LOCAL

Conoco Storage Tank Fire Injures Two
Parker Murder Case Sent For Deliberation
Special School Bus Stops Here
Downtown Safe Trick or Treat Night Tonight
Nearly News
National Family Literacy Day Gives Parents Great Incentive
Former TWA Pilot Norman Coffelt Tells Lions About Assignment for King Haud
Ambucs, Police, Coaches Set for Halloween Event
Monday Busy Day For City Commission
Editorial - The World Lost a Hero in Payne Stewart
Quick Thinking Enables Two To Beat Scam

Conoco Storage Tank Fire Injures Two

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Staff Writer

A smoke flume reaching as far north as Kildare blackened the sky over Ponca City late this morning after a storage tank in the Conoco refinery tank farm ignited at about 11:30 a.m.

According to a Conoco news release there were two injuries and those injured have been transported to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. They have since been transported to a burn unit in Oklahoma City.

Midafternoon indications were that there were no toxic air concerns or problems of air quality within the plant, nor outside where smoke had drifted. Persons who do have respiratory problems were advised to stay indoors for a period of time.

Conoco officials released the name of one of those injured, as being Mike Roe, with second and third degree burns over 30 percent of his body, which occurred at the initial startup of the fire. Conoco said both of those injured were contractors employees.

The smoke cloud was carried north by a southerly wind blowing about 15 miles an hour and gusting to 22 miles per hour.

At press time Conoco was requesting all Ponca Citians to remain indoors until the smoke clears. Those experiencing breathing problems were asked to seek medical treatment.

The Ponca City refinery fire brigade and Ponca City Fire Department responded to the fire and were ensuring the fire stays under control. At this time, according to the release the fire will be allowed to burn out.

In addition to media coverage from across the state Gov. Frank Keating’s and Sen. Don Nickles Washington D.C.’s office called to inquire about the seriousness of the situation.

Conoco is requesting that everyone remain away from Conoco on South Avenue and Waverly Street so emergency vehicles can respond.

At about noon Gary Martin, city manager, and other city officials and department heads were assembled across South Avenue at the Armory parking lot, and shooting flames were visible at that vantage point.

Martin said, “That all of the Ponca City fire fighting units were inside the refinery. We haven’t heard from the Fire Chief exactly what is happening.”

The City Manager said “What is nice is that the City units train with the Conoco units on a regular basis . We are pleased with the training we do and in just a very few minutes the police department and the Street and Park Departments had closed the streets and set up barricades to stop traffic and to protect citizens from getting in harm’s way.”

Todd Kennemer, City Planner, told of the smoke trail. He said the debris trail from the explosion site went all the way to Pecan and Hubbard. The smoke flume reached as far as three miles east of Kildare. The debris is all the way to Trout School, and along Fourteenth Street. He said, “There is stuff on the ground at South and Elm.” Kennemer said there is no structural damage known in the residential areas at this time.

Mayor Tom Leonard was in a meeting at the North Tower at Conoco when the fire broke out and was informed by phone by the news media. He then joined the temporary City Command Post at the Armory Parking lot, with Martin and City Commissioner Dick Stone.

Leonard said, “I think the entire incident was handled very professionally. Conoco responded according to their plan and the City provided control outside the plant.”

‘‘It was kind of a boom. It didn’t sound like nothing normal,’’ said Boaz Parker, who takes care of counter sales at Pioneer Rental, which is directly across from the tank farm. ‘‘I went outside to see what it was. I seen a bunch of smoke at first, then seen a bunch of flames.’’

The tank is in a field of oil tanks on the west end of Conoco’s tank farm. The fire broke out about 11:20 a.m. More than an hour later, flames were still visible above the collapsing walls of the tank.

Firefighters poured water onto the burning tank. The fire appeared to be contained to one tank.

‘‘We’ve got people in the city with monitors monitoring the air. There doesn’t seem to be any danger there right now,’’ said Tom Montgomery, emergency management director.

Sandy Gearhart, a spokeswoman for St. Joseph’s Hospital, said two people with burns were brought there and were being transferred to the burn unit at Integris Baptist Medical Center in Oklahoma City.

‘‘We didn’t hear anything or feel anything,’’ said Mary Ladd, a spokeswoman for Ponca City Public Schools. They quickly started receiving telephone calls and contacted all Ponca City schools within five minutes and told them to take the children inside.

The closest schools are about a mile from the site.

Pieces of debris were blown onto every school playground, she said. One of those schools was at least four miles from the explosion site. Pieces were a few inches wide, she said.

‘‘It’s black and looks like big black lava rocks. But it’s light. It feels like styrofoam.’’

She said emergency management officials said the material was not hazardous.

(The Associated Press contributed to this story)

Parker Murder Case Sent For Deliberation

NEWKIRK — A Kay County jury began deliberating the first-degree murder case against James Clinton Parker of Ponca City following closing arguments this morning in District Court.

Parker, 21, is charged with the asphyxiation death of 13-month-old Adam Allie who choked on bread while in Parker’s care at their north Ponca City apartment. Adam, who was the son of Parker’s then-fiancee Linda Allie, choked on July 27, 1998, and died three days later at an Oklahoma City hospital.

Prosecutors this morning urged jurors to heed the evidence presented by medical personnel who, according to testimony, were alarmed at a quantity of bread lodged in the trachea of the child and contacted police about suspicion of child abuse.

Before the jury was sent to deliberate at 12:30 p.m. today, First Assistant Dist. Atty. Phil Ross said the jury should consider Parker’s statements to police investigators, such as “I fed him (Adam) bread to shut him up,” and evidence such as lacerations high on Parker’s fingers as indicators that the defendant used violence to force-feed the child.

Testimony indicated that Parker was left to babysit the child at 10:30 a.m. when Adam’s mother left to run an errand, and that the child was rushed to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center after Parker called emergency 911 assistance in a resuscitation attempt.

The trial this week included testimony by doctors who differed in their expert opinions concerning the manner of the boy’s death, with Dr. John Stuemky of Children Hospital in Oklahoma City testifying that such a “huge wad” of bread that asphyxiated the child would have been impossible for the child himself to lodge into his own throat.

Stuemky’s testimony supported medical examiner Dr. Larry Balding’s earlier testimony that he determined the manner of death to be homicide, based partially on statements Parker allegedly had made to Ponca City police investigators that he fed bread to the child to “shut him up.”

Defense attorney Billy Bock this morning called to the witness stand a medical examiner from Texas whose testimony refuted the state’s medical experts who testified previously that evidence from the dead child and from the apartment indicated child abuse.

Chief medical examiner Dr. Robert Bux, a forensic pathologist from Bexar County, Texas, testified he determined the manner of death to be accidental because of lack of trauma inside the child’s oral cavity and because hundreds of children die each year from choking.

“My opinion is, I don’t think it’s a homicide,” Bux testified during questioning from Bock. He described the death instead as “a tragic accident,” basing his determination on a lack of trauma — bruises, lacerations, abrasions — inside the child’s mouth that appear when someone is force-fed.

The state’s case against Parker is being presented by Assistant Dist. Atty. Elizabeth Hocker and First Assistant Phil Ross in the courtroom of Associate Dist. Judge Leslie D. Page. The defense’s case was scheduled to continue Thursday morning.

Special School Bus Stops Here

By KRISTI HAYES

News Education Editor

The C-Span School Bus, a 45-foot television production studio and demonstration center, making its way around the country, stopped at Ponca City East Middle School this morning. The bus staff provided eighth graders and educators with tours and demonstrations.

Now on its fifth nationwide tour, the C-Span School Bus continues to visit schools and cable communities introducing students, educators and viewers to the political process and C-Span programming. While aboard the bus, visitors will learn more about the network’s philosophy, programming, goals, information, and education resources and critical viewing techniques.

The C-Span School Bus has visited all 50 states and state capitals with the help of local cable systems. The visit to East Middle School is sponsored by CableONE, which provides C-Span on Channel 52 and C-Span2 on Channel 53.

The C-Span School Bus had its first tour in November of 1993 and was joined by a second bus on Jan. 1, 1996. In 1995, the C-Span School Bus received the Golden CableAce and Beacon awards for its unique contribution to the community and for bringing the political process to life for educators, students and viewers.

Throughout the school year, the two C-Span School Buses travel to presidential birthplaces, museums, homes and gravesites, where they serve as television production facilities for live telecasts, every Monday on C-Span. The bus staff gathers programming along their cross-country routes for special features, interviews and daily vignettes related to each president.

Through December of this year, C-Span will air “American Presidents: Life Portraits,” a 41-week series exploring the personal life stories of the 41 men who have served as president of the United States. The series will coincide with the 20th anniversary of C-Span, which had its first cable telecast on March 19, 1979.

Downtown Safe Trick or Treat Night Tonight

October 28 (tonight) is the date for the downtown Safe Trick or Treat Night and Halloween Parade, sponsored by the Ponca City Main Street Authority.

Children participating in the parade will need to meet in costume at Centennial Plaza at 5 p.m. The parade will start at 5:30 p.m. from Fifth Street and Grand Avenue and proceed west to First Street and Grand Avenue. After the parade, downtown merchants will be in front of their businesses giving candy to the children until 7 p.m.

The YMCA, at Seventh Street and Grand Avenue, will host a haunted house and other activities. The First Christian Church will be having a “Trunk-or-treat” in the parking lot at Fourth Street and Cleveland Avenue, and will also have games and refreshments in the church. Linda’s Creative Photography will be taking pictures from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. in front of Grand Avenue Dollar Saver.

Nearly News

Tonight’s the night for youngsters to be in the downtown area, wearing their Halloween costume. There’s going to be a parade along Grand Avenue, from Fifth Street to First Street, and then the youngsters will be able to visit downtown merchants for treats. Saturday night however, has been officially designated as “Halloween Trick or Treat” night in the residential areas of Ponca City. Be careful!

An article in Wednesday’s Midweek section of The News incorrectly identified the Rev. Dean Patterson of the Hartford Avenue Church of Christ as a chaplain of the Kay County Ministerial Alliance. Patterson is actually a chaplain with the Ponca City Police Department. The News regrets the error.

National Family Literacy Day Gives Parents Great Incentive

Parents are a child’s first and most important teachers. So, it’s no wonder that many volunteer adult literacy programs in Oklahoma include family literacy activities on their list of services and that many of them will celebrate National Family Literacy Day on Nov. 1.

“Offering family literacy services along with basic literacy instruction provides such a great incentive to a program’s students — especially to those with young children or grandchildren,” Colleen Woolery, Oklahoma Department of Libraries’ family literacy consultant, said. “As parents identify their strengths and develop their skills, essential messages about the importance of education are passed on to their children. And, of course, the kids love it when they and mom or dad can read together.”

According to the National Center for Family Literacy, research shows that families grow and change together if they are involved in education together. It can be as easy as picking up a book every day and reading, by making reading fun, by providing a variety of reading materials at home, by watching less television, or by singing to a child.

The Oklahoma Department of Libraries’ Literacy Resource Office works to further family literacy efforts through its “First Book” project in cooperation with the Oklahoma Educational Television Authority (OETA). Through this project, more than 1,000 at-risk preschool children receive one free book each month of the school year to help them build home libraries, Woolery said. Parents receive information about the books along with activities to enrich the reading experience.

Through the generosity of the Kreuger Foundation and Rotary Clubs throughout Oklahoma, the “First Book” project has almost tripled during the past year. In celebration of National Family Literacy Day, Oklahoma legislators have been invited to read to First Book classes on Nov. 1.

Participating in National Family Literacy Day can be fun and easy, Woolery said. Simply reading to a child can go a long way toward promoting a lifetime of literacy. Interested individuals may also contact their local literacy programs to volunteer to assist with family literacy efforts or may volunteer to read to a class at a local elementary school.

For more information on family literacy efforts in Oklahoma, or to request a free copy of “Get Ready to Read! Tips for Parents,” call Colleen Woolery, Oklahoma Literacy Resource Office, at 800-522-8116. Information is also available on the office’s website at www.odl.state.ok.us/literacy.

National Family Literacy Day is co-sponsored nationally by Toyota.

Former TWA Pilot Norman Coffelt Tells Lions About Assignment for King Haud

Lion Norman Coffelt gave the program Oct. 20 at the Noon Lion’s Club on his adventures as a pilot for TWA in Saudi Arabia during the late 1940s through the early 1950s.

Coffelt, a Navy Air Force pilot during World War II, went to work for Trans World Airlines after the war, and his special assignment was to pilot DC-3s including one given by President Roosevelt to King lbin Haud for the King’s personal use. Because of lack of water (less than 1 inch of rainfall per year), there were no landmarks for reference and Coffelt and the other pilots flew by dead reckoning and total reliance on their instruments.

The King was an extremely religious man who was reputed to have reunited the war-torn country with his bible (the Koran) in one hand and a sword in the other, and, being a good Muslim, he made annual pilgrimages to the holy city of Mecca. Coffelt told of transporting the royal family on these trips. The men rode in the customized DC-3s given to the king by Roosevelt, while the women had to ride in cargo transports which were not insulated. Temperatures in these uninsulated planes would rise to such highs that the pilots had to wear heavy leather gloves to touch the controls.

“The Saudi people were very generous” said Coffelt as he related one incident of flying into Beirut at Christmas time where, even though they were Muslim, they had set up a Christmas tree for him. Most of the pilot’s expenses were paid for with gifts and tips from the royal family members, allowing the pilots to send most of their paychecks home to their wives. Coffelt brought gold sovereigns and an ornate watch to show the Lions Club.

In relating one story of flying into India where they innocently flew around a man-made landmark and took photographs, Coffelt told of being met by the police who took him to jail and seized his camera before letting him go.

He flew the family on hunting trips, religious pilgrimages, and even flew them when they moved between cities. Jedda was a tent city of pilgrims, and the capital city Riyadh was civilized with roads. Most control towers had English-speaking controllers, but most of his co-pilots were Saudi Arabian with two being white Russian. Coffelt ended his presentation with slides taken during his stay there.

Lion Dick Balfanz read the poem “Wishes For My Grandson” following the introduction of guests to include: Steve Tai, Bill Winterrowd, Ed Coy Light, Dallas Winter, Bernie and Betty Simpson, Irene Coffelt, June Coffelt, Jess and Norma Haynes, Ed and Lana Jones, Larry Kerns, Suzanne Zanardi, Mary McCann, Holly LaBossiere and Kathy Turner.

Lions members were reminded to “keep an eye out for a good Lion” as the membership drive continues through October. The Noon Lions Club meets every Wednesday at the American Legion on South Avenue. Everyone interested in helping their community and in being involved with sight conservation worldwide is invited.

Ambucs, Police, Coaches Set for Halloween Event

The Ponca City Ambucs and the Ponca City Police Department present Cops vs. Coaches at Robson Fieldhouse on Oct. 30 at 5 p.m. Starting at 5 p.m. there will be a Po-Hi Girls Varsity scrimmage, followed by a Po-Hi Boys Varsity scrimmage.

Starting at approximately 6:30 p.m. will be the Cops vs. Coaches. Officers from the Ponca City Police Department will take on Po-Hi coaches in an entertaining matchup to benefit the K-9 Police Dog Fund.

There will be a Halloween costume contest for children under 12, and Trick-or-Treat bags for the first 100 kids in costume. Costume contest participants need to arrive by 6:30 p.m. Winners will be announced at halftime of the Cops vs. Coaches game.

Prizes will be as follows: $50 cash for age winners 0-3/4-7/8-11. One grand prize winner will receive $120 in gift certificates for a bicycle at Wal-Mart or other merchandise if the child is too small for a bike.

Po-Hi Steppers will perform at halftime.

Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for students and no charge for those 12 and under.

Concessions will also be available.

Monday Busy Day For City Commission

By BOB PATTERSON

News City Editor

A three-hour work session by the Ponca City Board of Commissioners Monday included considerable information about annexation procedures, financial options, and a notice that the Marland Estate Conference Center will be closing.

City Manager Gary Martin informed the commissioners that “we will probably close the doors of the Conference Center on Dec. 15, which is when Monumental Enterprises Inc. have informed us that they will no longer will operate the center.”

Martin had a list of items and purchases made by MEI for use at the center, and said that the city would stand a chance at recovering some of the costs.

He indicated that the closing of the center also included the Chapel. “These places will be too expensive for the city itself to take over and operate. There’s too much involved in the heating and air conditioning, and upkeep of the center itself in order for the city to become involved,” Martin said.

Commissioners spent some time reviewing various financial options concerning the wastewater treatment plant as outlined by financial advisors Allan Brooks and Ken McDonald, confirming finance director Marc LaBossiere’s outline.

City Planner Todd Kennemer outlined four of the nine areas that are currently under study for possible annexation into the city limits of Ponca City.

The areas are generally known as that east of Kygar Road along Lake Road, an area also in Osage County across the U.S. 60 bridge; and a northwest area along U.S. 77 and west, past Waverly Street and north of Hubbard Road.

More Study Expected

No action was taken on any of the three items that were presented during the work session, which was held at the Public Safety Center. Commissioners broke for a short period of time for lunch, and then met in regular session at 5:30 p.m. Monday.

During that meeting, the commission approved the consent agenda, although two of the five items considered were removed for specific questions from commissioners.

The commission approved minutes of the regular work session and regular meeting held earlier in October, a resolution appropriating money for payment of claims and a change order amounting to $34,372.90 plus the final payment amounting to $90,615.17 to Cowboy Concrete and Construction for work completed on street maintenance projects of concrete street patching.

However, Commissioner Lyn Boyer asked for further explanation of a bid committee’s recommendation on the purchase of a 19,3000 GVW, low profile, crew cab truck from Frontier International Trucks of Tulsa in the amount of $38,426.93.

A member of the bid committee, Jim Eck of the Park and Recreation Department, noted the truck would enable the department to move equipment that was too heavy for regular pickups to handle. Main concern for the department was in moving a trailer that was heavier than the pickup, and the new truck would allow it to be much safer.

The other item that was held prior to approval, was a claim filed by Ronald D. Stout for wrongful termination. City Attorney Kevin Murphy said that in order for the proper activity to continue on the claim, the commission would need to deny the claim, which they did.

LaBossiere presented a quarterly report on the receipts and disbursements of the dedicated half-cent sales and use tax for the renovation of No. 1 fire station. Total revenues are $2,689,850.62 including $76,253.54 in interest. Expenditures to date are $2,533,050.03.

The commission also gave approval to an Oklahoma Municipal Assurance Group proposal for commercial general liability, errors and omissions liability, law enforcement liability and automobile liability insurance coverage for city employees.

During the Ponca City Utility Authority, the commission approved authorization for the chairman to submit a monthly operating statement to the Oklahoma Water Resources Board as provided through the city obtaining loans for work done at the water treatment plant.

In the Ponca City Development Authority meeting, commissioners approved a lease with Pioneer Transit Inc. for Darr School Building No. 5.

The city honored five high school students for their accomplishments in the National Merit Scholarship activity. Presented certificates by Mayor Tom Leonard were Andrew Cooper and Michael Goddard, commended students; and national semifinalists, Emily Lewis and Scott Mitchell. Semifinalist Claire Sonnichson was unable to attend.

Editorial - The World Lost a Hero in Payne Stewart

It does sometimes seem that the “good, they die young”. In a world that is constantly looking for heroes, we lost one this week. Payne Stewart was the kind of hero that we need to make known to the world. While he may have made his living playing professional golf, he was more than just a golfer.

He was a devoted family man. He was a Christian and not afraid to share his faith. He loved his country, and was not shy about his patriotism. And perhaps most of all he had patience for the rest of us mere mortals.

In 1988 I had opportunity to see Payne Steward up close and personal. I was in the gallery at the first round of the PGA tournament held at Oak Tree in Edmond, Okla. I don’t remember which hole but I will always remember the happening.

“Payne, is in the tee-box and in the middle of his back swing, just as a ‘Johnnie on the spot’, located some 25 yards behind the teeing area, had the door slam shut as a young man exited. A lesser golfer could have lost his temper, a lesser man would have chided and berated the unsuspecting and surprised fan. But not Payne Stewart. As he watched the flight of his golf ball come to rest, outside of the fairway and in the rough, he simply turned to see what and where had caused the loud noise during his swing. He then turned back to those of us gathered around and ‘smiled’.”

Such is the graciousness of a winner. A winner who knows, that treatment of others in the world is more important than the game. When we lose a hero, there is always the tendency to grow a little quieter in our desire to make the world a better place. Payne Stewart would want us to continue to smile, to enjoy whatever we do, and to not grow weary in making the world a better place!

Paul M. Krueger

Quick Thinking Enables Two To Beat Scam

Quick thinking by two Ponca City residents kept them from being victimized by a new telephone scam occurring in the Ponca City area, according to the Ponca City Police Department.

In the last few days, Ponca City residents reported to the police about receiving calls from a man who claimed to be conducting a “Bank Survey” and stating that he was calling from Florida. He then asked several questions concerning private banking matters.

Two potential victims asked the caller to identify himself and asked for a “call back” number. The caller then terminated the conversation.

Follow-up investigation revealed the call actually came from a telephone number in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Police caution that you should never give out any personal information over the telephone to someone that you don’t know and stated that these two potential victims handled themselves well in this situation.

DEATHS

Darl Parker
Arthur Alfred Fredrick
Ada Jean Hoisington Haralson
Wilma Elizabeth Conley
William E. Ingels

Darl Parker

FAIRFAX — Darl Parker, resident of Ralston, died Sunday, Oct. 24, 1999, at Fairfax Memorial Hospital in Fairfax. He was 83.

The funeral will be 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 29, 1999, in the Ralston Bible Church with the Rev. Roy Emmons, pastor of Sapulpa Bible Church of Sapulpa, officiating. Burial will be 3 p.m. in the Wetumka Cemetery in Wetumka under the direction of Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home of Fairfax.

Darl Parker was born Jan, 10, 1916, in Flippin, Ark., the son of James Cam and Maggie Sanders Parker. He attended the Wetumka schools. In 1934, he moved to New Mexico where he was employed with Civilian Conservation Corp. He moved to California in 1935 where he married Velma Pauline Reed; she died in 1967. He married Helen Patterson in 1977 in Bakersfield, Calif. He was a retired farmer. He attended Ralston Bible Church and enjoyed fishing, hunting, and collecting antique farm equipment.

He is survived by his wife of the home; two sons, James Allen Parker of Shafter, Calif., and Michael Dean Parker of Bakersfield, Calif.; daughter, Linda Darlene Parker of Bakersfield, Calif.; one sister, Beatrice Shaw of Wetumka; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and numerous nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, two brothers and two sisters.

Casket bearers will be Dave Woods, Marty Taylor, Charles Batschelett, Roger Higgins, Frosty Goad and Larry Higgins. Honorary casket bearers will be Roe Snipp, Dale Higgins, Jim Nunn and Roy Grimm.

The family will be at the Parker home to receive friends and family.

Arthur Alfred Fredrick

BLACKWELL — Arthur Alfred Fredrick, resident of Blackwell, died Wednesday morning, Oct. 27, 1999, in the Blackwell Regional Hospital. He was 87.

A graveside service will be held 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 29, 1999, at the James W. Roberts Memorial Chapel at the Blackwell Cemetery with the Rev. Dan Kennedy, pastor of the Wesleyan Church, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home. A flag presentation will be given by the Blackwell VFW and American Legion. Honorary casket bearers will be Orville Brown, Don Merhoff and Phillip Clements.

Arthur Alfred Fredrick was born Nov. 21, 1911, in Renfrow, the son of Herman and Lena (Kash) Fredrick. He grew up in Renfrow where he attended school. Following graduation, he moved on the family farm. He married Leota Murrey on August 7, 1936, and they moved to Denora, Pa., where he was employed as a local smelter. He entered the U.S. Army on Oct. 29, 1943, serving as a medical corpsman during World War II and received the Bronze Star for his service.

Following his discharge on Jan. 23, 1946, they moved to Blackwell where he was employed at the smelter of Blackwell Zinc Company, retiring in 1974. He was also employed as a carpenter and mason. His wife preceded him in death on May 26, 1975. He married Geraldine (Tyler) McNamara on Dec. 30, 1982, in Blackwell. He was a member of the American Legion and VFW in Blackwell.

He was survived by his wife of the home; three stepdaughters, Becky Hawkins, Cindy Ball and Marilyn Sisney of Blackwell; six stepsons, Macky McNamara of Ottawa, Kan., and Bruce McNamara, Craig McNamara, Danny McNamara, Mark McNamara, and Mike McNamara, all of Blackwell; a sister, Rose Dice of Joplin, Mo.; 21 step grandchildren; 23 step great-grandchildren; seven step great-great-grandchildren; and other relatives.

Besides his first wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Mary and Hilda; and four brothers, Clarence, Otto, Carl and John.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 North Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, Okla. 74601.

Ada Jean Hoisington Haralson

DEL CITY — Ada Jean Hoisington Haralson, former resident of Ponca City, died Monday, Oct. 25, 1999, in the Carrollton Methodist Hospital in DeSoto, Texas. She was 67.

The funeral will be 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 29, 1999, at Del City First Assembly of God. Burial will be at Resurrection Memorial Cemetery in Oklahoma City under the direction of Bill Eisenhour Funeral Homes, Inc. in Dell City.

Ada Jean Hoisington Haralson was born Dec. 23, 1931, in Kaw City, the daughter of Jesse and Ruth (Hundley) Hoisington. She was employed as a banker in various parts of the country and was voted Business Woman of the Year while banking in California. She was a member of Del City First Assembly of God Church in Del City. She married Don Haralson on March 7, 1985, in Oklahoma City. She enjoyed singing, playing the piano and spending time with her family.

She is survived by her husband of the home; one son, Chuck Fonville of Lucerne, Calif.; two daughters, Debby Woody of DeSoto, Texas, and Ruth Gentry of Rockwall, Texas; one sister, Orvalee Hart of Oklahoma City; 10 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and many other relatives.

She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers, Jesse, Daniel, Harry and Mickey Hoisington; and a sister, Ruth Hartman.

Obituaries

Wilma Elizabeth Conley

Wilma Elizabeth “Billie” Conley, 1405 Meadowbrook, died Tuesday, Oct. 26, 1999, at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 80.

The funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday, 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with the Rev. John Michalicka, pastor, as celebrant. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery under the direction of the Trout Funeral Home.

Born March 26, 1919, at Bradford, Pa., she was the daughter of Charles Merton and Jesse Estele McKune Lockwood. She attended schools at Bradford and graduated from Robert’s Wesleyan College in Rochester, N.Y.

On Jan. 28, 1944, she married Francis R. “Fran” Conley at Bradford. The couple were first employed in Bradford before moving to Wichita Falls.

They subsequently moved to Ponca City in 1951 when Mr. Conley accepted employment with Conoco. Billie was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, a member and officer of the Sweet Adelines, a member of the Ponca City Music Club, and played bridge with several groups. She was an avid golfer and enjoyed traveling both here and abroad and sailing with her husband.

She is survived by her husband, Fran, of the home; three sons, Marc Conley and his wife Laura of Tulsa, Mike Conley and his wife Rosie of Houston, and Tom Conley and his wife Mary of Emporia, Kan.; a daughter, Patricia Jack and her husband Danny of Ellensburg, Wash.; and seven grandchildren, Nadia Conley, Sarah Conley, Sean Conley, Erin Conley, Corbin Conley, Paige Conley, and Ryan Jack.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Larry; a grandson, Kevin Conley; three brothers, James, Alan and Harry; and four sisters, Lois Loraine, Virginia, Rhea and Margie.

Casket bearers will be Marc Conley, Mike Conley, Tom Conley, Bruce Bray, George O’Brien, and Jim Scott. Honorary casket bearers will be Ryan Jack, Sean Conley, Corbin Conley, and Joe Kotarski.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 N. Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, OK 74601.

The family will be at the home, 1405 Meadowbrook.

Friends may call at the funeral home until 8:30 a.m. Friday.

paid obituary

William E. Ingels

TONKAWA — William E. “Bill” Ingels, resident of Tonkawa, died Wednesday, Oct. 27, 1999, at Blackwell Regional Hospital. He was 77.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 29, 1999, at the Tonkawa Cemetery with the Rev. Daniel Kennedy officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home of Tonkawa.

William Ernest Ingels was born on Dec. 4, 1921, in Blackwell, the son of Percy K. and Lottie M. (Childs) Ingels. He grew up in Tonkawa and Blackwell and graduated from Blackwell High School.

He served with the 36th Bombardment Squadron, 8th Air Force, in England during World War II. Upon getting out of the service, he married Wanda Bee Olson on Feb. 2, 1947, in Tonkawa. He worked as a mechanic for various auto and farm dealerships in Blackwell and Ponca City. He retired from Mertz Inc., in 1989.

He is survived by one daughter, Judith B. Irwin and her husband Terry of Ponca City; two granddaughters, Jennifer B. Staggs and Holly M. Ware and her husband Dionne of Ponca City; one great-granddaughter, Katelyn B. Staggs of Ponca City; and one sister, Pat Shepherd and husband Wayne of Blackwell.

He was preceded in death by his wife and his parents.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Lifeline Fund in Tonkawa or to Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation for diabetes research, c/o McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home, 400 East Grand, Tonkawa, Okla. 74653.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday, Oct. 28, 1999, from 6 to 8 p.m.

paid obituary

NEWS BRIEFS

Free Clothing Available — Free clothing to anyone with a need on Monday, Nov. 1 from 6 to 8 p.m. at First Assembly of God Church, 1308 East Bradley. Use the furthest northwest door of the church. New winter hours — open first Monday only of each month from 6 to 8 p.m., beginning Nov. 1.

Leo Club — The Po-Hi Leo Club — Halloween Leos — will be going door-to-door in Halloween costumes on Oct. 30 collecting canned foods for the Salvation Army.

Senior Citizens Dance — A Senior Citizens Dance will be held from 7 to 10 p.m. on Friday at the Senior Citizens Building, 320 South A in Arkansas City. The Pete Coli Country Band will play for dancing. All senior citizens are invited to attend and bring a favorite snack to share.

Accident — An accident in the 400 block of East Grand Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 1:15 p.m. Wednesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Items Missing — A man from the 2000 block of Huntington reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:57 a.m. Wednesday that some Halloween decorations were stolen from his yard. An officer was assigned and the information was logged.

McCord School’s 18th annual Arts and Crafts Festival, Saturday, October 30, 1999. 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Over 70 exhibitors. Concessions available. Free admission. adv.

Arsonist — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 12:18 p.m. Wednesday that a 9-year-old boy was being held for third degree arson.

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

Item Stolen — A woman from the 400 block of South Waverly Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:28 p.m. Wednesday that a vehicle tag decal had been stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

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.

Subjects Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 1:50 p.m. Wednesday that a 15-year-old boy was held for possession of a controlled and dangerous substance and a 16-year-old boy was held for possession of a controlled and dangerous substance, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Book Your holiday, wedding, bachelor, etc. parties with the Hide out 580-362-9905 or 762-0835. adv.

Vehicle Stolen — A person at Wal-Mart reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:54 p.m. Wednesday that a vehicle left unlocked and with one-half tank of gas had been stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

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.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 10:49 p.m. Wednesday that a 21-year-old man was being held on a Kay County warrant for failure to pay.

Deer Hit — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 2:24 a.m. Thursday that a deer had just been hit 1.5 miles west of Waverly Street on U.S. 60. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol was notified.

Subjects Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 12:29 p.m. Wednesday that a 15-year-old girl was being held for possession of stolen property and possession of a forged instrument. A 14-year-old girl was held for possession of stolen property.

Pauline’s Steak and shrimp dinner, $13.95. Friday, October 29th. For reservations. 765-5460. adv.

Suspicious Activity — A woman from the 600 block of South Twelfth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:04 p.m. Wednesday that a 17-year-old daughter was in the 700 block of Marland Drive possibly with a 40-year-old man. An officer was assigned, the juvenile was located at the residence, and brought to the police department. A report was taken.

30% Off all Halloween items. Mrs. Brown’s Attic, down town Ponca City. adv.

Field on Fire — The Communications Center received a call at 4:18 p.m. Wednesday that a field was on fire 3.5 miles east of U.S. 177 on Badlands Road. The Marland Volunteer Fire Department responded 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.

Grass Fire — The White Eagle Police Department requested fire units at 4:55 p.m. Wednesday for a grass fire south of the White Eagle Clinic. One unit from the Ponca City Fire Department responded and a unit from the McCord Volunteer Fire Department assisted.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 5:02 p.m. Wednesday that a 31-year-old man was being held on two city warrants.

Item Missing — A man from the 3000 block of Canterbury Avenue reported that someone had taken a scarecrow from the yard. The information was logged.

Bicycle Stolen — A man from the 100 block of West Gary Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 6:32 p.m. Wednesday that a bicycle was stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Injured — The Oklahoma Highway Patrol reported to the Communications Center at 8:39 p.m. Wednesday that a 911 call had gone to their station requesting an ambulance at Ponca City High School football field. An ambulance from the Ponca City Fire Department responded and took the juvenile to the emergency room of St. Joseph Regional Medical Center for treatment.

Assault — An employee of Buy For Less, 2405 North Fourteenth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:13 p.m. Wednesday that a man had been assaulted in the parking lot. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Sign Vandalized — A woman from the 400 block of North Lake Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 2:35 a.m. Thursday that a day-care sign had been vandalized. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

GARDENING

Diggin’ In the Dirt
OSU Workshop Will Offer Latest Plant Care Information
Blue Is Favored Color Trend for Gardens

Diggin’ In the Dirt

by Kathy Zehr

Fall is an important time to any gardener, whether just keeping the trees, shrubs and grass in tip-top shape or, for the avid gardener, preparing for a beautiful floral display for the millenium. The “to do list” seems endless sometimes, but keeps the long spring list shorter. Most plants will also be healthier and less stressed by the winter cold if a few precautions are observed.

Clean it Up!

First, let’s clean up the yard before the first frost. Remove all debris, spent blooms, nutshells, and other pest-hiding materials. Do not apply winter mulches until after the first frost, or the little critters will just move right back in. Fall is also the best time to remove all volunteer trees and plants before they get that winter root growth and become twice as hard to remove in the spring. Our flower beds are full of little volunteer trees and some go to the dump or compost bin, some to a beginning gardener, and some moved to where WE WANT them to grow.

Beware — If you are allergic to poison ivy, look for the poisonous yellow-red or green vine twining in your shrubs and along fence lines. The seeds for these pests are left behind in spring by all those pretty little birds we attract to our feeders.

To Prune or Not to Prune

Some experts like to prune perennials back in the fall, but others believe the pruning should wait until spring. If you fall prune, wait until leaf drop, and that may be in November since many of the bushes and trees in the Ponca City area are slow to shed their leaves this year. Some growers believe leaving the upper brush intact on bushes provides a place for snow to rest and the slow melting drip is ideal for watering the plants. Some also think the snow protects the branches from hard freezes.

Organic Pest Sprays

Before freezing weather sets in, but as late into fall as possible after leaf drop, one of the best organic insect and disease preventatives, a inexpensive soap-oil spray, can be applied to almost everything in the yard. According to a chapter in “Organic Plant Protection,” the oil sprays are especially effective in the destruction of winter egg stages of red mites, pear psylla, scale insects, aphids, thrips, mealybugs, white flies, codling moth, oriental fruit moth, cankerworm and various leaf rollers. It also clears up some fungus growth and fire blight. The application will not destroy all pests, but will take a big toll and give the ladybugs and other beneficial pest fighters an even chance.

Oil spray mixes are available in most gardening supply stores, but we have made our own for several years. We use one-part light motor oil (10 weight) to 15 parts hot water with enough mild dish soap to make the oil and water mix when vigorously stirred or poured back and forth. Other publications suggest Murphy’s Oil soap used at the rate of 1-5 tablespoons per gallon of water.

If your trees and shrubs have very little infestation, use the least amount of oil. If you had a problem during this last season, increase the oil. It benefits lawns too. Less oil is better, if not needed. Spray with any pump sprayer. We have a large yard and lots of trees, so we use a washtub, a water pump, and a hose end sprayer. Our fruit trees especially benefit from this application, and it doesn’t harm most “good” insects or the birds or plants. The application should be repeated in February or early March for great results.

Mulch and Tree Wraps

As the cooler winds signal the impending arrival of freezing weather, wrap tender new tree trunks with tree wraps (especially maples). Find the wrap at garden supply stores. Remove it in the spring. After our first frost, add mulches over root areas of bushes, perennial plants and trees, but do not pile mulch against tree trunks, because rodents like to winter there and chew on the bark. Mulching provides uniform soil temperature for roots in the winter months and keeps moisture from evaporating during some dry winter periods. Many pests do not like the damp soil, including ants and aphids as well as burrowing rodents.

Root injury from nematodes is often eradicated by a good, thick mulch. Almost any inexpensive organic medium is suitable for mulch including leaves, shredded newspapers, and even well-aged sawdust with added blood meal or dried manure from the barnyard. Strawberries do very well with a sawdust mulch. For vegetable gardeners, a little wood ash from the fireplace mixed with some other compost mediums help control maggots, cutworms, red spiders and slugs in the garden. Ashes, used sparingly, are also beneficial as a fertilizer for plants which like an acid soil.

OSU Workshop Will Offer Latest Plant Care Information

STILLWATER — Garden hobbyists and nursery professionals can find fertile ground for their efforts by learning the latest in plant care at the Oklahoma State University Nursery and Garden Center Issues workshop Nov. 4 at Stillwater.

“This workshop will benefit retail and wholesale nursery personnel, as well as advanced hobbyists, because of the diverse topics that will be featured,” said Mike Schnelle, OSU Cooperative Extension ornamental floriculture specialist.

The workshop will take place at the Oklahoma Botanical Garden and Arboretum Educational Center. Sessions will begin at 8:30 a.m. and end at 4:15 p.m. Lunch will be provided.

Cost of participating in the workshop is $35. OBGA members, Cooperative Extension educators and Master Gardeners receive a discount rate of $25. OSU students may enroll for $15.

“We ask everyone to pre-register no later than Monday, Nov. 1, to help insure everyone has access to meals and workshop materials,” Schnelle said. “Registration forms are available by contacting Sara Cooper of the OSU Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture at 405-744-5405.”

Workshop topics will include shade and ornamental tree production, a system that allows bare root trees and shrubs to be planted 12 months a year, plant propagation research, fertilizers for the nursery industry and benefits of the Oklahoma Proven program.

Sessions will be led by Toby Goodale, Valley Tree Farm, Oklahoma City; Chris Starbuck, woody ornamentals specialist, University of Missouri; Diane Dunn, Greenleaf Nursery, Park Hill; Jim Robbins, ornamentals specialist, University of Arkansas; and Lou Anella, OSU horticulturist.

“This will be an uncommon opportunity to interact with top professionals from Arkansas and Missouri, who will be leading some of the sessions at this workshop,” Schnelle said.

Anyone seeking additional information about the Nov. 4 workshop should contact Cooper at 405-744-5405, or e-mail her at coopesj@okstate.edu.

Blue Is Favored Color Trend for Gardens

American gardeners have got the hots for blues: blue flowers, of all types and sizes! It’s a color trend that surfaced last fall, picked up steam this summer and is hitting full stride RIGHT NOW - with no end in sight!

The idea of a color theme garden is nothing new. No lesser luminary than the late famed English garden guru Gertrude Jekyll expounded upon its virtues nearly one hundred years ago. Even then popular color schemes favored blue. And so it remains today, and then some! Blue gardens definitely emerged as a growing trend this year, with magazine racks overflowing with articles on creating cool blue gardens.

Why blue? “The simple answer may be that most people like blue,” according to Sally Ferguson, director of the Netherlands Flower Bulb Information Center in New York City.

“Color experts say it’s soothing; marketing experts say it’s irresistible - and geneticists promise ‘the blue rose is just around the corner,’ noted Ms. Ferguson. “Which actually points out the fact that blue is not the most abundant color in nature. So perhaps the reason gardeners are so captivated by blue lies in the challenge of creating sweeps of true-blue color in the garden,” she suggested.

This summer, of course, creating a blue garden (or any garden) was more challenging than usual in many parts of the country. Hot, dry weather was uncooperative in many regions, often leaving the hydrangeas dehydrated, the lobelia lopsided and the salvia incinerated.

But intrepid plant lovers take heart. Fall is the time to plant all manner of blue hues, ranging from woody shrubs, to a host of perennials.

Blue Hues

But, above all, fall is best known as the season to swing into spring by planting spring flowering bulbs including delightful blues such as hyacinths, crocus, Scillas, lpheions, Camassias, iris, alliums, Muscari (grape hyacinth), Anemone blanda (Greek wind flower), Anemone De Caen, Chionodoxa (glory-of-the-snow), Iris reficulata and more.

Blue spring-blooming bulb flowers are, quite simply, abundant! That said, there is a major exception, according to Ms. Ferguson. “That all-star of the spring garden, the tulip, doesn’t really come in a true blue though many interesting blue-ish shades of purple are available. True blue and black are just about the only gaps in the amazing tulip color spectrum.”

Too Much is Boring

Even in an earlier, less obsessive time, the sagely Mrs. Jekyll cautioned gardeners about getting too caught up in the idea of a monochromatic garden. The ultimate object, she insisted in her classic work “Colour in the Garden,” is to create a garden that looks great.

“It is a curious thing,” Mrs. Jekyll wrote, “that people will sometimes spoil some garden project for the sake of a word. For instance, a blue garden, for beauty’s sake, may be hungering for a group of white lilies, or for something of palest lemon-yellow, but it is not allowed to have it, because it is called the blue garden, and there must be no flowers in it but blue flowers. I can see no sense in this.

With that wisdom in mind, the Netherlands Flower Bulb Information Center offers a quick “Fall Gardening Guide” which features fabulous blues for the spring garden, with complementary whites and yellows to serve as “set dressing” and balance.

For a spring garden that blooms for months on end, be sure to select flowers that will bloom at different times of the season - not all at once, like a fireworks display gone amuck! Check bulb tags and labels for bloom times. You want a good representation of early, mid- and late-bloomers to reap the greatest excitement in the garden.

Early Bloomers

Chionodoxa luciliae (glory-of-the-snow) — Among the first flowers to bloom each spring, Chionodoxa small flowers that originated in Turkey. Each stem of Chionodoxa luciliae has just a few gentian-blue flowers, each with a tiny white center. First introduced around 1880, the variety, which grows 4-6 inches high, was named by Swiss botanist Edmond Boissier, for his wife, who’d died at an early age. Also available in a white cultivar’Alba’.

Iris reticulata (miniature iris) - Another early flowering bulb, this small plant grows to about 6 inches and features fine, deep-blue flowers atop stalwart little stalks, creating a butterfly effect in the early spring garden. There are many different cultivars available, many of them blue, including ‘Cantab’, flaxen blue with orange honey guide on white background and ‘Harmony’, cornflower blue standard, dark blue fall and yellow honey guide, with broader flowers than other cultivars.

Narcissus cyclamineus Tete á Tete (miniature daffodil) - This small lemon-yellow classic is a rock garden favorite. Often offering two flowers per stem, with the characteristically swept back petals of cyclamineus, this variety is readily available along with other popular cultivars including ‘February Gold’, golden yellow with a strikingly large cup and ‘Jack Snipe’, with its yellow cup and delicate ivory-white perianth.

Early to Mid-Season Bloomers

Scilla siberica (Siberian squill) - Cultivated since 1796, these species grow four to six-inches tall and produce an abundance of blue, star-shaped flowers. They reproduce by seed, so will eventually cover a large area. There is a white cultivar ‘Alba’ which will reproduce true-to-type by seed if isolated and there is a taller, 20 inch, variety ‘Spring Beauty’, which produces large dark blue flowers on sturdy stems.

Crocus ‘Jeanne d’Arc’ (crocus) - There are many blue crocus cultivars including ‘Flower Record’ and ‘Remembrance’, but what makes ‘Jeanne d’Arc’ a standout is that it has large white flowers. Sturdy, low-growing crocus offer many design possibilities.

Anemone blanda ‘Blue Shades’ (windflower) - Flowering in mid-season, ‘Blue Shades’will grow in full sun or partial shade. Average plant height is around 4 inches. They will perennialize in Zones 4-7. For a complementary white, try’White Splendor’.

Narcissus triandrus ‘Thalia’, (daffodil) - A snow-white multi-flowering daffodil, this cultivar grows 10 to 12 inches high and flowers in mid-season. Taller, but not too tall, this narcissus makes a nice combination with most low-growing blue bulbs.

Late-Season Blues and Golds

Muscari armeniacum (grape hyacinth) - With cultivars in various shades of blue, this species with small, long-lasting racemes of flowers make up the impressive “River of Muscari” in Holland’s famous Keukenhof flower bulb display garden. It flowers from mid through late season. For a white counterpart try Muscari botryoides ‘Album’ (white grape hyacinth).

Iris hollandica ‘Blue Diamond’, (Dutch iris) - Dutch iris are a blend of three wild iris species and come in blue, white and yellow. They are very popular as cut flowers, but also have a stunning place in the late spring garden. Like their early-flowering cousins, Iris reticulata, late-season blooming Dutch iris can give you blue and yellow in one bloom. Try also ‘Blue Ribbon’and ‘Telstar’. For yellows, try ‘Golden Harvest’ or ‘Apollo.’ For pure whites, try ‘White Perfection’ or ‘White Wedgwood’.

SPORTS

Wildcat Will Test Running Chieftains
Pokes’ Defense Now a Concern
Sooner Special Teams Special
Area Outlook

Wildcat Will Test Running Chieftains

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

In a season that has seen opposing quarterbacks throw for more miles than corporate frequent fliers get, the Wildcats may be running into a basically running team this week when they host Sapulpa in the final home game of the season.

“They’re big and aggressive,” says Wildcat senior noseguard Harrison Freeman, whose job it is to jam up the middle so teams can’t run, of the Chieftains. “They’re real aggressive.”

So far the Cats have done relatively well in stopping the run, but have had problems with giving up the big plays, especially on passes.

Sapulpa will feature its usual big linemen with big running backs behind them. Topping the Chieftains attack is tailback Adam Brown, a converted linebacker, who has nearly 900 yards rushing on the season. He is averaging 6.5 yards per carry and has scored nine touchdowns.

“We have a few checks,” Freeman said of the Cats’ plans to halt the Chieftains. “But basically we’ll just come right at ‘em.”

While Sapulpa is fairly basic on offense, the Chieftains do offer some new wrinkles for the Cats.

“The use a double and triple pass and a hitch pitch,’ Harrison said after viewing films.

The double pass, Harrison explains, had the quarterback throwing out to the tailback, who then throws down field. The triple has the tailback throwing back to the quarterback, who throws again, this time down field.

Harrison reports than practice has been good this week as the Cats work to gain that elusive first district win.

He notes the Poncans, on offense, have been working out of the shotgun a lot more in practice.

“It’s worked pretty well,” he said.

Friday will be Senior Night for the Wildcats with the senior players honored at halftime.

“It’s a special occasion for some of the players,” Harrison says. “To me, it’s just another game — one I want to win.”

Pokes’ Defense Now a Concern

By OWEN CANFIELD

AP Sports Writer

STILLWATER (AP) — Oklahoma State’s defense, expected to be such a strength this year, has instead become something of a concern as the Cowboys head into the stretch run of their schedule.

‘‘I don’t know how to explain it,’’ said senior linebacker Kenyatta Wright, ‘‘but we’re going to have to rebound somehow and answer the questions that we have.’’

One question involves how to stop big plays. Kansas State burned the Cowboys with several last week in rallying from an early 21-0 deficit.

Wildcat quarterback Jonathan Beasley, who came in completing just 43 percent of his passes, was 13-of-25 for 311 yards and four touchdowns. Beasley can run and has a strong arm, as he showed on perhaps the biggest play of the game.

The score was 21-0 and the Wildcats faced third-and-5 at their own 38-yard line early in the second quarter. Beasley, who had been sacked on the previous play, escaped the OSU rush and threw 56 yards to George Williams.

Three plays later, Kansas State had its first touchdown and a momentum swing that would last the rest of the day.

The Wildcats faced third-and-10 from the OSU 17 on their next possession. Beasley sprinted out to his right to escape the rush, then threw back across the field to Quincy Morgan in the end zone.

Just before halftime, Beasley got great protection from his linemen and found Aaron Lockett down the middle for yet another touchdown.

‘‘It’s real frustrating,’’ Wright said. ‘‘From my standpoint, I feel you’ve got to keep everything positive. They’re a good team, we knew that coming into it.

‘‘Somehow, we have to stop giving up these big plays because that’s the only thing hurting us right now.’’

Coach Bob Simmons, whose team also gave up big-yardage plays in losses to Mississippi State and Nebraska, said he doesn’t think the problem has to do with being too aggressive.

Instead, he said it boils down to better execution. Simmons said persistent coaching and personal accountability on the part of the players should help fix the problem.

‘‘Don’t take it upon yourself to guess,’’’ he said, explaining his message to the players. ‘‘When you know it’s right, when you see it one way during the course of the week, then let’s do it that way in the ball game.

‘‘It’s a common trait when you want to make plays. But the whole coaching point is you make plays within the defense.’’

Sometimes, Oklahoma State has simply been outdone by better players on the other side. But Simmons also said players not carrying out their assignments properly have been a big problem.

‘‘That’s what we’ve got to get away from,’’ he said. ‘‘We’ve got to understand it’s a team sport on both sides, but when you talk about defense, everybody has got to be accountable for their responsibilities within what is called.’’

The Cowboys’ next chance to correct things comes on the road Saturday at Texas A&M. The last time the teams met in College Station, Oklahoma State had a 22-7 fourth-quarter lead before the Aggies rallied to win in overtime.

‘‘For us to go down there and beat Texas A&M at Kyle Field, that would be a real momentum boost and that may be the momentum we need to carry us throughout the season,’’ Wright said.

Sooner Special Teams Special

By OWEN CANFIELD

AP Sports Writer

NORMAN (AP) — Of the areas in which No. 24 Oklahoma has improved this year, and there are several, one of the most striking is on special teams. Simply put, they aren’t a joke anymore.

The Sooners had stumbled along the past four years, with blocked punts and botched field goals almost becoming routine. But that isn’t happening this year.

‘‘The coaching is just so much more, they’re trying to teach you and trying to keep you focused,’’ punter Jeff Ferguson said. ‘‘Last year, I don’t know if we did that. I don’t know if we were near as focused.’’

Ferguson is averaging 40.4 yards per punt, second-best in the Big 12, and hasn’t had any blocked. Placekicker Tim Duncan has been perfect on all seven of his field goals and is 30-for-30 on point-after kicks.

Duncan has also shown good hands, catching a pass for a touchdown on a fake field goal against Texas. The Sooners have run three fake field goals and one fake punt, all of them successful. The fake punt went for a 41-yard gain last week against Texas A&M, a game in which Oklahoma also blocked a field goal try.

Brandon Daniels leads the nation with an average of 40.3 yards on his eight kickoff returns, including an 89-yarder for a touchdown against Notre Dame. As a team, the Sooners rank second nationally in kickoff returns, with an average of 28.1.

‘‘I don’t know if it’s because we’re a year older, maybe that’s it,’’ Ferguson said. ‘‘But it just seems like we’re focused a lot more and the coaches are helping out a lot.

‘‘If you want to play, you’ve got to make sure you’re doing your work and doing well at it.’’

The coach who oversees special teams is Jonathan Hayes, although, as head coach Bob Stoops said, ‘‘He gets good help.’’

‘‘By no means do we leave it all on Jonathan,’’ he said. ‘‘Everyone contributes to the scheme.’’

Bobby Jack Wright is in charge of the kickoff team, along with Brent Venables and Mike Stoops. Hayes and Bob Stoops run the punt return unit, with input from Mike Stoops and Venables. Hayes, Cale Gundy and Steve Spurrier Jr. oversee kickoff returns. And the punt team is headed by Venables, with assistance from Wright and the Stoops brothers.

‘‘We segment it, work it hard, watch tape and spend time on the field with it, but Jonathan’s done a great job, certainly, bringing it all together,’’ Bob Stoops said.

‘‘And it’s something that’s a big emphasis for me. I’m always in every meeting, special-teams wise, and part of every unit on the field working with it.’’

That diligence has paid off through the first six games. The Sooners, who haven’t finished better than .500 since 1993, are 4-2 overall and 2-1 in the Big 12 heading into Saturday’s game at Colorado.

Stoops said he has been especially pleased with the play of Ferguson and Duncan.

‘‘We always felt through the spring what we were doing — protection wise and the way we were executing, covering, doing everything — we felt the plan was in place,’’ Stoops said. ‘‘But you can’t kick a ball for a guy. It’s like a quarterback having to throw the ball.

‘‘That’s one part of it they’ve got to be able to do, and that’s been a big factor. They’re doing a great job.’’

Area Outlook

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

The Newkirk-Pawnee rivalry is usually big enough. It grows even bigger when a spot in the playoffs is at stake — as it is this week.

“It’s huge,” says Pawnee coach Bobby Miller of Friday’s game.

“It could be do or die for us,” says Newkirk mentor Sonny Schovanec.

Only slightly less vital is Morrison’s battle with Weeleka. At stake is the District C-3 crown.

With Tonkawa taking the week off after wrapping up the District A-5 title, Week 9 of the high school football season sees several are teams playing for a chance to get into the playoffs while others are just playing out their string.

In addition to the big games at Pawnee and Morrison, other home games find Blackwell hosting Mannford, Deer Creek-Lamont taking on Covington-Douglas and Shidler facing Garber. Joining Newkirk on the road is Woodland at Wellston.

Newkirk (3-2, 5-3) at Pawnee (3-2, 4-4)

The winner of this clash between two long time rivals could finish in second place in the District 2A-5 chase. The loser could — depending on the outcome of other district games — be staying home when the playoffs start.

Newkirk and Pawnee are tied with Hominy for third place in the league. All three are 3-2, trailing Nowata (5-0) and Sperry (4-1). But Nowata plays Sperry this week with the loser dropping back into the pack and Sperry goes against Hominy in the final week of the season.

“Newkirk has a strong running game and a relentless defense,” Miller said. “We have got to play well. You don’t want to look back at this game and feel you could have played a little better.”

“Pawnee is a big physical team,” Schovanec says. “They are bigger than we are and have an experienced team.

“But our offense is starting to come around. The offensive line is improved. We’ll run a little option and a lot of Sam Free.”

Free has rushed for 850 yards and nine touchdowns this season.

Miller is hoping the home field will have some advantage.

“We’re 3-1 at home this season and should be 4-0,” he said. “We lost to Cleveland in the last 30 seconds of the game after leading 13-7 in the fourth quarter.”

But Newkirk has played well on the road, Schovanec points to the Tigers’ 2-2 record away from home. “We lost to Tonkawa and Hominy. those are two pretty good teams.

“And we’ll have a lot of fans follow us down. They give us good support.”

Morrison (5-0, 8-0) vs. Weleeka (4-1, 6-2)

The Wildcats’ chase continues through a scheduler’s dream.

The top four teams in District B-3 are playing each other in the final three weeks of the season.

Morrison stomped Alex 52-20 while Oklahoma Christian School kept pace with a 33-14 win over Weeleka. Those two teams are apparently headed for a showdown in the season finale.

“Weeleka was a state runner-up last year,” Morrison coach Joe Sindelar points out. “They lost a lot of seniors off last year’s team, but are still pretty competitive.”

“We found some things we need to work on in last week’s game against Alex. But the kids have responded well. They have worked hard in practice.”

Woodland (3-3, 5-3) at Wellston (4- 2, 4-4)

The Cougars are still in the District A-5 chase, but face a couple of tough test the final weeks of the season.

DCLA (2-2, 4-4) vs. Covington-Douglas (2-2, 6-2).

The Eagles have reached that magic .500 mark in their comeback season. They would like to keep it there, or improve on it with a playoff berth always in the back of their minds.

Other area games:

Blackwell (1-4, 2-6) vs. Mannford (3-2, 5-3)

Shidler (0-5, 2-6) vs. Garber (2-2, 4-2)