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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Friday, December 15, 2000 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES EDUCATION RELIGION SPORTS LOCALTree Farmers Enjoy Building Traditions Tree Farmers Enjoy Building TraditionsBy JEFF POLITTE News Staff Writer Owning a Christmas tree farm is more than a hobby for the Chaney family, who own Santa’s Forest Christmas Tree Farm just west of Ponca City on U.S. 60. To them it’s a family experience. Kelly and Tamara Chaney, school teachers at East Middle School and Trout Elementary School in Ponca City, along with their two children, Mark, 13, and Laura, 18, have owned and operated the choose and cut Christmas tree farm for 10 years. The Chaneys say their family-owned tree farm started out in the middle of a wheat field where they planted their first field of trees. Since those early days the farm has not only grown into one of the three largest choose-and-cut Christmas tree farms in the state, boasting around 12,000 trees, but has also grown to be a cherished experience and holiday tradition for many area residents — a point of pride for the Chaneys. “I enjoy doing this, because I’m an outdoor-type person,” indicated Kelly Chaney. “As long as my health holds up, I plan to keep doing this.” Chaney suggested he and his wife didn’t start the tree farm just to sell some Christmas trees. “For us it’s a family experience,” he stressed. “Aside from all of the hard work, it’s really rewarding to see families and individuals enjoying the experience of selecting and cutting a Christmas tree for the holidays,” and making that experience a memorable holiday tradition for years to come. “Some even bring their relatives, along with cameras and camcorders, to the farm to share the experience (of selecting and cutting a tree),” he said. Chaney indicated maintaining the farm was hard work and that there were plenty of chores to go around for everyone. He also said it takes the whole family — including aunts, uncles and grandparents who occasionally pitch in a helping hand — each year to complete all of the work. “It’s so labor intensive you just can’t hire out all of the work to be done, it would cost you too much money,” he said, adding this work helps to keep their family together. This work includes planting the trees during planting season, which comes between January and March; mowing the 15-acre farm and up to five insecticide sprayings between March and October; and the spraying of colorant in late October to give the trees their deep, dark color. “It takes about 10 days to complete one spraying,” he added. About 2,000 of the farm’s 12,000 trees, trees slated to be sold over the holidays, are treated with colorant at this time. (See TREE FARM, Page 3A) In the midst of all this work comes the sheering of the trees, which is done three times a year — once in late May, once in August and once in late September — entailing some 60-70 hours of labor during some of the hottest months of the year. “Then you start preparing your barn for the selling season,” he said. According to Chaney, even vacation time includes researching the family business. “When we go on vacation, we try to find three or four other tree farms to visit across the U.S. to gather ideas,” he said. “A lot of people got into this business because they were retired forestry workers, and basically that’s how the industry got a good start in the south,” explained Chaney. “Some people in the eastern part of the U.S. have been growing Christmas trees on choose-and-cut farms for over 40 years.” “When we first started planting here we were basically planting in the middle of a wheat field,” he recalled, “Since the freshly plowed soil was so soft, we used a crow bar to make a hole in the ground for the trees.” “The second year we planted trees, I started looking for a better way of doing it,” he continued. “I saw a man using a motorized auger to dig fence posts and I tried that, just for the convenience.” This was a relatively new technique to the industry, and an idea he shared at an Oklahoma Christmas Tree Association convention in 1995. Now, according to Chaney, 15-20 of the estimated 40 Christmas tree growers in Oklahoma use an auger for planing their trees. “The auger allows you to go deep enough down (around two feet) to help give the trees better root depth,” he explained. “Now I get trees that are six-feet-tall in six years,” which is phenomenal growth compared to other planting methods. Chaney pointed out the fact that the Christmas trees grown on the tree farm were beneficial to the environment. “The trees provide habitats for wild birds and rabbits, help prevent soil erosion and add oxygen to the atmosphere,” he said. “One full grown Christmas tree can provide enough oxygen for four people according to National Christmas Tree Association statistics.” Santa’s Forest opens every year on the day after Thanksgiving. Nearly NewsOops! Nearly News has learned that the television station changed the viewing time for area residents who wanted to catch a glimpse of the local chimney sweep, Don Sawyer. He will be featured on Channel 4’s “Is This a Great State or What” program at 5:15 p.m. Monday, Dec. 18. -—— NN has learned that the Festival of Angels lighting display is open 6-10 p.m. at Lake Ponca Park. The roads in that area have been cleared. -—— Tomorrow will be the last Saturday of the Holiday Season that the downtown post office will be open for extended hours. The main post office will be open 9 a.m.-2 p.m. You can also mail packages at United Supermarket on Fourteenth, Mail Boxes Etc., and the Pioneer Bank of the Osage during their regular hours. New Read, Discuss Program Becomes AvailableOklahoma Connection project coordinator Jennifer Kidney visited the Ponca City Library on Dec. 4 for a brown bag luncheon to encourage local literacy tutors, students and supporters to participate in a new read and discuss program. VISTA member Holly Lee coordinated the event, inviting potential participants to learn more about the project and give attendees an opportunity to help select the first theme for the new discussion group. The Oklahoma Connections project is a scholar-led book discussion program designed for new readers. These programs bring together humanities scholars, librarians, literacy coordinators and adult literacy students in a casual and spontaneous setting to discuss books and ideas. Each series features three programs, using children’s and young adult books of varying levels of difficulty. Through discussion, participants gain increased skills in reading and communicating ideas. Many new readers will gain self-esteem and insight as they begin to make connections between books and their own lives. Oklahoma Connections is sponsored by the Oklahoma Humanities Council, the Oklahoma Department of Libraries and the Oklahoma Library Association. For more information about this program or other programs provided by the Ponca City Library or the Ponca City Area Literacy Council, please call 767-0345. Raindrops Child Loss Supportive Services To Hold Charity GalaRaindrops Child Loss Supportive Services will be holding a charity gala at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 23, at the Ponca City Country Club. Raindrops is a support organizations for families who have lost a child of any age — any kind of loss from miscarriage, stillbirth, SIDS, to the tragic death of an adolescent or adult child. The evening will contain entertainment and a buffet dinner for families, community supporters, professional and para-professional caregivers who are touched by loss. The keynote speaker will be Ponca City native Dr. John Stanley Jr., maternal-fetal specialist from Oklahoma City. A silent auction will be held with items donated including savings bonds, Conoco gasoline, artwork, and other items with an angel theme and more. Entertainment includes Erin Sylvester, who performs throughout the area and with the Northern Oklahoma College Roustabouts. For additional information, call Lisa Lewis at 765-6159 or Debbie Brock, evenings, at 762-1812. DEATHSCatherine Edith Robinson Catherine Edith RobinsonOKLAHOMA CITY — Catherine Edith Robinson, former resident of Ponca City, died Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2000. She was 87. A wake service is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 15, at 6:30 p.m., and a Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 1 p.m. Saturday at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Oklahoma City. Burial will follow at Resurrection Memorial Cemetery under the direction of Smith and Kernke Funeral Directors of Oklahoma City. Catherine Edith Robinson was born June 24, 1913, in Edgerton, Kan., the daughter of Stephen and Edith Dwyer. She later moved to Ponca City, where she graduated from Ponca City High School in 1930. She was an original member of St. Patrick Catholic Church, established in 1951, and was active in its Altar Society, Happy Hearts, Women’s Group, and Widows Support Group. She volunteered at St. Ann’s Nursing Home and was a member of the League of Women Voters. Survivors include three sons, William R. Robinson Jr. of Oklahoma City, Larry Robinson of Ocoee, Fla., and John Robinson of Shawnee; three daughters, Ann McAlvain and Marilyn Conn, both of Oklahoma City, and Jane Lampton of Dallas, Texas; a sister, Peggy Beazley of Lubbock, Texas; a brother, Carl Dwyer of Maryland; six grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, William R. Robinson in 1974; her parents; and a son, Stephen Robinson. ObituariesRaymond C. SmithRaymond C. Smith, longtime Ponca City resident, died Wednesday morning, Dec. 13, 2000, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 79. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 18, 2000, at the Longwood Baptist Church with the Rev. Larry Stevenson presiding. Burial will be at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel. Raymond C. Smith was born Nov. 29, 1921, in Ryan, Okla., the son of Robert Smith and Verdie (Gentry) Smith. He received his early education at Erving, Okla., and graduated from Ryan High School in 1939. He then attended Engineering and Aviation College at Wichita Falls, Texas. He served in the United States Army Air Force from Nov. 5, 1942, until his honorable discharge on Nov. 14, 1945. He was a member of the 5th Bomber Command that operated in the Western Pacific and Southern Philippines. He was married to Loma Whatley on Nov. 7, 1947, in Duncan. Mr. Smith was employed in oil field work at Duncan prior to moving to Ponca City in 1951. He was employed with Conoco until 1963 and had since been engaged in farming. He was a member of the Longwood Baptist Church, where he had been an active leader for several years. He was also a member of the National Rifleman’s Association. His enjoyments included his church work and watching football. He is survived by his wife, Loma, of the home; one son, Stanley Smith of Brownstown, Ill.; one granddaughter, Jesse Smith; one grandson, Nathan Smith; one brother, L.D. Smith of Newkirk; two sisters, Blanche Adams of Wichita Falls, Texas, and Cardell Keele of Duncan; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Roy Adams. Memorial contributions may be made to the Longwood Baptist Church, 1885 North Longwood Road, Ponca City, Okla. 74604. The family will be at the home on Enterprise Road. paid obituary FuneralsSaturday Iva Lee Parkison HarrisIva Lee Parkison Harris — Funeral at 2 p.m. at Grace Memorial Chapel. Burial will be at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will be at 500 S. Tenth Street to receive friends and family. Marie A. SchmitzMarie A. Schmitz — Funeral at 10 a.m. at the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Tonitown, Ark. Burial to follow in the St. Joseph’s Cemetery under the direction of Nelson’s Funeral Home and Cemetery in Fayetteville, Ark. NEWS BRIEFSBingo Cancellation — PCSEA holiday sharing bingo, scheduled for Saturday, has been canceled due to the inclement weather. The next scheduled bingo will be held on Saturday, Jan. 20. Santa For hire. 762-7825 adv. Coin Purse Missing — A woman from the 2000 block of Turner Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:32 a.m. Thursday that a coin purse had been stolen. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Blue Lite is having pool tournament this Saturday, December 16th, at 7 p.m. 765-9170. adv. Suspicious Activity — A man was at the Ponca City Police Department at 8:14 a.m. Tuesday to file a report that someone had been using his Social Security number to open accounts. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential. Hours: Monday 1-3 p.m., Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and Thursday, 6-8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. 765-9689. adv. Accident — The manager at Holiday Inn, 2215 North Fourteenth Street, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:21 a.m. Thursday that someone had hit the fence between the inn property and another business. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Marry Me! 30% off-Friday, 2-6 and Saturday 10-5. Sale includes only Dresses for church or office, etc., Jacket Dresses, and Silk Cruise Pant Suits. Great Christmas Gift. Pioneer Shopping Center. adv. Accident — The Communications Center received a report at 12:25 p.m. Thursday that an accident had occurred at the intersection of North Fifth Street and East Broadway Avenue. Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department were assigned and a report was taken. OU & OSU pewter frames, Pistol Pete dolls & more! Now at Carla’s Hallmark, Downtown. adv. Street Problem — A man in the 500 block of West Liberty Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 1:04 p.m. Thursday that juveniles were throwing snowballs at vehicles as they drive by. An officer was assigned and the juveniles were contacted. Fried Turkey, one day only! Friday the 22nd, call today to order. Snyder’s Grocery 762-4686. adv. Accident — A woman reported to the Communications Center at 1:08 p.m. Thursday that an accident had occurred at the intersection of Fourth Street and East Grand Avenue. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. M&M Family Flowers. For all your holiday floral needs. 765-3335. adv. Gas Drive-Off — A clerk at a business in the 3300 block of North Fourteenth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 1:11 p.m. Thursday that someone had driven off without paying for $12.83 worth of gas and headed south. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Jim Bowen Construction Custom homes, room additions and remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 2:59 p.m. Thursday that a 19-year-old man was being held on three city warrants for driving under suspension, failure to appear and failure to pay. Wright Masonry for all your masonry needs. Call Raymond or Doug 1-580-765-1901. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 800 block of North First Street at 4:53 p.m. Thursday that a 35-year-old man was being held for domestic assault and battery. $1.00 Off outfits with any beanie kid purchase. Carla’s Hallmark, Downtown. 765-3094. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 5:03 p.m. Thursday that a warrant had been cleared with the arrest of a 21-year-old man for failure to appear and failure to pay. Precious Moments Snow globes, three designs and Frosty too! Just $30. Carla’s Hallmark, Downtown. adv. Snow Activity — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 200 block of North Peachtree at 5:29 p.m. Thursday that subjects were being pulled on a sled by a 4-wheeler. The subjects were found in the 500 block of North Peachtree and advised to end the activity. 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. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 1700 block of Fairway at 5:49 p.m. Thursday that a 34-year-old man was being held on a Kay County warrant for child abuse. Holiday Meat trays, order today, Snyder’s Grocery. 762-4686. adv. Subject Held — The Communications Center received a report at 6:27 a.m. Friday that a subject was laying in the parking lot of the 200 block of South Fourteenth Street. Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department responded to the scene and took into custody, a 43-year-old man on a city warrant for failure to pay and two Kay County warrants for failure to appear. Accident — A two-vehicle, non-injury accident at the intersection of Donner and Pecan Road was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 6:31 p.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Stormescape Shelters, perfect for garage, under vehicle. Installed, $2,395. 765-2633. adv. Accident — The Communications Center received a report at 7:18 p.m. Thursday that a two-vehicle, non-injury accident had occurred at the intersection of Meadow and East Prospect Avenue. An officer of the Ponca City Police Department was assigned and a report was taken. Head Country Saturday night special. All you can eat beef brisket with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $7.49. All day. 1217 East Prospect. adv. Vehicle Hits Pole — The Communications Center received a call at 5:58 p.m. Thursday from a man in the 1400 block of North Longwood Road that a truck had hit a power pole and the pole was broken and power lines down across the truck. Oklahoma Highway Patrol and Water and Light Department officials were contacted. Try The taquito from a A La Carte menu served with a special taco and pico de gallo, $3.25. Enriques. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 400 block of North Fifth Street at 9:01 p.m. Thursday that a 34-year-old woman was being held on a felony warrant from Johnson County, Kan. Now Serving shrimp tostadas. Served with a red corn tortilla shell, pico de gallo, and monter-rey jack cheese, $3.25/each. Enriques. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of West Hartford Avenue and Richway Drive at 9:21 p.m. Thursday that a 20-year-old man was being held for driving under suspension. Court Allen Construction. Brick, flagstone, concrete, walkway’s, patios and planters. Call 765-2720. adv. Fire Run — The Communications Center received a report at 9:54 p.m. Thursday that flames were coming out of the roof of a residence in the 1600 block of North Pecan Road. Units from all stations of the Ponca City Fire Department responded to the scene but reported there was no fire, that the incident was a fire place. Suspicious Activity — A man from the 500 block of North Lake Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 5:25 a.m. Friday that a pickup was pulling a sled along Lake Street and had turned on Summit heading east. An officer was assigned and found the activity at the intersection of North Oak Street and West Liberty Avenue, where a citation was issued. Burglary — The Communications Center received a report at 6:45 a.m. Friday that a vehicle had been broken into during the night in the 1400 block of West Grand Avenue. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Vehicle Damaged — A woman from the 700 block of West Grand Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 6:56 a.m. Friday that an antenna had been taken off a mail truck. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. LIFESTYLESLaureate Phi Chapter Holds Holiday Party Laureate Phi Chapter Holds Holiday PartyNine members and seven guests attended the traditional Christmas dinner for Laureate Phi chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority. The event was held Sunday in the home of Fran Smith. Following the meal, Santa Claus (Jack Cnossen), assisted by the hostess, distributed gifts. The names of secret sisters were revealed as gifts were opened. Mrs. Smith read “The Tablecloth,” a Christmas miracle story. Guests were Robin and Jack Cnossen, Bob Case, Jim Rosenbaum, Dean Keating, John Williams and Dave Smith. The first program meeting for 2001 will be held in the home of Virginia Starks on Jan. 8 with Velma Case as co-hostess. Lillian Williams will give the lesson “Understanding and Solving Depression.” Chapter members will select a Valentine queen candidate at this time. Baking with Egg Whites Reduces FatQ: How much fat is saved by baking with egg whites instead of whole eggs? A: The fat saved depends on how many whole eggs you replace and the number of servings involved. Each egg yolk contains 5.6 grams of fat, while the white contains none, so you save 5.6 grams of fat each time you substitute two egg whites for one whole egg. Although that may represent a substantial savings in total, the amount saved per serving may be minimal - only one or two grams of fat, for example, per muffin, cookie, or slice of cake. You can cut far more fat by reducing the amount of oil or slice of cake. You can cut far more fat by reducing the amount of oil or margarine in a recipe, substituting an equal amount of applesauce or low-fat plain yogurt. Special commercial fat substitutes made from fruit purees can also be used in baking. Little NewsByron and Marcie Corwin of Oklahoma City announce the birth of a son, Ian Chandler Corwin, at 4:46 p.m. Nov. 21, 2000, in Deaconess Hospital in Oklahoma City. The baby weighed 7 pounds, 9 ounces, and measured 20 inches long. He has a brother, Logan Corwin. Maternal grandparents are Larry Schneeberger of Marland, and Ken and Carolyn Yeargin of Texas. Paternal grandparents are Jim and MaryKay Corwin of Ada. Great-grandparents are Alma Schneeberger of Ponca City and Sara O’Neill of El Reno. RELIGIONFirst Baptist Church Offers ‘A Light Still Shines’ Sunday First Baptist Church Offers ‘A Light Still Shines’ SundayThe music ministry of First Baptist Church will present the Christmas program entitled “A Light Still Shines” at 6:30 p.m. Sunday. This presentation features the 80-voice adult choir with a 30-piece orchestra. “A Light Still Shines,” written by Randy Vader, Jay Rouse and Camp Kinkaid, is a collection of Christmas music and narratives presented by the Rev. Hance Dilbeck and his wife Julie. “Those in attendance will be in for a most enjoyable and inspirational program,” according to Larry Masters, minister of music. “Mary, Did You Know?”, voted the most popular new Christmas song of the past decade, a choral version of “Carol of the Bells” and “We Have Seen the Light” are just a few of the tunes to be presented. Soloists, in order of appearance, are Crystal Reece, Teresa McPherson, Sherry Gibson, Doyle Brewer, Shannon Mair, Judy Burnette, Susan Smith, Craig Myers, Bill Justice, Charlotte Smith, Guy Lyall and Mary Jane Barraclough. Masters will conduct the musical, accompanied by Marcella Johnson, music secretary and church organist, and Carol Green, church pianist. The FBC Orchestra includes Karen Stokkee, Cindy Jones, Emily Jack, Fran Manley, Holly Dailey and Angela Skaggs, violin; Kara Hardy, viola; Corbin Grimsley, Mindy Jones, Stephanie Council, cello; Aaron Jones, bass; Lauren Vaughn, flute; Al Summerfield and Jamie Korsmo, clarinet; Denise Jones, bassoon; Shannon Gackstatter, oboe; Connie Ausland, Stan Barraclough and Jamie Trout, trumpet; Gary Gackstatter, Wade Tisdale and Chip Hardy, trombone; James Barraclough, French horn; Kara Hardy, Jonathan Trout and Ryan Yeakley, percussion; and Mark Love and Johnnie Parnell, rhythm. Following “A Light Still Shines,” all are invited to the assembly center as the FBC Singers entertain with "Holiday Classics" by David Clydesdale for music, food and fellowship and a comedy arrangement of “The Dozen Daze of Christmas.” First Christian Christmas CantataThe Chancel Choir of First Christian Church, under the direction of Michael Sheafter, will present its annual Christmas Cantata Sunday at the 10:30 am. service. “Noel Celebration” by Cindy Berry brings new arrangements of carols and new songs together. Others participating include vocal solo by Dawn Sheaffer; Kay Sabai on organ and piano; narration by Kent Dorsey; speaking parts by Kathy Adams, Sharon Cooper, Bob Erner, Gary Hughes, Gary Stephens and Rebecca Stephens; and a handbell ensemble directed by Marta Sullivan. Choir personnel include Kathy Adams, Marilyn Andrews, Betty Blubaugh, Marvin Clark, Carol Coats, Wayne Coats, Sharon Cooper, Jan Dorsey, Bob Erner, Mary Lou Gregg, Gary Hughes, Loretta Leathers, Bob Patterson, Sue Patterson, Cliff Poet, Bev Poet, Jan Schickram, Ramona Sheldon, Karyn Sledge, Gary Stephens, Rebecca Stephens, Marta Sullivan, Betty Thompson, Charles Thompson, Kathy Turner, Leona Ward, Patti Ziegenhain. Handbell personnel include Teresa Benson, Lee Ann Cavener, Kent Dorsey, Susan Ellis, Terry Heyer, Donetta Hicks, Sheila Kirkpatrick, and Angie Novotny. St. Paul’s Schedules ‘Glow-ria’ for SundaySt. Paul’s United Methodist Church invites its members and the public to see “Glow-ria, the Bethlehem Star,” a children’s play with carols and an original song. The public is invited at 6:30 p.m. Sunday; a cake and punch reception will follow in the fellowship hall. The story is set in the heavens. Glow-ria is worried about not ever getting her “bright starlight.” Glow-ria is assured by her friends Wilderness, Stairstep and Eden that her turn will come. God does indeed come through, and Glow-ria gets the best assignment of all time — leading the Wise Men to Jesus, the Savior. Thirty-four members, children and adults alike, have joined together to present this children’s play for the community. Marta Maril directs the play with piano accompaniment by Donna Clark. Those singing solos, duets, and the childrens quartet are Britany Lawrence, Shalon Cink, Brittany Bull, Katie Southard, Jessie Atkins, Suzanna Parks, Joel Bjornen, and Lane Tooman. The Angel dance will be preformed by Lauren Blakeburn, Brittany Bull, Carol Southard, Katie Southard, Lynette Ogan, Shawna Ogan. Other cast members in order of appearance include Zang White, Kay Bjornen, Bill Southard, Nancy Tooman, David Gilliland, Carol Southard, Wesley Atkins, Andrew Lawrence, Heather Winter, Desta Parks, Jennifer Scovill, Zachary Parks, Ed Coy Light, Bill Thomason and Don Coffelt. Visit the church’s website at www.hit.net/~stpauls. ‘Slow Down ... You’re Moving Too Fast’ ThemeThe Third Sunday in Advent will be observed in both the 8:30 and 11 a.m. services at First Lutheran Church Sunday. The theme of the day is expressed in the title of the opening hymn “Lift Up Your Heads, You Mighty Gates.” The Rev. Tom Ramsey’s sermon is entitled “Slow Down ... You’re Moving Too Fast,” and the Senior Choir will sing “0 Jesus, Grant Me Hope and Comfort” at both services. Holy Communion will be celebrated at both services. Prior to the distribution of communion in the first service, several youth will participate in the Rite of First Communion. Those involved are Micah Allyn, Kensle Andrews, Carolyn Brown, Jennifer Dove, Barry Fagg, Chad Johnson, Maddle McDaniel, Jeffia Pan, Levi Scott, Eric Stephen, Sean Taglialatela, and Blair Turney. At 6:30 p.m., the children of the Sunday school will present the Christmas program “Celebrating God’s Family” in the church sanctuary. The presentation is under the direction of Becky Lane with musical direction by Peggy Ramsey. The worship schedule for Dec. 24 includes the regular morning services, the Festival of Lessons and Carols at 6:30 p.m., and the candlelight communion service at 11 p.m. The congregation invites anyone to join them in these celebrations. Presbyterian Youth Support Matthew’s MarketPresbyterian Border Ministries and the youth of First Presbyterian Church will be running Matthew’s Market for the fourth year. Matthew’s Market (El Mercado Mateo) is an opportunity for an alternative gift-giving experience for anyone in the Ponca City community. Many tangible items like milk and food supplements for newborns, health clinic visits, vitamins, meals for children, bibles, and more can be purchased as a present to give to someone on the Christmas list. A nice card is then provided with an explanation that a present of love to help those needy in Mexico has been given in honor of that person. A check or money is given to the church for these items and a total check is sent after Christmas to Presbyterian Border Ministries. This is an excellent way to show mission and care at this time of year, and the youth encourage all to participate in the “Market” and give someone a present of love. The youth will be in the fellowship hall after each Sunday morning worship service for those worshipping at First Presbyterian; however, anyone who would like to give to this ministry for those in strong need south of the border, can contact the church (762-2431) during business hours and visit with Larry Williams. St. John Baptist Host Christmas CelebrationSt. John Baptist Church youth department will present a Christmas Celebration “T'was the Night Before Jesus Came” Sunday at 12:45 p.m. Children will present a dramatic rendition of the night before Jesus’ birth. In addition, younger children will do recitations and songs. Special presentations will be made by the youth to senior members of the congregation. Immediately following the Christmas program, there will a fellowship dinner. The Revs. Palmer, Petties, and Davis along, with the directors of the youth department, invite all to come out and share this celebration. Anyone wishing more information should contact the church. Prince of Peace Lutheran Observes Advent SundayPrince of Peace Lutheran Church, ELCA, at 2800 Turner Road, will celebrate the third Sunday in Advent with Holy Communion. The topic Sunday will be “as the light from the Advent wreath is growing, we prepare for God’s coming with great joy and thanksgiving.” Sunday school is at 9 a.m. followed by worship at 10 a.m. The youth and the women of the congregation are filling Christmas baskets for families in need. Bring items by Sunday. Bring a covered dish for the Christmas dinner on Sunday. Midweek Advent service on Wednesday is at 7 p.m. preceded by a soup supper at 6 p.m. Visit the website at www.princeofpeacechurch.net. Church BriefsChristmas Family Celebration The congregation of First Christian Church of Kaw City will host the New Hope Praise Band from Fairfax and Kaw City Sunday at 6 p.m. as part of their Christmas family celebration. Guest and visitors are welcome. Activities will include a sing-a-long of Christmas carols, special music by Ciara Farrow, daughter of Scott and Robin Farrow, and entertainment by the New Hope Praise Band composed of Bill Bray, Jan Ellison, Cindy Russell, Kristy Russell, Ray Russell, Ronnie Smith, and David Vaught. The evening event will close with refreshments and a special visitor from the North Pole. Accepting Differences KLVV Christian radio will air a special edition of Focus on the Family on Wednesday and Thursday entitled “Accepting Your Mates Differences” with Kevin Leman, psychologist, taking a humorous look at the differences between men and women, especially in the context of marriage. The program will air at 6 and 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday. KLVV is a nonprofit radio station broadcasting on 88.7 FM in northern Oklahoma. More information is available at www.KLVV.com. Cradle Through the Cross “Cradle Through the Cross” will be on stage at the Poncan Theatre Saturday at 3 and 7 p.m. The production is directed by Tim Muniz, and Forgiven, Sweet Harmony, Patty Curl, Rich Whiting and others will appear. Admission is free with a ticket; tickets can be obtained in Ponca City at Masters Touch bookstore. Bake Sale St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, Hartford and Pecan, will hold a bake sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. Candy, cookies, cakes, pies, casseroles cinnamon rolls and candles will be available as well as Harry Potter’s favorites, Jelly Slugs, ton-tongue toffee and cockroach clusters. An all-you-can-eat lunch with chili, stew and cornbread will be served starting at 11 a.m. for $3. Hartford Avenue Church of Christ The members of Hartford Avenue Church of Christ, 1900 Joe Street, invite all to share God’s word each week. Sunday Bible classes start at 9:30 a.m. followed by worship at 10:30 a.m. Sunday evening worship is 6 o’clock, and the Wednesday service is 7 p.m. Classes are available for all ages, nursery through adults. Watch the Search program Sunday at 8 a.m. on Channel 5 or 8; this week’s topic is Confessing Christ. Bible thought for the week is from II Corinthians 4:7: “We have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this allsurpassing powers is from God and not from us.” “Chosen” Presented Ponca City First Church drama team and sanctuary choir will present “Chosen,” written and directed by Sheila Ives with music compiled and written by Sheila Ives and Ben Scroggs, music minister. The presentation will be 6 p.m. Sunday at First Church, 1101 West Grand. The story is about a young girl who serves in the highest honor — to carry the Messiah. For more information, call First Church at 762-4271. International Gospel Hour The Newkirk Church of Christ is sponsoring the International Gospel Hour each Sunday at 8:30 a.m. on KSOK 95.9 FM. Winford Claiborne is speaker, and the program is heard each week on many stations across the country. Live Nativity and Caroling The Sunday school classes of Woodlands Christian Church, 1400 East Hartford, will present a short caroling program call “O Christmas Tree” and an enactment of the nativity. The evening will begin at 6 o’clock, and there will be refreshments and a visit from Santa. “Great Day” at First Nazarene The First Nazarene Sanctuary choir, under the direction of Cindy Poling, will present “Great Day!” as arranged by Mosie Lister. Two performances will be held — 10:45 a.m. Sunday at the First Church of the Nazarene, 1900 W. Grand, and 6 p.m. Sunday at the Trinity Church of the Nazarene, 401 Perry. Soloists include Steve Bierly, Bonnie Johnson and Don Morgan. A youth choir will also be featured. The community is invited to join them in the celebration of the birth of Christ. Christmas Eve Children’s Program The youth of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church will hold a Christmas Eve program at 5:30 . Practice for the event will be held at the church on Wednesday at 6:15 p.m. Bible study for mothers at Kids. Kastle will resume at 9 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 11, and the weekly Bible study will resume at 7 p.m. Wednesdays. Keep the Sabbath Holy? or Else!By George R. Plagenz Which of the Ten Commandments gets broken most often? Is it the one forbidding adultery? Stealing? Coveting? Lying? Swearing? Cheating? How about the one that commands us to go to church? We don’t ordinarily consider that one to be a serious sin, but there was a Lutheran pastor in Holt, Mich., a few years ago who told his congregation that missing church regularly was grounds for being sent to hell. It was “go to church or go to hell.” You might expect that such a harsh doctrine would be certain to empty the church of most of its members, but it had just the opposite effect. When Rev. William Richardt became pastor of St. Matthew Lutheran Church in a suburb of Lansing, there were 100 in the congregation. He built the membership to 1,600, making it the fastest-growing congregation in the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. In the first year of Richardt’s pastorate, 60 members were excommunicated, most of them for nonattendance. But 25 “repented” and were granted reinstatement after agreeing to be regular churchgoers in the future. “The commandment about sanctifying the holy day is no less important than the commandment against killing or committing adultery,” Richardt said. “Breaking any of the commandments — unless followed by repentance — will land the sinner in hell.” He backed up his position with scripture. “The soul that sinneth, it shall die,” said Ezekiel in the Old Testament. Jesus amended that to, “Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” “We don’t put a specific number on how many Sundays a person can miss before being excommunicated,” Richardt said. “But we expect that if one is in town and isn’t doing something that has a higher priority, he will be in church.” If someone was absent from worship two or three Sundays in a row, he was contacted by letter. If the absences continued five or six weeks running, someone would call to explain the seriousness of his sin. If that didn’t work, excommunication was the next step. One couple and their teen-age son were excommunicated because they had attended services only four times in 41 weeks. Letters of excommunication would carry the dire warning, “This means you are declaring yourself a non-Christian and that if you were to die, you would not be in heaven but would be spending eternity in hell.” Now a Methodist church in Georgia is adopting Richardt’s stern measures. But it stops short of consigning anybody to hell for chronic absenteeism. Every member of the church got this letter: “This is to notify you that all church members will be required to attend Sunday services at least twice each month to remain in good standing as active members … Unless you have some legitimate reason for not being in church, you will be taken off the church rolls. “The challenges of this century are simply too great for the church to permit false statements of loyalty from its so-called members. We feel that God must be saying to the churches of this day, ‘Shape up or ship out.’” How is the hard-line approach working? The pastor says that since the letter went out, there has been a 56-percent increase in attendance. If you are having attendance problems, maybe you should try something like this at your church. EDUCATIONW.M.S Honors Kids W.M.S Honors KidsDuring the month of December, West Middle School honored students on Fridays for Students On a Roll (SOAR). These students are honored for something outstanding they did, not necessarily academic. The students are honored with a certificate, and parents are invited to an assembly. Coffee, juice and donuts are provided by Albertson’s. On Friday, Dec. 1, students honored were Sarah English, Justin Caffey, Taressa Wood, Matt Larimer, Kimberly Kirby, Brittanie Howard, Sheena McMahan, Michael Dixey, Jennifer Gaddis, Jessi McEnrue, Cody Revard, Travis VanTassel, Brandi DeHaven, Colby Bunch, Javier Chapparo, Holly Carlile, Devin Gray, Shannon Fischer, Chris Buford, Rashawn Parker, Dawna Herl, Cystal Counselor, Sarah Wood and Sean Jimenez. Dec. 8, the following students were honored: Kyle Kassen, Brandy Suggs, Karina Valdez, Josh Ketchum, Sam Chambray, Anais Longoria, Phillip Major, Rebecca Ward, Wade Empting, Antral Miller, Michael Smith, Marcus Grace, Jordan Jamison, Ryan Rosebery, Nicole Seward, Brett Waller, Guyanna Leroy, Michelle Hutson, Ryan Stout, Darrah Copple, Laura Phillips, Lynette Guess, Adam Jackson, Danielle Jorgensen and Gena VanCuren. Students honored on Friday, Dec. 15, Kortnie Olbert, Jason Courverlier, Lindsey Gonzales, Brittney Hager, Kyce Holmes, Jose Baeza, Richard Northrup, Erica Bonavida, Lauren Weingart, Tacy Sneed, Matt Cook, Cody Springer, Stephanie Pierce, Cassi Palmer, Travis Harvey, Scott Clinton, Miguel Najera, Lisa Proctor, Ben Tisdale, Ricky Cameron, Wesley Wimberly and Jammer Enloe were honored. Senior Nominated For Leadership AwardJacquelyn Salmons, a Ponca City High School senior, has been nominated to compete in the national Principal’s Leadership Award scholarship program, sponsored by the National Association of Secondary Schools Principals. The PLA scholarship held assert the importance of a well-rounded education. There will be 150 seniors selected nationwide this spring to receive a $1,000 scholarship. She was selected to represent Po-Hi from eight seniors who made applications. A scholarship committee comprised of high school staff members made the selection. Salmons has been a very active participant in the school music programs, participating in both the orchestra and the chorale. As a third year members of the Color Guard, she serves as its captain this year. She was selected for membership in the National Honor Society and has been active in church activities and attended four mission trip teams. She is the daughter of Bill and Ann Salmons of Ponca City. Lincoln Alternative School Lists Trimester Honor RollsBarbara Davis, Lincoln Center coordinator, is proud to announce the Principal’s Honor Roll for the first trimester. Each of the students named to the Principal’s Honor Roll have earned a 3.0-3.99 grade average in all subjects enrolled with no incomplete grades and no grade below a “C.” These students are enrolled as full-time students. Students making the honor roll for the Alternative School (including Lincoln Center, Teen Pep and Share programs) are Rosetta Arkeketa, Matthew Bristow, Larry Calvert, Zachary Checotah, Lisa Clifton, Kia Coburn, Sheena Colvin (Joiner), Renee Cortez, David Edwardson, Valorie Fahs, Rebekah Gibson, Sheila Grace, Travis Hayes, Brandy Jester, Brittany Lampe, Tiffany Laster and Calinda Lee. Also, Rose Lena, Tracinda McClaflin, Jamie McDougall, Lacey Meyers, Nicole Myers, Jessica Nichols, Dusty Patrick, Chrystal Ramsey, Candice Rhodd, Karla Rojas, Ashley Romine (Coleman), Cassie Rowe, Carlie Ruff, Ashley Russell, Ajulia Sarty, Sandra Stocker, Tyler Warrior, Matthew Willey, Amber Wright and Natalie Zazueta. News Announces ScholarshipChangesThe Ponca City News will no longer accept scholarship pictures (i.e. high school, college and club scholarships) for publication. We will be happy to run the information only in the paper, providing the information submitted is done so in a timely manner. For further information please contact Kristi Hayes, Education Editor, at 765-3311, ext. 137, or e-mail at kdg@poncacitynews.com. Director’s Cornerby Dr. Brenda Stacy, Director University Learning Center of Northern Oklahoma Merry Christmas from the students and staff of the University Learning Center of Northern Oklahoma! Need some gift ideas? Let us help you! Great Gift Ideas 1. Tuition for a semester at the ULC 2. Tuition for one class at the ULC 3. Book and supply money for classes at the ULC 4. Wrapped textbooks under the tree for classes at ULC 5. Childcare "coupon" saying you will baby-sit the children of your significant other, friend, or family member so he/she may attend classes at the ULC. 6. Flexible lunch hour for employees so that they may attend classes atthe ULC. 7. "I'll cook dinner on Tuesday Nights" coupons - so that your spouse can attend classes at the ULC. 8. "Miss 2 games" coupon -so Mom/Dad can attend class at the ULC guilt free. 9. "Computer Help" coupon - redeemable at those terrifying moments when an entire assignment has disappeared from the computer screen or as otherwise deemed necessary. 10. The keys to a brand new, shiny vehicle of choice for the one you love, so that he/she may drive the short distance to the ULC - in style! Super Stocking Stuffers (Shhh, they are FREE-but no one has to know, just come visit us at the ULC!) 1. ULC pencils 2. ULC Spring 2001 Class Schedule 3. Two 1-hour sessions in the ULC Computer Center 4. Brochure about the ULC and the programs offered 5. Tour of the ULC - redeemable any time the ULC is open. Reflections on 2000 At this time of year, it is always nice to reflect on the past year of activities. What a whirlwind it has been at the University Learning Center! We made our first two jingles for radio promotions. The first ULC commercial was filmed and currently airs on several of the TV stations received locally. New ULC signs help people find the University Learning Center. Spring 2001 Class Schedules were printed and inserted in area newspapers and, for the first time, the ULC will be offering so many classes in Spring 2001 that it required a booklet-type Class Schedule. In May, the first ULC students graduated - two with bachelor degrees in Business Administration from North-western Oklahoma State University and one with a Masters in Business Admin-istration from OSU. In fall 1999, the ULC began by offering 9 programs and 42 classes from five institutions. Today, 22 degree programs are available to students and over 150 classes delivered by eight (8) different higher education institutions. Looking Forward to 2001 We, at the University Learning Center, are looking forward to 2001. The spring semester enrollment is strong and it appears that most evenings between 4:00-10:00, the ULC will have all six (6) of the Interactive Television Studios humming with classes being broadcast to our students. We hope that you will be one of those attending class at the ULC! You can call us for a copy of the Spring 2001 Class Schedule or view our website at this address: www.poncacitynews.com/ulcno For more information about any of our programs or services, give us a call at 762-2856. We are located in the North Tower of the Conoco Complex. Enter Gate F from South Avenue in Ponca City and come see us in the ULC! Roosevelt, Pioneer Bank Join Together in ProgramRoosevelt School and Pioneer Bank and Trust are joining together to participate in the Bank at School program sponsored by the Oklahoma State Department of Education, the State Treasurer’s Office and the Oklahoma Bankers Association. “Bank at School matches local schools with financial institutions to introduce students to basic monetary concepts including the origins of money, the importance of saving, and the principles of credit,” State Superintendent Sandy Garrett said. “The program is intended to be integrated into the existing core curriculum in an interdisciplinary manner, especially in the areas of mathematics, social studies and language arts.” “Findings from recent studies indicate that average American households today have almost four times more debt than it did 20 years ago,” State Treasurer Robert Butkin said. “Our young people need to be aware of the pitfalls and problems with incurring too much personal debt. Credit cards play a role in modern society but our children must learn the impact cumulative interest has on debt as well as savings.” Tom Sipe, principal at Roosevelt, said students in grades first through fifth will participate in Bank at School, supported by officials of Pioneer Bank and Trust. “The program is a great opportunity for our students,” Sipe said. Carl Renfro, CEO and Chairman of the Board at Pioneer Bank and Trust, said, “As a P.I.E. partner to Roosevelt School, we discussed this program with Tom Sipe and completed the steps to get the curriculum to the school. We are proud to support this effort to prepare children for their financial future. We believe Bank at School will give students knowledge that can help them throughout their lives.” The Bank at School program focuses on financial education to help children become wise managers of money and understand the value of personal financial responsibility. One of the goals of this program is to encourage children to recognize the importance of saving for basic needs such as continuing education, housing and health care. SPORTSWildcats Staying Home Wildcats Staying HomeThe winter storm that dumped 4.5 inches of snow on Ponca City forced the cancellation of most weekend high school sporting events. The Ponca City Wildcats were supposed to travel to Sand Springs for a Frontier Conference matchup against the Sandites. Although local schools are open, most school districts in Tulsa County are closed. The wrestling match with Jenks is cancelled. Jenks school officials decided against traveling to Ponca City and notified local school officials at about 11 a.m.. The only area games not interrupted by the weather are in Blackwell and Braman. Blackwell hosts Newkirk and Braman hosts Deer Creek-Lamont. Game times are set for 6:30 p.m. The junior high school game between Braman and DCLA was cancelled as was the Blackwell’s wrestling match at Pawhuska. Frontier’s basketball game with Pawnee is cancelled. Tonkawa’s game at Woodland in Fairfax is rescheduled for Monday. Junior vasity games begin at 4 p.m.. The high school games begin at 6:30 p.m. with the Lady Bucs and Lady Cougars. Ponca City-Sand Springs basketball will be rescheduled after the first of the year, accordinmg to Po-Hi Athletic Departmen officials. The Ponca City-Jenks wrestling will also be rescheduled. The Wildcat wrestlers are schedyled to travel to Del City for a dual Saturday. Blue Varsity Takes Third in TourneyPonca City Blue eighth grade girls’ varsity finished third in the Sand Springs Invitational Tournament after beating the host team 26-24 Saturday. Katy Farmer scored 9 points to lead the Ponca City to third place with a three pointer, two two-point field goals and a couple of free throws. Chelsey Teten drew four buckets for eight points. Crystalyn Choate also scored 8 points with a three-pointer, a couple of field goals and a free shot. Jennifer Miller was the only other Poncan to get into the scoring column with a free throw for one point. Ponca City took the lead in the second quarter after a 7-7 tie in the first. P C Blue scored seven points in the second quarter while holding the opposition scoreless. The second period performance was the game winner as Sapulpa matched Ponca City in the third quarter with four points, then beat the Blue team in the fourth quarter, 13-8. Enid Waller visited East Middle School Monday and beat the Blue team 38-27 to hand the local girls their second loss of the season. Enid led by one point, 20-19 at the end of the first half. The second half was not close as Enid outscored Ponca City 13-6 in the third and 5-2 in the fourth quarter. Jennifer Miller led the home team in scoring with nine points. Miller sank three two-pointers and three free throws. Chelsey Teten followed close behind with six points from two two-pointers and a couple of free throws. Lindsey Mayse score from long range with a three-point basket. Lauren Degen also scored three points. Degen scored her points the hard way, one at a time, from the free throw line. Katy Farmer and Mindy Hamrick each scored one point. The Blue varsity team is now 4-2. Enid Waller Beats Blue JVEnid Waller defeated the eighth grade Blue junior varsity 34-22 Monday. The game was never close. Enid jumped out to a 17-4 lead in the first quarter. The second quarter ended with the score, 23-7. Enid scored in double figures again in the third quarter, outscoring the host team 15-6. The Blue jv team finally came alive in the fourth quarter to outscore Enid 9-4. Jessica Brown and Amanda Moore led Blue jv with four points each. Crystal Foy and Charlcy Hermanson put in three points each. Katie Behara, Megan Walters, Leta Granthum and Tiffany Taiclet each scored two points.
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