

Alabama: For The Record Concert. Live on Pay Per View. Saturday, October 10th at 7:00 p.m. A great night at home with Alabama, $19.95. For advance ordering

call Cable ONE, 762-6684. adv.

Saltarelli Serving in Navy in Pacific — Marine Cpl. Timmy J. Saltarelli, son of Linda L. Saltarelli of 800 North Peachtree in Ponca City, is currently halfway through a six-month deployment to the Western Pacific Ocean, Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), embarked aboard the ships of the USS Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG). Home based in Camp Pendleton, Calif., his unit is an expeditionary intervention force with the ability to rapidly organize for combat operations in virtually any environment. In addition, the 15th MEU can evacuate civilians, rescue downed pilots, conduct reconnaissance and serve as an initial landing force ashore, providing the USS Essex ARG commanders with a wide range of capabilities. The 1995 graduate of Ponca City High School joined the Marine Corps in June 1995.

Call Don Sawyer, your full time chimney sweep since 1975.

Efficient and no mess. Call 1-800-974-8698, in Ponca 762-8883. adv.

Pumpkin Theft — A woman in the 2100 block of John Street contacted police at 8:11 a.m. Tuesday reporting the theft of a pumpkin from her porch. Extra patrol was assigned.

1999 101 Ranch Old Timers Calenders $10. Linda Rennie,

Pioneer Bank, 762-5651. adv.

Burglary — At 8:15 a.m. Tuesday a burglary in the 900 block of North Third Street was reported to police. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Arrest — Police arrested a 19-year-old man at 9:53 a.m. Tuesday on a city warrant for failure to pay.

Break-In — A woman in the 1000 block of North Oak Street advised police of a break-in at her home at 6:35 p.m. Tuesday.

Damaged Building — A police report on damage to the Ponca Iron and Metal building at Brookfield Avenue and Union Street was taken at 10:07 a.m. Tuesday.

Injury Accident — A 3-month-old baby was taken by ambulance to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center after sustaining injuries in an automobile accident at West Highland Avenue and North Oak Street at 11:09 a.m. Tuesday.

Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential.

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

p.m. 205 West Hartford. adv.

False Alarm — At 11:41 a.m. Tuesday all fire stations responded to a false alarm at St. Joseph Regional Medical, 1900 North Fourteenth Street.

Washington School Carnival, Friday, October 9, 5 p.m. Moon-

walk, cycles, games, DJ, food, silent auction. adv.

Stolen Tank — A man in the 700 South Ninth Street called police at 12:03 p.m. Tuesday reporting the theft of large tank, stolen from his yard. A report was taken.

Fire Prevention Week Event. Come join us for “Celebrity Host

Night at Golden Corral”, Oct. 9th, 5:00-8:00 p.m., $.99 Kids meal. Sparky, a Magician, Clowns, Firemen, Firetrucks and Celebrity

Hosts. Funds earned at event will go towards a Fire Safety House.

This Event Sponsored by Ponca City Fire Prevention Advisory

Council. adv.

Arrest — Police arrested a 40-year-old man at 12:54 p.m. Tuesday from North First Street and Highland Avenue for driving under suspension, no seat belt and on a city warrant for failure to obey.

Court Allen Construction. Concrete and Flagstone walkways,

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

Arrest — A 31-year-old man was arrested by police at 1:50 p.m. Tuesday from the 700 block of Monument Road on a Kay County warrant, application to revoke and embezzlement.

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

bles, $3.95, Thursday, 4-? p.m. 1217 East Prospect. 767-8304. adv.

Arrests — At 2:26 p.m. Tuesday two men were arrested from West Liberty Avenue and North Pine Street. A 20-year-old man was arrested on a Pittsburgh County warrant for failure to pay and an 18-year-old man was arrested on a city warrant for failure to pay.

Kanza Cafe 177 and I35 ext. 231 Friday night seafood buffet. All

you can eat $13.95. Children 10 and under $7.95. Open 7 days a

week 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. adv.

Arrest — A 28-year-old man was arrested at 3:21 p.m. Tuesday from Darr Park on a city warrant for failure to obey.

Elks Lodge German meals. Every Wednesday night. Call for

reservations 765-4045. Saturday Football in lounge. OU vs Texas

11:30. Open to public. adv.

Injury Accident — One person was taken by ambulance to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center after sustaining injuries in a one-vehicle accident at U.S. 60 and old U.S. 60 at 8:42 p.m. Tuesday.

Arrest — Police arrested a 46-year-old man at 9:06 p.m. Tuesday from the 2000 block of Lake Road on a Kay County warrant for bogus checks.

Stolen Dog — A man in the 1400 block of North Union Street notified police at 3:27 p.m. Tuesday that his dog had been stolen.

Jim Bowen Construction - Custom homes, room additions and

remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv.

Injury Accident — A two-vehicle accident at South Elm Street and Marland Drive sent one person to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center at 4:21 p.m. Tuesday.

Butter Braids: Seven flavors, rise and bake, home made flavor,

great gifts. Grand Central Station, 114 South Fifth, 767-8336. adv.

Gas Drive-Off — At 4:40 p.m. Tuesday a $9.77 gas drive-off was reported at the Triple T, 201 West Hartford Avenue.

National Depression Screening Day, October 8. For free screen-

ing, call Edwin Fair Clinic, 762-7561 or St. Joseph’s Hospital, 765-

3321, ext. 400. adv.

Arrest — Police arrested a 25-year-old man at 4:45 p.m. Tuesday from West Liberty Avenue and North Pine Street on a city warrant for failure to pay.

Camera Repairs. Graham Photo, 201 North First, Downtown.

765-4348. adv.

Arrest — A 44-year-old man was arrested at 8:39 p.m. Tuesday from the 400 block of South Sixth Street for interfering with an officer.

Stolen Bicycle — At 8:04 p.m. Tuesday a woman in the 400 block of South Ash Street reported the theft of a bike.

Arrest — Police arrested a 27-year-old man from First Street and Grand Avenue at 8:33 p.m. Tuesday on a Kingfisher County warrant.

Headboard Hijacking — A man in the 200 block of East Brookfield Avenue advised police at 3:55 p.m. Tuesday that a headboard and two lamps had been stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Building Vandalism — Vandalism to a city building in the 500 block of East Grand Avenue was reported to police at 4:11 p.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

LIFESTYLES

Alpha Gamma Mother’s Club Sets Craft Fair
Doretta Jackson Xi Zeta Lambda New Secretary

Alpha Gamma Mother’s Club Sets Craft Fair

Alpha Gamma Mother’s Club met Sept. 28 in the home of Pat Koehler with Deborah Cordes serving as co-hostess. Nine members answered roll call with Teresa Doerksen introduced as a new member.

Pat Koehler led in the reading of the collect and aims and Chaplain Jean Hess gave the devotional from the book “Gotcha” by Barbara Johnson. Plans for the arts and crafts fair were reviewed. The event, sponsored by the club, will be held Nov. 11, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., at the Unity gym. Proceeds will go to local and state charities. Spaces are available by calling Karen Yost, 580-765-4688.

The Friendship basket, brought by Ms. Koehler, was won by Helen Wilson and the hostess gift was won by Billie Stepken. A new members party will be held Nov. 9. Anyone wanting more information about the club is asked to contact Jean Hess, 580-762-1995, or Deborah Cordes, 580-628-3724.

The next scheduled meeting will be Oct. 12 in the home of Carol O’Rear. Leslie Hoover will serve as co-hostess and the program will be presented by Ms. Cordes.

Doretta Jackson Xi Zeta Lambda New Secretary

The Oct. I meeting of Xi Zeta Lambda chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority was held in the home of Nida Austin. Dottie Johnstone, president, called the meeting to order with 16 members standing for the Opening Ritual. Recording Secretary Tobie Neal called the roll and read the minutes of the last meeting. The Treasurer’s report was given by Judy Mallory and dues were collected.

Social chairman Teri Barnett handed out invitations to the Halloween Party and the Hayrack Ride. She also announced the next social would be a traditional Thanksgiving Dinner at the home of Nida Austin on Nov. 21. Service chairman Melva Keen announced that the chapter members would be making Christmas tray favors for Meals on Wheels.

Ms. Johnstone announced that Doretta Jackson would be taking over the position of Recording Secretary due to Tobie Neal’s move to Arkansas. Publicity chairman Lila Logan announced the next meeting would be the Halloween party at Jeannine Gemmill’s home with Andra Kasselman giving the program. Phyllis Pledger won the Friendship Basket brought by Lila Logan. Judy Mallory’s program was a tour of the Pioneer Woman Museum prior to the meeting.

SPORTS

Lady Cats Sweep In PC Triangular
Cat JV Tops Ed. Memorial
Freshmen Fall to Stillwater
PC Roper Wins ACRA Title

Lady Cats Sweep In PC Triangular

Inexperience has proven to be the Lady Wildcat volleyballers’ nemesis this season, but that same inexperience also makes for a quick climb up the learning curve.

As in, the Lady Cats may be young, but they’re definitely getting better — fast.

After dropping to a disappointing 8-18, the Po-Hi Lady Cats have since gone on to win five of their last seven match ups. Hosting a triangular, Tuesday, the Poncans put on possibly their best show of the year, powering past a tough Enid Racers, 14-16, 15-13, 15-11, and Stillwater in two straight, 15-7, 15-8.

In the Enid match, freshman Malory Hodge led the Lady Cats with eight kills and three blocks. Senior power hitter Megan Tomek had six kills — including four in the second game — a block and two ace serves, while freshman Jena Wedd and Lauren Brune had four kills each.

In the Stillwater match, Brune came up with three kills and an ace serve; sophomore Abbie Gehlert had three kills, Tomek and Hodge had two kills each, while junior setter Ashley Mott had three ace serves.

“We had a couple of girls step up and save us there,” said head coach Steve McKay. Malory and Jena carried us for awhile, and Candice Moses came in on the back row and played well. Without her we would have been in trouble.”

The Lady Cats will head to the Regional Tournament in Tulsa, Thursday. Other teams in the single elimination tournament — in which the Lady Cats are seeded second — are Jenks, Tulsa Washington, McAlester and Tulsa Edison.

Cat JV Tops Ed. Memorial

Despite playing on a water-logged field, the Wildcat JVs splashed to a 14-6 win over Edmond Memorial Monday night.

“It was a blast,” coach Larry Degan said. “It was a real fun bus ride home.”

J. Michael Sharon may have had the most fun.

In the second quarter, Sharon intercepted an Edmond pass at the Ponca City goal line and sped 100 yards for the Cats’ first score of the night.

The Poncans missed the extra point try, but led 6-0 at halftime.

In the fourth quarter, Sharon was on the receiving end of a 23-yard scoring pass from quarterback Grant Potter. Potter then threw to Scott Steichen for the conversion and Ponca City’s lead was 14-0.

Edmond scored midway through the fourth period, but couldn’t get the ball back to threaten the Cats’ second win of the season.

“The offense move the ball and made the plays when they had to,” Degan said. “They just kept the ball away from Edmond. Scott Steichen, Steven Michael, Potter and Andy Kreger all did a good job.

“The defense was outstanding especially the play of the people in the middle — Wade Bair, Derek Jump and Matt Cook, Mark Keller, Josh Kirkpatrick and Jimmo Moore.

“We play a lot of different people and they all gave great effort. Aaron Morgan and Rodney Bonham played really well on the outside.

“The secondary broke up eight passes “ Degan noted. “And we had the one big interception.”

The JVs are scheduled to play Owasso in their first home appearance of the season next Monday.

Freshmen Fall to Stillwater

Missed extra-points attempts came back to cost the Ponca City freshmen as they lost a 14-12 decision to Stillwater Monday.

“The defense played really well and the offense played pretty good at times, but we had too many mistakes,” coach Brad Parent said. “We had a couple of fumbles and two interceptions that really hurt.”

Stillwater opened the scoring on a 27-yard TD pass in the first period and held a 6-0 lead through most of the defensive struggle.

On the first play of the fourth quarter, Micah Johnson broke loose on a 65-yard touchdown run to tie the score.

Stillwater came back on a 15-yard touchdown run with 6:14 left and converted to run the score to 14-6.

But Johnson found a hole again on the first play after the kickoff and this time streaked 75 yards to cut the margin to 14-12. But the Poncans again came up short on the conversion try.

“If we eliminate the mistakes, we’ll be all right,” Parent said as his team fell to 3-2 on the season.

The ninth graders are scheduled to play Enid Waller here Monday.

PC Roper Wins ACRA Title

PRYOR — Ponca City roper J. Paul Williams won the American Cowboys Rodeo Association year-end Steer Roping title recently.

A missed calf in the second go-around almost proved costly for Williams in the ACRA Finals at the 4-Way Arena in Pryor.

Williams placed in three of the four rounds of competition to finish with a 34.08 average on three head.

The Finals’ steer roping champion was Bucky Hefner of Chelsea with an average of 52.79 on four head.

Williams was second in the first go-around with a time of 11.5. After not placing in round two, the Ponca Citian came back to win round three with a time of 11.2. He was fourth in round four with an 11.38.

When points were totaled for the year and the finals, Williams won the year-end title by less that $5 over Hefner. Williams’ 1998 total was $2,821.40 to Hefner’s $2,816.64.