LOCAL

Dunham in State Spotlight At Hall of Fame Ceremony
Nearly News
Watts Part of Republican Congressional Revolution
District Court
Brace Books Joins Others In Protest
New Leo Club at Mid-High
NOC Homecoming Events This Week

Dunham in State Spotlight At Hall of Fame Ceremony

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Staff Writer

Conoco’s President and Chief Executive Officer Archie Dunham was in the state spotlight Wednesday evening as the native of Ada was inducted into the prestigious Oklahoma Hall of Fame.

Presented by world renowned aviator and jet pilot Charles “Chuck” Yeager at the Performing Arts Center in Tulsa, Dunham was one of six honorees of the event sponsored by the Oklahoma Heritage Association.

Recognized nationally and internationally, Dunham recently rang the starting bell on worldwide television at the New York Stock Exchange for Conoco’s initial public offering signaling the largest IPO in history. The offering raised $4.4 billion.

Yeager told about Dunham spearheading the drive to split off Conoco from DuPont. A recent story in the Houston Chronicle tells that Dunham sat down with investment bankers, and energy consultants to brainstorm about the future of the company.

Dunham is quoted, “We asked them to sit down over several months and look at the worldwide petroleum industry and think about what Conoco should look like in the year 2000.”

The end result was the executives concluded that the company should be a separate public entity, a move they thought would likely benefit both Conoco and DuPont.

A portion of that Wall Street bell ringing video was shown on the giant screen during the ceremony as well as other portions devoted to Dunham’s life and his rise to the highest pinnacle of Conoco.

Yeager lauded Dunham for his company efforts, as a leader in the energy world and his work with the University of OKlahoma’s Reach for Excellence Campaign. At the dinner prior to the induction ceremony, David Boren, former Oklahoma senator and governor, who is now president of OU, was seated at the Dunham’s table.

In accepting the Oklahoma Hall of Fame medallion from the Heritage Foundation, Dunham said although he and his wife Linda have lived in a number of places and walked with presidents and crown princes of countries, “Oklahoma is our home state and this is where are roots are.”

The Conoco executive said, “This is a special night. Linda and I are ordinary people, who have been extraordinarily blessed.”

Dunham paid tribute to his parents and noted that he was the first Dunham boy to go to college, and that he grew up learning Christian principles, hard work and integrity. Dunham praised his wife of 38 years as being the love of his life, his partner and the mother of their children.

The awardee thanked Conoco for his opportunities and recognized the large company contingency in attendance.

The delegation from Conoco, reported to be over 100, was a cross section of the energy company and guests came from across the nation who came to see one of their own honored.

The guest roster read like a Conoco Who’s Who list. Among the notables were Conoco retirees former president Ralph Bailey and Wayne Glenn. Several were on hand from Houston including Gary Edwards, Colbert Wilhite, retirees Ted Davis and Jerry Sellers to mention a few.

Those from the Ponca City corporate delegation were Richard and Nancy Severance, Barry and Lois Bickle, Lynn Hohensee and Keith Pichanick. Other Ponca Citians on hand for the festivities included Mr. and Mrs. Carl Renfro, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Leonard, Mr. and Mrs. Jan Jarrett.

Lt. Gov. Mary Fallin brought greetings from the Governor’s office and congratulations to the Hall of Fame inductees.

Following the formal presentation a reception was held at the Adams Mark Hotel, where the honorees greeted guests and friends.

Among the guests at the ceremonies were past Pioneer Woman Awardees, Judge Alma Wilson, Martha Griffith and Donna Nigh, have been honored here at the Marland Mansion’s Renaissance Ball.

Sharing the spotlight with Dunham five other inductees including country and western entertainer Reba McEntire, a native of Stringtown, four times winner of the People’s Choice Awards; Herman Meinders, Oklahoma City, founder of American Floral Services; Dr. W. French Anderson, a native of Tulsa, pioneer in gene therapy; Wanda L. Bass, McAlester, philanthropist and patron of the arts; Dr. Donald Cooper, Stillwater.

The event was taped by OETA and will be telecast at 8 p.m. Saturday on Channel 13.

Nearly News

Nearly News has learned that two great-granddaughters of Floyd and Ruth Pomeroy will be performing during the half-time show at the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys annual Thanksgiving Day game in Dallas. Kellie and Sara Rubottom are part of the Rhythmic Notions dance team from Owasso which will join with dancers from New York and Florida to entertain the national audience.

Just how many angels are there? A census of angels is being taken by the Festival of Angels committee. If you have, or will have, a lighted angel in your yard or neighborhood, call Angel Central, 762-4567, and report your address and angel count before Dec. 12. Results will be reported prior to Christmas so all can know just how many angels are really in Ponca City.

Watts Part of Republican Congressional Revolution

WASHINGTON (AP) — A whirlwind two weeks after their Election Day disappointment, House Republicans who said their leadership needs a new face now have four of them, including Rep. J.C. Watts, the only black Republican in Congress.

And the team chosen to lead the GOP next year is spouting a conservative but pragmatic and inclusive tone that contrasts with the revolutionary fervor that marked their ascension into the majority in Congress four years ago.

After being chosen Wednesday to replace Rep. Newt Gingrich as speaker, Rep. Bob Livingston, R-La., touted GOP goals of tax cuts and smaller government but added, ‘‘We welcome anyone, the president or any Democrat to help us in advancing that agenda.’’

Livingston was only acknowledging reality. In the new Congress, his party will have only a 223-211 edge over Democrats, not including an independent who usually votes with Democrats, meaning that without Democratic support, as few as six GOP defectors could spell defeat for Republican legislation.

The House will formally elect Livingston as speaker on Jan. 6 when the 106th Congress convenes. He will preside over a House that may have to decide whether to vote to impeach President Clinton if the House Judiciary Committee recommends such a historic move following hearings that begin today.

Finding a way to assure the future of Social Security and tax cuts are among other items on the agenda.

Watts’ election also was seen as a nod toward a changing world, in which growing numbers of Republicans believe their party must reach toward women and minority Americans if the GOP is to retain its majorities in the House and Senate.

‘‘I think it’s good for the Republican Party for America to know that the Republican Party, that we’re a party of men and women, and red, yellow, brown, black and white Americans,’’ said Watts, the first black in a House GOP leadership post in at least six decades.

When they captured the House in 1994 after four decades in the minority, Gingrich, R-Ga., and his GOP followers spoke of being unwilling to compromise with President Clinton and congressional Democrats. Their goal was dramatic tax cuts and elimination of entire government agencies like the Education Department, and Gingrich often spoke of himself of being a ‘‘transformational’’ figure in American history.

But that is changing as House Republicans have watched their majority dwindle in two consecutive elections.

Gingrich hastily announced his resignation shortly after the Nov. 3 elections turned GOP expectations of big House pickups into a five-seat loss.

Watts, the former University of Oklahoma and Canadian Football League quarterback, ousted Rep. John Boehner, R-Ohio, from his No. 4 leadership job as GOP conference chairman by a 121-93 vote. The conservative Watts, who turned 41 Wednesday, gives his party a fresh, telegenic presence and a departure from the white males who have dominated the party for years.

In addition, moderate Rep. Tom Davis of Virginia ousted Rep. John Linder of Georgia from his post as head of the House GOP’s campaign committee by 130-77. As head of the effort to elect Republicans on Election Day, the defeat of Linder — who had been hand-picked for the job by Gingrich — had seemed almost inevitable.

Livingston, the House Appropriations Committee chairman, had no opposition and was nominated by voice vote of the 223 House Republicans who will serve in the next Congress.

District Court

Newkirk

Marriage Licenses

David Mark Trimmer, 24, and Rebekah Elizabeth Hankinson, 20, both of Tonkawa.

Darrell Dean Fletcher, 42, and Cheryl May Sadalia Dentler, 49, both of Derby, Kan.

Juan Mendoza Lopez, 20, and Margret Inez Daugomah, 19, both of Ponca City.

James Ernest Beller Jr., 18, and Rebecca Jo Breeder, 17, both of Ponca City.

Sammy Joel Gillespie, 39, and Cheryl Lynn Cramer, 38, both of Ponca City.

Jesus Manuel Rivera, 19, and Marisela Gomez, 18, both of Ponca City.

Jeremy Alan Williams, 21, and Shelly Kay Buxton, 22, both of Blackwell.

Michael Wayne Douglas, 27, and Jennifer Marie Caldron, 25, both of Ponca City.

Jose Angel Fernando Maciel Jr., 26, and Rosa Isela Rico, 32, both of Ponca City.

David Lynn Bolton, 50, Aubrey, Texas, and Mary Alice Esch, 43, Tonkawa.

Divorces Sought

Claire L. Ware vs. Matthew Allen Ware.

Civil Petitions

Greenwood Trust/Discover Card vs. Lisa Lewis; plaintiff seeking judgment for $3,711.41.

Sandra Sue Fisher vs. Steven W. Wilkerson; plaintiff seeking judgment in excess of $10,000.

NationsBank N.A. vs. Cody Cox and Homer Jones; plaintiff seeking judgment for $6,714.04.

Ford Motor Credit Company vs. Patrica L. Followwill; plaintiff seeking judgment for $5,040.12.

Providian National Bank vs. Virginia Heck; plaintiff seeking judgment for $11,659.80.

Sears Roebuck & Co. vs. Donald N. Black Jr.; plaintiff seeking judgment for $5,356.73.

American Express Travel Related Service vs. Lloyd W. Jones; plaintiff seeking judgment for $7,501.44.

Blackwell

Divorces Granted

Shane H. Vaughn vs. Catherine Michelle Vaughn.

Civil Petitions

Creditors Recovery Corp. vs. Tim Wilson and Brenda Wilson; plaintiff seeking judgment for $11,286.93.

Harry L. Coker vs. Patricia Jacobs, et al.; plaintiff seeking judgment in excess of $10,000.

Ponca City

Divorces Sought

Misty Kay Norman vs. Arlyn Chester Norman.

Mark Anthony Womack vs. Leslee Diann Womack.

Shelly J. Enderud vs. Ronnie L. Enderud.

Jose Juan Martinez vs. Kimberly June Lieb.

Divorces Granted

Denisa D. Duvall vs. John Paul Duvall.

Christina Ann Monroy vs. Emilio Monroy; plaintiff restored to former name Christina Ann Tober.

Clara June Stettnisch vs. Jerry Stettnisch.

Diana Lynn Wynn vs. Jimmy Rive Wynn; plaintiff restored to former name Diana Lynn Morain.

Civil Petitions

O’Sullivan Industries Inc. vs. Kenneth D. Orr; plaintiff seeking judgment for $23,925.26.

Dennis Adams vs. John Paul DeHaven; plaintiff seeking judgment in excess of $10,000.

Karen K. Zarth vs. Oklahoma Highway Patrol, et al.; plaintiff seeking judgment in excess of $10,000.

Michelle Suttles vs. Allen Larssen; plaintiff seeking judgment in excess of $10,000.

Bowker Auto Group Inc. vs. Jeremy J. Magnus and Patsy D. Cowan; plaintiff seeking judgment for $4,542.07.

Brace Books Joins Others In Protest

Brace Books & More, a local bookstore, is joining other independently owned bookstores across the country, and the American Booksellers Association, in protesting the proposed acquisition of Ingram Book Company by Barnes & Noble, Inc., according to Jean Brace.

Ingram Book Company is the largest supplier of wholesale books in America. With the acquisition of Barnes & Noble, the deal “would make independent bookstores virtually dependent upon their largest competitor.”

The American Booksellers Association contends, in a pending antitrust discrimination suit, that Barnes and Noble has had a “longstanding, systematic strategy of driving independents out of business to stifle competition.”

A letter sent to the Attorney General Janet Reno and Robert Pitofsky, chairman of the Federal Trade Commission, calls on them to immediately investigate the proposed acquisition of Ingram as it “is a devastating development that threatens the viability of competition in the book industry, and limits the diversity and availability of books to consumers.”

This letter, being endorsed by scores of booksellers coast to coast, goes on to say that “should it be allowed to take place, this acquisition would be just one more example of the large scale corporate consolidation that has infiltrated every corner of our culture.”

The letter further states that “consumers are left with an environment in which fewer and fewer people are deciding which books get published, and, ultimately, which books Americans can read and buy.”

New Leo Club at Mid-High

New Leo Clubs are being formed by the Ponca City Noon Lions Club. One of these is the Ponca City Mid-Hi Leo Club.

Leo clubs are service-oriented youth groups open to young people ages 12 to 28 who are dedicated to making a difference in their community.

The new club will hold its meetings every other Tuesday morning at 7:30 a.m. at the Mid-High in room 213A. All interested eighth and ninth grade youth are invited to attend these meetings.

Leo Clubs are an activity of Lions Club International, the largest service club organization in the world. Known as the “Knights of the Blind,” Lions club membership exceeds 1.4 million. There are more than 43,500 Lions Clubs worldwide.

The first Leo Club was organized in Glenside, Pa., in 1957. It was created to introduce community service to young people. When Lions Clubs around the world learned of this group of young volunteers, they duplicated the concept, and soon Leo Clubs were formed all over the world. In 1967-68, the Board of Directors of Lions Clubs International officially adopted the Leo Club program. There are now more than 5,500 Leo Clubs with over 138,000 members in 139 nations of the world.

The motto of the Leo Club program is Leadership, Experience and Opportunity. The objective of the Leo Club program is “to provide the youth of the world with an opportunity for development and contribution, individually and collectively, as responsible members of the local, national and international community.”

Advisors of the Mid-Hi Leo Club are Lions Susan Skinner Ladner and Lilly Strickland. Officers of the clubs are Mikel Montgomery, president; Anna Stalcup, vice president; Laura Murray, secretary; Morgan Mongold, treasurer; Jennifer Matlock, Lisa Lechtenberg and Jessica McCulley, ninth grade board members; and Tim Kana, eighth grade board member.

The first service project of the Mid-Hi Leo Club was to plant flowers in front of the Mid-Hi building. Members of the club met on a Sunday afternoon and planted over 150 tulip and daffodil bulbs in front of the school and also weeded and cleaned out two existing flower beds.

Members also marched in the Veterans Day parade with the Ponca City Noon Lions Club float wearing their new Leo Club T-shirts.

Another project in the works is a city-wide eye glass collection drive. The club is in the process of making boxes to put in various locations around Ponca City to encourage people to recycle their eyeglasses for those who cannot afford eyeglasses.

Working in conjunction with the Westside Community Alliance project, the club will be having a school-wide Christmas drive with each homeroom competing to see which homeroom brings the most new toys, items for the elderly and used coats. The homeroom that wins will have a pizza and coke party. The Mid-Hi Leo club will wrap these toys and help Officers Brad Fultz and Tom Burg distribute them.

To suggest a worthy project, or for more information about the Ponca City Mid-Hi Leo Club, contact Susan or Lilly at 762-5659 during the day or 765-2876 in the evening.

To donate eyeglasses, toys, coats or items for the elderly, call for pick up of items.

NOC Homecoming Events This Week

TONKAWA — Northern Oklahoma College will celebrate homecoming this week with a theme of “Tye ‘Em Up.” Students, alumni and friends are invited to attend the activities.

Homecoming skits will be presented at the “That’s No Bull Revue” Friday evening, at 7:30 p.m. in the Northern Performing Arts Center. Terry Ballard, assistant dean of student activities and baseball coach, will be master of ceremonies and will introduce all sports teams, cheerleaders and Homecoming Queen finalists.

Saturday afternoon the Lady Mavericks and Mavericks basketball teams will face Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College Golden Norse in Foster-Piper Fieldhouse. Tipoff time is 2 p.m. for the women and 4 p.m. for the men. The Spirit Winds band, directed by Dineo Heilmann, and the Northern cheerleading squad will be on hand to cheer the teams to victory. The Homecoming Queen, which will be selected by the vote of the students, faculty and staff from among five finalists, will be crowned during halftime of the men’s game.

The Roustabouts, Northern’s musical show troupe, will be performing Nov. 21 at 8 p.m. in Northern’s Performing Arts Center. They will be performing a new show with a mixture of current hits such as Shaniah Twain’s “Still the One” and Jennifer Paige’s “Crush.” Among older hits they plan to perform are “Somebody to Love” by Queen and Glen Frey’s “The Heat is On.” The concert is open to the public and admission is free.

Following the performance, students, alumni and friends can dance the night away to tunes provided by Rolling Thunder from Stillwater. The dance will be held in the Memorial Student Union from 9:30 p.m. to midnight.

DEATHS

L. Beauford Tickel
Kenneth Lee Green
Joy Fowler
Mildred M. Rothgeb

L. Beauford Tickel

BRAMAN — L. Beauford Tickel, lifelong Braman area resident, died Tuesday evening, Nov. 17, 1998, at Medicalodge North in Arkansas City, Kan. He was 88.

The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at the Roberts Funeral Home Chapel in Blackwell. The Rev. Rick Longcrier, Blackwell First Baptist Church will officiate. Burial will be in the Braman Cemetery.

L. Beauford Tickel was born April 13, 1910, in rural Braman to Charles Edward and Mary Alice (Clause) Tickel. He grew up in the Braman area and attended Blackwell and Dilworth schools. After receiving his education he began farming with his father.

He married Lois Burgett on April 20, 1933, in Wellington, Kan., and the couple settled northeast of Braman, where he continued to farm. He later became involved in oilfield pumping and production activity. Tickel was a member of the Braman First Baptist Church and the IOOF Lodge.

Survivors include his wife, Lois, of Wichita, Kan.; three daughters, Wanda Mae Bellew of Wichita, Kan., Norma Lee Leabo of Clearwater, Kan., and Glenda Jean Hawkins of Sedan, Kan.; one son, James E. Tickel of Winfield, Kan.; one sister, Ada Sprague of Springdale, Ark.; 16 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, Lyman Beauford Tickel Jr.; his parents; two sisters, Lovina Boesch and Leonora Bergman; two brothers, Norris and Kenneth Tickel; and a granddaughter.

Casket bearers will be Barry Leabo, Brian Leabo, Brett Leabo, Cory Hawkins, Andy Tickel, and Matthew Tickel. Honorary bearers will be Harold Shoffner, Wayne Shoffner, Bill Shoffner, Lester Ray and Carl Storck.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Tickel’s name to Braman First Baptist Church, c/o Roberts Funeral Home, 120 West Padon, Blackwell, OK 74631.

Kenneth Lee Green

BLACKWELL — Kenneth Lee Green, Blackwell resident, died Tuesday evening, Nov. 17, 1998, at Wesley Rehabilitation Unit in Wichita, Kan. He was 78.

The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 20, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Branch president John Hadsell of Blackwell and Elder Rodney O. McCrory of Shawnee, will officiate. Burial will be in the Blackwell Cemetery under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home.

Kenneth Lee Green was born Dec. 14, 1919, in Redding, to Luther and Gertrude (Snow) Green. He grew up and attended school in Oklahoma City. During World War II he entered the United States Marine Corps and served at Pearl Harbor.

He married Sylvia Lee White on Oct. 30, 1957, in Corpus Christi, Texas. They lived at various military bases until 1966, when he retired from the U.S. Marine Corps. After Mr. Green’s retirement they moved to Blackwell, where he began employment at Acme Foundry. He later worked as a security guard for Conoco in Ponca City. He was a member of the Blackwell VFW and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Survivors include three sons, Kenneth Green Jr. of Reno, Nev., and Michael Bruce Harrison and Patrick Wilson Green, both of Blackwell; one daughter, Renee Rodrigas of Reno, Nev.; one brother, Pershing “Bud” Green of San Diego, Calif.; one sister, Emily Marie Christenson, Yacca Valley, Calif.; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife on Feb. 13, 1996, and his parents.

Casket bearers will be Ed Vetters, Tim McCrory, Erick Harrison, Patrick Green, Douglas Ockerman, and Adam Borg.

Joy Fowler

Joy Fowler, Ponca City resident, died Monday evening, Nov. 16, 1998, at her home. She was 70.

Arrangements are under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel and no services are planned.

Joy (Kennedy) Fowler, was born July 16, 1928, in Denver, Colo., to George Lammar and Jessie Pearl (Hardin) Kennedy. She grew up and received her education in Salinas, Calif.

She was married to Donald K. Fowler on April 7, 1950, in Monterey, Calif., and the couple made their home in Salinas, Calif. Mrs. Fowler moved to Ponca City in 1981, where she was employed as a welder at Titus Manufacturing for five years. She was a member of the Moose Lodge, American Legion, VFW Auxiliary and enjoyed swimming and baseball.

Survivors include two children, Billie Lee Huntley of Titusville, Fla., and Bobbie Dee Avery of Georgia; two brothers, George “Jack” Kennedy of Bakersfield, Calif., and Fredrick Norton Kennedy of Chico, Calif.; three sisters, Barbara Coate of Ponca City, Josephine Carston and Gretchen McDonald, both of Salinas, Calif; a companion, Paula Fields of the home; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents; one brother Nathan Kennedy; and two sisters, Ellen Thomas and Ruth Morgan.

Services Pending

Mildred M. Rothgeb

TONKAWA — Mildred Marie Rothgeb, Tonkawa resident, died early this morning, Nov. 19, 1998, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Ponca City. She was 94. Arrangements are pending with McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home, Tonkawa.

NEWS BRIEFS

Hunter Breakfast — The Marland Bucket Brigade will sponsor a breakfast Saturday to observe opening day of deer hunting season. Serving from 6 a.m. to noon, this event will be held at the fire station, which was part of the former Marland School campus located in the north edge of Marland, one block west of Oklahoma 156. Breakfast, including a choice of pancakes and sausage or sausage gravy and biscuits, will cost $3 per person. Proceeds go toward the purchase of equipment for the fire department.

State Certified DUI School Bridgeway, Inc. is Kay Co.'s only

local non-profit organization that offers both mid week and week-

end DUI Schools and Assessments. Next school scheduled

Friday, November 20nd, and Saturday, November 21st, starting at

5:00 p.m. We now offer the 24 hr. DUI School. Call 762-1462 for res-

ervations and information. adv.

Chili Supper Scheduled — A Chili Supper at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church is planned for Friday, Nov. 27 from 5 to 7 p.m., followed by downtown caroling and tree lighting, sponsored by the Good Shepherd Lutheran Youth. Proceeds will go toward their Mission Trip to Mexico. Cost of the supper is $3. Everyone welcome.

Ponca Playhouse will present Thornton Wilder’s Pulitzer prize-

winning play “Our Town” on November 13, 14, 15, 20 and 21st at the Ponca Theater. To purchase tickets for this heart-warming pro

duction call 765-5360. adv.

Craft Fair at Kildare — The Kildare School Craft Fair will be Saturday at the Kildare School from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be plenty of parking in back of the school.

Trisha Yearwood: A magical night in concert. Grammy win-

ning performer only on pay per view. Friday, November 29th at

8:00 p.m. for just $19.95. For advance ordering call Cable ONE at

762-6684. adv.

Hungry for Turkey? — Well then, come on over to the OCAW Hall, 1202 West Ponca, on Sunday, Nov. 22 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a turkey dinner, prepared and served by Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Fellowship Committee. Pie auction to follow lunch. Proceeds matched by AAL. Cost is $5 for adults and $3 for children 8 and under.

Book House going out of business sale. Huge discounts on all

books, fixtures, and shelving. All used paper backs .50, Thursday,

Saturday, 9-4, 114 North 3rd Street. adv.

Sherman Receives Badge — Gary Sherman, former Ponca City resident and 1982 graduate of Po-Hi, recently received his pari-medic badge at the Mesquite (Texas) Fire Department where he is a fireman. Gary is married to the former Tina Sherwin and they have three daughters, Stephanie, Khira and Heather. Friends can write him at 4491 Country Rd 3110, Campbell, TX, 75422.

Being Relocated, or in town for a short time?. We have homes

available by the month or longer. All homes are full furnished with

appliances, furniture, linens, pots and pans. Inclusive of cable,

local phone, and utilities. Please call 580-762-7980 or 580-718-0681.

adv.

Extra Patrol — Extra police patrol was requested at 1:34 p.m. Wednesday in the 600 block of South Thirteenth Street due to a prowler.

Bed Fire — At 8:40 p.m. Wednesday fire units responded to a report of bed on fire in the 700 block of East Chestnut Avenue.

Theft — At 2:02 p.m. Wednesday a theft of a digital camera was reported at Smith Tool, 1405 North Waverly Street. An officer was assigned.

Accident — A vehicle and motorcycle accident at Fourteenth Street and East Grand Avenue was reported to police at 2:26 p.m. Wednesday.

Cat Killing — A woman in the 700 block of West Otoe Avenue contacted police at 3:50 p.m. Wednesday reporting that a juvenile had killed her cat in front of her. An officer was assigned.

Attempted Theft — At 7:25 p.m. Wednesday police were advised of an attempted beer theft at the Citgo, 400 East South Avenue.

Assault — At 4:46 p.m. Wednesday police received a report of a student being assaulted at the Middle School, 1401 West Grand Avenue.

Arrest — Police arrested a 21-year-old man at 12:06 a.m. today from West Cleveland Avenue and North Union Street for driving under suspension and on a city warrant for failure to pay.

Juvenile Cited — A juvenile driving a vehicle without lights was stopped by police at 12:26 a.m. today at West Central Avenue and South Sunset Street. The car was towed, the juvenile was cited and then released to parents.

Assault — At 4:51 p.m. Wednesday a woman in the 200 block of South Oak Street advised police of an assault. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Arrest — Police arrested a 19-year-old man at South Sixth Street and Alma Avenue at 5:07 p.m. Wednesday of driving under suspension, no inspection, expired tag and on a city warrant for failure to appear.

Burglary — At 1:59 a.m. and then again at 5:37 a.m. today burglaries occurred at Woodridge Market, 4128 Lake Road.

Two Citians Serve in Mediterranean — Two Ponca Citians are serving in the Mediterranean with the U.S. Navy. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Joseph D. Carlat, whose wife, Terri, is the daughter of Darrell and June Barnes of Ponca City, and Navy Airman Terry L. Burge, son of Keith Burge of 1713 North Osage, Ponca City, are currently on a six-month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea and Arabian Gulf aboard the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower. While deployed, the ship earned the Allen G. Ogden Award for being the best afloat crash and salvage aircraft carrier. During the deployment, the ship has conducted strike warfare exercises in the Adriatic Sea, launching 294 sorties in two days as well as participating in Matador Livex ’98, a combined forces exercise. Carlat, a 1983 graduate of Waxahachie High School of Waxahachie, Texas, joined the Navy in April 1993. Burge is a 1997 graduate of Ponca City Senior High School, joining the Navy in August 1997.

Pauline's Shrimp peel. All you can eat, $11.95, Friday the 20th.

For reservations, call 765-5460.

adv.

Spray Painting — At 8:09 a.m. Wednesday police were notified of spray paint vandalism at Academy Road and East Hartford Avenue. 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.

Break-In — At 8:47 a.m. Wednesday an attempted break-in at Global Connections, 1043 North Union Street, was reported to police. An officer was assigned.

Dougan's Bar-B-Q Thursday special from 4-? 1/2 BBQ chicken

with 2 vegetables, $4.25. 215 South 14th. 765-7979. adv.

Harassment — A man in the 2200 block of North Fourteenth Street called police at 9:21 a.m. Wednesday reporting that he was being harassed.

Instant Passport pictures. Graham Photo, 201 North First, 765-

4348. adv.

Vandalism — At 10:20 a.m. Wednesday vandalism to dumpsters in the 300 block of North Elm Street and 400 block of West Grand Avenue was reported to the police department.

WCW/NWO World War 3. WCW declares war on the best of NWO

Sunday, November 22nd, at 7:00 p.m., $29.95. For advance order-

ing call Cable ONE 762-6684. adv.

Arrest — Police arrested a 19-year-old man at 11:06 a.m. Wednesday from the 300 block of North Lake Street on a Kay County warrant for failure to appear.

Head Country all day Friday special ­ All you can eat, smoked

BBQ ribs, beans, potato salad, and coleslaw, only $6.95, all day.

1217 East Prospect. 767-8304. adv.

Gas Drive-Off — A $20 gas drive-off at the Citgo, 320 West Grand Avenue, was reported to police at 12:55 p.m. Wednesday.

Arrest — A 29-year-old man was arrested at 11:59 p.m. Wednesday in the 200 block of West Grand Avenue on an Kay County warrant for application to revoke and public intoxication.

Candy Making supplies now in! Chocolates, molds, and fondants.

The Gift Shoppe, 301 East Grand. adv.

Assault — At 1:08 p.m. Wednesday an assault in the 300 block of West Grand Avenue was reported to police. An officer was assigned.

Veteran’s Dance to benefit the Veteran’s Home. Elks Lodge, Fri-

day, November 20th, 8:00 p.m. to 12:00 p.m.. Entertainment provided by Main Street Station from Winfield. Cost-$5.00 or bring a

new package of men’s undergarments and get in FREE!! 765-

4045. adv.

Juvenile Arrest — Police arrested a 15-year-old boy at 1:27 p.m. Wednesday from the 500 block of South Thirteenth Street for possession of a controlled and dangerous substance with intent to distribute.

Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential.

Hours: Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and Thursday, 6-

8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. adv.

Arrest — A 24-year-old man was arrested at 12:16 a.m. today from the 200 block of North Pine Street for driving under suspension and failure to provide child restraints.

GARDENING

A Holiday Tradition Grows
Mushrooms Crop Up in Local Landscape
Horticulturist Answers Questions About Plant Problems

A Holiday Tradition Grows

In Europe, winter holiday parties are resplendent with fragrant hyacinths. For centuries, this heady flower has been a traditional decoration for the various holidays that fall in the December winter solstice season. North America’s seasonal poinsettias are admired “over there” but viewed as no match for the flamboyant fragrant hyacinth which continues to reign as the favored holiday flower.

Suddenly it seems that the exotic flower, that so enthralled Marie Antoinette that she filled Versailles Palace with them, may have its day in the USA. The Netherlands Flower Bulb Information Center (NFBIC) in New York City reports that, this December, potted hyacinths will be more widely available to American households than ever before.

“This appears to be a case of consumer interest leading to greater availability,” said Sally Ferguson, director of the NFBIC. U.S. professional flower growers are ordering more hyacinth bulbs to satisfy expected December sales of potted hyacinths at florists, home and garden centers and supermarkets. In several areas orders have increased as much as 30 percent, she said.

“Potted hyacinths have a special appeal that people here are just discovering,” said Sally Ferguson, director of NFBIC. “First there’s the fragrance — which is much more evocative than most people remember,” she said. “Then there’s the luscious waxy color captured in that upright elegant shape.

“White is pulling ahead as the most popular color among Americans for the holidays, followed closely by rich blues, then pinks,” said Ms. Ferguson. “Pink and white are tops in Europe,” she said.

Holiday Fun with Hyacinths

The Netherlands Flower Bulb Information Center offers the following consumer tips on how to select potted hyacinths and use them decoratively for the winter holidays.

To enjoy potted bulbs longest, select young plants with tight buds and just a little color showing­not those already in full bloom. Watching the plants grow is half the fun!

Keep soil moist but not soggy. Potted bulbs are generally sold in little plastic pots­but you can doll them up when you get home! For a more decorative look, try these easy techniques:

1. double pot by lowering the plastic pot into a second prettier pot or cachepot.

2. re-pot by moving bulbs and soil into a different prettier container either permanently or temporarily (even containers without drainage holes will be fine for a few days if you want to create an especially pretty party planting using a favorite crystal bowl or your grandmother’s best serving dish).

3. line the bowls or drape them with glimmering, glittering holiday decor: bits of silver balls, tinsel and other baubles are glamorous mates for the hyacinth’s strong vertical presence; sprays of evergreen and ivies are equally appealing.

Flowers will last longest if kept out of direct sunlight and away from sources of heat (radiators, televisions, or fireplaces). If moved to a cool window sill during “off-hours” when no one is around (say, during the workday or overnight), the flowers will last even longer.

When the flowers have faded, discard the bulbs. Forced hyacinths will not perform at peak levels a second time.

Mushrooms Crop Up in Local Landscape

By Patti N. Carmack

Lifestyles Editor

Every culture has folklore concerning mushrooms. From the fairy home, and ring, to the shelters for elves or gnomes or even “Smurfs”, the mushroom has been portrayed in a variety of ways. Fairy tales aside, when mushrooms appear in lawns around Ponca City, there is a more mundane reason.

Young children tend to eat wild mushrooms in the yard and poisonous mushrooms are extremely difficult to distinguish from edible mushrooms warn poison control center personnel. Prevention is the best defense against mushroom poisoning. if you suspect someone has eaten a mushroom from the yard call the Poison Control Center or your physician. For more information call 1-800-764-7661.

Do you have mushrooms popping up in your yard? Mushrooms grow in the lawn when there has been excessive rainfall, humidity, and warm temperatures. These are perfect conditions for mushrooms to grow.

Some people may want to harvest these for cooking; but many types of mushrooms found in backyards and parks are poisonous. They can make people sick, and in rare cases, cause death. Dogs can also become sick if they eat poisonous mushrooms. Only experts, called mycologists, can determine if the mushroom is a poisonous kind. Experts say that many mushrooms in the grass grow from thatch or clippings built up among grass roots.

Distributed by Wind

Mushrooms reproduce by spores. They are the “seeds” of fungi and produce a root system when they germinate. Spores are carried in the wind and those found in the lawn, wait for the proper conditions to grow. They can literally grow overnight. The best way to control them is to cut or pull them and discard them away from children and pets.

Mushrooms are in a plant group called fungi. Fungi is the plural form of the word fungus. Fungi are different than “green” plants. Other fungi that we eat are mold on blue cheeses and yeast used to make bread. Fungi have no chlorophyll — the pigment that makes leaves green. Chlorophyll is needed for photosynthesis. Photosynthesis depends on light to transform carbon dioxide (CO2) in the air into carbohydrates — sugars and starches — that nourish green plants.

Mushrooms obtain their nourishment from a rich mixture of living (organic) matter called compost. Compost is a formula of materials such as straw or hay, corn cobs, water, cottonseed meal and nitrogen supplements according to information from the Oklahoma County Cooperative Extension.

The mushroom caps and stems that we eat are the fruit of the mushroom plant, just as a tomato is the fruit of a tomato plant. Unlike green plants that are grown from seeds, mushrooms originate from spores which are produced in the gills on the underside of the mushroom cap. You can only see the gills when a mushroom is mature. Otherwise, the gills are covered with a delicate membrane called the veil.

In food production areas spores are collected in sterile environments of a laboratory. They are then used to inoculate sterile grains seeds to produce a product called spawn. Spawn is similar to seeds that are planted to grow green vegetable plants. The spawn is worked into the compost in trays or beds. It is in these trays or beds in which mushrooms grow. The trays or beds are located indoors in climate controlled mushroom rooms. Composting and other steps are taken by the grower to help the crop mature. It takes 9-12 weeks from the time the farmer begins preparing compost and ordering spawn to the time the mushroom crop is sent to the market.

Wild Mushrooms

Around trees, especially those that have cedar mulch, an abundance of wild mushrooms can grow. Mushrooms will grow happily on composted mulch. Some types grow particularly well during a cool moist season, first setting down their “roots,” called mycelium, and then appearing above the surface. Since they grow from spores, it is impossible to tell if they came in with the mulch or if they were there all along. In the wild, mushrooms are an important part of the forest as they help in the decomposition process.

To get rid of them, you might try handpicking the tops and disposing of them, being very careful to wear gloves and not ingest any according to the “Complete Book of Garden Magic.” Stirring the mulch to expose it to the light and air, and topping up the mulch with a fresh, less decomposed batch should also help. As the season becomes drier, you may also discover that they disappear on their own.

Note that mushrooms sprouting from your mulch will not cause harm to your trees; however, if moist mulch is piled against the tree’s trunk, this could cause problems with rot, so pull the mulch a few inches away from the trunk. Some mushrooms grow in decaying wood or tree roots under the soil surface, and others feed off grass roots, killing the turf. In either case, the only chemical-free way to control the mushrooms is to remove the mycelia (the “stem” of the mushroom body) from the soil.

If rotting wood is the source of mushroom growth, remove it and 2” more of soil that surrounded the wood. If you have “fairy ring” fungi that grow in a circle, the fungus is feeding on your turf, and you’ll have to remove the grass and part of surrounding soil as well say the experts. Excess moisture tends to encourage fairy rings, so water your lawn only as needed. With rain like Ponca City has received recently, many people have reported the rapid growth of the fairy rings.

Mushrooms can be a tasty addition to the menu, but please be sure to purchase them from the proper sources. This is one crop you don’t want to grow at home!

Horticulturist Answers Questions About Plant Problems

Q: I’ve read that astilbes are pretty well pest free, but I’ve noticed a white coating develop on the leaves of my plants. It looks like mildew. Is astilbe prone to this disease? It’s not on all of my plants, just certain varieties and not every year. M.P., Eugene, OR

A: Yes, the disease is powdery mildew and some astilbe varieties are prone to it if environmental conditions are cool and humid. The disease is very sensitive to weather and usually won’t be a problem. Free moisture on the plant’s leaves tends to inhibit powdery mildew, but humid damp conditions are ideal. Wetting the foliage may help slow the disease as will the application of a fungicide such as wettable sulfur. Some gardeners have had success preventing mildew by spraying the plants with an insecticidal soap or a mixture containing one teaspoon of baking soda per gallon of water.

Q: I have a hoya that has almost perfectly round holes in a few leaves. This is an outdoor plant (in a pot), but I’m positive nothing has been eating on it. I did notice some purplish spots on the leaf awhile back, but they went away. What would cause round holes in the middle of the hoya leaves? C.A., New Orleans, LA

A: Those purplish spots you noticed awhile back matured and are responsible for the holes in your plant’s leaves. I’ve noticed this disease on the foliage of my heartleaf hoya, but it’s not a common problem. When conditions are warm and wet, the disease infects the plant’s leaf and causes a small purplish spot. The infected area enlarges and the spot turns grayish-brown with a purplish edge. Eventually the area inside the spot dries and falls out, leaving a hole in the leaf. I’m not sure if the disease is cercospora or a similar fungus, but regardless, don’t worry about it. Keep the plant’s foliage dry and I doubt you’ll see the disease. Joe Freeman is chief horticulturist for Cypress Gardens, tropical showplace located near Winter Haven, Florida. The question and answer format submitted by him is the source of information for this story.

SPORTS

Four Area Teams Alive, Well in Playoffs
Viewpoint From A Wife
Blake Is Upbeat Despite Pressure
OSU Wants Closing W’s

Four Area Teams Alive, Well in Playoffs

By MATTHEW KOENIG

News Sports Writer

It’s Week Two of the state high school playoffs, and the original field of 160 teams has been sliced in half. Of four area teams that made it in, however, a full four-quarters (that’s right, all of them) survived to Round Two.

Remarkably, three of those wins were upsets on the road, a testimony to the number of quality teams populating the area this season.

No. 9 Morrison razed Ketchum, 45-14, No. 3 Shidler beat Webbers Falls, 22-18, while unranked Newkirk eked out a 1-point win over No. 19 Beggs, 13-12. The No. 4 Tonkawa Bucs, the only team without a 3-hour drive last week, blasted past Picher, 27-14, to send the Gorillas loping back to the steamy rain forests of Eastern Oklahoma.

Instead of Gorillas, this week it’ll be the best of Haskell County invading the area.

Friday night, the Newkirk Tigers (8-3) will host the Vian Wolverines (7-4), while their next-door neighbors, the Pirates of Gore (9-2) will face off against the Tonkawa Buccaneers (10-0) on Saturday.

Pirates and Buccaneers? Shiver me timbers. And don’t forget your eye-patches.

Morrison and Shidler, on the other hand, have kept their bags packed this week. The Wildcats (7-4) will head down the road to Edmond to take on the No. 2 ranked Oklahoma Christian School Saints (10-1). The Tigers (7-3) will also face a No. 2 team, traveling to Medford (10-1). Both of those games will be on Saturday.

Gore (9-2) at No. 4 Tonkawa (10-0)

They might sound like a B-grade horror movie, but the Pirates of Gore are anything but second rate.

Picked by coaches to finish no higher than fifth, the Pirates pillaged District A-7 this year. They ransacked preseason No. 1 pick Mounds, then polished off perennial rivals Liberty and Keota. Their one district loss en route to a second place standing came to undefeated and state-ranked No. 7 Panama, a game in which the Pirates committed an incredible eight turnovers — a majority of their season total.

By anyone’s yardstick, it’s been a storybook season for the Pirates.

“I say this is a team of overachievers,” says coach Richard Moseley. “These kids play over their heads. There are times I walk off the field and I don’t know how we won.”

The Pirates are led by a trio of talented backfield runners. Quarterback — and coach’s son — Keith Moseley has run for 700 yards this year and passed for another 500. Senior tailback Ricky Spears (6-2, 195 pounds), described by the coach as their “go-to guy” has amassed over 1000 yards rushing, followed by fullback Marshall Lang (5-10, 185 pounds) who has a little over 400 — most of those coming in the last five games.

“If we have a weakness it’s in our line,” says coach Moseley. “Our center and our tackles are a little over 200, and our guards are pretty small. And Tonkawa looks awfully quick. I don’t know if we can contain that.”

If Moseley has a game plan, it’s to jump out early on the Bucs, force a few fumbles and hope his kids once again play (way) over their heads. In last week’s 32-14 pounding of Coalgate, the Pirates scored on their first play from scrimmage — a 67-yard pass completion by the quarterback Moseley. It’s that type of preemptive strike that could make Tonkawa coach Steve Love’s heart palpitate.

Three straight penalties and awkward field position put the Bucs in an early 7-0 hole against Picher last week. Against a better team, he says — say, Gore — it could have been disastrous.

Big, first quarter plays by the opposition are something the Bucs would like to avoid.

“They could try that against us,” says Love. “We’ve got to get something going early, which means we have to cut out the mental mistakes and the penalties. We have to come out fired up.

“We’ve got to get some turnovers. . . in the games we’ve dominated we’ve gotten the turnovers and the good field position.”

Also, the Bucs are currently dealing with the tragic and untimely loss of playmaker Steven Wilkerson. The 6-3, 210 pound tight end/defensive end shattered his lower leg while rushing a point-after attempt last week.

The loss has weighed heavily on the Bucs. Physically, it left a hole in the lineup; emotionally, it could wreck the all-important playoff momentum. It’s something Love is acutely aware of.

“We’ve been addressing that,” he says. “And I think these kids will step up. Their confidence is building each day in practice. They’re good competitors.”

Love has also made a few adjustments to the offensive line to account for Wilkerson’s absence.

“If we have to throw we’ll put in another receiver. We’ll run a slot-set without a tight end — we’re not changing the formation, we’ll just have to get the ball to a different receiver.”

The catastrophic loss, however, is tempered by the prospect of Shane Randall’s return. The Bucs’ star running back went out five weeks ago with a wrist injury, and — though he’s handled kicking duties the past two weeks — will finally get the opportunity to hit someone this Saturday.

“He still can’t run with the ball,” says Love. “So he’ll be mostly a blocking back, and he’ll play on defense.”

Vian (7-4) at Newkirk (8-3)

Prior to last week’s first round match up with Beggs, Newkirk coach Sonny Schovanec insisted (and rightfully so) that his team wasn’t feeling lucky to be in the playoffs.

“We’re not ‘just happy to be here,’” he said then. “These kids are ready to win another one.”

After all, the Tigers had been there before — three years straight, in fact. They had disproved everyone who said a move up to Class 2A meant a move down in the district standings. The Tigers knew that they were good, and had a 3-game win streak to prove it.

Schovanec and the Tigers were right where they belonged.

But after a 13-12 squeaker of a win, Schovanec is feeling a bit fortunate. He’s glimpsed into the abyss, seen the Other Side, and knows that this second round matchup is only by the hair of his Tigers’ proverbial teeth.

“(Last week) will test your heart — I guarantee it,” he says. “We’re still playing, and we’re happy to be alive.”

That win last week hinged on the Tigers’ outstanding defensive line, which faced a 2-point conversion attempt in the last minute of play — two points that would have likely won the game for Beggs.

“That’s not to say we couldn’t have driven down for a field goal,” says Schovanec. “But what do you do? If you don’t bow up right then you might be checkin’ it in on Monday.”

As it turned out, the Tigers stuffed the Demons on the 3-yard line.

If the Tigers are thankful, however, the Wolverines have the momentum of being giant killers at their backs. In the only case of a No. 4 toppling a No. 1 last week, Vian stepped up and shocked Wilberton, 21-14.

The Wolverines are led by a pair of huge tight ends, 6-2, 225-pound Jared Rosenberg and 6-6, 240-pound Terrell Francis, who run out of a prolific wishbone offense. Quarterback Casey Sullivan (6-1, 170 pounds) leads the attack, and threw for three TDs in last weeks’ upset.

“They’ll split the big guy (Francis) out,” says Schovanec. “He’s a D1-caliber kid, too. He’ll be playing on Saturdays in the near future.”

Defense is also a forte for the Wolverines, as they’ve given up just 12.6 points a game.

“We’ve been outsized all year — we’re used to seeing the big guys,” says Schovanec. “And we’ve seen the wishbone for two weeks in a row now. We’re familiar with it.”

The Tigers also find themselves on the brink of winning in the second round of the playoffs — a feat they haven’t accomplished since 1986.

“We’ve been in this position before,” says Schovanec, “and we’re ready to take the next step. There’s a lot of confidence and excitement on this team.”

Shidler (7-3)

at No. 2 Medford (10-1)

The Tigers had a good time with Webbers Falls last week, holding the Warriors to just one yard total offense in the final three quarters en route to a 22-18 win.

“The scoreboard made it look close,” says coach Matt Holland. “But it didn’t feel close. Our defense played really well.”

Saturday, the Tigers’ defense — and offense — will face the fight of their lives as they take on district rival and No. 2 state ranked Medford — a team that pounded them 41-21 in the regular season.

The Cardinals are led by one of the most prolific passers in the state in junior James Kilan, who has amassed nearly 5000 yards in a career that stretches back to his freshman year. The Cardinals’ defense is also iron-clad, giving up barely 14 points a game.

“Our offense is going to have to move the ball,” Holland says. “The last time we played them we just had too many mistakes, too many fumbles.

“Still, it’s a reward to be this far along in the playoffs.”

Viewpoint From A Wife

By PATTI PFEIFFER

News Staff Writer

It is that time again!!! It’s the time when men transform and become completely unidentifiable to those who know them the most — their wives. It is the time when men change from loving husbands to lean, mean, killing machines. Yes, women, deer season is upon us.

How could we ever forget such a joyous time of the year. It is when husbands trade their rakes for rifles. Trade their trousers for camouflage. Something happens to men this time of year, — physically, mentally and emotionally they change like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.

Their voices change from a loving tone to a gruff, low “Sylvester Stallone Rambo” type of a voice. They go from evening walks with their wives to stalking deer at dusk. Cleaning rifles replaces watching television as an acceptable form of entertainment. Where wives are usually the object of their affection, this time of year their dear ones become deer.

And the morning of opening day, instead of leisurely raising from a slumber, men leap from their beds into their awaiting bedside boots, grab their guns and bolt from the house before daybreak. Leaving wives wondering if their “honey do list” would get done any quicker if they put a deer decoy into their own backyard.

And then in the evening we wait and wonder. Will our man come back with the sad, sullen look of defeat or will he enter victoriously, with blood covered cloths, beating their chest and an ear to ear grin, dragging a Bambie behind and proudly saying, “Look DEAR I am a provider!”

Blake Is Upbeat Despite Pressure

By OWEN CANFIELD

AP Sports Writer

NORMAN (AP) — If he’s looking for the other shoe to drop, Oklahoma coach John Blake doesn’t show it. Heading into what may be his last game, he is just as upbeat as ever.

‘‘We’re just trying to work and stay focused and coach the players and make sure we’re all on the same page,’’ Blake said. ‘‘We have a job to do. It is tough, but again, I have to play the cards that have been dealt to me and that’s what I’m doing.’’

Blake should know what his future holds Sunday. The university’s Board of Regents have called a special meeting for Sunday afternoon in Norman to evaluate Blake’s performance and consider his contract.

Oklahoma (4-6, 2-5 Big 12) started the season with two straight victories, but has won just two since then and is assured of a third consecutive losing record under Blake. Instability at quarterback and lack of an offensive identity have contributed to speculation that he won’t be back next year.

Blake has said he needs the full five years of his contract to get the program turned around. He received a lukewarm endorsement from university President David Boren earlier this season in which Boren said he trusted athletic director Joe Castiglione to properly evaluation the situation.

‘‘Regardless of who’s here and who’s not here, I think you really need to get into recruiting,’’ he said. ‘‘The past two or three years has been a tough situation on me as far as waiting until the season (ends) to see if I’m going to be here based on my record, and I have to go out and recruit against a lot of things that have been said.

‘‘We’ve overcome that the past two or three years. It’s been a tough deal. I kind of would like to go out there knowing that everything’s going to be OK and sign a class that’s better than Top 15. I think we can do that.’’

Blake said he probably wouldn’t make any staff changes if he were retained. He let four coaches go last year, including both coordinators.

The defense has improved under Rex Ryan, allowing 10 fewer points per game than last year. The offense has taken on many looks under Joe Dickinson, and hasn’t been as productive as last year.

Blake said he is satisfied with the job Dickinson has done.

‘‘I think there’s some things — and Joe has said this — that we could have done better,’’ Blake said. ‘‘I know the game plan going in. I know what his intentions were. I know what we have taught our quarterbacks and players to do. I’m very comfortable with it. I think personnel has hindered some of our execution, some of our success offensively.’’

Blake might be able to make Castiglione’s job more difficult if the Sooners were to win Saturday. That would give them three victories in their final four games, during which time they showed more stability on offense and cut down on the mistakes that hurt them early in the year.

Blake, while enduring another losing season, would be able to say the program was moving in the right direction. The Sooners won three games in his first year and four last season.

He also would be able to point to the support of his players.

‘‘The wins haven’t come, but I think the character of it (the program) is definitely there,’’ senior tight end Jason Freeman said. ‘‘You come to me my freshman year and ask me how the character of this team is, it was horrible.

‘‘The character standpoint of this program is where it needs to be. Now it just needs to start winning games.’’

OSU Wants Closing W’s

STILLWATER (AP) — Baylor comes to Lewis Field on Saturday with a 2-8 record but Oklahoma State coach Bob Simmons says that doesn’t mean his Cowboys can count on a sure victory over the Bears.

‘‘This will be a better football team than we just played. We’ll be back in the Big 12 Conference and when you’re in the Big 12, anybody can beat anybody on a given day,’’ Simmons said Monday.

‘‘We’ve got to be businesslike. You’re talking about another measuring stick. This will be another measuring stick for a lot of guys on this football team.’’

By beating Baylor, Oklahoma State would be closing the season with two straight victories, something that hasn’t happened at OSU since Barry Sanders and his pals were leading the Cowboys to a 10-2 finish.

‘‘You want to set different goals, so we decided that as we close out the season that we want to get that off the mark, so to speak, and be a team that finishes strong and wins back-to-back games,’’ Simmons said. ‘‘Now we don’t have to say that is a mark of 1988, and it’s over and done with.’’

Oklahoma State had far different goals when the season began — mainly a winning season and a second straight bowl trip. But the Cowboys need to win Saturday just to finish 5-6.

Simmons isn’t pleased with how the season has unfolded, but said he isn’t discouraged, either.

‘‘I think that one thing that not only I’ve said but the media writes about is how far we’ve come compared to two years prior to what we’ve done this year,’’ he said.

‘‘The Big 12 this year is a tough conference. We really felt that if we would have done the little things, we would have come out with a lot more wins, but we didn’t. That’s an improvement in itself, as to where we think we are as a program.’’

The Cowboys are coming off a 44-20 victory over Southwestern Louisiana, a game in which quarterback Tony Lindsay and tailback Nathan Simmons each had career-best rushing days.

Oklahoma State is favored to beat a Baylor team that is in the basement of the Big 12’s south division with a record of 1-6. The Bears have played a very difficult schedule, but enter this game after a home loss to Oklahoma.

‘‘I’ve always thought Baylor had good talent,’’ Simmons said. ‘‘It was a good win for OU, but that doesn’t mean we can beat Baylor. We’ve got to go out and play our game, against a football team that has some talent.’’

Simmons said his team better not read too much into Baylor’s record.

‘‘I’m telling you, they have done a good job in the recruiting standpoint,’’ he said. ‘‘They have some good-looking players on their football team. I expect them to come in here and be very, very physical because those are the kinds of kids they’ve got.’’