LOCAL

No. 1 Fire Station Almost Completed
Nearly News
Household Hazardous Material Collection at Conoco Saturday
Ponca City Homecoming Crowning at Halftime Friday
State Health Department Encourages Get Flu Shot
Third Year for Moisture To Hit More Than 50 Inches
Chamber News

No. 1 Fire Station Almost Completed

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Staff Writer

Thanks to the decision of the voters to pass a half-cent sales tax in 1997 for the new No. 1 Fire Station, the men who put their lives on the line to protect property and lives no longer have to live in quarters worse than old time prisons.

It is appropriate during Fire Prevention week when the firefighters are out educating youngsters about preventing fire that Chief Gary Denny announced the new No. 1 Fire Station will be occupied by Oct. 18th and be operational by the 25th.

The station is to house all of the administrative offices of the Fire Service, now headquartered in the Commercial Federal Building. Plus the firefighters temporarily located at Conoco that are normally stationed at the No. 1 plant downtown.

The interior of the building is second to none in the state and the exterior preserves the historical integrity of the Civic Center Complex. Additionally the project is being finished ahead of schedule and under budget by local building contractor Rick Scott. Designed by local architectural firm Troy Lewis and Associates, the best of fire stations around the area were incorporated.

Denny, who came in as fire chief in January, credits Chief Larry Mullikin with much of the credit for the project. Mullikin is now with the Stillwater fire department. Denny says that the firemen are a team and work is done in team units.

Vote on Tuesday to Finish the Complex

Voters will go to the polls on Tuesday to vote on whether or not to finish the Civic Center Complex. The second phase of the project is finish the west wing and renovate the center building and east wing.

If the voters approve the three year half-cent sales tax, which is expected to bring in about $4.8 million and can only be used for the renovation, the remodeling of Ponca City’s government center piece will get under way.

Fire Station Tour

Chief Denny giving a sneak preview of the new station (an official ribbon cutting and open house is slated for November) told of the state-of-the-art building equipped with cutting edge technology.

One of the big improvements is that the bay area is now a drive-through garage that does away with the need for the trucks to be backed in from Fifth Street. This eliminates traffic danger to the public and the firemen.

The firefighters, who work 24-hour shifts, are housed above the floor where the fire fighting apparatus (trucks and other equipment) are kept. Therefore, according to Chief Denny, the diesel emissions were of concern. This problem has been solved with a hose system much like a large vacuum that is hooked to the truck allow the fumes to go outside. The hoses automatically disconnect from the trucks.

Also on this floor is a power washer, gear storage and a clean work room to work on self-contained breathing apparatus, a biohazard room and washer to extract contaminates.

Ground floor of the station is to be occupied by all of the administrative offices, a reception area and a training center. Denny said all of the training can now be done on site. Recently training had been held at Hutchins Memorial Auditorium.

He said in keeping with Mayor Tom Leonard’s “one stop shopping” theme, that any permits issued by the fire department will be done at the offices.

The living quarters of the firefighters on the second floor is prepared to accommodate as many as 15. The area contains kitchen, dining area, and television, recreation and exercise rooms.

Denny said it is important that the firemen are healthy and fit and the exercise room is a vital. Additionally there are bunk rooms, which have half walls, allowing for privacy, but not disassociating the firemen from each other.

There are separate quarters and restrooms in case there is a female fire fighter in the future.

A unique feature of the second floor is there are four firemen poles that allow personnel to get to the main floor in record time. These are of the latest technology with automatic closure to help control the emissions.

There is a bank of telephones. Denny explained that when you take a person away from their family for 24 hours at a time there is a special need for telephone contact with the family.

Chief Denny noted that the colors are close to the original. buildings and is also a close match. Another area the chief is proud of is that the building has been designed as a low maintenance facility.

Nearly News

Some people never give up! The News has been informed of yet another credit card scam in the area. A citizen was called by someone claiming to be a security representative of a specific credit card company and asked for its expiration date. When, in turn, the citizen asked for the identification number of the “security rep,” he became belligerent and said that, because the citizen was not complying with the credit card security, an extra $300 would be added to her next month’s bill, and that she would be receiving something in the mail within a week. The citizen then reported the incident to her credit card company who expressed concern and informed her that the caller did not represent their company. The News once again reminds citizens to never give out personal information or credit card numbers to anyone with whom you have not initiated the telephone call or contact.

Household Hazardous Material Collection at Conoco Saturday

By Patti Pfeiffer

Special to the News

It could be a pack rats worst nightmare or a dream come true for the environmentally friendly. For six hours Saturday, Ponca City citizens will not only be encouraged to dump those items once deemed “undumpable,” but will be able to do so without paying a fee during Ponca City’s first Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day.

From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. local residents will be given the opportunity to properly dispose of their household hazardous waste — everything from oil to paint to batteries, to antifreeze, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, and other chemicals.

There are only a few items that will not be collected, such as medical wastes, radioactive materials, compressed gas cylinders and commercial waste.

The project, co-sponsored by the City of Ponca City and Conoco, is being billed as a way in which residents can help make Ponca City safe.

“For a long time the public has been told they can’t dump, pour or dispose of many of these items and so much of it is just set aside in a garage or shed and it accumulates,” Ponca City Public Works Director Ken Parr explains. “This collection day will allow us a means to properly dispose of those materials for our residents, for their own safety as well as the safety of the environment.”

Both the co-sponsorship as well as Conoco’s involvement were a natural says Conoco Staff Engineer Kelley Hayes.

“This program fits in with Conoco’s desire to see environmental responsibility not only within Conoco but within the community as a whole,” Hayes says. “The City is so environmentally responsible with programs such as recycling and given Conoco’s environmental stewardship with the community the co-sponsorship made so much sense.”

On Saturday Conoco’s north parking lot, located at South Avenue and Pine Street, will be transformed into a makeshift “dump” — a collection site for household hazardous waste. A licensed hazardous waste contractor will be on site to collect, package and properly dispose of the collected materials.

School for Volunteers

Due to the contents of the materials being collected, extra precaution are being taken. All volunteers are required to attend one of two special training/safety course being held Friday at Conoco.

In addition, Conoco’s Hazardous Material (Hazmat) Response Team will be unloading all material from vehicles. According to Parr that dubious duty would ordinary be the responsibility of the hazardous waste disposal company.

“Conoco’s Hazmat team graciously volunteered to unload the vehicles and spare the cost of having to pay the contractor to do that job,” Parr says. “Conoco and their employees really deserve kudos for their time and support in making this project a reality.”

Although a first for Ponca City, depending on its success, it may not be the last.

“Future hazardous waste collection days will depend on the success of this one,” Parr says. “The national average for turnout is three percent of residents and if we get that we will consider it a success.”

And if optimism and enthusiasm are a barometer, Ponca City’s first Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day will certainly not be its last.

“I’m expecting a large turnout. We have had a lot of interest in this project. The weather is going to be fabulous and so I’m hoping for 20 cars per hour — that would be great!,” Hayes says.

For more information call 767-0411.

Ponca City Homecoming Crowning at Halftime Friday

By KRISTI HAYES

News Education Editor

The 1999 Homecoming Queen for Ponca City Senior High School will be crowned during halftime of the Ponca City vs. Owasso football game at Sullins Stadium Friday night, 7:30 p.m.

The Homecoming Court consists of a freshman class attendant, sophomore class attendant, junior class attendant, and three senior queen candidates.

Attendants

Lindsey Mersmann has been elected freshman attendant. She is the daughter of Ron Mersmann. Lindsey is co-captain of the freshman cheerleading squad and president of the Pepperettes.

She will be escorted by freshman, DeShane Sweeney, son of Richard Trice. He is a member of the Wildcat football team and active in the Youth Leadership Class.

Presenting flowers to Lindsey will be Stacy Murray, daughter of Tommy and Christie Murray. She is the freshman class president.

Lindsey Lessert will be the sophomore attendant. She is the daughter of Frank and Linda Lessert and Jo and Monte Keating. She is a junior varsity cheerleader and is on the honor roll.

Escorting Lindsey will be sophomore, Steven Windler, son of Steve and Kathy Windler. Steven is a member of the Wildcat wrestling team and is a student council representative.

Emily Day, daughter of Richard and Patricia Day, will present flowers to Lindsey. She is the sophomore class president.

Friday night’s junior attendant will be Karly Merrifield, daughter of Jim and Sandy Merrifield. Karly is the student council treasurer and a member of Who’s Who Among American High School Students.

Escorting Karly will be junior, Matthew Littleton, son of Jim and Debra Littleton. Matt is a member of both the Wildcat wrestling and football teams.

Presenting flowers to Karly will be Abby Roth, daughter of Jim and Marlene Roth. Abby is junior class president.

Queen Candidates

The 1999 queen candidates are seniors Alana Smith, T.J. Dancey and Ashley VanHoesen.

Queen candidate Alana Smith is the daughter of Alan and Judy Smith. She is the senior class president and a member of the varsity Lady Wildcat basketball team.

Escorting Alana is senior, Caleb Stevenson, son of Larry and Belinda Stevenson. Caleb is a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes and plans to attend OSU after high school.

Presenting flowers to Alana will be Stacey Hobbs, daughter of Bill and Carla Hobbs. She is the student council vice president.

Queen candidate T.J. Dancey is the daughter of Tim and Janna Dancey. She is the captain of the varsity cheerleading squad and was named Outstanding Junior Girl for 1998-99.

Escorting T.J. will be senior, Matthew Waddell, son of Rick and Roxanne Waddell. Matt is a member of the varsity golf team and attended Boy’s State.

Claire Winterrowd, daughter of Bill and Cynthia Winterrowd, will present flowers to T.J. Claire is the senior class vice president.

Queen candidate Ashley VanHoesen is the daughter of Everett and Sonja VanHoesen. She is the student council president and a National Honor Society member.

Escorting Ashley will be Chris Filson, son of Mike and Cindy Filson. He is a member of the yearbook staff and is a homeroom vice president.

Presenting flowers to Ashley will be Britney Parker, daughter of Russ and Carma Parker. Britney is the student council historian.

Michael Martin, son of Paul and Lynda Martin, will crown one of the three queen candidates as the 1999 Homecoming Queen Friday night. Michael is the student council secretary.

The flowers presented to the Homecoming Court will be provided by Sonja VanHoesen of Carriage House Flowers. The Po-Hi Steppers and Marching Wildcats will assist with the coronation.

The coronation ceremony will be directed by Betsy Easley, student council advisor.

State Health Department Encourages Get Flu Shot

The Oklahoma State Department of Health has confirmed the first cases of influenza in Oklahoma this flu season. Several cases in a nursing home were reported in Ottawa County in late summer and one travel-related case of Influenza A has now been reported in Oklahoma County.

“This is an early start to our flu season, but there is still plenty of time to receive an influenza vaccination,” said J.R. Nida, M.D., state health commissioner. “Generally, flu cases peak in Oklahoma in late January to early February.”

Persons at high risk for complications from influenza should receive the vaccine, including individuals over 65 years of age and persons with heart disease, breathing disorders, HIV infection, and chronic metabolic diseases.

Others who should receive the influenza vaccine include residents of nursing homes and those who have extensive contact with high risk persons, including health care workers, home care volunteers and household members.

The optimal time to receive a flu shot is typically in mid-October; however, since flu activity is appearing earlier this year than normal, persons at high risk may want to consult their physician about getting an earlier shot.

“A flu shot is an easy, safe preventive measure that people can take to protect themselves from the risks associated with the flu,” Nida said. “Flu shots do not contain a live virus, so they cannot cause the flu.”

Nida said that although the flu shot cannot cause the actual disease, it can result in some soreness and a general sense of just not feeling good, called malaise.

“Some wonder if the danger of flu is worth this possible side effect. My answer is ‘yes’,” he cautioned. “Flu is a killer!”

Influenza symptoms include fever, cough, chills, sore throat and muscle aches. The illness usually lasts from two to seven days. People can relieve flu symptoms by resting in bed and drinking plenty of liquids.

Anyone who develops difficulty breathing, or experiences severe pain with breathing, has high fever, or whose illness lasts more than several days, should contact a physician.

Health officials caution parents not to give their children aspirin or medications containing aspirin to relieve flu or other virus symptoms.

Medical evidence has shown a link between the use of aspirin and Reye syndrome, a potentially fatal illness.

Two antiviral drugs — amantadine and rimantadine — are effective in preventing and treating Influenza A infection. They are not effective in the treatment of Influenza B. These drugs are available by prescription.

Persons who wish to get the flu vaccine should contact their health care provider, local hospital or county health department. The vaccine will be available at county health departments in mid-October.

Third Year for Moisture To Hit More Than 50 Inches

By MAX STOKESBERRY

News Staff Writer

This is the September weather summary as reported by the Federal Contract Weather Station at Ponca City’s Municipal Airport.

Total moisture for the month: 8.21 inches (4.49 above normal).

Highest temperature reading: 98 degrees on Sept. 7.

Lowest temperature: 43 on the 22nd.

Average daily temperature for the month: 69.7 degrees (1 .4 below normal).

Year’s precipitation at close of nine-month period: 50.05 inches (20.74 above normal).

This is the third straight year in which precipitation has exceeded 50 inches, having leaped from the previous high water mark of 47 inches in 1986. Three months remain on the 1999 calendar, which would suggest that a new all-time record is almost inevitable, breaking the present top mark of 51.29 inches established in 1998.

Last month’s 8.21 inches of rainfall apparently made it the third wettest September since, at least, 1954. The most rain during a ninth month fell in September 1986 when the total was 9.72 inches. A close second place was the 9.53 inches received in 1967.

Temperature-wise, 11 of the last 32 Septembers saw readings of 100 degrees or above. The highest figure during that period was 108 degrees registered only a year ago (1998). The second highest September reading was 106 in 1985.

Chamber News

Electric Deregulation Friday Forum Topic

Electric deregulation is coming to Oklahoma as a result of the passage of Senate Bill 500 in the 1997 Legislative session. The law states that electric consumers in Oklahoma should have a choice of electric suppliers by July 1, 2002. Cities with municipal electric systems such as Ponca City will need to decide to “opt in” or “opt out” to electric competition.

This issue will be the subject of the Second Friday Forum at the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce this Friday. Leading the discussion will be David Myers, Chairman of the Ponca City Energy Advisory Board, and Max Speegle, General Counsel for Oklahoma Municipal Power Authority. The forum will be beginning at 8 a.m. in the EBC Room at the Pioneer Technology Center.

Speegle will discuss what the new law provides and the process used at the State Capitol to develop methods of implementation of this change. Myers will discuss what this could mean in Ponca City and other issues of local concern. Questions and comments from those attending will follow.

Complimentary coffee and doughnuts will be served. The Legislative Committee of the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce sponsors the forum.

Remember to vote yes on Tuesday, October 12 for the completion of the Civic Center.

Chamber and Main Street host seminar on “Destination Shopping”

The Ponca City Main Street Authority and the Give Ponca the Business Committee of the Ponca City Chamber of Commerce are presenting Jon Schallert speaking about “Destination Shopping.” The Seminar will be held on Wednesday, October 27th, from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. at the Hutchins Memorial.

Jon Schallert, founder of Schallert and Associates, Inc., has been helping and advising retail businesses since 1983. His retail-consulting firm is one of the few in the nation to specialize in advising independent retailers, individually and collectively, on ways to improve both profitability and productivity of their stores and businesses.

His presentations are seen by thousands of retailers and business people annually. He works closely with Economic Development Organizations who want to reinvigorate the retail areas of their cities. Prior to starting his retail-consulting firm, Schallert spent ten years with greeting card giant Hallmark Cards. He was instrumental in Hallmark’s nationwide “reinvention” of the traditional card and gift shop, which created a nationwide network of “destination” gift shops, suitable for the sophisticated 90’s consumer.

His seminar in Ponca City, “Destination Shopping” will be a discussion of national retail trends, and examine why retail businesses today are failing at an all-time high rate. He will discuss how retailers, regardless of their location, can change their stores into consumer destinations that are visited repeatedly by loyal, contented shoppers. He teaches specific cost effective techniques involving marketing, advertising, store design, merchandising and eleven other business processes that must be implemented for a store to become a magnet for today’s consumer.

The registration fee is $5 per person and the deadline for registration will be October 20th. All registrants will be eligible to win an individual consultation from Mr. Schallert. Seven consultations are available. For registration or more information contact the Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce at (580) 765-4400.

Upcoming Events

Friday, October 8 — “Second Friday Forum” 8 to 9 a.m. Pioneer Technology Center.

Saturday, October 9 — YMCA Health Fair, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 702 E. Grand.

Saturday, October 9 — Household Hazardous Waste Day, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Conoco North Parking Lot (Pine and South Avenue).

Wednesday, October 13 — Health and Medical Committee, Noon, SJRMC Conference Room C.

Wednesday, October 13 — Leadership Ponca City “History of Ponca City” Day.

Thursday, October 14 — Infrastructure Committee, 11 a.m., Chamber Conference Room.

Friday, October 15 — Legislative Committee, 7:30 a.m., Chamber Conference Room.

Saturday, October 16 — Leadership Ponca City Alumni Meeting, 5 p.m., Kaw Lake Area.

DEATHS

Hazel Ann Boyd
Manuel KnifeChief
Elmo R. Stingley
Jessie Irene Shaw
Jean Watts

Hazel Ann Boyd

BLACKWELL — Hazel Ann Boyd, resident of Lamont, died Wednesday, Oct. 6, 1999, at the Willow Haven Nursing Home in Tonkawa. She was 89.

The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 8, 1999, in the Hackler Funeral Home Memory Chapel with the Rev. Tony Pameticky officiating. Burial will follow in the Morrison Cemetery. Her nephews will serve as casket bearers.

Hazel Ann Boyd was born Dec. 7, 1909, at Taloga, Okla., the daughter of John F. and Marie (Jezek) Pameticky. She was raised in Taloga and Morrison, moving to Lamont in 1937.

She married William I. Boyd on April 3, 1942, in Newkirk. She stayed in Lamont while her husband was in military service, after which they moved to California. After her husband’s death, she returned to Lamont to help care for her brother. In 1996, she moved to Blackwell then to Tonkawa in 1997. She was a 50-year member of the Rebecca Lodge in Lamont.

She is survived by two brothers, Ernest Pameticky of Ponca City and Harvey Pameticky of Blackwell; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband; her sister, Lybia Hutcherson; and three brothers, Lee Pameticky, Ed Pameticky and Johnny Pameticky.

Memorial contributions may be made in her name to Ponca City’s Salvation Army, c/o Hackler Funeral Home, 301 West Blackwell, Blackwell, Okla. 74631.

The family will be at the home of Harvey and Delores Pameticky before the service.

Manuel KnifeChief

PAWNEE — Manuel KnifeChief, resident of Ponca City, died Wednesday, Oct. 6, 1999, at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Ponca City. He was 89.

The funeral will be held noon Saturday, Oct. 9, 1999, at the Otoe Cultural Center with burial following in the Otoe-Missouria Cemetery under the direction of Poteet Funeral Home in Pawnee.

Manuel KnifeChief was born Sept. 19, 1999, in Pawnee, the son of Charles and Maggie (Hand) KnifeChief. He graduated from Chilocco Indian School. After graduating, he traveled with an orchestra for four years. On March 13, 1954, he married Caroline DeRoin, who preceded him in death on March, 16, 1979. He was a veteran of World War II and retired from Civil Service at Vance Air Force Base, where he worked in the commissary. He later moved to Ponca City.

He is survived by four stepchildren, Ted Hall, Harry Hall, Marlene Colclazier, all of Red Rock, and Mary Barnes of Wheatland; six grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and numerous other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his wife; two daughters, Angie KnifeChief and Irene KnifeChief Reveles; a stepson, Tommy Bassett; and two brothers, John and Dennis KnifeChief.

Elmo R. Stingley

Elmo R. Stingley, longtime Ponca City resident, died Wednesday, Oct. 6, 1999, at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 72.

The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 8, 1999, at Grace Memorial Chapel with the Rev. Bill Emmert officiating. Burial will be held at 2 p.m. Friday in the Arlington Cemetery in Oklahoma City under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.

Elmo Stingley was born April 18, 1927, in Marland, the son of Ray Leslie and Minda Ellen (Griffith) Stingley. He attended school in Marland and Ponca City.

Stingley entered the U.S. Army Air Corps in August of 1945 and served in the Pacific Theater. He was discharged in March of 1947.

Stingley was employed with Johndrow Pest Control for many years until retiring in 1992. He was a member of the Moose Lodge with Fellowship Degree. He enjoyed playing golf and was active in many capacities with the Moose Lodge.

Surviving are a sister, Stella Mae Shepherd of Kaw City, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother and one sister.

Military graveside rites will be presented by the U.S. Air Force from Tinker Air Force Base.

Jessie Irene Shaw

Jessie Irene Shaw, longtime Ponca City resident, died Wednesday, Oct. 6, 1999, in the Shawn Manor Nursing Home. She was 94.

The funeral service will be held 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 8, 1999, in the Trout Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Steve Bierly, pastor, First Church of The Nazarene, officiating. Burial will follow in Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery with arrangements by the Trout Funeral Home.

Jessie was born March 6, 1905, on a farm north of Kaw City to George N. and Margaret Elizabeth (Butler) Rice. She attended school a few years in Kaw City, later moving north of Kaw City and attending a rural school in Cantwell District and high school in Newkirk for two years. She was united in marriage to Arthur E. Shaw on Dec. 22, 1924, in Newkirk.

They lived six miles east of Newkirk and operated a garage and filling station. After selling the business in Newkirk, they moved to Ponca City where they owned and operated Shaw’s Auto Parts and Repair Shop. Jessie was active in missionary work and Sunday School, having taught for about 40 years. She was a member of the Women’s Missionary Society for the Church of God, later becoming state treasurer for 23 years, then being elected state president for six years. She was active in local and state politics, being a member of the local Republican Women’s Club and Past President’s Club. She held every office in the club. She was active in fund raising and attended Oklahoma state and district conventions. For several years she ran the Kay County headquarters during election years.

In 1982, she was honored at the State capitol as being one of the Republican women of the year.

Survivors include one son, Clarence R. Shaw of Ponca City; one daughter, Maxine Lewis of Bartlesville; three sisters, Edna Burkhart of Topeka, Kan., Gladys Judd of Tonkawa, and Helen Watson of Ponca City; one brother, Luther Rice of Ponca City; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband Arthur on Jan. 29, 1994, and three brothers.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 N. Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, Okla. 74601 or to the First Nazarene Church, 1900 W. Grand, Ponca City, Okla. 74601.

Obituaries

Jean Watts

Jean Watts, former Ponca City resident, died Tuesday evening, Oct. 5, 1999, at the Midwest City Hospital in Midwest City. She was 73.

The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 8, 1999, at the First Presbyterian Church in Ponca City with the Rev. Dave Clipson, associate pastor, officiating. Burial will follow in the Odd Fellows Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel. The family will greet friends at the church from 1 p.m. until time of service on Friday.

Jean Watts was born March 2, 1926, in Stillwater, the daughter of William H. and Mamie (Keller) Kuechenmeister. She grew up in Stillwater, graduating from Stillwater High School. She went on to attend Oklahoma A&M for two years.

On July 20, 1946, she was married to Thomas F. Watts in Stillwater. The couple came to Ponca City in 1947 when Mr. Watts went to work for Conoco in Geophysics as a draftsman. Following the death of her husband in 1974, she went to work for Conoco as a receptionist/secretary in Exploration Research until her retirement in the spring of 1988.

She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church and was active with the Christian Scientists.

Jean devoted her life to her family, and each generation she touched was blessed by her love and friendship. During the last five years, Jean’s courageous fight against cancer was a testament to her deep strength and faith.

Jean was a beloved mother and grandmother and is survived by a daughter, Kathy Miller, of Edmond, and a son, Stan Watts, of Austin, Texas; eight grandchildren, Shannon Miller Frye, Chad Miller, Melissa Bamburg, Michelle Watts, Lori Miller, Kristin Watts, Lindsey Watts, and Mary Rose Watts; two great-grandchildren, Brendon and Katelyn Frye; three sisters, Helen German of Stillwater, Maxine Oldham and June Williamson, both of Oklahoma City; and a sister-in-law, Norma Sinyard of Tulsa. She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, William Roy. Her husband preceded her in death on the same date Oct. 5, 25 years prior.

Casket bearers will be Mike Miller, Chad Miller, Scott Frye, Perry Oldham Jr., Bill Oldham, and Mike Williamson. Honorary casket bearers will be Wilburn Williamson, and Perry Oldham Sr.

The casket will not be opened at the church; however, friends may call at the funeral home until noon on Friday.

paid obituary

NEWS BRIEFS

Rummage Sale — Asbury United Methodist Church, 700 West Liberty, will be holding a rummage sale from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday. Proceeds will go to benefit the missions.

Pauline’s steak shish-ka-bob served on a bed of rice with mushroom sauce and salad bar $8.95. Friday 8th. For reservations call 765-5460. adv.

After School Hang-Out — New Life Pentecostal Holiness Church, 114 North Oak Street, is offering an after school hang-out for all school age children. Hours are 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. school days except Wednesdays. Various activities, help with homework, bible teaching, and snacks are provided. For more information, call Pastor Joe Muniz or Betty Jones at 765-7027.

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.

Special Event — World Community Day, sponsored by Church Women United, will be held Nov. 5, at Albright United Methodist Church at 9:30 a.m.

Weather Lab! Current conditions, forecasts. Fun weather folklore and more! 762-9999. adv.

Chorus Programs — The seventh and eighth grade chorus students will present a Drug Free assembly on Oct. 8. The eighth grade will perform at 8:15 a.m. at East Middle School and seventh graders will perform at 2 p.m. at West Middle 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. 765-9689. adv.

Combine on Fire — A man reported to the Communications Center at 5:39 p.m. Wednesday that a combine was on fire three miles south of Ranch Drive and two miles west of the Big V Ranch. Ranch Drive Volunteer Fire Department responded and handled the situation.

Girl Bitten by Snake — The Communications Center received a call at 5:43 p.m. Wednesday that a 7-year-old girl had been bitten by a snake. An ambulance met the party involved at Oklahoma 11 and U.S. 77, but the girl remained in a private vehicle to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center for treatment. The girl was later taken to Oklahoma City by Ponca City Fire Department ambulance.

Clothing Sale Canceled — The clothing giveaway at First Assembly of God Church will be canceled Monday due to the holiday.

Po-Hi Stepper Home Coming Dinner. Friday, October 8th, 5 - 7 p.m. at High School. Take-outs available. Cost $5.00. Tickets at the door or from any Hi-Stepper. adv.

Abandoned Bicycle — A woman from the 600 block of South Twelfth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 8:01 a.m. Wednesday that a bicycle had been abandoned in the front yard. Animal Control was notified to handle the situation.

Head Country all day Friday special­ All you can eat, smoked BBQ ribs, beans, potato salad, and coleslaw, only $7.49, all day. 1217 East Prospect. 767-8304. adv.

Cattle on Roadway — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 10:18 a.m. Wednesday from the 6200 block of West South Avenue, reporting cattle on the highway. The Kay County Sheriff’s Office was notified to handle the problem.

Dougan's Bar-B-Q Thursday special from 4-? 1/2 BBQ chicken with 2 vegetables. $4.25. 215 South 14th. 765-7979. adv.

Checks Stolen — A woman from the 300 block of West Hartford Avenue was at the Ponca City Police Department at 12:21 p.m. Wednesday to report some checks stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

20% Off all picture frames, until October 15th. Mrs. Brown’s Attic, downtown Ponca City. adv.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 1000 block of North Union Street at 12:33 p.m. Wednesday that a 27-year-old man was being held on a Cowley County warrant.

Receives Treatment — An employee of the emergency room at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center reported to the Communications Center at 1:14 p.m. Wednesday that a girl was being treated for injuries following an alleged altercation at Po-Hi. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Dog Gone — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department was stopped by a resident in the 1000 block of North Oak Street at 6:31 p.m. Wednesday who reported that a dog had been stolen. Another officer was assigned and a grand larceny report was taken.

Accident — A two-vehicle, non-injury accident in the 700 block of West Oklahoma Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:41 p.m. Wednesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 4:08 p.m. Wednesday from the 300 block of North Ash Street that a 31-year-old woman was being held for driving under suspension and having no insurance.

House Burglarized — A man from the 1000 block of North Oak Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 5:54 p.m. Wednesday that the residence had been broken into. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Child Treated — An employee at the emergency room of St. Joseph Regional Medical Center reported at 6:32 p.m. Wednesday that a child was being treated for possible child abuse. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Accident — A two-vehicle, non-injury accident at the intersection of North Fifth Street and East Prospect Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 6:51 p.m. Wednesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 11:51 p.m. Wednesday that a 38-year-old man was being held on a city warrant for failure to pay.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 2900 block of North Fourteenth Street at 12:34 a.m. Thursday that a 20-year-old woman was being held for DUI, speeding, and possession of beer under 21.

GARDENING

Work Your Garden Now To Prepare For Spring Bounty
Diggin’ in the Dirt
New Plants Suggested for 2000
Millennium Seed Bank A Botanical ‘Seatbelt’

Work Your Garden Now To Prepare For Spring Bounty

By LEE REICH

For AP Special Features

Fall is not a season that usually inspires anyone to start a new garden, or to enlarge an existing one. But when that first sprig of green breaks through the ground next spring, then you might want to start or enlarge a garden.

So why not do it now instead, at a more leisurely pace? The soil is soft and moist and there’s plenty of time for a soil test to determine if fertilizer, limestone or sulfur is needed. Soil organisms, freezing and thawing in the coming months will mellow soil prepared now.

A heavy clay soil or one with an impervious layer below the surface benefits from a thorough digging. Just turn the soil over with a spading shovel or fork. While you are at it, mix fertilizer along with leaves, sawdust, compost or straw into the soil. These organic materials help fluff up clay soils. No need to crumble the soil at this time. It will break up by itself through the winter, then need only a light raking in spring.

Take a few seconds to remove any tenacious weeds you encounter. Coax the taproot of thistle or dock out of the ground by pulling with one hand while using your other to lever the root up with a shovel. Follow the roots of quackgrass and other creepers along the soil surface to draw up as much of their root systems as possible.

Raised beds are ideal for soils composed of heavy clay or large boulders, or if you have an extreme aversion to digging. Just lay a mix of organic materials and soil on top of the ground within board, brick or cinderblock enclosures. Keep the enclosures small enough so that you can reach into the beds’ middles without walking in them.

If your soil is sandy, no need to dig at all. A sprinkling of fertilizer topped by a thick layer of organic mulch to smother weeds is all that is needed to start a new bed. The advantage of doing this now rather than next spring is that earthworms will have all fall and winter to chew up the organic matter and churn it into the soil below.

Once new ground has been “broken,” keep an eye on the garden edges. Define them well with commercial barriers or a sharp cut in the grass. Then keep an eye out for weeds trying to sneak in later in the season.

Diggin’ in the Dirt

By KATHY ZEHR

These cool, comfortable fall days in northern Oklahoma seem to be specially designed for cleaning up neglected bulb beds or planting new ones. October and November chores in the yard keep us almost as busy as the hectic spring pace, but all the work in the bulb beds now will be worth it when the showy blooms show up for the millennium spring.

There is still plenty of time this month to set out bulbs, corms, tubers and rhizomes in the Ponca City area. A rainbow of colors and varieties for new plantings are available in local stores and nurseries right now. Many are on sale! But at any price, most bulbs are very inexpensive and easy to grow. Just make certain they are fat and healthy. Follow planting directions on the package. Experts agree it is not necessary to use fertilizers (sometimes the supplier will advise you to buy them to sell more of their products). Bulbs are wonderfully equipped with all their own food, so save your money. However, a spoonful of bone meal tossed in the bottom of the hole to strengthen root growth, is suggested by avid bulb growers.

Established Beds

If you have established bulb beds (over 3-years old), the bulbs need to be dug up, separated and thinned when the ground is dry. The extra bulbs and corms (baby bulbs) as well as tubers or rhizomes, may be planted elsewhere, or left in a cool dry place until you have time to plant them later, or given away to a grateful fellow gardener. Do not wash or scrub off the dirt or protective outer coating. Plant at least four weeks before the first hard freeze.

Smaller blooms usually signal that bulbs need thinning, but some beds that have been established for only a year or two may show smaller blooms or puny growth and need some feeding with bulb food. Bulb food is sprinkled on top of the ground now so the winter snow or rain will carry it slowly down to the bulbs and roots.

Continuous Spring Color

The first bulbs — usually crocus — will bloom in late winter, their tiny yellow and purple blossoms peeping through the last snows, cheering up the bleak winter days. Other early blooms such as buttery daffodils and white and orange narcissi soon follow. The Tulip, the queen of all bulbs, brings up the rear with bright multicolored blossoms in April and May and maybe June. Different tulip varieties bloom at different times. A little planning and care will guarantee three to four months of beautiful spring color from last snow of winter into late spring.

Little Space - Lots of Color

For bulb lovers who like a lot of variety but have little space, the Oklahoma State University bulb experts suggest planting a layered bed. Look at your yard, plan the bed size (remember, you have to dig it!) then purchase amounts of each bulb accordingly. (If you have leftovers, tuck those in little surprise locations in your yard or let children plant them in a special place. They are also good for forcing inside. Select three or four different varieties and sizes of bulbs for your bed.

If you’re a new gardener, I suggest tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, crocus and little grape hyacinths (for the border). Dig down three to four times the width of the largest bulbs you’ve selected. I dig a 10- inch hole for 3-inch tulip bulbs and leave one inch of loose soil in the bottom. Plant in a sunny or partial shady location with good drainage.

Place those large bulbs (tip up) in the bottom of the bed, then fill in with enough dirt to bring the bed up to a level that is three times the depth of the next largest bulb (usually daffodils). Plant those bulbs, then continue filling and placing layers of smaller and smaller bulbs until you have planted the last and smallest of the bulbs.

Before you fill in the last layer of dirt, place the little grape hyacinth bulbs around the outer rim of the bed to make a border. Fill in the last layer of dirt, water, mulch and wait for beautiful spring flowers. Water weekly if necessary until the first freeze.

“Young Sprouts” Corner

Planting small bulbs is an easy way to get children interested in gardening. Let your child pick out a small package of his/her own small bulbs in the store to create the interest. Help smaller children dig a small shallow bed and let him plant his bulbs in any design he wants. We have a grandchild’s happy face crocus bed under one big tree at my house. Older children can dig their own beds (no perfection needed here either!) Mark the special place with a stake or flag and remind the child to watch for the blooms in his/her flowerbed in the spring.

New Plants Suggested for 2000

By GEORGE BRIA

POUND RIDGE, N.Y. (AP) — Say it not only with flowers, but veggies too. Seed purveyors are greeting the new millennium with garden promises galore.

The year 2000 will mark the debut of plant varieties dazzling to the eye and delicious to the palate.

Five flowers and four vegetables are award-winning choices of All-America Selections after testing at 47 sites across North America.

The flowers are a cosmos called Cosmic Orange, a dianthus called Melody Pink, a sunflower named Soraya, a tithonia called Fiesta del Sol and a vinca named Stardust Orchid.

The veggies are a cabbage called Savoy Express, a pea named Mr. Big, a pepper labeled Blushing Beauty and a sweet corn named Indian Summer.

It’s been ages since “Say It with Flowers” was the advertising slogan of Florists Transworld Delivery working hand in hand with Western Union and other telegraph companies to sell bouquets.

Now many of us are likely sending and receiving plants, seeds and bouquets via the Internet. But marketing strategies are still discernible underneath it all.

All-America Selections, a nonprofit organization founded in 1932, has introduced a total of 595 award winners over the decades. It calls its familiar red, white and blue logo on seed packets “a promise of gardening success.”

In addition, the National Garden Bureau, a 79-year-old nonprofit organization receiving donations from seed companies, has sent to garden writers a preliminary list of 27 ornamentals and seven vegetables that will be featured as new varieties in catalogs and seed packets in the new year.

Clearly, there are plenty of choices for gardeners liking to try new things. But rest assured the catalogs will still provide abundant old varieties for people attached to heirlooms.

Now for a look at the All-American flower selections as described by the organization:

— Cosmic Orange, the cosmos, attains a height of 12 inches in full sun and produces bright orange 2-inch blooms all summer, thriving on minimal care. It is basically pest and disease free.

— Melody Pink, the dianthus, was bred specifically for use as a cut flower with long stems desirable for fresh bouquets. It has one-inch flowers with a serrated petal edge, giving it a lacy look. It is quite tolerant of heat and cold.

— Soraya, the sunflower, is eye-catching because of unusual orange petals rather than golden ones and has a chocolate brown center. The plants are self-supporting and may reach a height of 5 to 6 feet in full sun. There are 4-to-6-inch blooms with long stems good for cut flowers.

— Fiesta del Sol, the tithonia, is a dwarf Mexican sunflower featuring abundant orange daisy flowers 2 to 3 inches across. It thrives in summer heat and humidity and reaches a height of 2 to 3 feet. It is basically pest free; not even deer like its hairy leaves.

— Stardust Orchid, the vinca, has bluish purple and white blooms borne above glossy dark green foliage. It is recommended for gardeners who want a long show of flower color with minimal care.

And the veggies:

— Savoy Express, the cabbage, is billed as possibly “the earliest cabbage on the block,” maturing in about 55 days from transplanting. With relatively small and compact heads, it can be grown at close spacing about a foot apart. The savoyed, crinkled leaves have a sweet flavor good for coleslaw.

— Mr. Big, the pea, gets its name from consistently large pods, sometimes two per node, that are easy to shell. The vine reaches 2 to 3 feet in height and needs vertical support. Maturing in about 60 days, the peas are described as delicious, with “no need for butter.”

— Blushing Beauty, the bell pepper, runs through color changes from ivory to pink to red, hence its name, and is “sweet at any color.” It can be harvested 72-75 days from transplanting. It’s a compact plant reaching a mature height of 18 inches and is suited to container growing.

— Indian Summer, the sweet corn, features yellow, white and red or purple kernels which “actually intensify as the ear cooks.” It’s a supersweet variety that requires isolation from other corn pollen. Maturity comes in about 80 days.

Millennium Seed Bank A Botanical ‘Seatbelt’

By BARBARA E. MARTINEZ

Associated Press Writer

LONDON (AP) — The small flower that lived on the banks of the Slapton Lea in the southwest English county of Devon slowly faded out until none were left. But thanks to the Millennium Seed Bank, the corrigiola litoralis was not lost forever.

Scientists at the bank germinated the seeds, then created a habitat by the river that would let the flower thrive. And today, thrive it does.

Roger Smith, the seed bank’s director, hopes the taxpayer-funded project will serve as an impetus for a worldwide movement to save plant species by storing their seeds.

He likens the bank to a “botanical seatbelt.”

“If you are unfortunate enough to have a crash, it doesn’t have to be as damaging as it might have been,” he says.

A $127 million building is at the center of the project. Set to open next summer in Wakehurst Place in Sussex, south of London, it will store the seeds of 10 percent of the world’s flora and fauna, as well as those of all of Britain’s wild plants.

Smith chose to focus the seed bank’s collection efforts on drylands, which are in jeopardy because of population growth.

About 60 inches of rain falls in drylands annually, about six times the amount of desert rainfall. But growing populations deplete the land’s resources during dry spells, turning it into a desert-like habitat.

Smith says he opted to concentrate on drylands because other habitats can be protected through political efforts.

To save the rainforests, activists can involve local governments in protecting them from loggers, he notes. But the drylands are being destroyed by people who have always made their homes there.

“I try to imagine the politician who could sell the slogan ‘more species, lower standard of living,”’ Smith says wryly.

The seeds collected from the drylands will be dried and then frozen, a method that Smith says will preserve them for decades, if not centuries. Seeds can be removed from cold storage and germinated if they are needed for research or become extinct in the wild.

Although it has a very different purpose than Britain’s seed bank, the National Seed Bank in Fort Collins, Colo., provides a model of how a species can be protected through such storage.

When the Russian wheat aphid attacked crops in the United States in the early 1990s scientists at the National Seed Bank grew plants from their more than 44,000 varieties of wheat, collected from countries where the wheat grows naturally.

Eventually, one was found that resisted the aphid. This characteristic then was bred into U.S.-grown wheat.

Staff at the National Seed Bank go on missions around the world to gather samples of genetically diverse seed, and now Smith’s staff has begun to do the same.

By going places seed collectors have never gone before, to drylands on five continents, Smith says he hopes to raise awareness so more people join in the fight to save plants.

“It’s very tricky, but doable, I think,” he says. “Biologists started this fuss. They need to develop a solution.”

SPORTS

Rams Boast Top Program
OU’s Texans Want Bragging Rights
Area Roundup

Rams Boast Top Program

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

OWASSO — The program is the thing.

If you don’t think a good football team is backed by a good program, just witness the rise of the Owasso Rams.

In the four years David Fisher has been the coach at Owasso, the Rams have come to threaten the perennial powers in District 6A-3. They are now making noise around the state they are ranked No. 5 in Class 6A with a perfect 5-0 record as they travel to Ponca City Friday night.

In the preseason polls, Owasso was picked to finish fourth in the district, behind Tulsa Union, Stillwater and Sapulpa. The Rams have already moved up one notch, having pounded Sapulpa 49-28 last week. They face Union next week.

Fisher firmly believes that the program that backs the Rams — off season leagues, summer workouts and a junior high and high school program that works together — is the reason for Owasso’s rise.

“Our players aren’t any bigger or faster than anyone else,” Fisher said. “In fact, in comparing to most of the other 6A teams, we’re on the small side.”

What the Rams do have is consistency.

“It’s taken four years to build that consistency,” Fisher notes. “Our strength is in our system. We have most of our kids in spring practice, in the Summer Pride program in off season camps and leagues. We hold our own passing league and we go to Tulsa Union’s league. We send our kids to as many camps as we can.”

Opponents have marveled at the way Owasso keeps coming up with some of the state’s top quarterbacks.

It’s not by chance.

“If you’re going to have a passing offense, then you’re going to have to go out and find a passer, someone to pull the trigger.” Fisher says.

“We make our own throwers. You pick a kids in the eighth or ninth garde. You work with him, put him in passing leagues and send him to quarterback camps.

“In my four years here we’ve had quarterbacks throw for 2,000 yards each year. They are not naturally great passers. In all my years of coaching, I’ve only sent one quarterback to a Division I college.”

Current QB Steven Dyer is a prime example of how the system works.

Almost an unknown when the season started, Dyer has now thrown for 15 touchdowns. He has completed an astonishing 75 of 118 attempts for 1,198 yards. He’s been intercepted just five times and is on track to become Owasso’s next 2,000-yard passer.

“Steven was our ninth grader quarterback, as a sophomore he was the sophomore quarterback and a JV backup,” Fisher says. “As a junior he was the JV quarterback and the back-up for the varsity. He waited his turn. This year’s he’s ready.”

Dyer has his choice or receivers, who have gone through the same program.

David Porter is the leading receiver with 22 catches for 512 yards and seven touchdowns. That an average of 23.3 yards a catch.

On the other side, Jeff McKinnon had 206 yards on 15 catches and four touchdowns.

As Sapulpa discovered, Owasso in not just a throw-all-the-time team.

Dyer did hit 16-of-26 passes for 261 yards. But running back Lamont Moore added 109 yards on 21 carries and has had three touchdown.

“It certainly helped when Lamont moved in here,” Fisher said. “We want to have both a 2,000-yard passer and a 1,000-yard runner each year. Lamont can help us do that.”

At the halfway point of the regular season, Moore has 400 yards rushing, averaging 6-yards a carry and has five rushing TDs.

“But Lamont also is another target for our passing game,” Fisher says. “We’ve never had a back who is as good a receiver as Lamont is.”

Moore has 18 catches for 237 yards and a touchdown.

“Right now we’re averaging 377 yards in offense per game,” Fisher points out. “And that is short two quarters. We’ve had two games called because of the weather in the fourth quarters. So those figures are really for four and a half games.”

OU’s Texans Want Bragging Rights

By OWEN CANFIELD

AP Sports Writer

NORMAN (AP) — If Oklahoma beats Texas on Saturday, Sooner running back Josh Norman plans to get ahold of his high school English teacher.

Oklahoma has the following week off, and Norman said he will return to Midland, Texas, and look up his favorite teacher to give her a hard time.

‘‘She graduated from Texas,’’ Norman said. ‘‘When she found out I was coming here, she was giving me beef about it. I just remember things, like me putting Texas upside down on some of the papers that I turned in. She’d mark it out and put a circle with OU in it and mark it out. We gave each other a lot of fun about it.’’

Norman is one of about 20 Oklahoma players who are from the state of Texas. Last year, he got his first taste of the Oklahoma-Texas game, playing on special teams as a freshman.

Norman said he and other Texas Sooners heard their share of heckling from fans displeased that they had crossed the border to play their college football.

‘‘I think it’s an honor for anybody to go into that game wearing crimson and cream,’’ said Norman, who was recruited by Texas but looked elsewhere once coach John Mackovic was fired. ‘‘I think it shows a lot of people that you don’t have to stay in the state of Texas to be a bigtime player.

‘‘A lot of people stress that if you’re from Texas, stay in Texas, go to a Texas college and play ball in Texas, don’t leave or you’re a traitor.’’

Curtis Fagan, a receiver from Katy, Texas, will get his first opportunity this week to play in the Texas game. He was redshirted last season but was on the sidelines at the Cotton Bowl, and said it’s different than any other game.

He said he was struck by the way the seating is divided, with Oklahoma fans on one side of the 50-yard line and Texas fans on the other. He also got a kick out of walking down through the tunnel that leads from the locker rooms to the field.

‘‘Everybody told me about it, but being in it is totally different than actually hearing about it,’’ Fagan said. ‘‘Coming through the tunnel, the crowd, the loudness, the rivals from both schools have so many things going on. The adrenaline gets pumping.’’

Asked whether the Texas game held special significance for him, Fagan said he approaches every game the same. Senior Jay Smith wasn’t so delicate.

‘‘This is the biggest game of the year for me,’’ said Smith, an offensive guard from Arlington, Texas. ‘‘This is for all the bragging rights and it’s to let the people at home know that Oklahoma’s a good team.’’

Smith took an unofficial visit to Texas during his senior year in high school, but said he didn’t want to play in the Southwest Conference. He chose Oklahoma and the Big Eight instead, although both are now part of the Big 12.

Smith is a rarity, a sixth-year player. He was granted an extra year of eligibility due to injuries that have plagued his career. During his first five years at Oklahoma, the Sooners were 1-3-1 against Texas.

It’s easy for him to pick his favorite memory of the Texas game.

‘‘I remember the one win that we had in ’96,’’ he said. ‘‘We were 21-point underdogs. I believe Texas was ranked. We went down there and beat ’em in overtime.’’

Area Roundup

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

Newkirk faces its toughest District 2A-5 battle to date when it plays host to unbeaten Nowata, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Tigers’ Field.

That is just one of several vital area games on tap for Friday.

Tonkawa tries to take one more step toward the District A-5 crown by hosting Davenport while Woodland seeks to rebound in that district chase against Depew.

Morrison is also at home, bidding for the Class C-3 crown by taking on Fox.

On the road, Blackwell is at Okmulgee, Pawnee travels to Sperry, Shidler is at Covington-Douglas and Deer-Creek Lamont travels to Medford.

Newkirk (2-0, 4-1) vs. Nowata (2-0, 5-0).

At stake is the lead in District 2A-5. Newkirk, Nowata and Pawnee are all 2-0 in league play. Newkirk is fresh off a 39-28 upset over Sperry and a win Friday would a long way toward assuring the Tigers a spot in the playoffs.

Sam Free is pacing the Newkirk attack. He has rushed for 519 yards, averaging 5.5 yards a carry.

Tonkawa (4-0, 5-0) vs. Davenport (1-2, 2-3)

This is week two of the countdown to the Buccaneers’ showdown with Barnsdall (3-0, 5-0) and Wellston (4-0, 4-1), starting next week

Coach Steve Love has his Bucs perfecting their play in getting ready for that gauntlet run. But Davenport will be more of a test than was Depew (52-0) last week.

Scott Klufa has scored seven touchdowns for Tonkawa while Kolby Simpson has six.

Woodland (1-2, 1-4) vs. Depew (0-4, 1-4)

Woodland’s heartbreaking 22-21 loss to Kiefer (1-3, 2-3) last week has the Cougars in a hole. But they have a chance to get even Friday before startling the stretch run.

Morrison (2-0, 5-0) vs. Fox (0-2, 0-4)

Morrison can expect a quick night against winless Fox, but the Wildcats can’t let up with a tough schedule in front of them.

Oklahoma Christian School (4-1), Weleeka (4-1) and Alex (3-2) are also 2-0 in district play. A series of showdowns will test the Cats in their stretch run.

———

Out of town:

Blackwell (0-2, 1-4) at Okmulgee (1-1, 3-2)

Pawnee (2-0, 3-2) at Sperry (1-1, 2-3)

Shidler (0-2, 2-3) at Covington Douglas (0-1, 4-1)

DCLA (1-1, 2-3) at Medford (1-0, 5-0)