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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Wednesday, November 08, 2000 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES SPORTS LOCALCounty Voters Flock to Polls In Record Vote County Voters Flock to Polls In Record VoteNEWKIRK — Kay County voters flocked the polls in record numbers Tuesday in one of the “smoothest” elections in recent memory. Carol Stafford, Election Board secretary, said “I’m so thankful I live in Oklahoma , where there we have a great election system — we had a great day. We didn’t have any problems machine-wise or any other problems. Voters did a very excellent job of voting and I’m real pleased with the way the whole day went.” She added, “We had no big major problems and Oklahoma has the greatest election system in the United States because we are all uniform and we all have checks and balances.” Stafford said the ballots were all counted and the staff left by 9 p.m. “There were no major differences than in any other election,” she said. “I’m real pleased.” Stafford reported that there are 34,382 registered voters in the county and 54.25 percent —18,307 — voted Tuesday. Lines were long throughout the day at most precincts, but no significant delays were reported. Kay County voters supported George W. Bush over Al Gore (11,768-6,122) in the presidential balloting and favored Bob Anthony for Corporation Commission, and Ernest Istook for U.S. Representative. County voters opposed the school land trust and county health department state questions but favored the school mill, college president, winery sales and tobacco fund questions. Two People Die In Auto Wrecks On Area RoadsTonkawa Fire Department officials list two fatalities among the casualties of four separate automobile accidents reported on U.S. 60 near Tonkawa since early today. Slick and hazardous driving conditions are reportedly the blame behind all four of these accidents. The accident involving the two fatalities, handled by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, occurred just before noon between Ponca City and the Tonkawa exit located at the intersection of U.S. 60 and U.S. 77. Six other casualties involved in these four accidents were transported to area hospitals. The first accident, occurring on the overpass at the Tonkawa exit, was reported to police at 7:30 a.m. Two casualties, a man and a woman, were transported code yellow by ambulance from the scene. No further information is available at this time. Veterans Day Dance Planned At White EagleWHITE EAGLE — Veterans will be honored Saturday when American Legion L.S. Buffalo Post 38 of White Eagle holds its annual Veterans Day Dance. Activities begin at 2 p.m. in the Ponca tribal Cultural Center. Delbert Cole, post adjutant, said, “Come and enjoy this traditional Ponca dance, intertribal dancing, war dance and gourd dance after you have enjoyed North Central Oklahoma’s largest Veterans Day Parade in Ponca City.” Cole said, “Come and dance, break bread, fellowship and make new friends with the old/new L.S. Buffalo Post 38.” The dancing begins at 2 p.m. with supper at 5:30 p.m. (bring your own dishes and chairs), ladies favorites, round dance and wolf songs at 7 p.m. and gourd dancing at 8 p.m. Head staff includes Wilkie D. Eagle Sr. (Ponca) Marland, head singer; Ron Plumbly (Otoe/Pawnee), Red Rock, head man dancer; Eva Jones (Kaw/Otoe), Morrison, head woman dancer; Fred Spotted Bear (Ponca/Sioux), Pawhuska, head gourd dancer; Cameron Page (Ponca), White Eagle, arena director; Thomas Roughface (Ponca), Bethany, master of ceremonies; Gilbert Samson Cole (Ponca/Seminole), Carbon Black, water boy; and Red Rock Creek, Red Rock, host gourd dance organization. Special guests will be Heduska Aki-Nazhi — Standing Together. M J Brown Convicted In StabbingMichael Joseph Brown was convicted last Friday of voluntary manslaughter in the stabbing death of John Roy. The incident occurred on June 21, 2000, on Ponca tribal land in the White Eagle community. Brown has been charged with murder in the death of Roy and was found guilty of the lesser included offense of voluntary manslaughter. “Combating this type of violence in Indian country continues to be a high priority of this office,” said Dan Webber, United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma. This case was brought in federal court since the incident occurred on land that is Indian country. Brown faces a maximum potential penalty of up to 10 years in prison. The sentence actually imposed will be determined of the federal sentencing guidelines. Sentencing will occur following completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office. The case was investigated by the Ponca Tribal Police, criminal investigators of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Sengel prosecuted the case. Salary Administration Plan Receives County ApprovalBy KATHY ZEHR News Staff Writer NEWKIRK — A Salary Administration Plan, previously presented by Kay County elected officials, drew considerable discussion before being approved by the Kay County Board of Commission Monday. Meeting in regular session, commissioners noted that the plan is a suggested salary guide for clerks and deputies employed by county officers to keep salaries in the various offices in alignment with each other. Court Clerk Glenda Emerson said, “This (plan) will deal with a long time problem and stop the periodic hassle about the wage scale.” In an earlier session, elected officials said they realized it would not apply to all situations or solve every problem but would be a guide for a more equal pay scale for employees in the various offices. At least three county offices reported some employees with salaries below the suggested scale. The Salary Administration Plan is to be implemented beginning July 1, 2001, said commissioners. County Assessor Tresa Engle reported she had visited Sheriff Craig Countryman at Deaconess Hospital in Oklahoma City on Thursday and his condition had taken a backset since last week. Another lengthy session was conducted at 10 a.m., when commissioners held a public hearing for the Ranch Drive Rural Fire District Association for a petition to change their status. The change from a corporate Title 18, O.S. Section 592 to a Title 19 O.S. Section 351 county fire department would allow volunteer fire fighters under age 45 to be elgible for a pension system and places that association then under the jurisdiction of Kay County. Larry Zerger, board member, said the group is petitioning for a change in requirements in Subsection D of Title 19 O.S., Section 351, to allow volunteers over 45 to become eligible for retirement benefits as well. Zerger said, “Placing the fire station under the umbrella of Kay County does not, in any way, obligate the county financially. The county is only obligated to see that all legals are in order and that the fire department meets all other requirements for a Title 18 rating.” County Clerk Pam Goodno informed the group that the date of monthly board meetings should be posted with her office and in a public place in the Ranch Drive area. As required by the state, the group must reduce their seven-member board to five. Board members said the requirement would be completed within the week and five board member names would be filed with the County Clerk. Another board member, David Snyder invited the commissioners to attend the ground breaking for the construction of a new Ranch Drive storm shelter. The event will be celebrated as soon as the ground dries. He also announced that Marland was also building a like shelter. Dennis Bonewell, Emergency Management director discussed costs for generators, antennas and installation for a “repeater station,” which allows radio transmissions from limited watt radios to be transferred at a much stronger signal over a wide area. According to previous director Pat Zehr, the repeater station would be invaluable in the event of severe storms or other disasters when the only means of communication would be via low wattage two-way radios. Other items of interest included the approval of occupational tax reports to the state for five Kay County establishments serving mixed drinks. Numerous claims, purchase orders and resolutions were approved including the deposit of $9,700 into the Emergency Management Agency fund. Several County officers announced they would attend the District 8 Circuit Engineered meeting in Oklahoma City on Wednesday and Thursday. A notice was filed from Williams Pipeline in regard to the marking of a gas pipeline in District 1. Assistant Attorney Philip Ross informed the commissioners he was waiting on information for legals for the new Kay County Health Department building. Goodno talked with commissioners about the costs or roof repair on the courthouse and county jail. Commissioner Leven announced the new janitorial service at the Department of Human Services would take over on Nov. 13. He also reported that his District II work crew had removed some shrubs and completed other landscaping at the DHS building during the last week of October. Goodno repeated the reminder that all departments working on citations from the Oklahoma Department of Labor should have their requirements completed by Dec. 31. Commissioners and some officers reported on their progress to comply. Kanza Child Care Center Opens New Facility MondayNEWKIRK - The Kanza Child Care Center is opening in a new 3,500 square foot building located on the Kaw Nation grounds on River Road at 101 Charles Curtis Lane. The facility will be opening on Monday and has the capacity for 49 children age six-weeks to 13 years old. Plans are to bus children to and from Newkirk Elementary School. Enrollment applications are available at the Center. The Kanza Child Care Center philosophy is to combine culture and tradition with modern day child care practices to promote developmentally appropriate learning activities, family values and parenting education in a safe nurturing environment. The Kaw Nation Program offers a voucher system to assist in paying for child care services to qualified Native American families in the Kaw Nation service area. To be eligible, families will need to contact the Child Care and Development office to obtain an application. Children can receive child care services from state licensed facilities (home or center) or relative/in home care if parents are working or attending school or training. Income, based on a sliding fee scale also determines eligibility. Warrant Arrests Made By Ponca City PolicePonca City police made several warrant arrests throughout the day on Tuesday. According to Sherry Bowers, police information officer, seven subjects were taken into custody on various city warrants. Three 18-year-old women were taken into custody for failure to pay; a 24-year-old man for failure to pay; a 44-year-old man for failure to pay; a 21-year-old woman for two counts of failure to pay; and a 31-year-old woman for contributing to the delinquency of a minor. Primeaux and Davis Charged with Murder IBy KATHY ZEHR News Staff Writer NEWKIRK — On a dreary rain-spattered Monday at the Kay County Courthouse in Newkirk a story of drunken fights, rape, theft, and brutal stabbings unfolded in a preliminary hearing for Edward Bruce Primeaux and Randy Wade Davis. The defendants had been charged in Ponca City with first degree murder in the July 5, 2000 slayings of Warren David Little Cook, 76, and Julia Bear, 61. At the conclusion of the preliminary hearings in District Court at noon Tuesday, Primeaux and Davis were both charged with murder in the first degree by Judge Douglas Revard. In addition they were each charged with alternate counts of felony murder, and conspiracy to commit murder. A fourth charge of rape was added to the counts against Davis. Judge Revard immediately set arraignment dates in district court for both defendants. Primeaux’s arraignment is set for Nov. 27 and Davis’ date is Dec. 4, 2000. Witnesses questioned during the Monday court session included Ponca City Police Detectives Bob Stieber and Don Bohon who were principles involved with the investigation. Billy Gene Roberson and Velma Roberson both charged as accessories after the fact, also testified as did Justin Ray Stocker and Shawn Fiarris. Some witnesses returned to the stand for additional testimony on Tuesday, along with OSBI Forensic Lab Senior Criminal Investigator Jimmy Stokes. District Attorney Mark L. Gibson questioned all witnesses assisted by Assistant D.A. Wade Dodson. Mary Bane and James Bowen, with the Oklahoma Indigent Defense System served as attorneys for the defendants Davis and Primeaux. Detectives Describe Crime Scene Detectives Steiber and Bohon described the gory crime scene with multiple stab wounds to the bodies of Little Cook and Bear discovered by Ponca City Police officers on July 6. The discovery was made after a call from a neighbor, who told officers the elderly couple had been confined to wheel chair and walker. Detective Bohon took numerous photos of the crime scene and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation was called to collect forensic evidence. Several photos were filed as exhibits in the case. Several neighbors, relatives and other contacts were interviewed. Ms. Roberson gave limited testimony both Monday and Tuesday and said on July 5, Primeaux, her common-law husband of seven years, had been drinking heavily all day and told her he had been at the residence of Julia Bear and Warren Little Cook. Another person was said to be present, but she did not know his name. When Primeaux returned to his home at 510 North Osage around 4 p.m., he told Ms Roberson he had a fight with Dave Little Cook, son of Warren. He also told her that Warren Little Cook had threatened him with a knife. She said Primeaux wanted to change clothes and didn’t want to see them (the clothes) again. In later testimony Ms Roberson said she told him she would wash the dirty jeans and white t-shirt, but testified she did not see any blood on the clothing when she put them to soak. She did not wash the tennis shoes. The clothes were then placed in a black trash bag. About 4:30 p.m, Ms. Roberson’s son Billy Gene Roberson, and son-in-law Sean Fiarris came to the home and joined Primeaux in drinking beer. Fiarris testified he drank three beers in 30 minutes and he and Billy had been drinking before they came. According to testimony by Billy Gene, Primeaux said he had been in a big fight and tore up some people pretty good. He had some “things” in a trash bag he needed to get rid of. According to testimony, Billy Gene said they should take it to a place he knew and burn it. He testified he did not know what was in the bag. Burning of Evidence During the trip to Kaw Lake to burn the bag, the group stopped for car gas, a container of gas to pour on the bag, beer and later 2 pints of whiskey. While at McFadden Cove on Kaw Lake they burned the bag and Fiarris testified he saw Billy Gene throw a pocket knife belonging to Primeaux into the lake. After the group returned to the Primeaux home, Fiarris went to his home and Billy Gene remained to drink with Primeaux until they got in an argument. Billy Gene went to the home of Justin Stocker then later returned to the Primeaux house and broke the front door window glass but could not get in. Witness Justin Ray Stocker said he had a conversation with Billy Gene about a murder where two people were involved. Stocker said he thought Billy Gene was just telling a story, because he’d been drinking. He later saw the story of double homicide in newspaper and told his mother who called police. Offers then took a statement from Stocker. Billy Gene Roberson, charged as an accessory for his destruction of evidence, testified that he volunteered his testimony and assistance in exchange for a reduced sentence and probation. Billy Gene said he led investigators to the location of Primeaux’s partially burned clothes and pointed out area where he threw the pocket knife. Bohon testified that during interviews with neighbors and others during the next few days, Randy Davis’ name kept popping up, and he drove to the Davis home at 612 West Hazel to talk with Randy. He asked Randy to come to the police station to make a statement and thought he might be a good witness to Primeaux’s activities on the day of the murders. Randy Davis Interviewed Davis visited with Bohon at the station and admitted he was at the scene of the crime on the day the victims were slain. When he said he saw blood on the porch, we stopped the interview and booked him as a material witness - but did not suspect him as a participant, testified Bohon On July 8, Davis was read and explained his Miranda rights and the interview was recorded on video. Davis was still not suspected of participating in the crime. He described his visit to the Little Cook home on the day of the murders. In that interview Davis said he was standing on the sidewalk and described a bloody scene involving Primeaux on the front porch of the Little Cook home. At this point, Bohon and another officer stopped the interview and asked Davis if he would object to a polygraph and Davis said no. He was again read his rights and the test conducted. According to Bohon, Davis’ test indicated he was not telling the truth. Bohon testified that Davis changed his story when told the results of his polygraph. During the next two interviews Bohon urged Davis to tell the truth and Davis first changed his story to say he was on the porch and in the house, and saw Primeaux take money from an envelope in Little Cook’s chair, stab him and stab and rape Ms. Bear. Davis said he received $50 from Primeaux. Bohon said OSBI Agent William Thornton questioned Randy further, and he then changed his story again to say he raped Ms. Bear after she was stabbed by Primeaux and had fallen from her wheel chair to the floor. After the rape he admitted stabbing her multiple times as directed by Primeaux. At that time, Bohon said, “We booked Davis for first degree murder.” Davis said he and Primeaux separated and went to their respective homes after the crime. Bohon said Davis also told him the knife used in the stabbings by both Primeaux and himself belonged to his father, Red Davis. Randy had taken it to the Little Cook home, then returned it to his parent’s home after the crime. After a search warrant was issued, the knife was found, along with Randy’s clothes worn during the murders and rape, in a search of the Red Davis home. Randy later identified the knife from a police photo tagged as Exhibit 9 by the District Attorney. OSBI Forensic expert Stokes testified last about his investigation of the murder site and related he had found one clear bloody fingerprint on the wall heater. The print has been identified as one matching the ring finger of Edward Bruce Primeaux. It was matched to Primeaux’s prints already on file from previous records at OSBI and with current fingerprints taken at the Ponca City Police Department. Several other items were taken from the crime scene to the lab in Oklahoma City but reports are not completed on those items, said Stokes. Veterans Day Parade Lineup SetThe Veterans Day parade this year falls on Veterans Day — Saturday, Nov. 11. Through the efforts of American Legion Post 14, this parade has grown into one that is well known and well respected in the north central Oklahoma area. The parade will commence at 10:30 a.m. and will proceed through downtown Ponca City to the Centennial Plaza. At that time, specially purchased dog tags honoring veterans, placed on a tree at the Ponca City Civic Center, will be dedicated in a ceremony following the parade, approximately 11:30 to noon. The military dog tags were sold as a fund raiser for the POW/MIA monuments. Those interested in purchasing dog tags may call 765-4748 or 765-9913. The local chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America is sponsoring the project. World War II paratrooper reenactors will jump, landing at West Grand Avenue and Waverly Street at approximately 10 a.m., followed by a B-1 bomber from Kansas Air National Guard flyover at 10:27 a.m. Other aircraft in the flyovers will include three Black Hawk helicopters from the Oklahoma Air National Guard, a World War II B-25 Mitchell bomber, P-51 Mustang fighter, T-6 trainer, T-28 trainer and Stearman biplaness. Any group, organization or individual who would like to participate in the parade, if not listed below, may call Chuck Gregg at 765-1367 or the Legion at 765-9073. Late entries who have not been assigned will fall between Peachtree and Sunset streets. Block 1 between Union and Pine streets — color guards; in charge, police, OHP and sheriff units 1. U.S. Army Colors, U.S. Army Recruiting Office, Stillwater, Ponca 2. Marine Corps Color Guard, Marine Reserve Training Detachment, Wichita 3. Navy Color Guard, U.S. Naval Reserve Training Detachment, Wichita 4. U.S. Air Force Color Guard, Vance AFB 5. Army Reserve Color Guards (tentative) 6. National Guard Color Guard , 1st of the 179th Infantry, Ponca City 7. OSU Army ROTC Color Guard 8. OSU Air Force Color Guard 9. VFW Color Guard, Post 1201 10. American Legion Post 14, Ponca City and Newkirk 11. American Legion Buffalo Post 38, White Eagle 12. Vietnam Vets of America Chapter 750, Ponca City 13. Order of the Purple Heart Color Guard (tentative) 14. Former POW color guard (tentative) 15. Boy/Girl Scout of America color guard 16. Other walking color guards 17. U.S. Air Force ROTC Color Guard from OSU and cadets, Lt. Col. Gary Jones Po-Hi Marching Big Blue Band Block 2 between Pine and Oak streets — floats and cars, veterans related; in charge, Ollie Heady, Glen Adkins and Jerry Wheeler American Flags ALCH 1. Parade marshals — Korea veterans, with tram and walking 2. All other veterans walking 3. All other veterans on trams 4. Gold Star Mothers, VFW Post 1201, float 5. Vietnam Veterans of America float 6. Military Order of the Purple Heart (tentative) 7. Former Prisoners of War float (tentative) 8. Disabled American Veterans 9. American Legion Post 14 float with poster and essay winners 10. Army Family Support Group (tentative) 11. American GI Forum Group, float and dance group 12. Other veteran floats 13. VFW state officers 14. American Legion state officers 15. Senators and representatives 16. Veteran Administration officials; Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs officials; VIPs Bagpipes and drum; Jim Lindsey (316) 722-5213 Block 3 between Oak and Elm streets — in charge, Sgt. 1st Class Stevens, 1st Sgt. Link 1. Military walking units 2. Oklahoma Army National Guard with equipment 3. Oklahoma Army Reserve unit with equipment 4. 366th Military Police Company, Stillwater 5. Antique military vehicles escort by airborne/recon group 6. Military historian groups — Roger Hudgens World War II commemorative squad; World War II Airborne Demonstration team from McAlister; Company G, 45th Division living historians, 45th Division Museum 7. Indian nations walking groups with Indian nations flags 8. Tonkawa Scalp Society 9. Otoe War Mothers, van (tentative) 10. Gray Horse Chapter American War Mothers (tentative) 11. Mountain Men (tentative) 12. Union/Confederate walking groups Block 4 between Elm and Osage streets — in charge, Cindy and Donna with Girl Scouts 1. Shidler Marching Band 2. Po-Hi cheerleaders 3. Po-Hi high-steppers 4. Po-Hi pep club 5. Junior varsity cheerleaders 6. Mid-High cheerleaders 7. Ninth grade cheerleaders 8. Boy and Girl Scouts 9. Pepperettes 10. Grade schools 11. Garfield Academy (tentative) 12. Woodlands Elementary (tentative) 13. Lincoln Elementary (tentative) 14. Other youth walking groups 15. Skaters, skateboarders 16. Classic cars Block 5 between Osage and Palm streets — in charge, Jerry Stein 1. Lutheran School band, float 2. Tom Leonard, mayor, and Noha Thanksgiving float 3. AMBUC float with Korean War theme 4. RSVP with Korean War veterans 5. Miss Oklahoma Teen All American (tentative) 6. Salvation Army unit 7. Conoco fuel truck, fire engine 8. Classic cars 9. Pioneer Christian Motorcycle Club Block 6 between Palm and Lake streets 1. St. Mary’s School band, school float (tentative) 2. Chamber of Commerce 3. Police, OHP, sheriff units 4. Ponca City Fire Department 2 5. Citizen Police Academy 6. Elk Lodge 7. Noon Lions float 8. Ponca city Cursors 9. PAWS (tentative) 10. Northern Oklahoma Youth Services (tentative) 11. Head Start Program (tentative) 12. Pioneer Technology Center Block 7 between Lake and Ash streets — in charge, J.R. McDonald 1. Ponca City Harley group 2. Jaycees float (tentative) 3. Lowes float 4. Wal-Mart float 5. Fire truck, Osage Cove 6. Humane Society (tentative) 7. Leadership Class (tentative) 8. other rural fire departments 9. Cannon Ball Locomotive (tentative) 10. Pioneer Transit (tentative) 11. The Boat House (tentative) Block 8 between Ash and Birch streets — in charge, Jim Sindelar 1. Stillwater Harley club (tentative) 2. North Central Polaris (tentative) 3. ONG float (tentative) 4. GOOFS (tentative) 5. Child Development Center (tentative) 6. Ponca City Junior Rifle Club (tentative) 7. Civil Air Patrol Cadets (tentative) 8. Wheel sport (tentative) 9. KIXR Block 9 between Birch and Peachtree streets 1. Antique, classic cars 2. Golden Villa van 3. Mertz 4. Late entrees Block 10 between Peachtree and Sunset streets — in charge, Ran Carr with Shriners 1. Shriner color guard; Color Guard of Honor, Tulsa 2. Akdar Shrine Temple, Tulsa 3. Other Shriners Block 11 between Sunset Street on west — in charge, Fred Collins 1. Horse color guard 2. Pawnee Bill’s group (tentative) 3. Stout bull rider (tentative) 4. Ponca City Rodeo queen (tentative) 5. Horses, wagons, saddle clubs, etc. Seniors Set To Sample Campus LifeTONKAWA — Area high school seniors will sample campus life at Northern Oklahoma College during the annual “Northern Exposure” weekend held on the Tonkawa campus Nov. 10-11. The invitational event is hosted by the Northern Peer Counselors and their sponsor, Sue Ann Rodgers. Beginning at 7:45 a.m. Friday, Nov. 10, the students will meet on campus to attend selected morning classes. The afternoon will be spent participating in games and activities coordinated by Northern Assistant Dean of Student Activities Terry Ballard. In addition to meeting faculty and college students, Northern Exposure guests will sample college extracurricular offerings by attending the Fine Arts Division production of the Lapine-Sondheim musical “Into the Woods” followed by bowling. The students will spend the night in the college residence halls. Saturday morning the Northern Oklahoma College Foundation will host a light breakfast for the visiting seniors. The students will receive information concerning scholarships and financial aid. To commemorate the weekend, each student will receive a “Northern Exposure” T-shirt. DEATHSSeth E. Hickerson Jr. Seth E. Hickerson Jr.Seth E. Hickerson Jr., longtime Ponca City resident, died Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2000, at his home. He was 78. The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 9, 2000, at Albright United Methodist Church with the Rev. Dr. Sheila Combs-Francis, pastor, officiating. Burial will follow at Odd Fellows Cemetery under the direction of Trout Funeral Home. Seth E. Hickerson was born on June 20, 1922, the son of Seth E. Hickerson Sr. and Hallie Mae (Sheets) Hickerson. He grew up in Wichita and attended Wichita public schools. He married Frances Byers on May 10, 1942, in Newkirk; she preceded him in death on July 13, 1998. He joined the military, served in the U.S. Army Air Corps in Europe during World War II, and earned six battle stars for his three years of service. After World War II, he returned to Oklahoma and, in 1947, they adopted a daughter. He enrolled at Oklahoma State University and graduated in 1949 with two mechanical engineering degrees. He was then employed for Ponca Electric Company before becoming employed with Conoco, where he was a division manager, craft supervisor and a contract administrator. He retired in 1981 after 31 years of service. He was the original treasurer of the Kay County Council for Retarded Children when it was formed in March of 1960. He held the treasurer position for seven years. He married Virginia M. Unruh on Aug. 28, 2000, in Ponca City. Seth enjoyed playing golf, bowling, and go-carting. He was a member of Albright United Methodist Church, the Ponca Masonic Lodge 83 and the American Legion. He is survived by his wife Virginia of the home, and one daughter, Sherrill Lynn Hickerson of Ponca City. In addition to his first wife, he was preceded in death by his parents. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 N. Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, Okla. 74601 or to Albright United Methodist Church, 128 S. Palm, Ponca City, Okla. 74601. ObituariesGeneva Daphene Pierce PageTONKAWA — The funeral for Geneva Daphene Pierce Page, age 79, will be held at 3 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9, 2000, at the Anderson-Ridgeway Funeral Chapel in Tonkawa with private burial at the Tonkawa IOOF Cemetery. The Rev. Glenn hunt will officiate. She died Monday, Nov. 6, 2000, in the All Saints Episcopal Hospital in Fort Worth, Texas. Geneva was born April 13, 1921, to Bruce and Arizona Pierce at Wills Point, Texas. She attended school in Texas and married Delmer Page on April 4, 1940 in Ponca City. They lived in Tonkawa most of their life. They spent 20 years going north with their custom harvest and she continued operating the crew for a couple of years after her husband’s death in 1971. She also enjoyed crocheting. Geneva was a member of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She is survived by one brother, J.G. Pierce of LaCrosse, Wis.; three sisters, Dolores Houser of North Little Rock, Ark., Nadine Williams of Ponca City, and Pauline Pierce of Seattle, Wash.; and many nieces and nephews that loved her. paid obituary NEWS BRIEFS-- Energy Assistance — The Ponca Tribe Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is taking applications for heating assistance. Priority is elderly, disabled, and younger children (5 years and under) in the home. For more information contact 762-5909. “Autumn Romance” A bouquet of flowers, a steak dinner for two, a horse drawn carriage ride around the lake. $125 call 762-3778 or 765-7447. adv. Newkirk Bazaar — A craft auction and bazaar is planned for 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, at the Christian Church, 301 West Ninth, Newkirk. The event is sponsored by the Newkirk Women’s League. Door prizes will be given, and babysitting service is provided. Court Allen Construction. Brick, flagstone, concrete, walk- way’s, patios and planters. Call 765-2720. adv. Accident — An accident in the 900 block of North Fifth Street was reported to Ponca City police at 7:44 a.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Reward- Lost Monday Nov. 6th. Appx. 11:00 am in area of North Pine, North Oak, West Highland. Walk behind concrete saw. If found or if witness to seeing someone else pickup and load- Please Call 718-0202. adv. Accident — A two-vehicle, non-injury accident in the 1800 block of Monument Road was reported to Ponca City police at 7:47 a.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. King Alfred Jumbo Daffodils regular 99˘, sale 59˘ each. Keathly Nursery, 2448 Bridge Avenue, Ponca City. adv. Subject Held — A booking officer at the Ponca City Police Department reported a 15-year-old boy was taken into custody for trying to pass some counterfeit money at 9:04 a.m. Tuesday. Jim Bowen Construction Custom homes, room additions and remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv. Subject Held — An officer at the intersection of North Fourteenth Street and East Hazel Avenue reported a 27-year-old man was taken into custody after a traffic stop for driving under suspension at 10 a.m. Tuesday. Stormescape Shelters, perfect for garage, under vehicle. Installed, $2,395. 765-2633. adv. Accident — An accident in the 1900 block of North Fourteenth Street was reported to Ponca City police at 10:32 a.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Subject Held — A booking officer at the Ponca City Police Department, 200 East Oklahoma Avenue, reported a 52-year-old man was court committed into custody on a city warrant for failure to pay at 10:33 a.m. Tuesday. Molestation — A man in the 1400 block of West Grand Avenue reported a juvenile boy kept grabbing his daughter’s private parts to Ponca City police at 10:49 a.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. A juvenile boy was escorted to the police department, then released to his parents. Burglary — A man reported to Ponca City police at 10:49 a.m. Tuesday his vacant rental property, located in the 300 block of South Ash Street, had been broken into last night. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. A Two day sale- Fri. Nov 10th, Sat. Nov 11th- 40% off all water color & oil paintings by Shirley Petersen. 8300 E. So. Ave. 765-8777. adv. Accident — A two-vehicle accident in the 1100 block of East Prospect Avenue was reported to Ponca City police at 11:50 a.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Don Sawyer “The Chimney Sweep”. In business for 26 years, no mess. 762-8883. adv. Accident — A hit-and-run accident in the 400 block of Fairview Avenue was reported to Ponca City police at 2:12 p.m. Tuesday. The caller advised of observing a vehicle hit a street sign, before driving away. The vehicle lost it’s front bumper in the collision. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential. Hours: Monday 1-3 p.m., Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and Thursday, 6-8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. 765-9689. adv. Fire Run — A man in the 900 block of North Ash Street reported to the Communications Center at 2:42 p.m. Tuesday he and others at the location smelled something mechanical burning and the smell was burning their eyes. Engine two with the Ponca City Fire Department responded to the scene. Firefighters advised they couldn’t locate any problems. Head Country, One half bar-b-que chicken with choice of vege- tables, $4.25, Thursday, 11 am until gone. 1217 East Prospect. 767-8304. adv. Accident — A minor backing accident in the 100 block of East Albany Avenue was reported to Ponca City police at 3:41 p.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Windshield Chips repaired professionally. Guaranteed and insurance approved. Ponca Glass, 300 W. Highland and Pine. 762-6522. adv. Accident — A two-vehicle, non-injury accident in the 400 block of South Fourteenth Street was reported to Ponca City police at 3:42 p.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Subject Held — An officer at the Ponca City Police Department reported a 32-year-old man was taken into custody on Kay County warrants for failure to pay and failure to appear at 12:11 a.m. Wednesday. Gas Drive-Off — A clerk at a business in the 1600 block of West South Avenue reported a $25 gas drive-off to Ponca City police at 12:27 a.m. Wednesday. A description was given of the vehicle. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Subject Held — An officer in the 1900 block of North Union Street reported an 18-year-old woman was taken into custody after a traffic stop for no drivers license at 12:45 a.m. Wednesday. Theft — An employee of a business in the 100 block of South First Street reported a 49-year-old man was being held for shoplifting to Ponca City police at 3:51 p.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. The man was taken into police custody for petit larceny. Theft — A sales associate at Wal-Mart, 1101 East Prospect Avenue, reported a 16-year-old girl was being held for shoplifting to Ponca City police at 4:47 p.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. The girl was taken into police custody for grand larceny. Accident — A minor accident at the intersection of North Fifth Street and East Hartford Avenue was reported to Ponca City police at 6:07 p.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Accident — A hit-and-run accident in the parking lot of a business in the 1100 block of East Prospect Avenue was reported to Ponca City police at 6:45 p.m. Tuesday. A woman told police someone had backed into her shopping cart with her baby daughter in it and smashed her child’s fingers between the cart and the vehicle’s tail light, before driving away from the scene. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. During the investigation the officer learned the call was unfounded. Subject Held — An officer in the 2200 block of North Fourteenth Street reported a 40-year-old man was taken into custody for public intoxication after a disturbance call at 9:27 p.m. Tuesday. Burglary — A woman in the 600 block o North Lake Street reported to Ponca City police at 10:26 p.m. Tuesday her residence had been burglarized and several items taken. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Accident — An accident at the intersection of Tower Road and U.S. 77 was reported to an officer with the Ponca City Police Department at 6:07 a.m. Wednesday. The vehicle had slid into the ditch due to slick roads. Both the Kay County Sheriff’s Office and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol were advised. LIFESTYLESSJRMC Celebrates Volunteer Hours SJRMC Celebrates Volunteer HoursSt. Joseph Regional Medical Center recognized its volunteers for the time they donate to SJRMC at an annual awards banquet held Oct. 30. Volunteers donated 20,037 hours to the hospital during the 1999-2000 fiscal year. “SJRMC volunteers are special people,” said Kathy Turner, Volunteer Services coordinator. “Most volunteers donate a minimum of four hours per week to assist the Medical Center in tasks ranging from patient transport to clerical duties. The volunteers live out the Via Christi Core Values of Community, Competence, Human Dignity, Service, and Vision on a daily basis. We are proud of our volunteers and their tradition of service at SJRMC,” she added. Volunteer Hours Volunteer hours are accumulated from year to year and awards are presented in increments of 500 hours worked with the exception of the volunteer patch which is awarded for the first 100 hours worked. Award recipients this year are: patch - Dusty Branstetter, Sheryle Buxton, Janice Calvert, Donna Cavner, Steve Gray, Laverne Higginbotham, Shari Hood, Sharon Jackson, Ginger Kana, Marie Krisle, Ivan Nulik, Norma Nulik, Nazie Rahman, and Jim Wells. Earning a pin and 500 hours recognition were Reva Butcher, Phil Deschner, Doris Diltz, Dorothy Doering, Judith Lawson, Virginia Marks, Bert Walther, and Joe Walcott. Other award winners are 1000 hours: Fran Elenberg, Pauline Fauchier, Ad Hazlett, Philip Johnston, Kathryn Prescott, Ray Ramsey, Loma Smith and Wanda Voegle; 1500 hours : Pat Moore, Frances Neill, and Betty Rogers; 2000 hours: Therese Butt, Barbara Chambers, Faye Hunt, Darlene Kassen, Sue Patterson, Betty Webb, and Willis Webb; 2500 hours: Betty Boyer, Wilma Davidson, Zack Martin, Fay Nix, Leora Rhoads, Marge Sevier, and Neva Thompson. 15,000 Hours Also receiving awards were: 3000 hours : Darrell Lyerla; 4000 hours: Bettylou Hank, Chris Orr, and Jessie Smith; 5000 hours: Zenna Wright; 5500 hours : Virginia Brown; 7000 hours: Ellen Bailey; 10,000 hours: Wallace Hoyle; 12,500: Lila Kizer; 14,000: Connie Clark; and 15,000 hours: Norma Hoyle. The meal was served by hospital employees Carl Cartlidge, Marilyn Clark, Sandy Gearhart, Adonna Glover, Cheryle Hiebert, Keith Hufnagel, Susan Nolan, and Jeff Seirer. Jim McFadden, interim CEO and SJRMC Board of Trustees member, gave opening remarks and Sister Nora Phelan, CSJ, Vice President Mission Services, gave the invocation and assisted with the awards ceremony. Entertainment was a musical review performed by Chameleon. All volunteers must be interviewed, attend an orientation, and receive a TB test before being assigned a duty station. Persons interested in volunteering at the Medical Center may contact Kathy Turner, 765-0508. Mike Joosten Gives Lion’s Club Talk About PipelineWhen the Noon Lion’s Club met Oct. 31, Bill Thomason introduced Mike Joosten. Joosten, an Ohio State graduate, is married to Debbie and is the father of two children. He has participated in numerous marathon races in this area and has finished in the middle of the pack in the “Iron Man competition.” Joosten told Lion’s Club members about the Belanak Project, which will be located off the coast in the Natuna Sea. A 350-mile pipeline was completed in June 2000. This pipeline lies under 300 feet of ocean and runs under one of the busiest waterways in the world. Many lateral lines feed into the main pipeline that will supply LPG to Malaysia and Singapore. The project that will be completed in 2004 will consist of two unmanned well head platforms and a large ship will house the gas processing plant. This ship, one of the largest ever built will be over three football fields long and will have over a million barrel capacity. Some of the challenges the engineers have dealt with in this first effort to build a processing plant of this nature on a moving vessel include listing of the ship which interferes with the flow of the crude oil products, corrosion, scale and the temperatures which affect both the pour point and flow assurance, said the speaker. The refrigerated LP gas will be stored aboard the ship and used to supply energy to both Malaysia and Singapore. Guests included Dolley Rolland and Catherine Haynes. Cathy Ferguson and Kristy Russell were welcomed as new members. Susan Ladner was recognized as one of only three in the entire district for being a 100 percent secretary. The Sooner Ten Award Winner, Dick Balfanz made a donation the Lion’s Eye Bank. Student Lions were Katherine Paschal and Jimmo Ozmont. Ozmont, the son of Illene and Pat Ozmont, plays varsity football and baseball, has been named to Who’s Who in American Students for two years, and is a member of the Panic Board and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He recently was named Scholar Athlete of the week. Paschal the daughter of Jimmy and Suzy Paschal plays violin in the PoHi Orchestra where she has been named an All State member. She has played with the Wichita Youth Symphony and is a member of the Panic Board, Yearbook committee, and is on the honor roll. She is a member of The National Honor Society. Noon Lions Club meets every Wednesday at noon at the American Legion on South Avenue. The members are businessmen and women in the community who have a desire to help and serve others. The motto is “we serve.” They are known worldwide as Knights of the Blind and the focus of Lions International is prevention of blindness and providing eyeglasses and other vision aids for needy individuals along with promoting diabetes awareness. Wedding Plans AnnouncedMr. and Mrs. Bedford R. Rush of Arkansas City, Kan. have announced the engagement and approaching marriage of their granddaughter, Raina Marie Rush, to Jeremiah Lee Mercer. An open invitation is extended to friends and family to attend the 4 p.m. ceremony Nov. 25 at St. Luke’s Church of the Nazarene in Ponca City, and the reception following. The bride-elect is the daughter of Robert Lee Rush of Arkansas City, Kan. and Candice Lorene Sanborn of Ponca City, and is also the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Shupe of Arkansas City, Kan. Mercer is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Don Duane Mercer of Tonkawa, and the grandson of John Simms of Tonkawa, and Fran Mercer of Redding, Calif. Bits and PiecesAlison Arrington was recently initiated into Nu Chapter of Kappa Delta sorority at Oklahoma State University. Change of Speaker for OAS MeetingMembers of the Kay County Chapter of the Oklahoma Anthropological Society will meet at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9, in the Conoco Fourth Street Club House. Joe Todd from the Oklahoma Historical Society will be the guest speaker. He will discuss his experiences as a cultural officer during Desert Storm. Legion Auxiliary CelebratingAmerican Legion Post 14 and Auxiliary Unit 14 will celebrate the auxiliary’s birthday Thursday, Nov. 9 at a 6:30 p.m. dinner at the post on South Avenue. All Goldstar Mothers and spouses are invited to be special guests that evening. Gold Star Mothers in this area include Vera Jean Officer, Catherine Johnson and Thelma Rouse of Ponca City, Rita Horinek of Newkirk, and Sylvia Simmons of Blackwell. Gold Star Mothers not listed are asked to contact Lisa McGee, 767-8795. Gold star parents have also been invited to be guests at the lunch being served at the post following the Veteran’s Day parade Saturday. Carla O’Neill Will Chair Next Cook-OffProfessionals Today elected Pixie Rowland president at the recent meeting held at Pizza Hut. Liz Cochrane was named vice-president, Mary Maddux, treasurer, and Jan Emo as secretary. Installation of officers will be Dec. 14 at the home of Ann Bandy. Members will also bring paper goods for donation to Golden Villa at that time. The member of the year is to be honored at the meeting also. Roses and Raspberries were given by Bobbie Smith and Louise Abercrombie. Celebrating November birthdays were Leslie Sutton and Mary Maddox. “Moments” was given by Abercrombie on “Stress.” President Sue Lunsford called on various committees for reports. Those giving reports were Lana Jones, Community Service; Melody Lahann, Hospitality; Program, Pixie Rowland. Robyn Boettcher, chairman of the annual cook-off, announced that Carla O'Neill has agreed to be the co-chairman for the 2001event. The next meeting is set for Nov. 16 at Royal China restaurant. The program will be on “Vintage Clothing,” and will be presented by Lilly Strickland. Meals on Wheels AvailableMeals on Wheels are delivered at noon Monday-Friday by volunteers. The meals are prepared at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center and special diets can be prepared with a written order from a physician. Meals are available to persons 65 years of age and older. Those younger than 65 may receive meals if disabled or for two weeks following dismissal from the hospital. Cost is $2.50 per meal, and adjustment is made for financial need. For more information call 762-4707 or 765-0331. Substitutions may be made by SJRMC if necessary. SPORTSSooners Relaxed as No. 1 Sooners Relaxed as No. 1NORMAN (AP) — If there’s any pressure building on No. 1 Oklahoma, it doesn’t show. The Sooners (8-0) are the lone unbeaten team in Division I and are three victories away from their first 11-0 season since 1987. Unlike the Oklahoma teams of the 1970s and 1980s that routinely were in the national championship picture, this team is loaded with young players who have helped turn around a program that struggled during much of the past decade. This week, the Sooners play No. 23 Texas A&M (7-2), which is regarded as the last hurdle on their way to the Big 12 South Division title. “This is another big game, and we’ve had a bunch of ’em,” coach Bob Stoops said Tuesday. “Our preparation never changes. Everything that we do stays the same. I don’t see any pressure. We don’t see it as a team. “This is what we do. We’re supposed to play well. We’re going to be prepared to play well and go about our business like we always do.” The Sooners (5-0 Big 12) have played well in the spotlight so far. They beat then-No. 11 Texas 63-14 in Dallas, followed that with a 41-31 victory at then-No. 2 Kansas State, and two weeks later beat then-No. 1 Nebraska, 31-14. Stoops was on the staff of some great Florida teams, including the team that won the national title in 1996, and said that experience is a benefit now. “The teams that I’ve been on that have been in those situations have operated much like we have, in the same businesslike manner,” he said. “Be prepared to play and turn it loose and see what we can do.” One player who has gained national recognition as a result of Oklahoma’s rise is quarterback Josh Heupel, who is considered among the front-runners for the Heisman Trophy. Heupel says he feels no more pressure now than he did when the Sooners played Texas-El Paso in the opener. “The pressure I put on myself is the same,” he said. “I put a lot of pressure on myself to go out and play the best football I can for the people who are in that locker room.” But with each victory, Oklahoma has more to lose. A loss in any of their remaining games likely would knock them out of a chance for the national title. “That’s not pressure,” Heupel said. “Pressure’s being 0-8. It better be fun. If you’re not enjoying it, then you shouldn’t be in the game.” Stoops said he and his players haven’t gotten too excited about being No. 1 and unbeaten, but also haven’t tried to hide from it. “Like we tell the players, that’s motivation,” he said. “Let’s keep it. That’s what everyone fights to be, in a situation late in the season where you’re there. Let’s fight to hold onto it and keep it.” SOONER NOTES: Stoops said the Sooners will play crowd noise and band music during practices this week to prepare for the noise of Kyle Field in College Station. “The players like it because they can’t hear the coaches yelling at them,” he said. ... Stoops was asked why tight end Trent Smith has had so few catches in recent games. “He must not be taking Josh to dinner,” the coach said. Aggies Must Stop HeupelSooners Have Blitzed Texas Opponents COLLEGE STATION, Texas (AP) — Seems like every time No. 1 ranked Oklahoma had played a Texas team this season, it’s been bad news for the Lone Star State. The Sooners have outscored four Texas opponents 216-49, including a 63-14 embarrassment of the Texas Longhorns, and now No. 23 Texas A&M awaits at visitor-hostile Kyle Field where the Sooners haven’t won since 1903. But this time, the Sooners will come calling with Heisman Trophy candidate Josh Heupel at quarterback. The Aggies Wrecking Crew defense will try to do what no other team has been able to accomplish: stop Heupel. “I’ve watched how people play him,” said A&M coach R.C. Slocum. “Some blitz all the time, some zone and some mix it up but the results have been pretty much the same. I think it’s more a matter of scheme with some players.” With Heupel at the helm, the Sooners and the aerial magic of coach Bob Stoops have dominated everyone they’ve played, not just the Texas victims. The Sooners got their No. 1 ranking by beating the No. 1 and No. 2 teams back to back. Heupel riddled then No. 2 Kansas State 41-31 and then got the No.1 rank by beating Nebraska 31-14. The Sooners (8-0, 5-0 in Big 12) warmed up for the Aggies (7-2, 5-1) by blowing out Baylor 56-7 last week with Heupel getting plenty of rest. Oklahoma also beat Texas-El Paso 55-14 and Rice 42-14. Heupel is “smart for starters,” Slocum said. “It’s obvious on the field that he has poise. He knows what’s going on. He’s very accurate and throws precise passes. He seems to throw the deep ball on his back foot very well. He’s a rare talent. “I’ve not seen him in a game so far that he was in any way out of control.”We’re going to be prepared to play well and go about our business like we always do.” No one has come close to slowing down Heupel or the Sooner offense this season. Oklahoma leads the nation in scoring per game with a 45.9 average and they are sixth in total offense with 471.4 yards per game. Not only are the Aggies hosting the No. 1 ranked team in their final home game of the season, but there is that matter of last year’s 51-6 loss to the Sooners in Norman, still called by many Aggie players as their most embarrassing moment. “If you blitz you’ll get hurt, if you don’t, he just backs up and picks you apart,” cornerback Jay Brooks said. “I think we’ve got to mix it up and give him a combination of both.” Heupel gave the Aggies a taste of the Sooner offense last year when he hit 31 of 50 passes for 372 yards, passing for three touchdowns and running for three more. “They have more experience and confidence in what they are doing,” Slocum said. “They’ve been doing this for two seasons. They know more about their personnel and they just look more oiled up at what they are doing.” The Aggies have played this season with a young secondary; safety Michael Jameson is its only experienced member. “Last year, we tried to pressure the quarterback but he didn’t make any bad passes and he didn’t make any mistakes,” said linebacker Roylin Bradley. “This year it’s our job to make him make those mistakes.” While the Aggies have been studying Heupel, the Sooners have been watching them too. “They’ll probably blitz a little bt more and play a little more man than they did a year ago,” Stoops said. “Outside of that, I’m sure they’ll mix it up like about everyone that’s played us has.” Heupel added: “They have great athletes across the board, they mix up their fronts, disguise ’em well.”
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