LOCAL

Three From Pioneer Tech Attend Workforce Event
Bridgeway Offers DUI School Here
Angel Central Opens Its New Doors Today
VFW Commitment 100 Years Old

Three From Pioneer Tech Attend Workforce Event

Pioneer Technology Center’s Sheila Foxworthy, Judith Reyes, and Michael Hicks attended the Success Connection V, the State Chamber’s conference on Workforce Development, Oct. 27-28 in Oklahoma City.

The statewide conference attracted schools, business leaders, parents, community agencies, students, and members from the media who are looking at ways to help business and education work closer together.

The two-day conference gave the attendees an opportunity to choose between a combination of general sessions and breakout sessions. Judith Reyes, Marketing student, and Michael Hicks, Health Science Technology student, attended two sessions on coordinating and implementing student-led career fairs/career days at their own school.

Both Reyes and Hicks along with the members from the Vocational Student Organization (VSO) at Pioneer Technology Center will be coordinating a job fair in April to help students in planning for their future careers. In conjunction with the career fair session, the students also attended a session on utilizing career portfolios. This session provided them with the “how to’s” of developing a career portfolio that could help them in seeking employment and developing the necessary job skills for obtaining the job they want.

Foxworthy, Business Technology instructor, attended the Teachers as Advisors session to learn more about a teacher developed career curriculum that begins during the enrollment process and continues throughout the school year. The curriculum also includes parent participation as well as support from administrators and counselors.

Foxworthy also received the tools for developing a six-year plan of study that could help students in making career choices, setting career goals, and scheduling their high school and post-secondary classes.

Linda Thompson, Northern Oklahoma Career Alliance (NOCA) formerly known as Project Partners, also attended the conference along with Bandy Johnstone, NOCA student advisor. Johnstone is a former Pioneer Technology Center student who completed the Food Services program last year and is now enrolled at Northern Oklahoma College.

Featured speakers for the conference included Steffen Palko, president and co-founder of Cross Timbers Oil Company in Texas and Joan Lloyd, president of Joan Lloyd and Associates in Wisconsin.

In addition to the special meetings and activities held for students, sessions were also available in workforce development, education, and industry/community development.

Next years’ Success Connection Conference is scheduled on October 17-18 in Oklahoma City.

Bridgeway Offers DUI School Here

Bridgeway, Inc. offers state certified alcohol and drug substance abuse courses, otherwise known as DUI schools, in Ponca City. Bridgeway is the only agency in north central Oklahoma that offers 10- and 24-hour DUI schools for adults as well as under age 21 offenders. State certified DUI assessments are also provided by Bridgeway.

Residents in this area who have had their driving privileges revoked may need to complete a drug substance abuse course in order to have their drivers’ license reinstated. Bridgeway offers state certified DUI schools and assessments in Ponca City on a continuing basis.

The next 10-hour state certified alcohol and drug substance abuse course, DUI school in Ponca City is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, Nov. 12 and 13. The next 24-hour state certified ADSAC DUI school is scheduled to begin on Monday, Nov. 8. Classes are held at 620 West Grand in Ponca City.

To pre-enroll for DUI school or to schedule a DUI assessment, call Bridgeway, Inc. at (580) 762-1462, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome.

The fee is set by the state of Oklahoma at $85 for the 10-hour course and $250 for the 24-hour course. There is a payment plan available.

Angel Central Opens Its New Doors Today

By Patti Pfeiffer

Special to The News

Angels, angels, everywhere angels! There are flying angels, angels sitting atop trees, angel dolls, angel clothes, angel jewelry. They come in every shape, color and size — there are big angels, little angels, fat and skinny angels. From stained glass to metal, wood and even pine cones, they are made of every imaginable material.

The angels adorn the trees, line the walls, sit on the floor and are even painted on the windows. And they are all for sale beginning today at Angel Central at its spacious and new location in the Ponca Plaza at Fourteenth Street and Hartford Avenue.

A crowd of about 50 volunteers gathered at the angel haven Thursday afternoon for the premier opening of the store. The kick-off luncheon was not only the training session for those who will be manning the cash registers and assisting customers during the Christmas season but also presented an opportunity for those same volunteers to shop until they dropped.

And those attending the event soon learned there were not only angels but other holiday items such as Santas, reindeer and snow people for sale as well.

“I have never seen such neat stuff,” said volunteer “and customer” Carol Bouldin.

With arms full of trinkets and gifts, the women flocked to the shelves and bought angels in abundance. If the preview party was any indication, customers will be pleasantly surprised with the changes that have been made this year at Angel Central.

“This whole place is wonderful. It is so much bigger, and they have so much more stuff this year and it is all so gorgeous,” said Barbara Gowen.

“I do a lot of my Christmas shopping in here; I’m their best customer,” said Jeri Boyer.

The new location was a Christmas gift in itself as the Bank of Oklahoma donated the space which once housed a bank branch. It was a gesture that was appreciated among those on the Angel Central Committee.

“Because this place is bigger, we were able to double our merchandise this year and, due to its convenient location, we are expecting more customers,” says committee chairperson Betty Lindsay. “We have never had a rent-free location before, and that will mean more profits for more displays for the Festival of Angels.”

According to Lindsey, all profits from sales benefit the Festival of Angels and are used toward the purchase of new displays and more lights for the annual lighted festival.

The five-member committee has spent weeks preparing for the grand opening of its new location and are looking forward to a prosperous sale season.

“We all worked together as a team to bring this about, and now we’re really excited about our opening at our new location,” says committee member Alice Mires. “We had extra space and two extra rooms which we filled with more goodies, so we really appreciate the generosity of Bank of Oklahoma.”

Beginning today until after Christmas, Angel Central will be open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

VFW Commitment 100 Years Old

“Honor the Dead By Helping the Living” is the commitment of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. The VFW is celebrating 100 years of service to America’s veterans, their families, communities and country, and veterans of all the wars and conflicts are encompassed in this organization.

Breaking with the tradition of the U.S. Army Color Guard leading the Veterans Day parade, the VFW Color Guard will lead the 10:30 a.m. parade Saturday through downtown Ponca City.

Addressing major issues of the times, the VFW provides Congress with information concerning veterans’ needs, proposes legislation and lobbies Congress for passage. It works to ensure that America has a strong national defense and a firm foreign policy.

The VFW was formed from groups founded in 1899 by veterans of the Spanish-American War (1898) and the Philippine Insurrection (1899-1902). In 1914, these and other similar groups joined together to form the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States in the quest for medical care and pensions. This was especially important since the government provided little for them in benefits or care, even for those disabled or those who suffered from tropical diseases.

The first group was formed in Columbus, Ohio, in September of 1899 and was called The American Veterans of Foreign Service. In December, the Society of the Army of the Philippines was formed in Denver, and, in Pennsylvania, three separate groups of Cuba, China, and Philippine service veterans formed other groups. By 1914, the need to have one all-encompassing national veterans organization was obvious, and, on the eve of World War I, an amalgamation of the separate groups took place, and the name Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States was adopted.

At the same time, the Ladies Auxiliary to the VFW was formed; today it has over 750,000 members.

Following World War I, the VFW grew rapidly. During the 1920s, it was instrumental in the creation of the U.S. Veterans Bureau, later to become the Department of Veterans of Foreign Affairs in the president’s cabinet.

Today, with more than 10,000 VFW posts worldwide, and over 2 million members, the VFW ensures that laws are passed providing entitlements needed by those who have served our country. Through a nationwide system of service officers, assistance is provided to all veterans and their families in obtaining the help and services provided by federal and state agencies. Funding for this program, as well as the VFW National Home for veterans’ children, comes from donations made for VFW Buddy Poppies.

The VFW’s premier program for youth is its Voice of Democracy Scholarship program, which annually provides over $2 million in scholarships to high school students. Sports, hunter safety, Scouts and ROTC support are among some of the other youth programs conducted by VFW members.

VFW community service projects offer veterans and their families the opportunity to take part in building a better America through building better communities. Erecting military memorials, highway clean-up projects, flags on veteran’s graves, volunteers in veterans hospitals, disaster relief, support for local schools are just a few of the community service projects the VFW and the Ladies Auxiliary undertake.

Through federal and state legislation and coordination with private industry, the VFW promotes employment for those who have served this country and helped to maintain its legacy of freedom and democracy.

The VFW is an opportunity for veterans to continue to serve their country. For 100 years, it has grown in strength, power and influence and today ranks as the 16th most powerful membership organization in the country in getting things done for its members and the nation — the nation’s leading veterans organization.

DEATHS

Dorothy Jean Malone
James H. Cogdill
Pauline Virginia Mae Gorrell
Marie Jackson Holman

Dorothy Jean Malone

Pawnee — Dorothy Jean Malone, lifelong resident of Pawnee, died Wednesday, Nov. 3, 1999, in Stillwater. She was 63.

The funeral will be held 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 6, 1999, in the First Christian Church in Pawnee with the Rev. Tom Scott officiating. Burial will follow in the Highland Cemetery in Pawnee under the direction of Poteet Funeral Home.

Dorothy Jean Malone was born Dec. 3, 1935, in Pawnee County, the daughter of Harley and Zella (Smith) Banning. She married Virgil Lee Malone on Aug. 1, 1953. She was employed as a church secretary for 20 years, having served as a deacon and Sunday school teacher. She was a member of the First Christian Church, the Oak Grove Extension Club and the Christian Women Fellowship. She enjoyed making quilts with the Piece Makers Quilting Club and took pride in the fact that she had made one for each of her grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband of the home; two daughters, Virgena Freise of Fairfax and Cathy Chapman of Pawnee; two brothers, Clarence Banning and Frank Banning, both of Pawnee; one sister, Deloris Robinson of Ponca City; five grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Harold Banning.

Memorial contributions may be made in her name to the First Christian Church, P.O. Box 207, Pawnee, Okla. 74058 or to the American Cancer Society, 4323 NW 63rd, Oklahoma City, Okla. 73116.

James H. Cogdill

MARION, Kan. — James H. Cogdill, resident of Marion, Kan., died Wednesday, Nov. 3, 1999, in the Marion Manor in Marion, Kan. He was 82.

The funeral will be 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 6, 1999, in the Zeiner Funeral Home in Marion, Kan., with the Rev. Lance Carrithers officiating. Visitation will be from noon to 7 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. There will be a private family burial of the cremains.

James H. Cogdill was born Jan. 17, 1917 in Stanberry, Mo., the son of Arvil E. and Mary Mae Jennings Cogdill. He was employed with the county of Marion as a road grader. He married Mary Lorean Smith on Sept. 12, 1936, in Marion, Kan.

He is survived by one son, James Ray Cogdill of Marion, Kan.; four daughters, Judith Faye Winter of Ness City, Kan., Mary Mae McCarty of Marion, Kan., Beatrice Kay Martinez of Marion, Kan., and Jacqualine Jay Weathers of Ponca City; three brothers, Lawrence Cogdill, Clarence Cogdill, and George Cogdill; 23 grandchildren; 45 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife in 1984; two brothers, Eugene and Walter; two sisters, Viola and Joyce; and one grandson.

Pauline Virginia Mae Gorrell

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Pauline Virginia Mae Gorrell, former resident of Blackwell, died Thursday, Nov. 4, 1999, in the Doctor’s Hospital in Springfield, Ill. She was 79.

There will be no service. Staab Funeral Home in Springfield, Ill., is in charge of arrangements.

Pauline Virginia Mae Gorrell was born Oct. 7, 1920, in Blackwell, the daughter of Preston and Martha Sims Gonterman. She was married to Wayne Gorrell, who preceded her in death. She is a retired owner and operator of several taverns in the Chicago area.

She is survived by a sister, Betty Terr of Springfield, Ill., and several nieces, nephews and other relatives. She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, one sister, and two brothers.

Obituaries

Marie Jackson Holman

Marie Jackson Holman, Ponca City resident, died Tuesday, Nov. 2, 1999, at her residence. She was 85.

The funeral was to be Friday, Nov. 5, 1999, 10 a.m. graveside at the Maplewood Cemetery in Harrison, Ark., with the Rev. Ronnie Coats officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of the Christeson Funeral Home, Harrison, Ark.

Born Feb. 17, 1914, near Pawhuska, she was the daughter of Isaac Henry and Emma Louise Brooks Jackson. She lived and attended school at Webb City prior to moving to Wichita, Kan., to work. She lived in California for a short time before returning to Wichita.

She married Roy Holman on Jan. 10, 1936, at Wichita, Kan., where they ran a market for several years. Roy and Marie moved to Harrison, Ark., in 1944 and operated a dairy farm for many years. Marie worked for five years as secretary for the Harrison First United Methodist Church. She moved to Ponca City in 1978.

Marie was an accomplished needlepoint artist and enjoyed making gifts for family and friends. Her favorite pastimes included reading, flowers, St. Louis Cardinals baseball and playing Yahtzee and Pitch enthusiastically.

She is survived by three sisters-in-law, Theda Jackson of Ponca City, Adah Jackson of Amarillo, Texas, and Veneta Jackson of Seminole; a nephew, Tom Jackson of Austin, Texas; two nieces Ginger Coats of Hughes, Ark., and Phyllis Lucas of Flower Mound, Texas; and numerous other nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband in 1969, six brothers, and three sisters.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 N. Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, OK 74602.

Casket bearers will be Danny Coats, Jeff Coats, Damon Garner, Kristi Coats Baldwin, Chad Jackson, Dustin Jackson, Kayla Coats Hollis, Dacy Lucas, Derek Coats, Scott Jackson, and Devin Lucas.

paid obituary

NEWS BRIEFS

RSVP Office Moves — The RSVP office has moved effective Nov. 1. 1999, to 113 North Fourth, across the street from the old location. Feel free to contact them at 762-9412.

Red Rock Christian Church

Homecoming Sunday, November

7th. Fellowship at 10:00, worship

at 11:00. Everyone invited. adv.

1954 Class — Members of the Ponca City High School graduating class of 1954 will have a “get-together” dinner at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 11 at Head Country Barbecue. For more information call 765-8623. Spouses and friends are welcome to attend.

Free Pregnancy test. Birth

Choice cares. Confidential.

Hours: Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wed-

nesday, 1-3 p.m. and Thursday, 6-

8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. 765-

9689. adv.

House Burglarized — A man from the 500 block of South Eleventh Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:33 a.m. Thursday that his house had been burglarized. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Huge Garage Sale - Estate. Sat-

urday only. 8 - 6. 205 N. Magnolia,

Newkirk. Antiques, collectibles,

Blue Ridge Pottery (Apply pat-

tern) linens, microwave, electric

oven, dishwasher, much more. adv.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 9:56 a.m. Thursday that a 48-year-old man was being held on a city warrant for failure to pay.

Pauline’s Shrimp Peel, All you

can eat. $11.95, Friday, Novem-

ber 5th. For reservations call

765-5460. adv.

Accident — A report of an accident in the parking lot of Hobby Lobby was received by the Ponca City Police Department at 12:16 p.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Darts Start at 3:00 p.m. at The

blue Lite lounge, Saturday,

11/13/99. 501 doubles, double

elimination. $5 entry, 125% pay-

out. adv.

Suspicious Activity — An employee at the Ponca City Library reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 2 p.m. Thursday that someone had attempted to steal some books. An officer was assigned and the information was logged.

Dougan's Bar-B-Q Friday spe-

cial from 4-8 p.m., all you can eat

ribs with beans, potato salad and

coleslaw, $7.49. 215 South 14th,

765-7979. adv.

Item Found — A woman from the 100 block of Fairview Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 2:11 p.m. Thursday that a cellular phone had been found in the yard. An officer was assigned and the item was brought to the police department.

Book Your holiday, wedding,

bachelor, etc. parties with the

Hide out 580-362-9905 or 762-0835.

adv.

Assault — A person from the 1600 block of Donahoe Drive reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 2:48 p.m. Thursday that a son had been assaulted while at West Middle School. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

New Large selection of Snow-

men and Santas! Stop in and take

a look. Mrs. Brown’s Attic, down-

town Ponca City. adv.

Accident — A woman reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:31 p.m. Thursday that a minor accident had occurred in the parking lot of St. Joseph Regional Medical Center earlier in the day. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Pool Tournament at The Blue

Lite Lounge, Saturday 11/6/99 7:00

p.m. $5 entry, 125% payout, dou-

ble elimination. adv.

Vehicle in the Ditch — The Communications Center received a report at 6:40 p.m. Thursday that a vehicle was in a ditch three miles west of Waverly Street on Hubbard Road. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol was notified.

Hobby Lobby Store hours Mon-

day thru Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.;

Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed

Sunday. adv.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of South Seventh Street and East Central Avenue at 1:32 a.m. Friday that a 24-year-old man was being held for DUI and a city warrant for failure to pay.

Item Missing — A woman at the West Middle School reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:07 p.m. Thursday that a cigarette case had been stolen from the boiler room. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Swing Class at Kem’s Gym for

adults and older teens. Professio-

nal teacher. 765-7726. adv.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 400 block of South Fourteenth Street at 8:11 p.m. Thursday that a 30-year-old man was being held for driving under restriction.

Jim Bowen Construction­ Cus-

tom homes, room additions and

remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv.

Assault — The Communications Center received a 911 call from a woman in the 500 block of South Fourteenth Street at 8:50 p.m. Thursday that she had been assaulted. Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department were assigned and the incident was logged that it had occurred in the county, and a Kay County Sheriff’s Office deputy handled the situation.

Dougan's Bar-B-Q Saturday

special 4-8 p.m. All you can eat

beef brisket with beans, potato

salad and coleslaw, $7.49. 215

South 14th, 765-7979. adv.

Item Missing — A person at Sykes reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:15 p.m. Thursday that a stereo had been stolen out of a vehicle. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Head Country Saturday night

special. All you can eat beef bris-

ket with beans, potato salad and

coleslaw, $7.49. All day. 1217 East

Prospect. adv.

Subjects Held — Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 3000 block of East Prospect Avenue at 11:24 p.m. Thursday that a 28-year-old man was being held on a city warrant for failure to pay, and a 21-year-old man was being held on a city warrant for failure to appear.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 2200 block of North Fourteenth Street at 11:44 p.m. Thursday that a 25-year-old man was being held for driving under suspension.

Foot Pursuit — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 12:29 a.m. Friday to be in foot pursuit of a subject in the 200 block of East Broadway in an effort to serve a city warrant. Another officer assisted and the 19-year-old man was caught at the intersection of North First Street and Hazel Avenue and held on two city warrants and resisting arrest.

Vehicle Towed — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 2500 block of Cardinal at 2:09 a.m. Friday that a 22-year-old woman was being held for DUI, having an expired inspection sticker, and defective equipment. A vehicle was towed from the scene.

LIFESTYLES

Alpha Chi Omega Alumnae Honor 50-Year Members
Little News
Wendy Boyd New Member Of Xi Delta

Alpha Chi Omega Alumnae Honor 50-Year Members

The Alpha Chi Omega alumnae chapter, Delta Lambda Delta, held a Founders’ Day dinner recently at the Ponca City Country Club to honor 50-year members and celebrate the founding of the fraternity. Hostesses for the evening were Pauletta Beaty, Marijane Boone and Virginia Cronin.

Panhellenic representative Sandy Hudack reported on the recent meeting and plans for the 1999 House Tour. The tour will be held on Sunday, Dec. 5, 2-5 p.m. The homes on the tour this year will be those of Burton and Norma Casad, 2509 Wildwood; Carl and Carolyn Renfro, 3104 Cadet; Joe and Holly Alcott, 3101 Cadet; and Will and Mickey Whitley, 812 North Fourteenth. Businesses decorating the homes this year will be Victorian Rabbit, Creative Flowers and Santa’s Forest. Members were asked to sign up to help as hostesses at the homes. Tickets will be available to members at the next meeting.

Province Alumnae Chairman Sandy Hudack told members that Francie Bachman, director of Province Alumnae chairmen, had called from Tennessee to wish the chapter a “wonderful Founders’ Day.” She also wanted to remind all chapters to be considering the possibility of holding State Day for their state in October 2000.

Fifty-year members were honored at the dinner and the three fifty-year members present were introduced. They are Virginia Cronin of Blackwell and Doris Stanley and Mariann Bryant of Ponca City. Fifty-year members unable to attend are Edna Hoffman Bowman of Kingfisher and Margaret Denton of Blackwell. Members were reminded of the founding of Alpha Chi Omega on Oct. 15, 1885, on the campus of DePauw University in Greencastle, Ind., by seven young women in the school of music. A background in music is no longer a requirement for membership; however, Alpha Chi Omega collegians and alumnae today continue to support and enjoy the arts. Members present shared memories of college days. Mariann Bryant, historian, brought scrapbooks from earlier days for members to view.

With collegiate chapters on more than 130 campuses nationwide and more than 135,000 initiated members, Alpha Chi Omega is one of the largest women’s fraternities.

Doris Stanley won the door prize, which was the centerpiece of red carnations and greenery that decorated the table for the dinner. The next meeting will be held at the home of Julie Lawrence on Nov. 16 at 7 p.m.. The meeting will be the annual bazaar and auction.

Little News

Announcing the birth of a daughter are Jimmy and Deena Neely of Farmington, Minn., former residents of Ponca City. Danielle Elizabeth Neely was born Oct. 2, 1999, at St. John’s Hospital in Maple Wood, Minn. She weighed 7 pounds, 7 1/2 ounces, and was 19 1/2 inches long. The baby has a brother, Logan.

Grandparents are Don and Darlene McAlister and Jim and Ellen Neely, all of Ponca City. Great-grandmother is Alta Clinton of Ponca City.

Brian and Terri Hobbs of Newkirk, announce the birth of a son at 8:38 a.m. Oct. 15, 1999, in the Blackwell Regional Medical Center. Wesley Dawson Hobbs weighed 7 pounds, 3 ounces, and measured 20 1/2 inches. He has two sisters, Kaelie and Kamille.

Maternal grandparents are Clyde and Kathleen Chappell of Overland Park, Kan, and paternal grandparents are John and Karen Hobbs of Newkirk.

Cidney Paige Collyar is the name chosen by Cory and Shannon Collyar of Newkirk for their daughter born at 3:58 p.m. Sept. 7, 1999, in Ponca City. The baby weighed 6 pounds, 2 ounces, and measured 19 inches long. She has a sister, Brittnee Stierwalt.

Maternal grandparents are Teresa Ray, Robert Poulter and Roy Ray. Paternal grandparents are Tammy Collyar of Newkirk, David Collyar and Gena Collyar. Great-grandparents are Jess and Mae Vaden, and Ruth Ray.

Wendy Boyd New Member Of Xi Delta

Pat Schissler hosted the Oct. 25 meeting of Xi Delta Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority, with 12 members present. Linda Turner, president, called the meeting to order. Shari Magee, recording secretary, read the minutes, and Patsy Hastings gave the treasurer’s report

Lynda Smith, vice president, announced that Wendy Boyd was a new member of the chapter. Dorothy Leonard, service chairman, asked the chapter to donate a Thanksgiving dinner as a service project.

Becky Bezdek reported on the Harvest Moon Hayride Oct. 29 at her home. Susan Henshaw, social chairman, announced the chapter Thanksgiving dinner will be on Nov. 13 in the home of Pam Palmer.

Linda Turner and Sue May will represent the chapter on Nov. 15 for a Valentine Dance meeting to be held in the home of Susan Seals.

Patsy Hastings won the traveling basket, and Linda Turner gave a program on “fire prevention in the home.” The next meeting will be Nov. 8 in the home of Linda Turner with Sue Fleck as co-hostess.

EDUCATION

Po-Hi Students Invited To Participate in Art Program
Vo-Tech Student Receives State Award
Student Loan Rate Continues Downward Trend
Elk Scholarships Now Available

Po-Hi Students Invited To Participate in Art Program

Po-Hi students are invited to participate in the 1999-2000 Reflections program. Reflections is a cultural arts program sponsored by the National PTA in which students create original works of art in the categories of visual arts, photography, musical composition or literature based on a specified theme. This year’s theme is “Anything is Possible.”

Students may submit multiple entries in any single category and may submit entries in more than one category. Only new pieces of artwork inspired by the theme are acceptable for entry. Entries must be submitted on Dec. 13 in the high school main office.

Judging criteria include artistic merit, creativity and interpretation of the theme. Ponca City High School Reflection winners will be awarded local gift certificates and compete in the State Competition this spring. The state winners will then compete at the National level this summer.

Visual Arts

Artwork must be flat with a 3/8-inch maximum thickness, 24 X 30 inches maximum dimensions (including the mat).

Descriptions: Prints, drawings, paintings, paintings on canvas (unstretched, not mounted on stretcher strips or stretcher, and must be mounted on foam or cardboard), collage (2 dimension only), photographic collage (constructed of photos not taken by the student), metal etching or punch-work (cover the corners of the metal), fiber work (needlework, sewn designs that is securely mounted... no kits) and computer-generated art.

Photography

Descriptions: Maximum size 11 X 14 inches, including mat. Prints (color or black and white), retouched prints taken by the student, collage (an assemblage of photos taken by the student), photogram, montage, sandwich, multiple exposure, computer generated art (student takes a photo, scans it, adds other of his/her photos and prints it on special photographic paper).

Literature

Description: Works of fiction or non-fiction, prose, poetry, drama, song lyrics or short stories. 2000 word maximum printed or handwritten in ink on 8 1/2 X 11 inch white paper. All pages must be numbered and the student’s name and school must be on the backside of each page. Entries must not be mounted in anyway.

Music

Description: Compositions may not exceed five minutes and may include lyrics. Students are not required to perform their compositions themselves. When recording, wait 30 seconds, state your name and the title of the piece before recording the music. All performances must be played in real time without any speed altering techniques used. All entries must submit a cassette or CD recording of the composition and notation. Some composition software is acceptable, however, alogorithmic composition is not acceptable. Score size should be no larger than 11 X 14 inches, except band and orchestra compositions may be 11 X 16 inches. Do not mount or bind scores.

Several other local schools will participate in the Reflections program. For further information contact your school.

Vo-Tech Student Receives State Award

For the past 14 years, the Governor's Disability Employment Awards Ceremony has honored local employers and recognized the achievements of individuals, agencies, and organizations for their support of individuals with disabilities.

Among this year's 18 employee award recipients across Oklahoma was Deanna Reed, a participant in Pioneer Technology Center’s Supported Employment program.

Reed has been employed with the Shawn Manor Nursing Home in Ponca City for the past year and a half where she began working as a dietary aide. Due to her outstanding work efforts, she was soon asked by the nursing home if she would like to enroll in the Certified Nurse's Aide class at Pioneer Technology Center. Reed readily accepted the challenge and enrolled in the class and later completed and passed her certification test.

The new certificate has now helped her move ahead in her current job and move to a full-time work status where she also has the opportunity to work additional hours and shifts as needed.

With her employer, hard work, and determination, Reed has accomplished many of her goals she has personally set for her life since applying to the Supported Employment Project at Pioneer Technology Center.

“Deanna wanted to go to work so she could move out of government housing and into her own apartment,” said Ann Kinsinger, Supported Employment Director. “Since that time she has moved into her own apartment and no longer receives Aid to the Disabled or Title XVI benefits. She has even recently taken her driver's test and passed. Now she doesn't have to depend on anyone to get her to work. Through her hard work and her determination to overcome her disabilities, Deanna is now more self-confident and is a valued employee for the Shawn Manor Nursing Home.”

The Disability Employment Awards Nomination criteria are based on the applicant's independence, personality and self-confidence, community involvement, and employment history.

Reed was presented her award from Lieutenant Governor Mary Fallin at the Governor's Mansion Pavilion in October.

Other presenters at the ceremony included representatives from the Department of Human Services, Howard Hendrick; Jack Bowen, from Fox Television; Department of Rehabilitation Services, Linda Parker and Department of Education, Sandy Garrett. #

Student Loan Rate Continues Downward Trend

The 1997 default rate for student loans guaranteed by the Oklahoma Guaranteed Student Loan Program for Oklahoma institutions is the lowest in seven years, dropping 10.6 percentage points since 1991, the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education reported.

The 1997 default rate of 9.2 percent for students attending Oklahoma institutions whose loans are guaranteed by the agency is down from 19.8 percent in 1991 — the first year guarantee agency default rates were calculated by the U.S. Department of Education. The 1997 rate is also down 1.5 percentage points from 10.7 percent in 1996.

In Oklahoma, loans for higher education or post-secondary education made to students by private or public lending institutions are guaranteed by the federal government through OGSLP, which is administered by the State Regents.

As a result of default prevention efforts, $493.2 million in potential defaults were averted in 1999, up $308.3 million or 167 percent from $184.9 million in 1994.

If default prevention efforts fail, Oklahoma’s guarantee agency continues to seek repayment of student loan obligations after borrowers default on their loans. Since 1994, collections on defaulted student loans have increased from $14.7 million to $25.4 million in 1999, an increase of $10.7 million or 73 percent.

“The decline in the student loan default rate is a result of a team effort,” said OGSLP Executive Director Alice Strong-Simmons. “OGSLP, schools and lending institutions are cooperating more than ever before to prevent defaults on student loans.”

“For example, Oklahoma’s colleges and universities, post-secondary schools and private lenders have established default prevention programs to ensure students are aware of their responsibilities when they first apply for student loans and just prior to graduation,” Strong-Simmons said.

“In addition, OGSLP has added more toll-free borrower hot lines and updated informational video tapes and brochures so that students have increased access to the most current information,” Strong-Simmons added.

Strong-Simmons also noted that efficiency has been boosted by the expansion of computer capabilities which allow agency personnel to manage loan cases more efficiently and to have me one-on-one contact with student borrowers, schools and lenders.

Chancellor Hans Brisch pointed out that default rates for loans guaranteed by the agency continue to drop despite a 50 percent increase in the Oklahoma student loan volume, from $224.3 million in 1994 to $336.0 million in 1999.

When default prevention efforts fail, OGSLP collects loan by bringing litigation against borrowers who have not repaid their loans, withholding a defaulted borrower’s federal or state income tax refund, or withholding a percentage of a defaulted borrower’s wages. The agency is also implementing a legislatively-mandated program that will revoke or suspend professional licenses and commercial drivers’ licenses of defaulted borrowers who do not have an approved payment plan in place.

“As a result of successful efforts in both default prevention and collections, thousands of student borrowers have been spared the harsh consequences of going into default and taxpayers have recovered millions of dollars invested in student loans,” Brisch said.

“However, although we have experienced impressive results, we will continue to look at ways to help borrowers avoid default and to collect loans from those borrowers that have defaulted so future generations of students can benefit from the student loan program,” Brisch said.

The 1997 default rates cover a specified period of time, reflecting the percent of student borrowers who entered into repayment during the 1997 federal fiscal year and defaulted on their loan payments during either that fiscal year or the next one.

Elk Scholarships Now Available

Cleo Greenhaw, Exalted Ruler of the Ponca City Elks Lodge, is pleased to announce that Elks National Foundation Scholarship applications are now available from the senior counselors of Po-Hi and Newkirk High School.

This year’s graduating seniors are urged to complete the application and prepare a brochure for entry into the Elks “Most Valuable Student” competition. The student brochures are scored, 45 percent on scholarship, 35 percent on leadership, and 20 percent on financial need.

The Elks National Foundation is again offering 500 four year scholarships nationally which range in value from $1,000 to $7,500 per year and total $2,092,000. Oklahoma students are assured of receiving seven of these scholarships.

The brochures will also be used to select the 22 students who will receive the one time $800 Oklahoma Major Project awards.

RELIGION

1st Christian To Install Kelli Tucker As Youth Director
First Lutherans Will Celebrate All Saints Day
St. Luke’s Church of The Nazarene Hosting Jamey Denison
Presbyterians Plan Library Dedication
Methodist Charge Conference Set Nov. 7
Kid’s Crusade This Saturday at First Pentecostal
‘Come Let Us Reason Together’
First UMC Sets Annual All Church Holiday Banquet
Pioneer Christian Folks Study Book of Hebrews
Benefit Sale Set by St. Mary’s Catholic Church
Calvary Temple Plans Youth Rally
Pastor's Notes
Christian Motorcyclists Relate Plans for November '99
1st Pentecostal Plans Fall Revival

1st Christian To Install Kelli Tucker As Youth Director

Kelli Tucker, Ponca City native, will be installed as Director of Youth Ministries for First Christian Church during the annual Youth Worship at 10:40 a.m., Sunday, Nov. 7.

Kelli is an open, easy-going friend of youth with a ready smile and laugh. In the two months that Tucker has been at First Christian, youth have attended a statewide retreat with 175 youth at Central Oklahoma Christian Camp near Guthrie. They provided facilities and were hosts to the walkers for the 1999 CROP Walk to end world hunger. A large group of youth participated in the Make Promises Happen HallowScream benefit at Frontier City. High school youth attended a Texas Christian University football game and toured the campus of the Disciples of Christ affiliated college at Fort Worth. Under Tucker’s leadership, First Christian youth greeted at the 1999 Rock & Reach Christian Concert with the recording duo of Overton and Broadway. The annual Harvest Feast for the community found Tucker’s youth operating games and handing out balloons to community children. Tucker is usually found behind her camera at these events. She enjoys plying her photography hobby while recording events and encouraging youth.

Tucker’s motto is “Dream Big, Pray Big.” When asked by she always signs her newsletter columns with that motto, Tucker replied: “Because that is what God calls us to do. God wants us to step out on Faith and trust Him. I challenge all Christians to ‘Dream Big,’ but you better ‘Pray Big’ Too!”

Tucker graduated from Ponca City High School in 1993. She was a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Drug Free Youth, and SADD. She received the Outstanding Female Athlete award for her participation on the varsity basketball and volleyball teams and the All-State Volleyball team.

Tucker earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Medicine at John Brown University in Siloam Springs, Ark. She has used her academic training and sports interests as a trainer for various sports teams and as a therapy technician with Northern Therapy & Rehabilitation services in Ponca City.

Tucker is a member of First Lutheran Church of Ponca City and was Director of Youth Ministries there until joining the staff at First Christian Church. The new partnership between this lifelong Lutheran and the Disciples of Christ church works well as both are interested in ecumenical cooperation and reaching out to the community. Tucker invites all youth to drop by her office at the church during the weekday hours of 2 to 5 p.m. and share a snack and Coke.

A reception honoring Tucker and the youth will follow the Youth Worship Sunday at 10:40 a.m. in the First Christian Church sanctuary at Fifth and Cleveland Streets.

First Lutherans Will Celebrate All Saints Day

The Festival of All Saints Day will be celebrated at First Lutheran Church on Sunday, Nov. 7 at both the 8:30 a.m. and the 11 a.m. services. Those members who have died since All Saints Day, 1998, will be commemorated. The theme of the entire service will be that of the Christian’s daily battle with the forces of the devil. The sermon will be based on St. Paul’s admonition to the Ephesians in which he calls on each Christian to put on the whole armor of God to be able to stand against the temptations and torments of the evil one. When thoroughly clothed, the Christian is assured that the final victory will be his in heaven.

The sermon title is “Armed for Battle.” The supporting anthem by the Senior Choir will be “Be Strong in the Lord,” a paraphrase of the sermon text. Holy Communion will be celebrated at both services.

The 6:30 p.m. evening service will center around a study of the Third Commandment. The general theme is “Loving Jesus,” and in order to do that the Christian must obey the commandments. In addition to the Bible study there will be singing of praise songs and prayer request time. Anyone is encouraged to join First Lutheran at worship any time.

The Battle of the Bands will be held in the gym of First Lutheran School on Saturday, Nov. 13 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. At least six Christian bands will be performing during the evening. If you have a band that would like to participate, please contact Heidi Gillam, Youth Minister, at 762-1111. This should be an exciting evening of uplifting Christian music. Although this is primarily for the youth of the community, anyone who enjoys Christian band music is welcome to attend.

St. Luke’s Church of The Nazarene Hosting Jamey Denison

Jamey Denison, singer-songwriter, will be at St. Luke’s Church of the Nazarene, Nov. 7 at the 10:45 a.m. service, sharing his faith, his love of music and how God has inspired him to pen nearly two-hundred songs. The congregation extends an invitation to the community to attend this inspirational concert, located at 1715 East Prospect in Ponca City.

Denison’s original Christian music ranges in style from country and southern gospel to a more traditional and pop sound. His songs have been described as the stirring Gospel message in a contemporary form that’s as easy to listen to as it is to understand. Denison’s music appeals to all backgrounds and age groups.

Denison has toured throughout the country, appearing in concert, on television, and in radio performances. He has had several songs signed with major Christian publishing companies such as Homeland Music and Morningstar Records in Nashville.

He has recently released his second project, “Closer Every Mile,” a collection of 10 original new songs. The CD has been in the planning and production process for over two years. It includes the cut “A Sweet Bouquet” written by Jamey and his wife, Renee. The Denisons are please with the outcome of the album, and the release is dedicated to their two daughters, Emily Grace and Kaitlyn Hope, “to help them on their journey.”

Church Briefs

Presbyterians Plan Library Dedication

First Presbyterian Church has scheduled Library Dedication for Sunday, Nov. 21. The new library in the basement of the church (northeast corner) will be dedicated as the “Virginia Trout Memorial Library”. on Sunday, Nov. 21.

Monies for this project came from the Trout family and from the memorial established at the church in Virginia Trout’s memory.

Following the dedication, there will be refreshments in the fellowship hall, hosted by the Memorial Committee.

Methodist Charge Conference Set Nov. 7

All four Ponca City United Methodist Churches will be meeting together again this year for the Charge Conference which is scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 7 at First United Methodist Church, Sixth and Central, at 7 p.m.

The conference will begin with a ministry fair and refreshments, and a worship service led by the Rev. Denny Hook, former pastor at First United Methodist and currently District Superintendent, and music from a combined choir will close the evening.

This is a time to see what all the churches in Ponca City are doing.

Kid’s Crusade This Saturday at First Pentecostal

This Saturday, Nov. 6, First United Pentecostal Church, 1921 East Hartford, will host a Kid’s Crusade beginning at 3 p.m. The “Pepper Gang” puppet ministry team from the United Pentecostal Church of Moore will be providing an exciting program to minister to kids.

The public is encouraged to attend this special crusade for kids. You will not leave disappointed. For more information, contact Pastor Rick Hughes at 767-1482.

‘Come Let Us Reason Together’

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

“And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down and when you rise up.” Deuteronomy 6:6,7. Most Israelite parents obeyed God’s command and taught the laws and practices of their faith to their children at every opportunity. Likewise we can teach our children today and save them from moral and spiritual bankruptcy.

We need to talk with our children about biblical truths and moral values every opportunity we have.

First UMC Sets Annual All Church Holiday Banquet

The Third Annual All Church Holiday Banquet, sponsored by United Methodist Men, will be held Nov. 12 at 6 p.m., honoring junior and senior high students of the church.

Speaker for the evening will be Kevin Harlan, Executive Vice President of Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). Kevin is a native Ponca Citian.

A barbecue meal with all the trimmings will be served. Those needing more information should contact Dale Pontious or the church office.

Pioneer Christian Folks Study Book of Hebrews

The Wednesday night Bible Study at Pioneer Christian Church, meeting from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., has recently begun a study in the Book of Hebrews. The congregation of Pioneer Christian Church, 1701 East Hubbard Road, welcomes all to join them in their continuing journey into God’s Word through this dynamic and in-depth study, led by Pastor Bob Weaver.

Rides are available, as well as any information you may need, by calling the church office at 762-8858.

Benefit Sale Set by St. Mary’s Catholic Church

St. Mary’s Catholic Church has a benefit sale scheduled for Friday, Nov. 12 and Saturday, Nov. 13 from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. at 121 West Central. Hundreds of items have been added to the tables and racks, and they are overflowing.

Come look around and find just what you need.

Calvary Temple Plans Youth Rally

The pastor of Calvary Temple Pentecostal Church of God in Newkirk invites everyone in the area to fellowship with the folks at Calvary Temple on Friday, Nov. 12 for a Youth Rally. The church is located at 612 North Main in Newkirk and activity begins at 7:30 p.m.

Pastor's Notes

For years we have heard of sperm banks. Now there is on-line bidding for just the right genetic make-up from the model or famous person of your choice. When we finish laughing and shaking our heads over “what will they think of next?” this truly is an ethical, moral and spiritual concern. There is tension between what science is able to do for the benefit of humankind and the marketing value of the human being.

For instance, none of us would want to do without the skills and technology to have successful heart by-pass surgery or the chemotherapies that give cancer patients a second chance of beating particular cancers. We all live in hope of the day when research will finally not only locate the gene on the DNA strand that determines cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy and others, but also discovers a way to eliminate those debilitating diseases. We give thanks to God for those who work to enable our lives to be better.

However, when genetic engineering has the capacity to clone certain people or certain tributes, we begin to de-value God’s creation and the worth and value of the individual. Worse is the marketing of “famous” people’s genes in order to have the “right” characteristics that we think are important. The latest bid stands at $50,000. Simply because we have the means to do this, does not make it right. Five years ago, a medical ethicist from the University of Michigan made the statement “the value or worth of a human being is determined just because he/she has been created and is alive.” This ethicist was talking about an infant who was born without the ability to ever do anything for himself except to live.

So, what does this have to do with us? We can’t change what goes on in different places by high-powered people. Or, can we? As Christians we live by a different set of standards. We believe that God has created each individual and that we are created in God’s image and called good. If we believe that, then it does not matter what the gender is, what the race or the color of one’s skin is. We rejoice in the diversity of talents and abilities. We don’t want our children to be exactly alike or like anyone else. We want the Spirit of God to shine through our lives.

What can we do? Everytime we hear of a child being put down or degraded we can step in and help change the atmosphere surrounding that child. When we hear an adult talking about genetic engineering for the purpose of marketing a living human being, created by God, we can confront that person and push them to re-think their values, their relationship with God, and their relationship with their children. What are they really wanting out of life? My suspicion is that they are wanting some sort of immortality — their heritage or life to continue after their death. That won’t happen with marketing. It will happen through the impact they make on their children and the values they teach their children.

I invite all of us to help society to re-direct its values. I invite all of us to be the people of God who offer real life and immortality to those who are searching anywhere for anything that will satisfy the hunger and emptiness. Be bold witnesses for the God who creates all of us.

Dr. Sheila Combs-Francis, Pastor

Albright United Methodist Church

Christian Motorcyclists Relate Plans for November '99

The Christian Motorcycle Association will ride again ... this time in the Veterans Day parade in downtown Ponca City on Saturday, Nov. 6. They will also hold their monthly meeting on that day at the Western Sizzlin’ at 8 a.m. — a monthly event on the first Saturday of each month, always at the Western Sizzlin’.

On Dec. 4 there will be a toy run in memory of Richard Peters, to gather toys for the children who are in the hospital. The date for the chapter’s annual Christmas party is also the evening of Dec. 4. On Jan. 1 they plan to participate in the New Year’s Day Dresser Jack Run to Perry, Okla.

A Bible study is held the second and fourth Mondays of the month at the home of Pete and Joyce Myers, 2220 Turner at 7 p.m. Anyone interested in studying God’s word is welcome to attend.

Chapter members invite anyone who is interested in riding a motorcycle to join them for their monthly meeting and also to ride with them on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. The ride starts from the Triple T Station on U.S. 60 and Waverly at 6 p.m. All motorcycle riders are welcome to meet and ride with the group.

In October many of the members of the Pioneer Christian Crusaders participated in the Changing of the Colors Rally in Hatfield, Ark. There were around 2,000 bikers at the rally for four days — fellowshipping, camping, and worshipping God together from all over the nation. In January this chapter will meet for a season of refreshing, and plan for the coming year of ministry to bikers.

In September, the Pioneer Christian Crusaders held a run for the Domestic Violence Center here in Ponca City. The chapter raised money and supplies for the center. The motorcyclists also participated in a run the following Saturday at Enid for the Crisis Center there.More information about the Christian Motorcycle Association may be obtained by calling Jeff O’Kelley, president of the chapter , at 762-5896 or Pete Myers, vice president, 765-3164. Skip Russell is the road captain for the rides and will be glad to give information about future rides, call 765-2301.

1st Pentecostal Plans Fall Revival

Pastor Rick A. Hughes of First United Pentecostal Church, 1921 East Hartford, announces that beginning this Sunday, Nov. 7, the church will enjoy a special Holy Ghost Revival with services at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Sunday, then Monday through Wednesday at 7 p.m. Evangelist Mark Fuller of Waco, Texas will be ministering in each service. Come expecting to receive something from God in these exciting services, Pastor Hughes said.

Pastor Hughes explains: “You will find apostolic Pentecostal fellowship to be fulfilling, the worship to be exciting, the preaching powerful, and the doctrine to be Biblically sound. Come see why the United Pentecostal Church is one of the fastest growing faiths in the world today. Experience your personal Pentecost!”

First Pentecostal extends a warm welcome to the public to visit these special services. For more information, contact Pastor Hughes at 767-1482.

SPORTS

Wildcats Face Test Against Union Tonight

Wildcats Face Test Against Union Tonight

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

How do you prepared to meet the No. 1 high school team in the state, one that is nationally ranked.

“Like we always do,” replied coach Rusty Benson as the Wildcats were getting ready to play Tulsa Union tonight in Tulsa.

“If you play in the Frontier Conference, you’re going to play the No. 1 or No. 2 team in the state every year,” Benson said. “It’s just prt of the schedule.”

Benson said the Wildcats wouldn’t do anything different tonight although they will add to their existing plans.

“We’ll still use the shotgun,” the coach said. “That give Kyle (Henderson, quarterback) more time to set his feet and throw. But we will added some running plays out of it.

“We had some success out of it against Sapulpa (last Friday and Monday) and we’ll stay with it.”

The Cats will be trying to break a four-game scoring drought against a team that is allowing just 9.5 points per game.

Defensively, Ponca City will be attempting to stop a juggernaut that is scoring at a rate of 35.6 points per outing.

So are the Cats somewhat intimidated by all that power.

No, says seniors Todd Stewart and Jason Beguin.

“It will be a good experience,” Stewart said. “It’s an opportunity to see where you stand against some of the best players in the state.”

“It’s a privilege,” says Beguin. “It’s a way to find out what you’ve got.”

The game will be a big test for the Poncans, and not just physically.

“Union is not all that big,” Stewart adds. “But they execute real, real well. You can learn from that.”

Coach Benson notes that practices have gone well this week and the attitude has been good.

The players actually appear anxious to test Union.

“We have some players who have been hurt, who says they will play,” Benson said.

“Mark Goddard came away with a sore back after the game Monday,” Benson said. “But he’ll be ready Friday.

“Jacob Biby has a broken thumb, his left knee hurts and he has a sprained ankle. I didn’t think there would be any way he could play. But he says he’s ready. He went to the doctor and had a soft cast put on the thumb.

“Jimmo Ozment also had a bad ankle. But he’ll go.”

It will be the final game for 17 seniors who have not experience much success on the field in their time with the football team.

But they don’t seem to mind too much.

“It’s been a good experience,” Beguin says. “It was great to play with this team.”

“These are a great group of guys,” echoes Stewart. “I’ve made a lot of friends out there.