LOCAL

New McCord Senior Citizens Center Will Become Reality Upon Construction
Area Oil and Gas Report
Mayor Addresses Issues of Deregulation
Frolicking, Food, Fancy Arts Highlight Oktoberfest Event
Police Release Detailed Information on Suspect
Oktoberfest Opening Set For Marland Family Exhibit
Cantwell China Painting On Display at Art Center

New McCord Senior Citizens Center Will Become Reality Upon Construction

A ground-breaking ceremony for the McCord Senior Citizens center was held Saturday, Sept. 25. The new building is to be located one block south and one block west of the intersection of U.S. 60 and City View Road,. and will be 3200 square feet, with kitchen, dining and recreation facilities.

The McCord Senior Citizens organization was started in 19867. Two board members, Don Walters and Louise Wilson were original incorporators.

The McCord Senior Citizens’ center serves a hot, nutritious noon meal Monday through Friday. Volunteers help in meal preparation and delivery to the homebound. The center is currently located at 3032 Old River Road.

When completed, the center will be available to be used for community activities.

The new facility is the result of many individuals, elected officials and agencies, working together to fill this need in the community. Some of which are Senator J. Berry Harrison and Representative Jim Newport; Johnny Bryant and Dudley Whitehorn of the United Community Action Program; Jim Craun of Job Training Northeast and Tulsa Area Agency on Aging. This project is made possible by the support of these elected officials, agencies and volunteers in the community.

Area Oil and Gas Report

Located about three-quarters mile west of White Eagle, a potent wildcat oil producer has been completed by the Warren Corp.

The company’s No. 4 Refinery showed ability to produce 45 barrels of oil daily on adjustable choke.

The Kay County well was taken to total depth of 1,650 feet and will produce from a perforated interval 1,562 to 1,570 feet into the wellbore.

Section 33-township 26n-range 2e-nw-ne.

Wildcat drilling action is planned in Noble County a little over three miles west of Marland. The shallow test is being conducted by independent operator Garry Davis. Designated as the No. 1 Kodesh, it will be a 700-ft. explorer in quest of Wreford Formation pay.

Section 17-township 24n-range 1e-se-ne.

The No. 1 Big Boy has been brought on line for gas production in Noble County’s Billings Field.

Flowing 70,000 CF gas per day on an unspecified choke, the well is in a lease about 3.8 miles southeast of Billings.

The operator, Spectra Energy Inc., bottomed the hole at 5,010 feet but was perforated to produce at 1,782 to 1,788.

Section 10-township 23n-range 2w-se-ne.

Vector Exploration has staked location for a 2,200-ft. developmental bid in Noble County’s Tonkawa Field. It will be known as the No. 1 Williams and is situated a little under two miles south-southwest of Three Sands. Production in the Hoover Formation is the objective.

Section 10-township 24n-range 1w-sw-se.

Also in the South Tonkawa Field, two shallow developmental wells are planned by Walter Oil and Gas Corp. The Permian Era tests carry authority for 600 feet of hole each. They are designated as the Nos. 3 and 4 Mary. Both wells are in a lease 3.7 miles east of Billings.

Section 25-township 24n-range 2w-nw-nw.

The No. 1 Fritz has been completed at a wildcat drillsite 2.6 miles west of Marland in Noble County. Three Sands Oil Co. is the operator.

Gauged on adjustable choke, the well flowed gas at the rate of 42,000 CF per day.

The well bottomed at 489-ft. TD and will be producing at 426 to 436 feet into the wellbore.

Section 16-township 24n-range 1e-se-nw.

J.O.C. Operating Corp. is nearing projected total hole at the No. 2 Powell, a Noble County wildcat. Location is about five miles southwest of Red Rock. It was spudded on Aug. 30 carrying authority for 800 feel of hole.

Section 1-township 22n-range 2w-ne-sw.

Mayor Addresses Issues of Deregulation

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Staff Writer

The matter of deregulation of the electric industry is of concern to the City of Ponca City, as well as, some upcoming Congressional Legislation and Mayor Tom Leonard has addressed these issues.

“The Bond Fairness & Protection Act might not be a glamorous issue or grab a lot of headlines, but it is vitally important to the City of Ponca City,” according to Mayor Tom Leonard. “Representative J.C. Watts understands its importance and has recently become a co-sponsor of this pending legislation,” Leonard said.

Senators Slade Gorton (R-Wash.) and Bob Kerrey (D-Neb.) authored a compromise solution, the Bond Fairness & Protection Act. This bipartisan legislation provides not-for-profit state and locally owned utilities with various options for obtaining the necessary level of relief needed to participate in competitive electricity markets without jeopardizing the tax exempt status of outstanding bonds or raising rates. In the House, Congressman J.D. Hayworth (R-Ariz.) and Bob Matsui (D-Calif.) introduced an identical bill.

“On behalf of the citizens in Ponca City, I want to publicly thank Congressman Watts for his support of our community,” said Leonard. He explained, “Community-owned electric utilities built their systems using municipal bonds that are tax free, like those used to build our schools and supply water to our communities.

“With electric deregulation, states, including Oklahoma, are changing the rules about how electricity is being sold. These changes in state law have made the federal rules about electric facilities financed with tax free bonds unworkable.”

Warning of Participation

Leonard continued, “Unless Congress acts to fix this problem and update its federal tax rules, community-owned utilities like ours may not be able to participate in deregulation. As states like Oklahoma change their rules on electric utility service, Congress needs to preserve local control and community choice.

“Some private utilities don’t like the fact that community-owned utilities are not-for-profit organizations. Since community-owned utilities are not-for-profit, they don’t pay income taxes. They pass the revenues on to us — the citizen-owners — through lower rates and transfers to the city’s general fund.

“Large private companies want Congress put a tax on these not-for-profit sales. Their real goal is to force our consumers to pay higher rates.” added Leonard.

“Cities like ours support this legislation because it allows us to decide how to handle future debt, which may or may not be taxable, depending on the degree they want to compete. This flexible proposal puts power back into the hands of the community, our citizen owners,” Leonard said.

In a special meeting Thursday the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce went on record as sending a letter to each member of the Oklahoma Delegation requesting support of the Bond Fairness & Protection Act.”

Frolicking, Food, Fancy Arts Highlight Oktoberfest Event

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Staff Writer

Frolicking, food, fancy arts and crafts, football fans and fantastic entertainment make-up the all-day Saturday roster at the Oktoberfest.

For 19 years the fest has brought merriment and enjoyment to the community and the fall season. The event at the Marland Estate is sponsored by the Marland Estate Commission and the proceeds are used for restoration.

New this year is the Sports Area and Tailgate Tent, where the OU-Notre Dame and OSU-Nebraska football games will be telecast Saturday and the professional football games are scheduled for Sunday. The food and beer garden are close to the Tailgate Tent for the convenience of the visitors.

Set at the beautiful Marland Estate grounds, the 1999 Oktoberfest promises to be best ever with fun for all, according to Stan Paynter, chairman. A shuttle will run continuously all day Saturday to move visitors from the Presbyterian Church parking lot to the Marland Estate. The shuttle will also run Sunday afternoon.

Gates open at 10 a.m. Saturday and close at 9 p.m. On Sunday gates open at 11 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. Admission is $3 for adults 12 and up and two day passes are $5. Children 7 to 11 are admitted for $2 and those six and under are admitted free.

Traditional fest food and drink will be available and there are over 70 craft booths to visit. Plus there are special children’s activities and entertainment planned Dave and Lori May will be performing in the Children’s Area.

On both days there will be open houses at Golden Villa (in Angela Hall), Lydie’s Cottage, Artist Studio and Bryant Baker Studio. New exhibits include the Marland Family Exhibit and Architect John Duncan Forsythe.

A special exhibition in the Artist Studio will be a display of the works of local sculptor Jo Saylors. Some her work will be exhibited for the first time at the Oktoberfest.

Also a model of the Native American Standing Bear Statue will be exhibited along with information about the sculptor Oreland C. Joe. The displays are to be open to the public from 10 a.m., to 5 p.m., Saturday and 1-5 p.m., Sunday.

Golden Villa will be selling pie as a fund raiser at Angela Hall, and also planned is an area for older folks to sit and rest there, while the rest of the family browses the arts and crafts, enjoys the food from vendors or visits the Marland Estate exhibits. The Oktoberfest admission allows free visits to the exhibits.

Saturday’s entertainment schedule:

11 a.m., to 2 p.m. — EOS, jazz band of Norman.

2:15-4:30 p.m. — Woodwork, acoustic guitar duo of Austin, Texas.

4:50 to 6 p.m. — Proverties Children band.

6:30 to 9 p.m. — The Imposters band of Alva.

Classic Car clubs from Ponca City and Blackwell will be on display on the grounds to add to the festivities. Admission to the Marland Mansion has been reduced by the cost of the Oktoberfest price Saturday and Sunday. Ponca Citians are admitted free to the Mansion.

Police Release Detailed Information on Suspect

Police have received more detailed information regarding the vehicle the suspect was driving on Sunday, Sept. 26, when an eight-year-old local girl was abducted and later sexually abused.

An eyewitness reported to police today of observing the suspect talking with the victim just prior to the abduction occurring. The suspect was driving an all-white 1989 model Dodge pickup with a short wide bed, sport wheels, and big tires. He reports that the vehicle was slightly elevated and possibly four-wheel drive.

Police ask if you see a vehicle that fits this description, obtain tag information and call the police department immediately.

The witness was leaving his residence when he saw the victim being called over to the pickup. Upon returning to town and hearing of the incident, he came forward with the more detailed description. The witness also related to investigators that he believed the suspect to be possibly in his 30s with gray hair and may have had a slight beard.

If you have any information regarding the suspect, police ask that you call Crime Stoppers at 762-5100, the police department at 767-0370 or, to speak with an investigator, call 767-0376.

Oktoberfest Opening Set For Marland Family Exhibit

One of the new exhibits open for the first time at the Marland Estate during Oktoberfest this weekend is the Marland Family Exhibit.

The research and plan for the Marland Family Exhibit has been completed by an intern from the Oklahoma State University Applied History Department. The Exhibit is in the north upstairs bedroom of Lydie’s Cottage. The plan for the Exhibit was to focus primarily on photographs to illustrate the history of E.W. Marland and his family in Ponca City.

Research began this summer and is an ongoing process. The photos have been located and copied for display. Artifacts will also be included in the display to complete the story told in the exhibit.

The exhibit will include several sections. Two five foot tall false wall partitions will be utilized for photos and labels as well as two small aluminum free standing glass cases. On the north wall will be two 39-inch x 5-foot fabric covered wall panel, similar to those in the Baker Exhibit.

These panels will be mounted on either side of a large exhibit case with various Marland-related artifacts in it. The panels and false walls will display photos and labels of the Marland family.

A few of the photos will be of Marland’s family before arriving in Ponca City to provide the basic background of the family. Other photos will include Marland Family related photos of social occasions, parties, polo games, fox hunts, community involvement and politics.

Another smaller wall panel will be on the south wall above the plumbing access to wrap up the exhibit and summarize Marland’s life and accomplishments. The scope of this exhibit focuses primarily upon Marland’s family after they came to Ponca City in 1908 until his death in 1941 with a summary of Lydie’s life after his death.

Cantwell China Painting On Display at Art Center

Local artist and teacher, Ray Cantwell, will be displaying his secret passion of china painting at the Ponca City Art Center through the month of October. He has been exploring the many facets of china painting for 22 years, but this will be his first exhibit in the medium.

An opening reception for Cantwell’s exhibit will be held Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Art Center, 819 East Central.

His exhibit will include 143 items mostly china painting on vases, figurines and plates with 61 oil paintings and some painted ostrich and emu eggs. His porcelain paintings are three-dimensional and two-dimensional, representing his soft-brush technique.

Cantwell began oil painting a few years after beginning his china painting, and he now travels nationally, teaching oil painting, speaking and putting in personal appearances. Teaching has been his life for 10 years.

A Ross certified instructor, he is a certified art teacher with Gary and Kathwren Jenkins. He has studied with a list of nationally known artists, has won three Best of Shows in china painting, one in oil painting, and holds 32 First Place ribbons. His work has hung in the Oklahoma governor’s mansion and in private collections throughout the United States. He is listed in Who’s Who in American Art.

Cantwell is on the six-member board of directors of the national Artists United organization based in Nashville, Tenn., where he is serving his second term as vice president.

Art in his life is just another facet of a many-talented personality. He holds a master’s degree in education from Southern Nazarene University, has studied at Butler University in Indianapolis, Ind., and Cincinnati University. Besides being an artist, he is a musician and composer.

DEATHS

No local deaths.

No local deaths.

NEWS BRIEFS

CWU Board Meeting — Church Women United will hold its board meeting 9:30 a.m. Monday at St. John Baptist Church, 1009 South 11th Street.

Dougan's Bar-B-Q Friday special from 4-8 p.m., all you can eat ribs with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $7.49. 215 South 14th, 765-7979. adv.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 8:40 a.m. Thursday that a 39-year-old man was being held on a Kay County warrant for bogus check.

Kids/Her Review now accepting children’s, women’s fall consignments. 309 E. Grand. adv.

Item Missing — A woman was at the Ponca City Police Department at 8:50 a.m. Thursday to report that an item had been stolen from her son’s locker at school. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

National Wild Turkey Federation 3rd Annual Banquet will be held October 2, 1999 at the Moose Lodge at 500 W. Prospect. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. and dinner is set for 7:00 p.m. The $35 fee covers the Annual Membership and your meal. Call 765-4436 or 765-9383 for more information. adv.

Burglary — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 8:56 a.m. Thursday from a resident in the 400 block of South Lake Street reporting that it had been burglarized. An officer of the Ponca City Police Department was assigned and a report was taken.

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

Wallet Missing — A woman was at the Ponca City Police Department at 9:37 a.m. Thursday to report that a wallet had been lost or stolen while at Buy For Less on Tuesday. The information was logged.

Fire Response — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 6:39 p.m. Thursday from a resident in the 300 block of North Seventh Street that some smoke was coming from a residence in the 200 block of North Seventh Street. Three Ponca City Fire Department stations sent units to the scene and an officer of the Ponca City Police Department responded. Information was logged that it was a neighbor working on a vehicle.

Gas Drive-Off — An employee at Mounts Texaco, 215 North Fourteenth Street, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 10:38 a.m. Thursday that a subject in a vehicle with a trailer of lawn mowers had pulled away without paying for gas. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

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

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of North Seventh Street and McGraw Drive at 11:28 a.m. Thursday that a 19-year-old man was being held for driving under suspension, having no insurance, and operating a motor vehicle with more than three in the front seat.

Guitar Sale: acoustic and electric and amplifiers. Friday and Saturday until noon. Layaway for Christmas. 601 East Hartford, Miles Music. adv.

Accident — A man reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 12:27 p.m. Thursday that his vehicle had been hit while parked in a bank parking lot at the intersection of East Grand Avenue and South Fourteenth Street. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Branson Christmas Shows, November 5th thru 8th. Group motorcoach tours. Book now! 762-7591. adv.

Residence Burglarized — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 1:29 p.m. Thursday that a residence in the 3500 block of North Union Street had been burglarized. Another officer was assigned and a burglary report was taken.

Windjammer Restaurant will be open tonight through Saturday, then closed for the season.

Come dine with us! adv.

Accident — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 3:37 p.m. Thursday that a two-vehicle accident had occurred in the 2100 block of North Fourteenth Street. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Subject Held — Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department responded to a call at 8:24 p.m. Thursday involving a disturbance in the 700 block of North First Street. A 17-year-old man was held for public intoxication and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Subjects Held — An employee at Wal-Mart reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:50 p.m. Thursday that an adult and juvenile were being held as shoplifters. An officer was assigned and a 36-year-old woman was held for grand larceny and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. A 16-year-old girl was held for grand larceny.

Guitar Sale: acoustic and electric and amplifiers. Friday and Saturday until noon. Layaway for Christmas. 601 East Hartford, Miles Music. adv.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of West Central Avenue and South Palm Street that an 18-year-old man was being held on a city warrant.

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. 765-9689. adv.

Gas Drive-Off — An employee at Triple-T, 720 South Waverly Street, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 5:28 p.m. Thursday that a subject had driven off without paying for $5 worth of gas. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

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

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

Gas Drive-Off — An employee at Citgo, 320 West Grand Avenue, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:46 p.m. Thursday that a subject had driven off without paying for $15.81 in gas. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

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

Odor Investigation — A woman from the 400 block of North Palm Street requested a fire unit to check an odor in the residence and that the electricity was off in half of the residence at 10:10 p.m. Thursday. One unit from the Ponca City Fire Department responded and it was logged that the residence had a blown breaker and that another family member had burned some food.

Pauline’s Shrimp Peel, All you can eat. $11.95, Friday, October 1. For reservations call 765-5460. adv.

Big Fall Flea Market. Saturday October 2. 9am to 5pm. Space available. 580-362-6220. Kirkendall’s Antiques and Flea Market, Highway 77, Newkirk Oklahoma. adv.

Southwest Connection formerly at 313 E. Grand. We have downsized and are at Grand Ave Antique Mall, next to Sprays. Pottery, jewelry. 762-4614. adv.

LIFESTYLES

Lilac Garden Club Marks 54th Year Of Organization

Lilac Garden Club Marks 54th Year Of Organization

The fall meeting of the Lilac Garden Club at the home of Florence Whiting marked the 54th year of the group’s organization. Autumn colors decorated the brunch table. Charter members are Florence Elkouri and Josephine Jones.

After the group said the Gardener’s Creed, Helen Bozarth, president, conducted a business meeting. Peggy Keith, council representative, gave a report of the council meeting and brought a program book for each member of the Lilac club.

All members participated in the program titled “The Most Beautiful Garden I’ve Visited.” Among the favorites named were the Canadian Butchart Gardens, Versailles, France, and a garden near London. Photographs and postcards added to the program. The meeting concluded with the reading of the Gardener’s Benediction.

EDUCATION

PC Schools Adopt Proactive Approach To Eliminate Contraband from Schools
PC Students Recognized For Academic Excellence
Johnson Honored
Taylor Receives Honors
K-State Contest
Honor Students
PC Schools Is Recipient Of Money To Establish Fund
Local Student Chosen To Compete in Contest

PC Schools Adopt Proactive Approach To Eliminate Contraband from Schools

Ponca City Public Schools has adopted a proactive approach to eliminate contraband from schools. The district has contracted services with Interquest Detection Canines of Oklahoma to provide a canine detection program. The purpose of the program is to provide a cost effective deterrent to assist school districts in minimizing the presence of contraband items on campus. This method has been determined by student surveys as the most effective way of eliminating the presence of illicit drugs on campus.

The company, located in Tulsa, serves more than 470 school districts and provides random, unannounced canine visits to campus locations based upon the amount of contracted services.

On each campus, the canine team will check in with the designated campus coordinator. This coordinator normally escorts the canine team while on campus and observes search activities. Under normal circumstances, the canine team will check lockers, common areas, gym areas, and parking lots. By specific request, the company will check a limited number of classrooms and backpacks as directed by school officials.

In the event of a canine “alert” (the term used when a canine detects the scent of a substance), the handler will advise the campus coordinator of the location of the alert. The student responsible for the item the canine alerted on is located and escorted to the scene. The canine handler then conducts a discussion with the student to assist them in understanding the canine’s capabilities. Permission is then secured to conduct an inspection of the item.

In the event that contraband is found, it will be briefly discussed with the student and sealed in an evidence bag to be retained by the school. The nature of the contraband detected will determine the type of action taken by the district.

At the conclusion of each campus visit, the company will prepare a report of all canine alerts noted during the visit, specific information concerning items found, and the current disposition of those items.

Annually, a statistical analysis is provided to the school including a summary of the items found during the year. A state-wide summary is also provided as a source of comparison for the district.

PC Students Recognized For Academic Excellence

Jerry Winkle, principal of Ponca City High School, has announced that Andrew Cooper and Michael Goddard have been named Commended Students in the year 2000 National Merit Scholarship Program. A Letter of Commendation from the school and National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), which conducts the program, will be presented by the principal to these scholastically talented seniors.

Some 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. Although they will not continue in the competition for Merit Scholarship awards to be offered next spring, Commended Students placed among the top five percent of more than one million students who entered the year 2000 Merit Program by taking the 1998 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.

A Merit Program spokesperson commented, “The young men and women named Commended Students have demonstrated outstanding academic potential for their high performance in the extremely competitive National Merit Program. These scholastically talented youth represent a valuable resource to our nation, and it is important to publicly recognize their attainments and to credit schools for the important part they play in their development.”

School News

Johnson Honored

Lance Michael Johnson has been inducted to the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, an honor society for high achieving first and second year college students. He is a sophomore at the University of Southern California where he is double majoring in Cinema Film Production and Music Composition/Film Scoring. He is a 1998 graduate of Po-Hi and the son of Ronald and Marcella Johnson.

Taylor Receives Honors

Evan A. Taylor, an English senior at OSU, was recognized for receiving the General Honors Award in the University Honors Program. Taylor, a Po-Hi graduate, is the son of Alicia Taylor of Ponca City and Arnold Taylor of Lugoff, South Carolina.

K-State Contest

Rhonda Nida, Red Rock, won a National Angus Foundation scholarship and placed second in the competitive national Angus showmanship contest this summer. Nida attends Kansas State University and is the daughter of Ron Nida, Ponca City, and Brenda Nida, Red Rock.

Honor Students

Richard Balfanz, John Doggett and Travis Hager from Ponca City have been named honor students for the completed summer semester at Oklahoma State University in Okmulgee. Balfanz is enrolled in general studies, Doggett in pedorthics shoe, boot and saddle and Hager in electronic engineering technology.

PC Schools Is Recipient Of Money To Establish Fund

Ponca City Public Schools is the recipient of a private donation of $100,000 to establish the Charles and Carrie D. Huber Student Scholarship Fund. The scholarship will be for graduating seniors who excel in academics.

Charles Huber graduated from Po-Hi in 1936. According to his wife, Carrie, “Jobs were scarce because of the depression, so Charles decided to go to California with very little money. He had to sell some of his clothes in order to buy food. He was lucky to meet a man who convinced him to join the Navy for three meals a day, plus room, clothes, and spending money. The Navy tour extended for over 26 years when he retired as Master Chief Petty Officer.”

Huber’s mother, Pauline Huber (later Pauline Goldman), lived In Ponca City for many years. According to Mrs. Huber, “Charles was extremely fond of Ponca City High School, and his frugal lifestyle enabled him to want to give his alma mater the money for scholarships.”

Charles Huber died of cancer on May 13, 1999. He was 80 years old, and according to Mrs. Huber, had been married for 48 years.

Dr. Bill White, superintendent, “We are extremely grateful to Mr. and Mrs. Huber for their very generous donation. We will make every effort to invest their money wisely and honor their requests of recognizing graduating seniors who excel academically. This may allow some students an opportunity to attend college who may not have been able to without the scholarship.”

Local Student Chosen To Compete in Contest

By KRISTI HAYES

News Education Editor

Eric Brunkow, son of Brad and Susan Brunkow of Ponca City, was selected as a semifinalist in the grade 3-4 category of the Chips Ahoy! Millennium Math Challenge. As one of 12 math students from across the country to make it to the final round, Eric and his parents will be flown to Florida on Oct. 11 for a chance to earn the title of “Math Leader of the Next Millennium.” The final showdown will take place on Oct. 12 at the U.S. Space Camp in Titusville, Florida. Serving as host and master of ceremonies will be Nickelodeon game show host, Summer Sanders.

Eric and the other students will compete in a high-energy speed round of challenging math questions. All contestants chosen to compete in the finals will be vying for four grand prizes of a $10,000 U.S. Savings Bond. Runners up will receive a $1,000 U.S. Savings Bond.

The contestants will test their math skills in the shadow of Cape Canaveral, an area that symbolizes what miraculous undertakings can be accomplished by using math. The national contest invited students in grades 1-8 to answer 10 challenging math questions and submit a bonus essay on “How Math Will Be Used in the Next Millennium.” A panel of judges will combine the scores from the contestant’s (three finalists in four age categories) original entry with their scores from the speed round to identify the grand prize winner in each age category.

Eric, who is a student at First Lutheran School, received information about this contest while attending an enrichment class held this summer by Jean Hoffmeyer. The contest was announced in the News Bulletin of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, of which Hoffmeyer is a member. The NCTM was the organization that provided the math problems for the contest.

The Chips Ahoy! Millennium Math Challenge supports the National Council of Teacher of Mathematics’ mission and goals of improving math education in the U.S. and furthers the Council’s public service message — Do Math...And You Can Do Anything! Over the years, Nabisco has learned that schoolteachers all over the country were using Chips Ahoy! cookies to teach basic math skills. In fact, Nabisco has received hundreds of letters from educators explaining how they use the claim of at least 1,000 chips in every bag to teach kids long division, multiplication and other math problems.

RELIGION

St. John Baptists Celebrate Their 106th Birthday
First Assembly Welcomes New Pastor
Concert of Prayer Plans Set
Ponca Indian Baptists Plan Fall Revival
Kaw City First Christian Has Dream Come True
Eastern Heights Christian Youth ‘Thinking’ Christmas
Asbury UMW Plans Chicken Noodle Dinner
Northeast Baptist Sponsoring LIFECHAIN ‘99
First Lutherans Plan Lutheran Women Missionary League Sunday
‘Come Let Us Reason Together’
Good Shepherd Lutherans Seeking Items for Auction
KLVV Celebrates Appreciation for Area Ministers
Trips Offered
Seminary Opens

St. John Baptists Celebrate Their 106th Birthday

St. John Baptist Church, 1009 South Eleventh, will celebrate its 106th Anniversary, this Sunday, Oct. 3, 1999. From its humble beginning in the fall of 1893, near the world famous Pioneer Woman Statue, to the present location on South Eleventh Street, St. John has been a beacon in the community. The church’s first pastor in 1894 was the Rev. Sam Jones. In 1898, the group moved to the old “colored” school located at 718 South Sixth, and held services on alternate Sundays with the AME Church. Today, the Rev. Robert Palmer Sr., pastor, is entering his sixth year as under-shepherd of the flock.

On Sunday, Oct. 3, 1999 at 10:45 a.m. the Rev. Don Echols, associate pastor at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, will be guest speaker. The Rev. Mr. Echols answered his call to the ministry in 1987 and has served as associate minister at Mt. Zion since that time. He is originally from Dallas and attended Oklahoma State University. Echols said he “really wants people to know that he is a child of God and like the Williams brothers he is just a nobody, trying to tell everybody about somebody who can save anybody.”

Afternoon worship will begin at 3:30 p.m. The Rev. Lloyd Logan Sr., of Frederick, Okla. will be the afternoon speaker. The Rev. Mr. Logan attended Hawkins Chapel, became a member in l975 and in 1976 he was called into the ministry. In 1978 he was appointed as assistant pastor of Hawkins’ Chapel COGIC under Elder L. Archie. The Rev. Mr. Logan has served as Bible teacher and director for the boys club. In 1986 he was called to pastor First Baptist Church in Frederick.

The Rev. Mr. Logan serves as co-chairman of the evangelistic department for the Western District, is a board member of the Western District, as well as 2nd vice moderator of the Western District. In addition he was appointed as Grand Chaplain of Prince Hall Masons of Oklahoma.

Active in his community, Logan has served as vice president for the Boyd High Alumni and former student association, secretary for Crystalgate Lodge, served as member of the first housing authority in Frederick, was a member of the Needs Assessment committee for Frederick schools, and as a member of the Blue Ribbon Committee that was an advisor to the county commissioners of Tillman County. Presently he is president of the Tillman County NAACP Branch, worshipful master of Crystalgate Lodge #173 and a member of the elderly Council and member of the Frederick Ministerial Alliance.

The Rev. Mr. Logan is married to Oquina Turner and they have seven children and seven grandchildren.

In addition to Sunday services, St. John will host a reception Saturday, Oct. 2 to welcome the Rev. Raymond Petties. The Rev. Mr. Petties has accepted and is serving as assistant pastor of St. John Baptist. He comes to St. John from Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Stillwater. While at Mt. Zion the Rev. Mr. Petties served as minister of music and as associate minister under the Rev. Oscar Adams. The Rev. Mr. Petties is scheduled to give his “inaugural” sermon Oct. 10, 1999 at 10:45 a.m.

The Rev. Robert Palmer Sr., pastor of St. John Baptist Church, extends an open invitation to the community to meet the Rev. Mr. Petties and to the Church Anniversary Services on Sunday, Oct. 3, 1999.

First Assembly Welcomes New Pastor

Sunday, Oct. 3, will be the first service at Ponca City First Assembly of God for Pastor Mark and Kari Shorey.

The Shoreys arrived in Ponca City after completing five year’s of service at the First Assembly of God in Del City, which is one of the fastest growing Assemblies of God in Oklahoma.

Del City First Assembly has grown by 350-400 members in the last two years and is home to Mid-Del Christian School, which has an enrollment of 429 students. The church also is the Mid-West Campus for Master’s Commission, which is a hands-on ministry training program for ministerial accreditation.

The Shoreys are well known as host of a two-hour ‘Praise the Lord” program on Channel 14 in Oklahoma City. They have hosted similar programs in Tulsa and Fort Lauderdale. Their musical accomplishments include personal musical recordings consisting of ‘On Our Own” and “In the Midnight Hours”. They also spent several years with “The Lundstrom Ministries” and recorded “Great Gospel Classics 3”, “Christmas for Kids” and “Lovers for Life.”

In addition, Pastor Mark Shorey has authored three books, “A Father to the Fatherless”, “The Pro. 11:30 Club” and “Multiplying the Ministry Through the Deacon and Deaconess.”

Pastoral ministry experience for the Shoreys includes five years as Senior Pastor at Del City First Assembly, three years as Senior Pastor at Victory Christian Center Assembly of God in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., one year as Senior Pastor of Evangel Assembly of God in Tulsa. The Shoreys also served as Associate Pastors at Broken Arrow Assembly of God, three years as Evangelist and one year as Crusade Singers for the Lowell Lundstrom Evangelistic Ministries.

The Shoreys have been married for 12 years and have a nine-year-old son, Evan, and a nine month old daughter, Kasidi. Mark received his degree in Biblical Studies from Trinity Bible College in Ellendale, N.D. Karie Shorey is the daughter of the Rev. Tom Goins, District Secretary of the Oklahoma District Council of Assemblies of God. She received her degree from Evangel College, which qualifies her to teach K-12 in music. Kari was recognized as the ‘Outstanding Senior Vocalist’ while at Evangel.

The morning worship service begins at 10:30 a.m. First Assembly is located at 1308 East Bradley in Ponca City. The Shoreys and the congregation at First Assembly extend an invitation to Ponca Citians to be a part of the excitement.

Concert of Prayer Plans Set

The Ponca City March for Jesus organization invites everyone that has a longing to experience a mighty move of God in Oklahoma to attend the fourth annual Ponca City Concert of Prayer which will be held Saturday at Foursquare Gospel Church, 700 West Broadway, 6 to 8:30 p.m.

“As the return of the Lord Jesus draws near, we feel an urgency to see all people saved, especially in our city and state. As we co-labor with Christ Jesus through our prayers, we can draw together as ‘one’ as Jesus prayed in John 17:21,” states Jeannette Sroufe, local March for Jesus organizer.

"We are joining over 330 churches and 100 ministries throughout Oklahoma, as one body to pray for our cities and state. With approximately 1200 intercessors registered through the Concert of Prayer, we shall see all Oklahoma saved!” Sroufe said.

Linda Smith, coordinator of the Oklahoma Concert of Prayer, Oklahoma City, will be leading this year’s event.

There will be a special prayer seminar held at Foursquare Gospel Church. The schedule for the day: Morning session, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.; Lunch, prepared by the women’s ministries of area churches; Afternoon session, 2 to 4 p.m. Concert of Prayer, 6 to 8:30 p.m.

Linda Keaton Smith served the Lord in the area of intercession and teaching, Sroufe pointed out. In 1972, she was delivered from a spirit of hopelessness and despair. Since that time she has walked with God and experienced His power in her life.

She is anointed to teach God’s word and has been obedient to the call on her life to pray, intercede, teach and motivate others in their devotion to a life of prayer, Sroufe noted.

A wife, mother and grandmother, since retiring from the business world, Linda serves as Prayer Coordinator at Church on the Rock, Oklahoma City; Coordinator of Oklahoma Concert of Prayer; and intercessor for the Spiritual Warfare Network and the World Prayer Center in Colorado Springs.

The Regional Concert of Prayer Director, Bob Innis, says “We are excited to have Linda Smith with us this year, this will be a great opportunity for area prayer leaders with a vision for the Ponca City and North Central area and communities. The objective is to build a movement of united prayer within and among the local and area churches. Our desire is to see the corporate prayer gatherings; those already established and those just beginning, to be strengthened and to gain a collective vision. We want also to encourage corporate prayer that crosses all human dividing lines, to be united with one heart, networking together with a corporate vision, praying and interceding for our communities with one voice.

A continental breakfast will be served from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Nursery service will be provided for ages four and under for both morning and afternoon teaching sessions and the evening Concert of Prayer.

Church Briefs

Ponca Indian Baptists Plan Fall Revival

Everyone is welcome to attend the Fall Revival scheduled at the Ponca Indian Baptist Church Oct. 3 to Oct. 6, according to an announcement made this week by the pastor.

Everyone is welcome to come and hear Evangelist Jimmy Anderson at the church each evening Sunday to Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. The meeting opens on Sunday morning, Oct. 3 with the 11 a.m. worship service.

J.B. Dreadfulwater will serve as song leader and Ruth Hendricks will be at the piano.

The church is located 3 miles south of U.S. 60 on Hwy 177 and 1/2 mile east.

Kaw City First Christian Has Dream Come True

After years of dreaming of adding on a nursery, fellowship hall, and kitchen to the First Christian Church in Kaw City, it has all come true — the final wish of the First Christian Church members is to have a much-needed new parking lot for their church on the east side to accommodate people to the front door.

That dream is also coming true. Through bake sales, garage sales, craft shows by members, and some donations, the new parking lot is underway, at last.

Their hope is to have the parking lot finished “before the snow flies.”

Donations are still being accepted by the church at P.O. Box 20, Kaw City, OK 74641.

Eastern Heights Christian Youth ‘Thinking’ Christmas

Children and Youth of Eastern Heights Christian Church will begin rehearsals Sunday at 5:30 p.m. for the Christmas season program. The program and music will be under the direction of Roxie Berry. The 5:30 hour will preceded the regular youth activities which take place during the adult evening worship hour from 6:30 until 7:30.

Ladies Bible Study has resumed their winter scheduled, 9 to 11 on Tuesday mornings, and are beginning with an overview of the New Testament. Eastern Heights is located three miles east of Pioneer Woman statue on Lake Road. Families or individuals interested in a Bible teaching church are invited to attend.

Asbury UMW Plans Chicken Noodle Dinner

Chicken Noodle Dinner is scheduled on Friday, Oct. 15 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Asbury United Methodist Church, 700 West Liberty. Cost will be $4 for adults, $2 for children and homemade pie will be 50 cents extra. Everyone welcome.

Northeast Baptist Sponsoring LIFECHAIN ‘99

Dr. Larry E. Nigh, pastor of Northeast Baptist Church, invites all Christians to take a stand for life. LIFECHAIN ‘99 is an opportunity for you to take this stand. God’s Word tells us that each and every life is important to Him from the moment of conception. Isaiah writes, “The Lord called me from the womb from the body of my mother He named me.” Isaiah 49:1. The Psalmist cries out, “For thou didst form my inward parts; Thou didst weave me in my mother’s womb. I will praise them, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Psalm 139:13-14 God says, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I have appointed you a prophet to the nations.” Jeremiah 1:5.

LIFECHAIN ‘99 will be held Sunday, Oct. 3 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. . from Grand Avenue to Highland on Fourteenth Street. The group will meet on the north end of Pioneer Shopping Center parking lot at 2:20 for opening prayer, instruction, and handing out posters.

If you have questions concerning LIFECHAIN ‘99, call Betty Tautfest at Northeast Baptist Church 765-2404 or 762-1354 in the evening.

First Lutherans Plan Lutheran Women Missionary League Sunday

Sunday, Oct. 3 has been designated as Lutheran Women’s Missionary League Sunday at First Lutheran Church. The theme for both the 8:30 a.m. and the 11 a.m. services will be “United with Christ to Serve.” The ladies of the local organization will play key roles in the service as greeter, ushers, readers, and also serve as the choir. The choir will sing an anthem written especially for this occasion by Jeffrey Burkart entitled ‘In League with Our Lord.” Pastor Ramsey’s sermon “We Are One” will continue the theme.

The Lutheran Women’s Missionary League (LWML) is an international organization of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod dedicated to spreading the gospel of Christ throughout the world. Their many projects are funded through the gifts of ‘mites.” The nickels, dimes, and quarters of the many local societies are gathered to underwrite a budget adopted at the international convention in Minneapolis this past July of $1.4 million for the 1999-2001 biennium. IN the past the mission goal set has always been exceeded.

In addition to the two morning services First Lutheran provides an evening worship time at 6:30 p.m. All are invited to join the members in any worship experience.

‘Come Let Us Reason Together’

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

“Jesus answered them and said, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, you seek me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate of the loaves, and were filled.’” John 6:26.

Some people seek Jesus only because He can meet their physical needs. Some needs are real — food, clothing, shelter. Some needs are artificial, such as very expensive and showy things above real needs. Jesus sorrows over those who only come to Him for materialistic and selfish reasons. Jesus performed signs to influence people to think more about who He was and what He taught about God. Jesus can clothe us with His righteousness and give us joy. Jesus can prepare a mansion for us in the heavens.

Good Shepherd Lutherans Seeking Items for Auction

The Good Shepherd Lutherans are seeking donations for an auction they are planning for Oct. 16. A spokesperson for the church said they will haul off “left over” garage sale items for folks — just give one of them a call — Jerry at 762-6060, Bill at 765-4116 or Pastor Hurley at 762-5356. They can also use any clothing folks may have to donate.

Clothes Giveaway Set at First Assembly

First Assembly of God, 1308 East Bradley, will have free fall and winter clothing, also unlimited supply of summer clothing to give away on Monday, Oct. 4 from 6 to 8 p.m. Please use the entrance at the furthest northwest doors of the church.

KLVV Celebrates Appreciation for Area Ministers

Minister Appreciation Month is a special time that congregations set aside each year to honor their pastors and pastoral families for their hard work, sacrificial dedication, and provision of multiple blessings. KLVV along with Focus on the Family and other ministries is encouraging congregations to honor their ministers this month. The nature of the service provided by pastors and their families is unique. God has entrusted to them one of the most precious of assignments — the spiritual well-being of His flock. Pastors and their families live under incredible pressures. Their lives are played out in a fishbowl, with the entire congregation and community watching their every move. They are expected to have ideal families, to be perfect people, to always be available, to never be down, and to have all the answers we need to keep our lives stable and moving forward. Those are unrealistic expectations to place on anyone, yet most of us are disappointed when a pastor becomes overwhelmed, seems depressed, lets us down or completely burns out. And we certainly never blame ourselves for their “failure.”

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 service or banquet, submit an open letter to your local newspaper announcing your genuine 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 dinner for two at Jamil’s of Edmond. To enter your minister(s) in the drawing, send your minister’s name, church name, your name and address 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 Nov. 1 at 5 p.m. But most of all _ Remember your ministers this October!

KLVV is a non-profit radio station broadcasting on 88.7 FM Northern Oklahoma and Southern Kansas with translator stations at 98.3 FM in Enid, 106.7 FM in Stillwater, and 97.3 FM in Guthrie or you can go to their website at 222.lovestation.org.

National Religion News

Trips Offered

NEW YORK (AP) — The Birthright Israel program, funded by private donors, Jewish organizations and the government of Israel, is offering all college-age Jews free airfare to Israel and a 10-day “Israel Experience” program.

The trips are set for next January and February. College students aged 26 and younger may get information through campus Jewish groups or by phoning (888) 99ISRAEL. They also may contact a Web site: www.israelexperience.org.

Birthright Israel plans to extend the offer in 2001 to high school students, ages 15 and up, and to set up a $300 million fund to perpetuate the program.

The idea of offering a visit to every Jewish youth was announced in 1998 by philanthropists Charles R. Bronfman and Michael H. Steinhardt.

Seminary Opens

DENVER (AP) — The first Roman Catholic seminary United States affiliated with a papal university in Rome has opened in Denver with 59 students.

The St. John Vianney Seminary is on the campus occupied until 1995 by the St. Thomas Seminary. It will train priests from around the world.

The seminary is named in honor of a 19th century Frenchman who is the patron saint of parish priests.

SPORTS

Ponca City, Edmond Just Full of Tricks
Huskers Can’t Forget Pokes
Sooners Up, Irish Fading

Ponca City, Edmond Just Full of Tricks

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

Special (trick) plays are fun for fans and players alike, Sometimes they work and sometimes they don’t

Tonight’s Wildcat game against Edmond Memorial at UCO’s Wantland Stadium could see a number of special plays because both coach Rusty Benson and Edmond’s Greg Neese like to keep the other team guessing.

“We usually put in a play or two on offense and maybe a different look or two on defense that we think will work from what we’ve seen on film,” Benson said.

“When they work, trick plays are great. They’re good when they don’t work, too, because it gives coaches who we play later something to think about.”

The Wildcats used a couple of special plays against Stillwater last week. One, a tailback pass from Billy Broughton to J. Michael Sharon, resulted in an 85-yard touchdown.

A second, a screen pass from quarterback Kyle Henderson to fullback Matt Littleton, was good for a 23-yard gain.

“That’s the first time that screen pass worked,” Benson said, “although we’ve called it three times in games.

“Those trick plays are fun for the kids to practice.”

As usual Benson was mum about if and when a trick play will be used against Edmond, but hinted at one when he said Broughton might line up at tight end, “if we can catch Edmond not paying attention.”

But on the other side of the fence, the Wildcats have had to spend some time practicing against trick plays.

“Coach Neese like to use trick plays a lot,” Benson said. “He has 15 different plays on extra points. There are four or five reverses and a double reverse.”

But even with the tricks, this game is a serious one for both teams. Both are 1-3 overall and 0-1 in District 6A-3. Both need a win to stay competitive in the district chase.

After suffering a couple of preseason injuries, the Wildcats have managed to dodge the injury bug through the first four games.

Edmond has been hit hard by injuries, both in preseason and early in the season.

That says Benson, is the reason the Bulldogs have been somewhat of a disappointment to Edmond fans after being picked as a top 10 team in the preseason.

They have their quarterback back and he’s a good one,” Benson says. “Their best running back is back, but he’s been hurt. They have two big tackles, 298 and 270 pounds, but they’ve been hurt, too. In the film we’ve seen, I haven’t seen those two tackles on the field in the same game.

“Edmond has enough talent that I see why they were picked in the top 10. They’ve just had some pieces missing all year.”

Meanwhile, the Wildcats are as healthy as they have been all season which means added depth for the district run.

Benson said the Cats could use as many as three tailbacks tonight, Broughton, Micah Johnson and Steven Michael, who saw considerable action last week after returning from an off season injury.

The Wildcats are still looking for some consistency on offense while trying to cure the defensive mistakes they made against Stillwater.

“Last year their coach said they played their best game of the year against us,” Benson reports of that 41-14 loss. “This year we’re pretty evenly matched. This one will come down to whoever plays better.”

Huskers Can’t Forget Pokes

By DOUG ALDEN

Associated Press Writer

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska coach Frank Solich doesn’t want to relive last year’s Oklahoma State game.

Sure, the Cornhuskers won, but they needed a goal-line stand in the closing seconds to do it.

The Cowboys escaped with a 24-17 victory. The idea of repeating the experience is probably as unappealing to Oklahoma State coach Bob Simmons as it is to Solich, now in his second year.

‘‘I think Coach Simmons doesn’t want it to come down to the last play. I don’t think I do either,’’ Solich said. ‘‘It’s just the way you like to have it work is where your team has taken control of the game, and it doesn’t have to come down to the last play.’’

With two of the top defenses in the country, that could be difficult. Oklahoma State lost seven starters from last year’s defense, but the Cowboys are still holding opponents to 182.3 yards per game through three games this season.

Last year Oklahoma State limited the Cornhuskers to 215 total yards, including just 43 on the ground. But the Huskers avoided the upset with a late punt return for a touchdown and the goal-line stand.

Solich expects more of the same on Saturday, when the Cowboys (2-1) play their Big 12 opener after a weekend off.

‘‘Right now I wouldn’t mind having two weeks to get ready for Oklahoma State. But that’s not going to happen, so we just do our best in the time slot we have to make sure we’re organized going in,’’ Solich said.

No. 6 Nebraska (4-0 overall, 1-0 Big 12) is coming off a 40-10 rout at Missouri last weekend. The Huskers’ offense, which had struggled in consecutive wins over California and Southern Mississippi, finally showed some consistency against the Tigers. Nebraska rushed for 333 yards and passed for 143 in Eric Crouch’s second start at quarterback this season.

Solich will likely find out Saturday whether the Missouri game was a fluke or if his offense is on a roll. While the Huskers have relied heavily on their defense this season, the Cowboys have even more so.

Oklahoma State actually is ahead of Nebraska in total defense at No. 3 in the nation. Nebraska’s 195.3 yards per game puts the Huskers at No. 4. Nebraska linebacker Julius Jackson, who leads the defense with five turnover recoveries, says the Huskers belong on top.

‘‘We just feel like we’re not getting the respect we should be getting,’’ Jackson said. ‘‘They’re ranked above us defensively, so we’ve got to go out there, do everything right and play a very physical football game.

‘‘We’re definitely going to have to be ready to bang heads with them.’’

Nebraska has dominated the series 34-2-1, but Simmons isn’t worried about history. Oklahoma State was successful in shutting down the Nebraska offense last year, but allowed Joe Walker to return a punt for a touchdown midway through the fourth quarter and couldn’t score from the Huskers’ 1-yard line with seconds to play.

‘‘It came down to special teams, and it came down to executing a play on the goal line. Had we done that, who knows what would have happened? But that’s really what it came down to,’’ Simmons said.

Despite last year’s close call, the Huskers are a favored by nearly four touchdowns at home. The Cowboys haven’t played since a 29-11 loss at Mississippi State, where they turned the ball over eight times and gave up eight sacks.

Still, defensive end Zac Warner wants to know who came up with a 26-point spread.

‘‘That’s something our team should take on as pretty much a slap in the face, going out and saying they’re that much of a better team than we are,’’ he said.

Sooners Up, Irish Fading

By JR ROSS

Associated Press Writer

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (AP) — Oklahoma and Notre Dame share 17 national championships, 10 Heisman Trophy winners and 120 consensus All-Americans.

They have all the tradition that makes college football special, including two of the best winning percentages in NCAA history.

But that’s about as much as they have in common right now.

After finishing 5-6 last season, the No. 23 Sooners are off to their first 3-0 start since 1995 with the No. 1 offense in the country.

The Irish have been headed in the opposite direction, opening the season 1-3 after going 9-3 last season. They’ve won only one of their last six games, their offense is in disarray and the Irish have yet to play with a passion.

Regardless, first-year Sooners coach Bob Stoops still sees Notre Dame as the best 1-3 team in the country.

‘‘The teams they’ve lost to are excellent football teams, undefeated, and they’ve been to the wire with every one of them,’’ Stoops said. ‘‘So they’re a strong football team, no question, with a great deal of pride and they’re well-coached.’’

While they’ve played well in the first three games, the Sooners have established the top-ranked offense in the country and the 16th-ranked defense by beating up on the likes of Louisville, Baylor and Division I-AA Indiana State.

Beating the Irish would give them some more legitimacy to their ranking and 3-0 record, they also could use another confidence booster before heading into a stretch of their schedule that includes the likes of Texas, Texas A&M, Colorado and Missouri.

‘‘I guess it’s good for the players to be recognized, that they get mentioned that way, but it really has nothing to do with what we’re doing,’’ Swoops said. ‘‘We’re concentrating on just getting better through the season, being prepared this week to play the very best we can and let all of you guys and women take care of that and vote us where we want. We just got to keep playing.’’

Irish coach Bob Davie is looking for his team to finally play with some passion.

Notre Dame has been lackluster in its first four games, and they still haven’t established a consistent running game, despite rushing for 363 yards against Kansas in the season opener.

Davie is so desperate for a rushing attack that he’s been working leading rusher Tony Fisher at the fullback position, in part to give promising freshman Julius Jones a shot at tailback to spark something — anything — in the offense.

The change hasn’t gone over well with some players, including fullback Joey Goodspeed. The senior fullback this week said he’s still irked that Davie elected to throw on third-and-one in a critical situation against Michigan State and then punted on fourth-and-one with time running out in a 23-13 loss. Davie later said he didn’t have any confidence the running game could gain a single yard when it had to.

But he’s not that bothered that some players are starting to get take offense to some of his comments.

‘‘I am glad they took that personally. I am glad they have enough pulse to see that,’’ he said.

Some other seniors seem to be venting their frustrations as well, and sophomore left tackle Jordan Black said the Irish are starting to take on more of an edge in practice, where positive reinforcement is not the motivational tool of choice.

‘‘Now it’s kind of more of a we’re back against the wall. We’re angry. We’re ready to fight kind of attitude,’’ Black said. ‘‘It’s a bad sign because Notre Dame is never supposed to be 1-3 in my opinion. It irritates me. I can’t even tell you how mad it makes me when Notre Dame loses a game. But that’s the fact. We are against the wall and we have to deal with it.’’