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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Tuesday, October 27, 1998 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES SPORTS BUSINESS LOCALFamily Loses Everything In Sunday Blaze Family Loses Everything In Sunday BlazeA Ponca City family lost everything except for the clothes on their back during a residential fire Sunday afternoon, it was announced at the Ponca City Board of Commissioners meeting Monday night. Commissioner Chris Hand explained that the family includes the father and two small girls, one age 5 and the other age 9, and “it was explained to me earlier today, that they need everything it takes to live.” That would include housing, food, clothing, dishes, toys for the girls, etc. Hand indicated a drop point for the items is at Affordable Carpet, 200 West Grand Avenue, at the warehouse. A fund has been established at Pioneer Bank. Those wishing to help in that way should see Lori Hodges at the bank. The Ponca City Fire Department responded with several units to the blaze at the home at 737 North Oak Street at 2:23 p.m. Sunday afternoon. However, before they were able to control the blaze and get it extinguished, it had caused almost total damage. The contents and house were said to be valued at $28,000 and the loss was estimated at $25,000. The fire department reported the fire started from a gas heater in the bathroom, igniting clothes in a nearby clothes hamper. Occupants of the residence were Manny Sosa, a single dad, and the two small girls. Nearly NewsThere’s been a change in the location for the two events that had been scheduled at the Conoco Fourth Street Club House Thursday. Nearly News learns that the clubhouse has been closed for the week and the seminars will be held at the Marland Estate Chapel. They include the Lead Based Paint Seminar for landlords, renters and home sellers, 6:30-7:15 p.m., and Home Buying Seminar for experienced and first-time home buyers, 7:15-9 p.m. Both are sponsored by Group One Inc. Realtors, information 762-0400, free and open to the public, Spanish interpreter available. Say it isn’t so! Voters really don’t have to wait another year to vote in a general election. Contrary to the cutlines under the sample ballot printed in Monday’s NEWS, the general election is really scheduled for Nov. 3, 1998. NN apologizes for the error, and reminds voters to vote next Tuesday. City To Continue Upgrade Of Housing With GrantsBy BOB PATTERSON News City Editor Ponca City will continue an effort to upgrade housing situations throughout the city after a decision by the City Commission Monday night in a regular session at the Public Safety Center. Grants consultant Candy Thomas reported to the commission that she was requesting them to waive the competitive procurement procedures and to award the contract for HOME Administration and Housing Support Services to United Community Action Agency (UCAP). “It’s a continuation of the previous grant that we’ve been able to obtain, and will aid in the rehabilitation of approximately eight homes,” Thomas said. The grant calls for $350,000. She said since the award was for a much larger contract amount, but within a shorter time frame, the contract with UCAP is especially important to expedite the project to meet the shorter contract funding period. “The period started Oct. 5,” she said. Commissioners indeed were pleased with the effort and approved the procedure, along with the acceptance of the HOME grant funds from the Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency. Reasons for Needs The city has used the current UCAP weatherization list as the initial list of potential applicants for two reasons. One is that it comprises of homeowners who qualify for the funds, but the houses require more than weatherization to meet specific standards. Secondly, weatherization applicants are usually “very low income” homeowners and by utilizing this program, the city addresses the most severe needs. Other matching funds in the amount of $87,500 will be provided for the project, in agreement with Habitat for Humanity’s effort to provide affordable housing stock in the city. Commissioners also received a budget status report for the first quarter ended Sept. 30. Finance director Marc LaBossiere, with assistance from accountant Lisa Baker, provided a video for the commissioners and audience at the session. “We had a positive situation involving most everything in the city, with receipts ahead of predictions and expenditures slightly below expectations,” LaBossiere said. LaBossiere pointed out the general fund has a budgeted deficit of $924,831 for Fiscal 1999 but actual revenues had exceeded expenditures by $14,084. PCUA Funds Well Ahead He said the Ponca City Utility Authority water fund was 31.18 percent of budget, while expenditures presently are 16.75 percent. It was disclosed that many significant capital projects which are budgeted for Fiscal 1999 have not yet been expended. Also in the light fund, the receipts are 39.32 percent of budget and expenditures 33.63 percent, which comes as a result of electric sales for the first quarter representing an increase of 20.62 percent over the same period a year ago. That is likely due to the hot September, when the area (and the State) sweltered in 100-degree plus heat several days at a time. A third session of pavement tests will be done, following action by the commission Monday. A recommendation from the Traffic Commission was to have the work done in five-year increments, following the first passage of the street sales tax in 1988. Approval was given for Infrastructure Management Services to do the comprehensive pavement testing and update of pavement management software at a cost of $46,580. Traffic Engineering Manager Mike Lane said the program has proven valuable in the way the commission continues to upgrade street improvements throughout the city. The commission also approved authorization for the mayor to execute a contract document for street improvements to serve Industrial Boulevard, as approved by the commission recently. Four-Lane Project The project calls for the construction of a concrete four-lane street connecting the existing Industrial Boulevard east of Thornapple Valley Drive and include the intersection of Industrial Boulevard and North Waverly Street. Bids on the project were opened Sept. 1 and the commission approved the awarding of the contract to Evans and Associates in the amount of $311,184.47. Approval of 4-1 was given by the commission to allow Petroleum Marketers Equipment Company for the fuel system upgrade and underground storage tanks removal at the Ponca City city garage in the amount of $50,232. Commissioner Chris Hand cast the negative vote on the plan. Commissioners also put off any instructions to City Attorney Kevin Murphy concerning the drafting of an amendment relating to public bus service. “We need to look at this at a work session some more,” City Manager Gary Martin said. During the Ponca City Utility Authority, commissioners approved the releasing of funds from the 97C revenue bond proceeds for the C.H. Guernsey, professional services for the northwest substation project, in the amount of $13,965.33. Rusty Edwards said the project is expected to get under way soon, and hopefully be completed by late April or early May, 1999. “We’ve already purchased the transformers and breakers for the substation, and we’re just looking forward to getting started.” The PCUA also approved a purchase power contract with Continental Carbon. Specific Upgrade Edwards reported the situation that electrical services will serve the two wells, and “we are building the line under our policy for new line extensions and upgrades. There is 1.5 miles of line that will be upgraded from two phases to three phases and one-half mile of new line to be constructed.” Commissioners also approved the consent agenda of the regular session, prior to jumping into the new business for the meeting. Consent agenda items included: *Install yield signs on Otoe Avenue at Lincoln Street. *Install stop signs on Oklahoma Avenue at Lincoln Street. *Install yield signs on Hazel Avenue at Elm Street. *Remove no parking restrictions on the east side of the 100 block of North Oak Street and install two-hour parking signs for a six-month trial basis. *Install yield signs on Chestnut Avenue at Elm Street. *Advertise for bids for street maintenance project that includes concrete street patching. *Purchase of equipment via the emergency shelter grant for the Salvation Army including $9,659 for bedding equipment from Smith Home Furnishings, $3,006.52 for restaurant equipment from Curtis Restaurant Equipment and $2,705.77 for floor replacement items from Floorcraft. *Allow Prince of Peace Lutheran to e Pioneer Park Oct. 31 for a benefit to raise money for Shanley Kelly’s medical expenses. *Designated certain city employees as purchasing officers. Keating, Myers Luncheon Set Here ThursdayThe election is in a week, and Gov. Frank Keating and David Myers will be talking with citizens of Ponca City on Thursday. A luncheon at the Ponca City Country Club between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. will afford all Ponca City citizens the opportunity to talk with and ask questions of both Keating and Myers. Those who would like to attend are asked to call 765-4098 or 762-1610 by Wednesday morning to make reservations. There is a $7 per person charge for lunch. District CourtNewkirk Marriage Licenses George Albert Cheney, 28, and Jessica Catherine Flinn, 21, both of Blackwell. Michael James Stasyszen, 23, and Amy Louise Anderson, 21, both of Blackwell. Rosendo Berios Castello, 48, and Mary Martinez Lopez, 54, both of Ponca City. Daniel Eugene Carroll, 19, and Micky Ann Irene Lambert, 18, both of Ponca City. Virgil Benard Ropp, 49, and April Alberta Johnson, 47, both of Blackwell. Blackwell Divorces Sought Maria Lynn Johnson vs. Robin Lee Johnson. Divorces Granted Shane H. Vaughn vs. Catherine Michelle Vaughn; defendant restored to former name Catherine Michelle Reed. Civil Suits Creditors Recovery Corp. vs. Carlos Pando and Cruz Pando; plaintiff seeking judgment for $3,976.16. Creditors Recovery Corp. vs. Terry Whitehead; plaintiff seeking judgment for $4,692.48. Ponca City Divorces Sought Alisia Desire’e Johnson vs. Bryan Lee Johnson. William Joseph Willoughby vs. Jenny Howie Willoughby. Terri Lynn Miller and Pete Eugene Miller. Susan Jane Pruitt vs. Randall Gene Pruitt. Idalia Loera vs. Leo Loera. Rex L. Krider vs. Holly R. Krider. Mary Lou Fowler vs. Steven V. Fowler. Randy Lee Jenks vs. Jennifer Crawford Jenks. Donna J. Blacketer vs. James Blacketer. Jan Lee Nephew vs. Susie Jo Smith. Divorces Granted Patricia A. Delaney vs. Buddy Eugene Delaney. Jerry Lee McClung vs. Cindy Sue McClung. Civil Petitions Jim Epperson, et al., vs. Milbank Systems, Inc., et al.; plaintiffs seeking judgment in excess of $10,000. Michael James Hasselbring vs. Vanselous Ranch & Cattle Co., et al.; plaintiff seeking judgment in excess of $10,000. Carolyn Younger vs. Commercial Union Insurance Co.; plaintiff seeking judgment in excess of $10,000. Amber Dawn Markley, petition for change of name to Amber Dawn Gillham. Barn Dance Set At Frontier BarnThe Frontier Booster Club is sponsoring a Chili Cook-Off and Barn Dance on Friday, Oct. 30 with proceeds to be used to support FFA, 4-H and FHA projects. It promises to be an old-fashioned evening of fall festivities, according to the sponsors, and everyone is invited to take part. Scheduled from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. in the Frontier School Ag Barn, the meal and dance will include dessert and drink for $4 for adults, $2 for children under 10, with hot dogs available for non-chili lovers. Those coming to dance only will be charged $1 admission. Sponsors say you can bring your decorated pumpkin for a contest among friends, and prizes will be awarded. Also free hay rides are scheduled all evening and door prizes will be given all through the event. For those wanting more information, please call: Melanie Williams at 580-723-1351; Shelley Cook at 580-723-4360 or Alice Kelly at 580-723-4548. DEATHSMarietta McEuin Marietta McEuinMarietta (Short) McEuin, Ponca City resident, died Monday, Oct. 26, 1998, in Perkins. She was 73. A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 28, 1998, at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery with the Rev. Albert May, pastor, Perkins First Baptist Church, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel. Marietta (Short) McEuin was born March 20, 1925, in Barnsdall, the daughter of Jerome Wilson and Ada (Graham) Short. She was married to Jack McEuin in Pawhuska, on May 29, 1942. The couple made their first home in Ponca City. They moved to Texas, Florida and Kansas before returning to Ponca City. Mrs. McEuin worked as a nurse assistant at the St. Joseph Medical Center for many years. Surviving are a brother, Paul Greene of Garland, Texas; three sisters, Florida Monigold of Barnsdall, Marguerite Wells of Tulsa, and Louise Morris of Drumright; and a host of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband in 1984; her parents; one brother Harry Short; and one sister Danah Anthony. Memorial contributions may be made to the Judith Karman Hospice, P.O. Box 818, Stillwater, OK 74076. Will Paul SpringlerFAIRFAX — Will Paul Springler, former Fairfax resident, died Sunday afternoon, Oct. 25, 1998, at Southwest Medical Center in Oklahoma City. He was 89. The funeral will be held graveside at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 28, at the Fairfax Cemetery with the Rev. Arthur Parsons, Oklahoma City, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home, Fairfax. Will Paul Springler was born Jan. 4, 1909, in Oklahoma City, the son of Edward R. and Blanche (Baushka) Springler. He grew up and attended Putnam High School in Oklahoma City. He was married to Bonnie L. Stumbaugh on July 20, 1950, in Oklahoma City. Springler was a retired custodian for Oklahoma Christian College, Edmond. The couple had lived for a short time in Fairfax in 1992. Survivors include a sister, Virginia Rimmer of Oklahoma City and several relatives in the Fairfax area. He was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie, on March 13, 1992; his parents; and a sister, Flora A. Coves. Jeffrey James StricklinTONKAWA — Jeffrey James Stricklin, Tonkawa resident, died Sunday, Oct. 25, 1998, in Tonkawa. He was 29. The funeral was to be held at 2 p.m. today, Oct. 27, 1998, at the United Methodist Church in Tonkawa. Burial will be at the Tonkawa IOOF Cemetery under the direction of McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home, Tonkawa. Jeffrey James Stricklin was born in Blackwell, on July 13, 1969, the son of Vince Stricklin and Pat Howard. Stricklin graduated from Tonkawa High School and was employed by Williams Roofing in Tonkawa. He was married to Kristina Jo Sandifer in Blue Springs, Mo., on May 27, 1994. He is survived by his wife of the home; one son, Dakoda Stricklin; one daughter Cheyenne Stricklin; his parents; four brothers, Tim Stricklin of Kentucky, Jason Stricklin of Tonkawa, Tyler Stricklin and Jared Stricklin, both of Kansas City, Mo.; one stepsister, Julie Howard of Tonkawa; grandparents, Joe and Bonnie Buffalow and Joyce Jamieson, all of Tonkawa, and Mable Stricklin of Blackwell; great-grandparents, J.C. and Clara Buffalow of Tonkawa; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. A memorial fund has been established in the name of Kristina Jo Stricklin for Dakota and Cheyenne Stricklin at the Commerce Bank, Kansas City, Mo., 18700 East 39th Street, Independence, MO. 64057 Merwyn BakerMerwyn “Bub” Baker, Ponca City resident, died Saturday evening, Oct. 24, 1998, at his home. He was 55. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 28, at Trout Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Don Stanton, pastor of Faith Tabernacle Church, officiating. Burial will follow in Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery. Merwyn “Bub” Baker was born, Sept. 27, 1943, in Ponca City, to John and Delsie (Smith) Baker. He graduated from Ponca City High School. He was later self-employed as a welder and contractor. His hobbies include fishing and hunting. Survivors include twin daughters, Cindy and Wendy; his mother, Delsie Hall, and step-father, Bill Hall, both of Ponca City; one brother, Glen “Skeet” Baker of Kildare; and two sisters, Darlene French of Stillwater and Marilyn Borden of Newport, N.Y. He was preceded in death by his father, John Baker in 1953. Casket bearers will be Mark Flood, Skeet Baker, Frank Burdick Sr., Gary Martin, Everett Staggs and Rod Rowe. Honorary bearers will be Les Bentley and Ray Adams. NEWS BRIEFSBlackburn Helping Navy Celebrate — Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael A. Blackburn, whose wife, Kelly, is the daughter of Bobby Corbin of Marland, is one of more than 380,000 active duty sailors celebrating the Navy’s 223rd birthday this month. Blackburn is currently halfway through a six-month deployment to the Western Pacific and Indian oceans and Arabian Gulf with Fighter Squadron 31, embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln. The Navy was created by the Continental Congress on Oct. 13, 1775, after George Washington appealed for its formation. On Oct. 13 every year, sailors mark the date as a time for ceremony and reflection on the deeds of the men and women who served before and who have given today’s sailors their legacy of honor, courage and commitment. The 1980 graduate of Moore High School in Moore, Okla., joined the Navy in January 1991. State Certified DUI school Bridgeway, Inc. is Kay Co.'s only local non-profit organization that offers both mid week and weekend DUI Schools and Assessments. Next school scheduled Friday, October 30th and Saturday, October 31st, starting at 5:00 p.m. We now offer the 24 hr. DUI School. Call 762-1462 for reservations and information. adv. Veterans Parade Meeting — A Veterans Day Parade meeting will be held 7 p.m. Wednesday at the American Legion Post, 407 West South Avenue. Everyone associated with or interested in the parade is invited. McCord School’s 17th annual Arts and Crafts Festival, Saturday, October 31, 1998, 9:00 a.m.4:30 p.m. Over 70 exhibitors. Concessions available. Free admis- sion. adv. DeHaven Enters Service — Army Pvt. James R. DeHaven has entered basic military training at Fort Sill in Lawton. During the eight weeks of training, he will study the Army mission and will receive instructions in drill and ceremonies, weapons, map reading, tactics, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, Army history and traditions, and special training in human relations. DeHaven is the son of Richard and Teresa DeHaven of 611 North Lake, and a 1998 graduate of Ponca City High School. Disturbance — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 8:37 p.m. from the 1500 block of North Third Street that a juvenile was causing problems. Three officers were assigned and a juvenile citation was issued. Color Guard Practice — American Legion Color Guard will practice at the American Legion Post, 407 West South Avenue, 6 p.m. Wednesday. Cruise Special deeply discounted. Circle the cape of South America, visit penguins on Falkland Island, ride with the gauchos across the steppes of Patagonia plus much more. Norwegian Cruise Line sailing January 2, 1999 for 14 days. Call Beth Masters 1-800-329-2556. adv. Billings Youth Joins Marines — Marine Pvt. Irvin L. Schultz, son of Zelda Silvey, 400 South Broadway in Billings, recently completed basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego. He successfully completed 12 weeks of training designed to challenge new Marine recruits both physically and mentally. In addition to physical conditioning, Schultz spent numerous hours in classroom and field assignments which included learning first aid, uniform regulations, combat water survival, marksmanship, hand-to-hand combat and assorted weapons training. He also received instruction on the Marine Corps’ core values, and ended the training phase with The Crucible, a 54-hour team effort, problem solving evolution which culminated with an emotional ceremony in which the recruits were presented the Marine Corps Emblem. Schultz is a 1998 graduate of Billings High School. Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential. Hours: Tuesday 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and Thursday, 6-8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. adv. Vehicle Burglarized — A man in the 1600 block of Academy reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 6:27 a.m. Monday that his vehicle had been broken into. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Instant Passport Pictures. Graham Photo, 201 North First, 765-4348. adv. Bicycles Abandoned — A person at Fort Knox, 1301 East Prospect Avenue, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:22 a.m. Monday that two bicycles had been abandoned there. Animal Control was notified to pick up the bicycles. Vehicle Burglarized — A woman reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 2:38 p.m. Monday that while at Hastings Thursday afternoon her vehicle had been broken into. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of South Fourteenth Street and East South Avenue at 10:52 a.m. Monday that a 28-year-old man was being held on a warrant from Portland, Ore. Carpet Cleaning most modern method of cleaning. Recommended by major carpet manufacturers, most completely trained personal and finest service. Reason- able prices, references. Call Floorcraft 762-8381. adv. Disturbance — A person from the 400 block of South Oak Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 12:47 p.m. Monday that a disturbance was occurring. Three officers were assigned and a 24-year-old man was held for a city warrant and a report was taken on assault and battery. Pure Water Wagon, reverse osmosis water, $0.25 a gallon, distilled $0.50. Call 765-4116 or 765-6464 for delivery. 1717 North 5th, Ponca City. adv. Accident — An accident at the intersection of North Fourteenth Street and East Prospect Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 1:15 p.m. Monday. Two officers were assigned and a report was taken. A 19-year-old woman was held for not having a driver’s license, improper backing, and having no insurance. Buy 1 Get 1 Free taper candles, Carla’s Hallmark Downtown. adv. Tires Slashed — A man at Mid-High School reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 2:09 p.m. Monday that his tires had been slashed. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Winterize Your vehicle before the cold weather sets in. $55 Flush ‘N Fill special at Grand Ave. Auto Repair. 210 West Grand. No appointments necessary. Good through November 15th. adv. Subjects Held — Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department reported from Ponca Plaza at 3:35 p.m. Monday that a 50-year-old man and a 47-year-old man were being held for possession of an open container. Accident — An accident in the parking lot of a business in the 1500 block of North Union Street was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:45 p.m. Monday. An officer was assigned and a hit and run report was taken. Accident — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 5:18 p.m. Monday that a two-vehicle, non-injury accident at the intersection of North Second Street and East Broadway had occurred. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Every Wednesday ð price clothes, shoes and purses except priced items. Check our daily specials. Caboose Thrift Shoppe, First and Central. adv. Beer Stolen — The Communications Center received a 911 call from Triple T, 720 South Waverly Street, at 7:33 p.m. Monday that three young kids had stolen three 30-packs of beer and left heading north on Flormable. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Gas Drive-Off — A clerk at E-Z Mart, 2225 North Fourteenth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:48 p.m. Monday that someone had left without paying for gas and headed south. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 11:39 p.m. Monday from the 900 block of East South Avenue that a 27-year-old man was being held for DUI, having no insurance and possession of marijuana. A vehicle was towed from the scene. Citations Issued — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 1:18 a.m. from the 1100 block of West Overbrook Avenue that three juveniles were being brought to the police department were juvenile citations were issued. Two were released to guardians and one was taken to NOYS. LIFESTYLESBliss Homemakers FCE Group Gives Reports on Projects Bliss Homemakers FCE Group Gives Reports on ProjectsBliss Homemakers FCE group met at the Marland Methodist-Christian Church Oct. 21. President Burdettya Linn called the meeting to order, the association creed was read in unison, and Maxine Tautfest, devotional chairman, shared “Old Age.” Roll call was answered with “Do you decorate for Halloween and/or Thanksgiving.” The September minutes were read and a seat belt survey was taken with 99% participation, 100% reported having read books, magazine articles or reading to a child. Reports were given by Catherine Robinson on FCE week activities, and Patsy Smithheisler presented topics from the Noble County Association meeting. Melanie Williams is serving on the 1999 Noble County Fair exhibits and kitchen committee. Vicki Oltmann discussed ideas for the Red Ribbon activities. New business discussed included sponsoring a trophy for the Noble County 4-H “Share the Fun,” also preparing and serving refreshments at the event Nov. 4. The next meeting for Bliss Homemakers FCE will be Nov. 11, due to the Noble County 4-H Banquet being scheduled on Nov. 18. Melanie Williams suggested the group participate in “Breast Cancer Awareness” and Marilyn Gates volunteered to bring shower hanger reminder cards for monthly self-exams. The annual Christmas Party slated Dec. 2 was discussed, and Marsha Dunham volunteered to finalize the details. The Frontier Booster Club fundraiser for Oct. 30 was discussed and a fun filled evening entertainment including a Chili cook off, hay rides, barn dances, silent auction is planned. Linda Short, vice-president and program chairperson, introduced the lesson leader Melanie Williams, who presented a program about how to “recycle those brown paper bags into pumpkins for fall decorations.” She also had supplies for each member to make their pumpkin. Hostesses were Mae Cockrell and Bonnie Norman. Soni Kodesh received the hostess gift, and Denise Kienholz won the “Red Rooster” raffle. Bits and Pieces55 and Older The 55 and Older Club will host a Halloween party at noon Oct. 29 at 700 West Broadway. Stew, chili, homemade pies and cakes will be served, and those 55 and older are invited to attend and join in fun and games. The group meets on Tuesdays and Thursday from 12 until 4 p.m. PAQG Meeting Pioneer Area Quilter’s Guild will meet Nov. 2 at Community Christian Church, 2109 West Grand. Stitch and Assist will begin at 10:30 a.m. Members are asked to bring Christmas material and trim to make tree decorations for the art center. Registration will begin at 11:30 a.m. and the program topic will be “Therapy Won’t Help” by Billie Wright. Beverly Carpenter will be greeter and hostesses will be Annette Latz, Nan Huddleston, Maxine Griggs, Roberta Lee and Rosemary Ramsey. For more information about the guild call Kathy Paczowski, 762-4546. Laureate Phi Laureate Phi chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority held the October social at a Lake Ponca Park shelterhouse. Guests were James Rosenbaum, Ed Hill, Allen Streeter and Charles Starks. The food was provided by Pay Hill, Fran Smith and Virginia Starks, social committee members. Members wrote a letter to Ginny Wasson, a former member now living in Florida. The group will gather Nov. 1 for the Preferential Tea slated at the Conoco Fourth Street Clubhouse. Happy Hilltop Chris Orr was the hostess for the Oct. 15 meeting of the Happy Hilltop Club at Western Sizzlin’. Loma Smith, vice president, called the meeting to order with the salute to the flag, Nancy Challis read the creed and Ms. Orr gave the devotion using a poem “Learn.” Irene Harden read the minutes and announcement was made that tooth fairy pillows had been taken to Kaw City schools by Dee Hardee and more were needed. NIne members and guest, Cindy Wright, answered roll call. Nell Miller and Ms. Wright showed the group how to make rosebuds with silk ribbon and how to make flowers using pantyhose material.Loma Smith will host the November meeting. Piano Students Attend ContestSeveral piano students from Ponca City were recently entered in the Junior Audition Competition sponsored by the Oklahoma Music Teachers Association. This contest, for third through eighth grades, was held in Stillwater. The purpose of the Junior Audition is to give students the opportunity to perform in a competitive audition that will allow those students who exhibit a sufficient level of performance skill to have the opportunity to perform on a winner’s recognition recital. These students will perform at the Northeast District Convention Nov. 14 in Tulsa. Winners in the fifth/sixth grade division were Maddie McDaniel and Jason Ford with Kristin Jennings as alternate. One of the winners in the seventh/eighth grade division was Aaron Wright with Allison Ford as alternate. Maddie, Jason, Kristin, and Allison are students of Kathleen Wimberley and Aaron studies with Becky Dye. McCord Group Elects OfficersThe October meeting of the McCord Homemakers Club was held Thursday in the home of Pauline Garrett with 10 members present. Rozella Brown gave the devotional and roll call was answered with “My Favorite Fall Thing.” Ms. Brown read the minutes and Ila Mae Opitz gave the treasurer’s report. The group voted to help the McCord Fire Department with a Halloween party. Elected as new officers were Patty Doughty, president; Paula McKee, vice president; Rozella Brown, secretary; Ila Mae Opitz, treasurer; Pauline Garrett, communications chairman. Paula McKee will host the November meeting and the December Christmas party will be at the home of Deloris Robinson. Members are asked to bring items for the Thanksgiving basket to the next meeting and the club will provide the meat for the basket. Ms. Garrett demonstrated how to make a snowman pin from a peanut in the shell. Xi Zeta Lambda Chapter MeetsThe Oct. 15 meeting of Xi Zeta Lambda chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority was held in the home of Jeannine Gemmill with 15 members standing for the Opening Ritual. President Dottie Johnstone called the meeting to order, Secretary Lila Logan read the minutes and Treasurer Judy Mallory gave the financial report. Dottie Johnstone gave the City Council Report and announced that the Preferential Tea would be held on Nov. 1. Ways and Means chairman Nida Austin stated plans for the Oktoberfest booth had been finalized and work schedules were reviewed. Social Chairman, Terri Barnett announced the next social would be the traditional Thanksgiving Dinner on Nov. 21 in the home of Nida Austin. Program chairman Lila Logan announced the next meeting would be at Phyllis Pledger’s home with Tobie Neal giving the program. The Friendship Basket was won by Judy Watt. Following the meeting the Halloween party was held with members enjoying Witches Stew and treats and playing trick or treat bridge. Francie James and Jill Sims won high and low prizes. Best costume award was won by Judy Mallory. BUSINESSEntry-Level Priced Housing Ideas Explained at Meeting Entry-Level Priced Housing Ideas Explained at MeetingBy LOUISE ABERCROMBIE News Staff Writer BLACKWELL — Innovative ideas on how to provide entry-level priced housing were explained by Byron DeBruler of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce at the Far North Central ORDC Coalition Council meeting Wednesday in Blackwell. DeBruler said that member communities of the Oklahoma Rural Development Council are in the “same boat” as other rural communities in Oklahoma in terms of housing. He described the common problems, there are no entry-level houses under $60,000; building taking place is for custom homes in the $80,000 to $100,000 on up; there are no family rental units and the skilled trade people are busy elsewhere. DeBruler added, there are some infield lots that are going to waste because of bankruptcy and or the downturn of the oil patch; units have gone into foreclosure, and places have been boarded up or burned out and torn down. He said, “These are assets that are going to waste, no one is collecting ad valorem taxes and no one is spending money creating sales tax for the community. There are new jobs in the community and there are no housing units available for the employees.” He said the wages for the new workers are in the $7 to $12 an hour range. In the audience was a group that plan to start a plant to produce strawboard for housing, and also a contractor from Kansas. Some of the solutions DeBruler suggested several ways to finance housing and said they all need partnerships, and he referred to Sen. Muegge’s earlier comments about getting things done by forming partnerships. Some of these were with banks, employers, contractors, electric co-ops and non-profit groups. “In today’s rural housing market, in terms of producing of entry-level housing, it takes a group effort. This is because that you have to bring a lot of resources together on development projects like that in order to hold down or reduce the developing cost. If you can do that then those savings can be passed on to buyers and a buyer can hope to realize an affordable product at a price range that they can truly get in to without wedding themselves to a house.” DeBruler said if the owners of the vacant lots would donate them and if the city would wavier permitting fees this would also help. If the builders can draw free title to property this will “draw them out of the woodwork,” DeBruler said. All of the permits are within the purview of the community. In return what the city gets is 50 years of revenues that far outweigh the $300 meter hook-up charge. DeBruler suggested everybody be brought to the table, bankers, realtors, builders and others that have a vested interest. All should identify what the goals are and how to accomplish the goals. Bankers from Blackwell and Tonkawa were in attendance. DeBruler gave a lot of other details and ideas on financing that appeared to be of interest to the group. Other speakers were Sen. Paul Muegge, Bill Roberts of the ORDC, who presented the 199 work plan, Gerald Hall, Department of Commerce, Shelley Hillsberry of the ORDC. Marilyn Harmon chairman of the Far North Central ORDC Coalition was mistress of ceremonies. Members were in attendance from Blackwell, Ponca City, Billings, Shidler, Kaw Nation, Caldwell, Kan., Cherokee, Newkirk, Enid, and Tonkawa. Holiday Market Set Here Nov. 7 and 8Ponca City’s First Community-Wide Holiday Market is set for Nov. 7-8 at Hutchins Memorial. The event will be open 10 a.m., to 5 p.m., on Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m., on Sunday. The event features more than 25 Ponca City merchants all in one location. In addition to the market this event will kick off the Community Wide Holiday Giveaway “Santa Shops Ponca First” sponsored by the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce, Ponca City Main Street Authority and Ponca Plaza Merchants Association. For every $10 purchase at a participating merchant customers will receive a ticket to be used in a drawing on Dec. 20 at 8 p.m., at Sullins Stadium. The grand prize is $5,000 in Ponca bucks gift certificates. Additional prizes include five $1,000 Ponca Bucks gift certificates. Pioneer Tech Sets Services ProgramThe Supported Employment Services program, under the direction of Ann Kinsinger, recently appointed Mike Kita, Owasso, as the chairperson for their business advisory committee. Kita is currently the general manager of the food service operations for Sodexho Marriott services at Conoco. The advisory committee meetings will be held Nov. 2-6 on the campus of Pioneer Technology Center with more than 320 people from business and industry, surrounding schools and community scheduled to attend. The Supported Employment Services program is in its second year at Pioneer Tech. The program is designed to help persons with disabilities in obtaining and maintaining employment The supported employment staff helps employers locate and hire capable, motivated workers by providing staffing services, on-site job training and long term follow-up services. The program offers people with disabilities opportunities for competitive work, pay and benefits. Group One Seminars Now At Marland Estate ChapelTwo unique seminars one on Lead Based Paint: Contamination and Containment and the other on Home Buying, have been slated for October 29 at the Marland Estate Chapel. The seminar will be under the auspices of Group One, In., Relators. The Lead Based Paint seminar is especially for landlords, renters and homeowners and is slated from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. Speakers will be Steward Tate, attorney at law, Todd Martin, Accurate Inspections and Assessments, Oklahoma City, and Bob Askew, broker, Group One. Detailed information will be given on EPA requirements for lead-based paint disclosure; laws regarding compliance; non-compliance consequences and remedies and inspections and abatement. The Home Buying Seminar, designed for first-time and experience home buyers, is set from 7:15 to 9 p.m., on the same day. Speakers are Dale Lewis, AmeriSpec Home Inspection Services, Tulsa; Carole Jeffries, Senior Vice President Mortgage Loans, Pioneer Bank and Trust; Robin Carpenter, Vice President Mortgage Loans, Home National Bank; Paula Wynn, Loan Originator, Bank of Oklahoma; Glenda Phillips, Branch Manager of Commercial Federal Bank and agents at Group One. Subjects to be covered, choosing the home you want; loan pre-qualification and bond money; special FHA, VA and Conventional loans, plus new “low down payment” loan programs; contracts; inspection and how they protect the buyer; environmental issues of lead-based radon and others, and closings. Refreshments will be served and a Spanish interpreter will be available. SPORTSBlake Chances Dim as Sooners Decline Blake Chances Dim as Sooners DeclineBy OWEN CANFIELD AP Sports Writer NORMAN (AP) — Once again, Oklahoma approaches the end of the football season not with the anticipation of a bowl trip or conference title, but with the feeling a new coach will be running things next year. John Blake’s third year in charge has proven to be no better than his first two, which were awful. That has prompted widespread media speculation that Blake will be let go with two years remaining on his contract. Oklahoma fans are so hungry for a return to glory that, after the Sooners lost to Texas a few weeks ago, it was widely reported that a group of heavyweight backers were putting together a package to lure Barry Switzer back. Switzer, who led the Sooners to three national titles before being forced out after probation and a player scandal in 1989, has said many times that he has no desire to return at age 61. While the Switzer rumors have subsided, the speculation hasn’t. Jim Donnan of Georgia, Tommy Bowden of Tulane, Mike Bellotti of Oregon, Gary Barnett of Northwestern and Florida defensive coordinator Bob Stoops are among those mentioned by media as possibilities to replace Blake. Athletic director Joe Castiglione refuses to discuss Blake’s future during the season. The prevailing feeling last week was that if Blake was to have any chance of saving his job, the Sooners would need to beat in-state rival Oklahoma State. They lost, 41-26, while committing 19 penalties for 177 yards. They also lost despite 220 yards rushing by tailback De’Mond Parker, although Parker shouldn’t have been surprised. He has topped 200 yards three times in the past three seasons, and Oklahoma is 0-3 in those games. A group of student leaders delivered a letter to Castiglione on Sunday saying, among other things, that Blake shouldn’t be coach any longer. Brad McMullan, president of the University of Oklahoma Student Association, said the students later had a change of heart. ‘‘Myself, the vice president and the staff are in complete support of John Blake,’’ he said. ‘‘The decision on whether to stay should be his or President (David) Boren or the Regents or the athletic director.’’ Boren has said all along that any decision on coaching changes would be made at the end of the season, after Castiglione was able to make appropriate evaluations. He said Monday that the coaches and players should be treated with respect. ‘‘While all of us realize that this has been a difficult season, our student-athletes are working hard to represent our university and they deserve our support,’’ he said. Blake was hired in December 1995 to replace Howard Schnellenberger, who went 5-5-1 in his only year in Norman. Schnellenberger had replaced Gary Gibbs, who took over after Switzer and went 44-23-2 in six seasons. But he lost too often to Texas and Nebraska, wasn’t popular with the media or fans, and was let go one year after leading the Sooners to a 9-3 finish. Gibbs’ aloofness and Schnellenberger’s old-school ways didn’t endear them to their players. Blake is very popular with the players, who continue to back him. ‘‘I don’t think the coach should catch all the blame,’’ said senior defensive tackle Kelly Gregg. ‘‘Coach has never thrown a block, never made a tackle. It’s unfair for him to catch all the criticism. Sometimes you’ve got to look at the players, and hopefully we’re not as bad as our record is.’’ Blake, who played and coached at Oklahoma, came to the job after serving as defensive line coach for the Dallas Cowboys. He was 34 when he was hired, and had never even served as a coordinator at any level. But Oklahoma officials felt the best way to turn the program around was through recruiting, and Blake had a reputation as a strong recruiter. He also was endorsed by Switzer. When Blake was introduced as head coach, the news conference was attended by perhaps 100 former players, all of whom hailed the hiring. But while the Sooners have had solid recruiting classes, they have been in disarray on the field, particularly the offense. Blake said when he was hired that he wanted a multiple offense, and he hired Texas Tech’s Dick Winder to run it. But after two years of inconsistent results, Blake fired Winder and said the Sooners were returning to the option game. That has proven disastrous. The Sooners worked on the wishbone extensively during spring practice and fall two-a-days, but now run out of the I-formation. Brandon Daniels, who was moved from defensive back to quarterback in order to run the option, is now the coaches’ No. 3 choice at the position. The starting quarterback against Oklahoma State was Eric Moore — who played the position for three years, but moved to receiver in the spring because the coaches didn’t feel they could win with him running the offense. Oklahoma has outgained six of seven opponents but is ranked 97th nationally in scoring, at 17 points per game. The 19 penalties last weekend raised the season total to 83. As a result, Oklahoma is 2-5, Blake is 9-21 and unlikely, it would appear, to get a chance to improve on that next season. OSU Tops Preseason Big 12 PollDALLAS (AP) — Oklahoma State, which returns four starters from an NCAA Tournament team, was picked by Big 12 coaches as the preseason favorite this year. The Cowboys edged two-time Big 12 champ Kansas for top spot with seven of 12 first-place votes. The Jayhawks got five first-place votes. Results from the preseason poll: Team (first place votes) Points 1. Oklahoma State (7) 117 2. Kansas (5) 115 3. Missouri 91 4. Oklahoma 90 5. Texas 74 6. Kansas State 72 7. Nebraska 69 8. Iowa State 45 9. Texas Tech 42 10. Colorado 38 11. Baylor 17 11. Texas A&M 17 1998-99 Preseason Coaches All-Big 12 Team Marcus Fizer, f, Iowa State Manny Dies, f, Kansas State Venson Hamilton, c, Nebraska Desmond Mason, f, Oklahoma State Adrian Peterson, g, Oklahoma State Kris Clack, g/f, Texas Chris Mihm, c, Texas Others receiving two or more votes: Kenny Price, g, Colorado; Eric Chenowith, c, Kansas; Ryan Robertson, g, Kansas; Albert White, g/f, Missouri; Ryan Humphrey, f, Oklahoma; Eduardo Najera, f, Oklahoma. Preseason Player of the Year: Adrian Peterson, g, Oklahoma State Preseason Newcomer of the Year: Victor Avila, c, Oklahoma Preseason Freshman of the Year: Keyon Dooling, g, Missouri Aggies Next Test For OSU Bowl BidBy OWEN CANFIELD AP Sports Writer STILLWATER (AP) — Their victory over Oklahoma last weekend means the Oklahoma State Cowboys still have a shot at playing in a bowl game. Beating No. 8 Texas A&M this week would enhance those chances. Oklahoma State is 3-4 (2-3 Big 12) and probably needs to win its final four games to ensure a bowl berth somewhere. They need to win three of four just to get the six victories needed to even be considered for a bowl. ‘‘We realize there’s a lot at stake and we have to play every game like that — don’t leave anything in the house,’’ Simmons said Monday. Texas A&M (7-1, 4-0) comes to Stillwater with a team ranked No. 2 in the conference in rush defense, third in pass defense and third in total defense. The Cowboys are encouraged because they have had two good offensive performances against two good defenses. Two weeks ago, they had 21 first downs and scored 20 points against Kansas State, and this past weekend they scored 41 against an Oklahoma team that came in ranked No. 6 nationally. Oklahoma helped OSU’s cause by committing four turnovers, three of which led to touchdowns. But the Cowboys also got an outstanding game from quarterback Tony Lindsay and they did a nice job of balancing the run with the pass. Lindsay was 16-of-24 for 138 yards and two touchdowns, and ran for 99 yards and two more scores. He threw to seven receivers. ‘‘We’ve been facing the best and we’ve been moving the ball on the best, and we’ve got to just continue,’’ offensive coordinator Ron Calcagni said. ‘‘Our confidence level should really step up even more so.’’ One area that will get attention this week is tackling. The Cowboys tackled poorly against Kansas State and Oklahoma. ‘‘I don’t think it’s anything that you get alarmed about, but you have to address it,’’ Simmons said. ‘‘What we’re going to do this week is to do that, because we’re going to face a football team that if you don’t tackle well this time, Dante Hall and the rest of those backs will make you pay.’’ Last season at College Station, Oklahoma State led 22-7 until the final six minutes, when the Aggies rallied to tie the game and eventually win in overtime, 28-25. COWBOY NOTES: Lindsay has a deep bruise in his left (non-throwing) shoulder but said he will play Saturday. He got hit on a touchdown run and aggravated a previous injury. Linebacker Raymond Cato (sprained knee) is listed day to day, tight end Garrett Steggs is out with a separated shoulder, and offensive tackle David Camacho should return to practice this week after sitting out a week with a knee sprain. ... B.J. Tiger, who had been suspended from the team for off-field incidents, played on special teams against Oklahoma. Simmons said Tiger has been back in good graces about a month. ‘‘He wants to help out. He’s an athlete and he can help in different situations,’’ Simmons said. He said Tiger has alternated between safety and quarterback in practice.
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