From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Sunday, December
14, 1997
LOCAL
Lines Getting Longer at P.O.
Nearly News
All Aglow
Editorial
Standing Bear Park Opens Permanent Headquarters
Holiday Safety Will Eliminate Chance of Bad Tragedy
City Calendar
School Menu
School Calendar
The Diamonds Shine On Poncan Season
Memory Tree Special Holiday Project From Hospice
'L.A. Confidential' Wins Best Picture Award of '97
'Hometown Christmas' At Poncan Saturday
Letters to Santa
Double Christmas Show Set Friday
MS Support Group Meeting on Monday
Three Suspects Held in Burglary
Professional Counselors Await Tuesday Callers
DEATHS
Warren J. McInturff
Frank A. Sozio
Letha V. Zerger
Bob J. Bowen
NEWS BRIEFS
LIFESTYLES
Clarks Celebrating 50 Years
Patches and Pieces Quilt Guild Planning Party
Habitat of Humanity Cookbook Fundraiser
Some Timely Advice: 'Don't Pick an Angel Up By The Halo'
100th Birthday for Gladys Kinser
Carmichael Family Reunion Held
Danelle Proctor Becomes Bride of Leroy L. Vernon
Pair Marries in Ceremony On St. Ann, Jamaica Beach
Musical Program for Red Rose Club
Bits and Pieces
Garden Club
Ponca City Happenings
Piper-Rennie Plans Named
Little News
Slovaceks Mark Anniversary
Pair Plans Feb. 14 Wedding
Quilter To Present DAR Program
Couple Weds at Turner Falls
Anniversary
Wheatheart Nutrition
Eastern Star Installation Scheduled
Chrysanthemum Members Meet
Mrs. Ponca City Title Preliminary To State Contest
SPORTS
Lady Cats Can't Wear Down No.1 State Team
Cats' Late Game Rally Not Enough
Short-Handed Cats Step It Up
Gelino Making His Presence Felt
Sophs Squeak Past Enid
Wildcat JV Survive Sapulpa
Lady Cat JV's Win Two in Row
By PATTI PFEIFFER
News Staff Writer
Time is getting shorter, lines are getting longer and people are getting busier. The hustle and bustle of the Christmas seems to be in full force around the city. And with a fifty percent increase in both parcel package and letter deliveries local postal workers are feeling the brunt of the holiday season.
Acting Postmaster Robert Keene has advice for those having Christmas packages and cards yet to be mailed - "GET IT MAILED! And as soon as possible." The Christmas rush which began last week has already caused a two to three day delay in the U.S. Postal Service deliveries Keene says.
According to Keene after Monday customers wanting to guarantee delivery by Christmas should not mail by regular parcel post but by Priority Mail. "Normal delivery anywhere within the Continental U.S. takes 7-10 and with a 2-3 day delay there are just not enough days left to get the packages delivered on time at this late date," Keene says. "If they get behind, First Class and Priority Mail parcels will be worked first."
After Saturday, Keene advises only sending parcels by Express Mail which is guaranteed overnight delivery including Christmas Day.
The slogan "Mail Early" is not only good advice it is money saving advice, for if you have waited this long and if you want delivery guaranteed by Christmas Day, it will cost you. There is an increase cost associated with the luxury of a guaranteed delivery date. And the longer the delay, the more the cost. The cost for Priority Mail is $3 for up to 2 pounds and Express Mail is $10.75 for a half pound and $15 for 2 pounds.
And if you have procrastinated in mailing those ever popular Christmas cards you still have time without additional cost. "Any cards sent next week should arrive by Christmas but after that I wouldn't send anything," Keene says.
The Christmas rush, which started last week is expected to continue through this week, should not effect customers as much as the postal employee. Keene says that the post office which usually only has three clerks at the windows has added a fourth to help with the rush.
According to Keene currently the average wait at the Post Office is four minutes. "It only seems like a long time," he adds.
And after the holidays, when most people will be able to slow down and recuperate from the hurry, scurry, stress and strain of the holidays, postal workers will be readying for another onslaught of deliveries. "We have a ton of advertisements immediately after Christmas until Jan. 10," Keene says. "The white sales after the holidays present us with back to back big rushes."
The Post Office will be closing at 3 p.m. on Christmas Eve but people will still be able to pick up packages until 5:30 p.m.
Word has been given Nearly News that someone won a bidding event of the Ponca City Arts and Humanities during the Christmas Gala, but officials can't find the person who won the bid. Seems the name of Bob Davis doesn't fit any of those contacted according to Carol Bouldin, on a bid of the mantel piece, an antique clock. The bidder may call either Kenn Wessel 765-0943 or Carol Bouldin 762-1208 to claim the item.
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Please go to the ribbon cutting of First National Bank of Oklahoma a little earlier than 3 p.m. as listed in Thursday's Chamber column. Chamber officials called Nearly News late Friday afternoon to state that the ribbon cutting for the new bank at the southwestern corner of East Grand Avenue at Fourteenth Street, is indeed at 10 a.m. Monday. Ya' all come!
THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT is evident throughout Ponca City, especially with the on-going Festival of Angels displays. A variety of Christmas themes are part of displays seen near the Pioneer Woman statue, at Fourteenth Street and Lake Road, as well as the lawn of the Cultural Center, the Cann Memorial Garden and the Marland Mansion Estate. (News Photo by Michael Kennedy)
Allan W. Muchmore, 1915-1997
The measure of a man is not what is written about him after he is gone, but what he accomplishes while he is with us.
Ponca City and the state of Oklahoma, as well as the employees of The News and WBBZ, have lost a great leader and friend with the passing of Allan W. Muchmore.
Allan was only the third editor of The News since 1919 (following in the footsteps of his father, Clyde, and brother, Gareth).
His accomplishments have already been listed in detail, but let it suffice to say that he was a leader in both the newspaper and broadcast industries as well as in charitable fields throughout the state.
He was the first person to serve as president of both the Oklahoma Press Association and the Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters. He also served as president at one time or another of the Oklahoma Society of Crippled Children, Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce, the Economic Development Foundation and the local Kiwanis Club as well as many other organizations.
He was a leader who took his leadership role in stride, but he also had a more common touch.
He loved cars and loved to drive. He could spout full works of poetry at the drop of a line. He knew the history of Ponca City and was a constant source of information for News reporters who needed those extra details to fill out stories.
The passing of Allan W. Muchmore will be mourned, but his memory will live on through his many friends, associates and family members.
He will be missed.
Foster Johnson
Managing Editor
Standing Bear Park now has an office headquarters. The cream-colored building at the west end of the parking lot will serve as Park office and information center until the first of the permanent proposed cultural complex buildings is completed.
Native American Foundation Chairman Carl Renfro said, "The public is invited to attend our official ribbon cutting and open house at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday. The short ceremony will be hosted by the Chamber of Commerce Presidents and Ambassadors Clubs. Ponca tribal elder Parrish Williams will lead us in prayer, followed by brief remarks and a preview of our Foundation plans for 1998."
Executive Director Betty Durkee expanded on the invitation: "Even if the weather is chilly, those attending will be able to warm up inside. They may share holiday treats and a cup of coffee or hot cider while viewing preliminary Cultural Complex plans and photo displays of Phase I construction and of the most recent Standing Bear Powwow."
The building was constructed by Hendrickson Buildings, set in place by Evans & Associates, and painted and furnished through the generosity of Standing Bear Committee members Diane Simpkins, Emma Lou Stiver, and Glen Nickles. Conoco Inc. furnished the lettering identifying the Park Office. Southwestern Bell will be donating to the Foundation to offset the cost of phone service. Through the generosity of Santa's Forest Tree Farm, a 7-foot Christmas tree, natural fir wreath, and pine garland create a festive air.
Also on view will be the Standing Bear Park Tram, donated by Conoco Inc., and repainted by Carl Pollak. The tram will be available to transport park visitors unable to walk to the statue viewing area and will meet tour buses to conduct groups to the Viewing Plaza. Weather permitting, the tram will take open house attendees along the trail to the Standing Bear statue.
The Park office will remain open until 5:30 p.m. after the ribbon cutting. Durkee will be maintaining office hours from 1 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday thereafter and will be available by appointment at other hours. The office will be staffed by volunteers during mornings and weekends whenever possible. Durkee explained, "We currently are seeking funding for a fully-equipped office computer. When that is installed, l will be able to maintain full-time hours at Standing Bear Park."
In addition to providing information about Park facilities, services, and future plans, the office will serve as a display and sales center. Those looking for the perfect Christmas gift may purchase Standing Bear T-shirts, note cards, bolos, prints, photographs, or even one of the five remaining limited edition maquettes of Standing Bear.
The office also provides an opportunity for the Native American Foundation to take its first step in its mission to provide economic opportunity for Native Americans.
Renfro invited local Native American artists, on a first-come, first-served basis, to bring their work to the Park office for display and sale. "We have limited space available at present, but will be glad to publicize and provide a potential market for tribal artists. No commission or other fee will be charged; all profits will go to the artist."
The Standing Bear Park Office phone number is 762-1514. Inquiries also may be faxed to the office at 762-1542.
By PATTI PFEIFFER
News Staff Writer
Editors' Note: This is the first of a two part series regarding holiday safety.
'Tis the season to be jolly and careful too! Both fire and police officials are warning citizens of the dangers the holidays bring. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), more than 2,800 people made emergency room visits last holiday season due to electrical decoration mishaps alone.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), in conjunction with the Underwriters Laboratories (UL), are gearing up for their annual "Operation Decoration" campaign designed to warn people about the fire hazards associated with holiday decorating.
"Winter can be a very merry, very exciting time of year but there is nothing more heartbreaking than a tragic fire during the holiday season," Vice President for Public Education of the National Fire Protection Association stated. "We're hoping that the 'Operation Decoration' campaign will help prevent fires and keep the holidays a happy time for North Americans this year."
And in order to reduce holiday accidents and injuries the safety experts at UL and the NFPA offer the following tips and precautions when decorating your home this holiday season:
· If purchasing live, cut trees or greens, carefully inspect the needles. If they're brown or break easily, the greenery isn't fresh and poses a greater fire risk. When you take your tree home, put it in a sturdy, non-tip stand and keep it filled with water at all times.
· If your family prefers decorating with artificial trees or greens, purchase those that are flame retardant. The product packaging will indicate if the branches of your artificial tree or greens have been treated with flame retardant material. However, light strings and other electrical decorations should not be used on artificial trees or greens that have metallic needles, leaves or branch coverings.
· Place your tree or greens at least three feet away from fireplaces, radiators and other heat sources. Also make sure the tree isn't blocking a doorway or other exit route.
· Use light strings and animated or electrical decorations that bear the UL Mark. The UL Listing Mark on a product means that UL engineers have tested representative samples of the product for foreseeable safety hazards such as fire and electric shock.
· Electrical light strings and decorations such as candle lights and illuminated ornaments that have been tested by UL bear holographic labels - easily identified by their silver base and UL Marks that appear to "float" in the background. Holographic UL labels for light strings designed for indoor use only bear green UL Listing Marks, and light strings for both indoor and/or outdoor use are identified by red UL Listing Marks.
· Before you begin decorating, your first step should be to read and follow the manufacturer's instructions concerning installation and maintenance of the electrical decorations you'll be using.
· Before plugging in newly purchased electrical decorations, or those you've used during previous holiday seasons, carefully inspect each decoration. Cracked sockets, frayed, loose or bare wires, and loose connections may cause a serious electric shock or start a fire. Replace damaged items with new, UL Listed decorations.
· Always unplug a light string or electrical decoration before replacing light bulbs or fuses. Check the instructions to determine which maintenance the manufacturer recommends you perform. In most cases, maintenance is limited to fuse and lamp replacement only. Don't attempt to make a repair unless the instructions indicate the proper procedure and equipment for doing so. Decorations may overheat or safety mechanisms may not operate properly if you use replacement parts other than those specified by the manufacturer.
· Don't mount or support light strings in any way that might damage the cord's wire insulation.
· Check the markings on your electrical decorations to determine the maximum number of decorative light strings that may be connected together. If the product packaging does not indicate the number of light strings that may be connected together, practice this rule of thumb: Do not connect more than three midget (push-in bulbs) light string sets together. Light strings with the screw-in bulbs (C7s and C9s) should have a maximum of 50 bulbs connected together.
· Don't overload extension cords - it could cause the cord to overheat and start a fire.
· Don't allow children or pets to play with light strings, candle lights or other electrical decorations. These decorations aren't toys and could produce a deadly electric shock if they are misused.
· Turn off all electrical light strings and decorations before leaving home or going to bed.
· Make sure your home is equipped with working smoke detectors and fire extinguishers that bear the UL Mark. Don't forget to install, test and maintain these devices in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
· Develop and practice a fire escape plan for your household. Remember, never return to a burning building for any reason. Your belongings can be replaced - you can't!
Items for the City Calendar should be brought in or telephoned (765-3311) to Bob Patterson, at the Ponca City News, by Thursday noon.
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December 7-31
December 21
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December 24
December 31
January 9
January 17
January 31
February 7
By MAX STOKESBERRY
News Staff Writer
It could have been the start of an inter-family feud like that of the Hatfields and McCoys. But two Ponca City residents, Gene Heagy and Al Duroy, are good friends today and thankful that their grandpas didn't reach for their shooting irons when they found themselves claiming the same piece of land during settlement of the Cherokee Outlet a century ago.
Kentucky mountain boys, the Hatfields and McCoys gained fame of a sort in story and song during their more than 50 years of hostilities, roughly 1868-1920. At least 20 people died in gunfire exchanges.
The ingredients for such a tragedy seemed present right here in Kay County 104 years ago but, unlike the Hatfields and McCoys, the Heagys and Duroys seemed more devoted to a peaceful settlement of their differences.
The Heagy-Duroy feud never got off the ground, except in the minds of the grandsons, who enjoy exchanging insults like "Claim jumper" and Duroy reminding his friend that "if your grand daddy could have shot straight I wouldn't be here."
Heagy claims that, listening to the older generations of his family, he believed "Damduroy" was either one word or that Dam was the guy's first name.
Of course there is little or no real basis for such remarks, but the pair likes to play pretend. They have got a lot of mileage out of the "feud" that never saw a shot fired. Out of Gene's hearing range, Al confesses that "Gene is a nice guy and a good friend." If Gene ever had a serious thought on the subject, he no doubt would say the same thing about Al.
The pair of huskies dines out together occasionally. And they often meet over coffee, both belonging to a group that holds daily sessions at the Grand Avenue Cafe.
William Robert Heagy, son of a Baptist minister, was born in Massachusetts but grew up at Peabody, Kan., He was almost 25 years old when the land opening took place. After graduating from high school he was employed in the Innes Department Store at Wichita until deciding to seek a claim in Oklahoma Territory.
Gene Heagy says his grandfather chose to make the run from the Chilocco area because it offered a slightly shorter distance to travel. W.R. had visited the Outlet and found a quarter-section to his liking. It had a creek running through it, with pecan trees on both sides of the stream.
Friends took him to Arkansas City. Since he didn't own a horse, he began looking for one to ride in the race set for Sept. 16, 1893. He met a man who offered to sell him a horse, saddle and bridle for $30. They settled on a price of $27.50.
W.R. didn't have time to try the horse and he was concerned about how it might perform the day of the run. When the contestants lined up there were men on horseback, in wagons and almost any other kind of transportation available; some even ready to run on foot.
W.R.'s steed proved well worth the money he paid for it, as Heagy made the race of his life and claimed the northwest quarter of Section 3, Township 20 North, Range 1 East, in Kay County. The property lies between Blackwell and Ponca City.
After several days on his claim, W.R. purchased a team and wagon and drove to Peabody to get supplies and personal belongings left at his parents' home. Upon his return he discovered the George F. Duroy family had settled west of Duck Creek on the quarter-section he claimed. Someone had circulated wrong information that the run from Chilocco was illegal, and a friend told Duroy the Heagy homestead was available.
W.R. filed the proper papers and won the appeal in a settlement hearing. He spent the next year or so constructing his sod house, and it was during this time a man stopped by and asked where W.R. had acquired his saddle horse. He said he thought it was the horse stolen from him at Hunnewell, Kan., prior to the run. The details he gave convinced W.R. that the man was the owner, so he gave up the stolen horse and riding equipment.
According to Gene Heagy, his grandfather, along with Edwin Manley and other neighbors, decided they needed a schoolhouse. They constructed a one-room building for $300 raised by voting school bonds. The labor was donated by residents of the Round Grove Community.
W.R. became the first teacher in the new school, Excelsior School District 56. His teaching duties were performed in addition to his farm work. After teaching a couple of years he fell in love with one of his students. She was Pearl Bousman, daughter of nearby homesteaders William M. and Ida Isabelle Bousman.
The couple lived briefly in W.R.'s sod house after their marriage, but soon built a large frame home and raised a family of eight children, among them Gene's father, Harold C. Heagy. The boys were Orville, Ted, Harold, Robert and Emmett; married names of the girls were Thelma Paris, Viola Dingus and Gladys Dingus.
One day in 1933 W.R. was out shaking down pecans when he fell out of a tree, breaking his neck. He was alone and lay there all day before Harold came looking for him that evening. Taken to Ponca City Hospital, he was told he probably would remain paralyzed. He wouldn't believe it, however, and within a year was walking again.
Deciding to go into the pig business, he borrowed $5,000 with which he purchased the porkers and built A-frame huts for them near the creek. But he hadn't considered the possibility of floods, and high water washed away his A frames as well as his pigs.
A short time later Pearl became ill with cancer. She died May 14, 1935. W.R. remained on the farm until 1939, when he sold it for $12,000 and paid off his bank loan. He then lived in Ponca City with his daughter Gladys until his death Feb. 1, 1948, following a heart attack.
Gene O. Heagy was born in 1937 on a farm near Kaw City. He attended school at Blackwell, then at Wichita where he graduated from high school and studied at Wichita State University.
He was with the Jewell Company when he came to Ponca City in 1966. Starting with Southwestern Stationery, and later as a partner and owner of his own company, he was in the office supply business for 23 years. He joined Joe J. Dempewolf Transfer and Storage, Inc., about six years ago.
At Dempewolf's, Gene and Al worked together as moving consultants until Al's retirement. Gene and his wife Carol are the parents of three children, Terry, Candy and Tammy, and have six grandchildren.
Their daughter Tammy Shorter lives in Ponca City, but other members of the Heagy clan have passed from life's scene or moved to locations elsewhere.
The decision in the claim dispute was a second disappointment for George Duroy, who had earlier failed to find an available quarter-section on the day of the race. He was living in Stryker, Ohio, when he married his first wife, who died leaving several children in addition to her husband.
George then moved west and operated a sheep ranch near Marion, Kan. Also in Kansas he married Della Mae Graver, and they were the parents of six children, among them Al's father, Ervin Alfred Duroy. Della Mae, whose name was Purney before her first marriage, was a native of France. This may have been a part of her appeal to George, as he too was born in that country.
George was a young boy when his father, James, brought his family to the United States, locating in a French settlement at Stryker. Al said he has visited Stryker, where his great-grandfather is buried in the French Cemetery. But he says the information he has about his ancestors is sketchy.
During the French Revolution, 1789-99, one of Al's forefathers is said to have been an official in the government of King Louis XVI. The guillotine was being kept quite busy and royal heads were rolling. Apparently, anyone in the service of the king was also in danger, along with members of his family.
Duroy was able to escape, taking his entire family across the border into Alsace-Lorraine. This was fortunate for Al, else he would not have been here. In fact there would have been no claim dispute - and no story.
Grandfather George Duroy quit the sheep business in Kansas with hopes of getting land in Oklahoma. When that failed he moved to Ponca City and again took up his former trade of stone mason. Some of his work helped build Newkirk and Pawhuska, as well as Ponca City, Al was told.
Ervin Alfred Duroy, usually called E.A. had six brothers and sisters. He married Ida Garrett, and Al was one of their family of three boys and three girls. They lived on rented farms north of Ponca City and in the Prairie Chapel community, and operated a dairy on the Kaw City Road. E.A. finally bought a farm, east of Ponca City, but sold it after retiring and moving to town.
Al, who recently celebrated his 80th birthday, once had his own dairy and was manager for Gold Spot and its predecessor, the A. and M. Dairy, for 20 years. He ran a restaurant at a truck stop on I-35 south of Tonkawa before working 21 years for Joe J. Dempewolf Transfer and Storage, retiring three years ago.
After the death of their daughter Brenda, Al and his wife Goldia adopted their grandsons, Christopher and Michael, then ages 4 and 2. Chris is now studying on a scholarship at OSU toward a doctor's degree in psychology. He and his wife Dana live in Oklahoma City.
Mike, who has a bachelor's degree in physical education from the University of Central Oklahoma, is a member of the faculty at Northern Oklahoma College, Tonkawa, where his assignments include that of assistant soccer coach.
Al also has a daughter, Kandace Glaser, in Albuquerque, N.M. Three sisters live at Ponca City, Chickasha and Oklahoma City. His wife died in 1990.
Elementary Breakfast
Elementary Lunch
Middle School and Mid-High
Breakfast
Middle School and Mid-High
Lunch
High School Lunch
All American
Training Table
McCord Elementary
Breakfast
Lunch
Pioneer Technology Center
Mid-High
Dec. 19
Dec. 15
Dec. 16
Dec. 17
Dec. 18
Dec. 19
Dec. 20
Dec. 21
The Diamonds, one of the most famous groups in the history of Rock and Roll, headlines the 1998 Poncan Theatre season. The group is one of four major events that will be available to Poncan Subscribers in 1998. The Season is called "A Little Bit of Country, A Little Bit of Rock and Roll."
"The Diamonds are the cream of the crop of early rock groups," says director Kenn Wessel. "And we wanted very much to bring an historic, nostalgic group into the Poncan." The group appeared on American Bandstand 33 times. They've sold over 40 million records since they burst on the national scene in the mid-1950's.
The Poncan is offering its patrons the first subscription season in its history. Wessel explains that patrons can still buy the Player's Card that gives a discount on any event the Poncan Theatre offers. Or, for just a few dollars more, they can purchase admissions to the four subscription events of 1998. "If they choose to subscribe to the four events, they get a Player's Card thrown in also," says Wessel. "It's a great bargain."
The rock events include The Diamonds and a play by the Arkansas Repertory Company called "Idols of the King." The play is based on Elvis and his fans, and it features amazing Elvis impersonator Lance Zitron. The country events on the subscription season are Riders in the Sky, the very popular singer- comedians, and PBS star cowboy poet, Baxter Black.
The Diamonds began in Toronto in 1953, singing in the basement of a church. Their breakthrough waited until 1955, when they signed with the Mercury label and recorded a cover version of "Why Do Fools Fall in Love." It peaked at number 16 on the charts, but the group was off and running.
One of the group's claims to fame is the biggest hit in Rock and Roll history never to reach number one. "Little Darlin" was on the charts for 35 weeks, but it couldn't push past number two, thanks to Elvis Presley's eight week reign at number one with "All Shook Up."
The Diamonds will perform live at the Poncan Theatre on Feb. 6, 1998. Patrons interested in obtaining information about events or in subscribing to the Poncan season can call the theatre at 405-765-0943.
By KRISTI HAYES
News Education Editor
"People can't read our Memory Tree ornaments without tears in their eyes," says Sally Coughlin, principal of St. Mary's School. Coughlin is referring to the special holiday project from Hospice of Ponca City that's been adopted by 14 area schools.
"The concept of the Memory Tree is very simple," says Melody Lahann, Administrative Director of Hospice. "Blank ornaments are available for students and staff to decorate and write the names of loved ones who have died and/or messages to their memories. Our focus with this project is not to make the kids sad at Christmastime, but to help them remember with love the ones they have lost."
Lahann emphasizes this project is completely voluntary, and no child is pushed to make an ornament or even acknowledge losses he/she may have faced.
According to Debra Brock, Hospice of Ponca City bereavement specialist, recent research has confirmed that grief at all ages is best addressed rather than ignored. She says, "According to the Dougy Center, a grief support organization for children, 'Activities promote healing when they are offered freely and when the children/teens can choose their own levels of participation. Activities create an atmosphere of warmth, comfort and safety which allow the children/teen to work through the healing process.' The goal of our Memory Tree project is to help normalize the grief experience of our local children and teens."
The project was conceived by Lahann last Christmas after the death of her mother a few months earlier. "My children were teenagers and not only faced the death of their grandmother, but had lost friends before as well. As with many teens, they really weren't ready to talk about what had happened, but I felt they needed something to help them during the holidays. The Hospice Tree of Life has been healing to many adults over the years, so I thought the concept would work for many teens at the high school as well."
The Memory Tree worked well because they allow students to acknowledge their memories in a non-invasive manner. Students who wish to talk about their grief are encouraged to talk with their school counselors or to have their parents call the grief support staff at Hospice of Ponca City.
"We've tried to make the project fun for the schools, as well," says Lisa Lewis, bereavement specialist. Hospice volunteers made individualized tree skirts for many of the schools. The Po-Hi skirt is red with blue wildcat prints on it, and is decorated with red and blue garlands; the Woodlands tree skirt is white with blue figures of children holding hands; and the First Lutheran skirt has a cardinal.
Lewis added that the schools have really individualized the Memory Tree project. "Some of the schools made their own ornaments, and others used pre-cut ones. Garfield Academy asked for stars, which are the symbol of the school," Lewis commented.
Hospice of Ponca City volunteers Ashley Hollingsworth, Beth Bednarski, Ray Lahann and Alex Wright took complete charge of the Po-Hi project. At Woodlands School, Shelly Wilson's third grade class assembled the tree and made the ornaments for the schools. Janet Stalcup's art class at Blackwell High School decorated the tree (in maroon and white) and are decorating maroon balls with the names for anyone who wants to hang an ornament in memory of a loved one.
Schools that participated in the Memory Tree project this year were: Po-Hi, Ponca City Mid-High, Ponca City Middle School, Liberty Elementary, Garfield Academy, Woodlands Elementary, First Assembly, St. Mary's, First Lutheran, Newkirk High School, Blackwell High School, Blackwell Middle School, Huston Elementary and Washington Elementary.
Lahann says she and the bereavement staff had no idea how the project would be received and are really excited by the number of schools and students participating. "Some of the teachers were concerned that acknowledging the death of loved ones would be too depressing for the students," she says. "By the response we've received, however, we realize how important it is to the children to be able to say, 'Grandpa died, and I miss him.'"
To prepare the teachers and parents, the hospice staff wrote a description of the project and offered suggestions on how to help children who might be grieving. Lewis and Brock also visited many of the schools and spoke to the students or teachers about the project and answered their questions.
"Elegant filmmaking" is the "San Francisco Chronicle's" description of "L.A. Confidential." A lot of people would agree. The film just won the prestigious "Best Picture Award" for 1997 from the National Board of Review. The film is presently showing at the Poncan Theatre on Grand Avenue.
The award of the National Board is often an indicator of the next year's Academy Award winners. Last year's film "The English Patient" and actor Geoffrey Rush ("Shine") won the top prizes of the National Board before they won similar prizes at the Academy Awards. In the previous year, "Sense and Sensibility" won the National Board prize before it was awarded by the Academy.
The director of "L.A. Confidential," Curtis Hanson, was given the "Best Director Award" by the National Board for his work on the film. Hanson has been richly praised for his stylish, complex film noir thriller.
Hanson's previous work includes "The River Wild" (1994) and "The Hand That Rocks the Cradle" (1992). "L.A. Confidential" has impressed critics everywhere. Hanson is credited with unusual and creative casting choices and with an inventive flair for film noir style.
"L.A. Confidential" has "one of the best casts available," writes reviewer Carrie Gorringe. "All of them are absolutely perfect in their roles." Kim Basinger, whose career has been stalled by a series of missteps, is terrific as a hooker with tenderness and steel. Academy Award winner Kevin Spacey is strong as ever, and he's surrounded by two young Australian actors, Russell Crowe and Guy Pearce, who play American detectives like they were raised on the LA crime scene.
"L.A. Confidential" meshes the glamour and the corruption of vintage Hollywood. It's a crime drama set in the Golden Age of Hollywood, with cameos by Lana Turner and Chet Baker. Roger Ebert called the film "one of the best films of the year," and praises the beauty of cinematic style in the piece.
The National Board of Review was established in 1909 to encourage and promote quality filmmaking. With a history of almost ninety years, it is one of the oldest and most esteemed film establishments in the world.
The award-winning best picture, "L.A. Confidential" is currently showing at the Poncan Theatre. The film is rated R.
For showtimes, patrons can consult the Ponca City News or call the theatre at 405-765-0943.
By KATHY ZEHR
News Staff Writer
The Fourth Annual "Hometown Christmas" show will be presented Saturday at 7 p.m. at the Poncan Theatre. Ponca City's own award winning entertainers will be featured singing favorite Christmas songs and performing comedy and other acts.
John Taylor, former WBBZ D.J. will emcee the Hometown Christmas Show always well-known for its Branson family style entertainment, including comedy acts and lots of variety.
Special local performers include the popular Forgiven Gospel Quartet; Shannon Love from the movie "Child Again;" Mark Love, Silver Dollar City and Branson performer; Patty Curl, recording artist; Kevin Goldman, who has performed with the national show "The Will and the Wind;" Tim Muniz, Branson performer; Dana Poulson-Nesselrode, veteran Ponca Playhouse performer; Don Menasco, NOC and Ponca Playhouse star; and others with local and professional stage and musical credits.
The show is put together by Mark Love, who grew up in Ponca City and has been a performer in Branson and Silver Dollar City and the Christy Lane Theater. Mark has been playing saxophone for about 30 years and has performed all over Oklahoma in addition to the Branson area appearances. He was a member of the 1977-78 Rousabouts at Northern Oklahoma College.
"I put this show together every year because of my love for music, performing, and Christmas. I am happy to say the show is fast becoming a Ponca City tradition," says Love.
Also a top favorite box-office draw is the "Forgiven" gospel quartet which has several recorded cassettes featuring music from numerous concerts. They have averaged a singing performance once a week since 1981, throughout Oklahoma and Kansas. Members of the quartet are Mark Brook, Larry East, Bill Hadley and Scott Layton.
Shannon Love, daughter of Mark and Lisa Love, is a sixth grade student at Trout Elementary. She has performed in the show every year since its beginning. In the 1996 Christmas season she was cast in the Lyric Theater, Oklahoma City, "A Country Christmas Carol" and was cast as "Young Nanna" in the movie "Child Again," filmed in Oklahoma City in May. She also appeared in the recent Ponca Playhouse production, "Anything Goes."
Tickets for the show are $5 each. Ages five and under are free. Tickets are available in advance at the Masters Touch Christian Book Store in Ponca City and will also be available at the same price at the box office the night of the show.
Other performers in the show include Sweet Harmony Trio with Donita Cooper, Becky Dye and Rhonda Walker; a Kids Medley with Kimberly Evans, Blair Turney, Melissa Bacher, Nikki Brock, Daak Love and Shannon Love; and others including Melissa Arambula, Vicki Poulson, Chris Holroyd, Rick Whiteing, Kay Knox, Megan King, Regina Smith, Mark Green, Debbie Boyles, Randy McDaniel, Julie Adams, Cass Midgley, Jeremy Henshaw, Melissa Scroggins and Ed Latimer.
Dear Santa, I would like a toy tree house. I also want candy and a kangaroe, a dolly, clothes for my dolly, I want everybody to be happy, also a baby stroler and baby stuff! I've been realy good, please bring me and my sister and brother lots of presents. I love you. P.S. Say hi to the elfs.
Sandra
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Dear Santa, Hi! I wrote to tell you that i'm ready for Christmas and here's my Christmas list: dark green Hanson T-shirt, Mario Hanson C.D. single "Cried", The Hanson video and the TY beanie babie "Peace the Tie-dye bear." That's my list. I've sure been good and i'll sure keep it up! Thanks! p.s. I'd also like it if you'd wrap my presents for a surprise!!! p.s.s. Sorry I change things around so much. Merry Christmas, I love you.
Leslie
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Dear Santa, Happy Holidays! My name is Travis. I am 4 1/2 years old. And I have really tried to be a good boy this year. I go to Liberty School. All I really want is a train set, and a snoring Ernie. I want you to have enough toys, to leave under everyone's Christmas Tree. I love you. P.S. The cookies and milk will be by the tree.
Travis
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Dear Santa, I want vanity, nursery, newborn baby surprise, comforter and pillows, Winnie the Pooh, Baby Traveler and crib, Ragged Ann.
Isabella
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Dear Santa, My name is Bethany, I am 6 years old. For Christmas I would like a tea set, and little table with chairs. I also would like play food. I want a Barbie with long hair, and Barbie clothes. I will leave milk and cookies for you, and apples and carrots for the reindeer. I love you. P.S. Please bring me shoes and a swing set, and a backpack, and a watch. Thank you.
Bethany
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Dear Santa Clos, You probly wonder who this is, well it is Jordan. The resen why I was sending this leter is you would wont to know what I wont for Christmas. I wont a littel computer and I wont a new bike, and I wont a new baby in a stroler. That is all cose my moma and dad will get me somthing. Ho-ho-ho. Love.
Jurdan
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Dear Santa, I hope you get this. My mom said sometime moms and dads help you by stuff for us. But mom said that she can't this year. My brothers are to big - 17 and 14, but I am only 9 so don't forget about me. I love you, Santa.
Christopher
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Dear Santa, I would like a baby jumper and a baby carer and some clothes and some boots like my mom has. I would like my mom that rocking chair for the baby boy and my dad some underware and some sockes to for Christmas and a sowing meshen. I love you. Merry Christmas.
Carsha
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Dear Santa, I want Big Elmo. I'm drawing you some pictures.
Steven
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Hi, Santa, Here is Austin's Christmas list: a remote control car, spray power air, rush and a new game.
Austin
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Dear Santa, I'm Ashley. I'm 10 years old. I want L.A. Gear's shoes and windsuit and also a new black backpack, a space watch and a Beuty and the Beast, The Enchanged Christmas movie, and a alarm clock. I also want a camera and a good present for my mom and dad (put it on my chair in my room). I want earrings and 10 real gold rings. Please, could you? I hope you can get this letter. I love you.
Ashley
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Dear Santa, My name is Brandon, I am 12 years old. I would like a pair of low top Converse. And, also a pair of JNCO (jeans), and a Nike Windsuit, also a Reebok backpack. And, a watch for Christmas. Also, a Taz alarm clock. Would you come and let me pet all of the reindeer?, and please take me on a sleigh ride? I will leave out cookies and milk and a apple for Rudolph. Merry Chjristmas.
Michael
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To Santa, I'm drawing pictures for you, Santa, of Heaven and a happy face. I want a dog and some gum. I love you.
Doug
By KATHY ZEHR
News Staff Writer
A double Christmas show will be performed at the Hutchins Memorial auditorium beginning at 7 p.m. Friday and includes a "Christmas Charisma" show and a "Toyland" show.
Directed and produced by Suzanne and Bill Kem, the annual Christmas show includes all local children, adults, and professionals now active in the entertainment field.
The first half of the show, "Christmas Charisma" features older and professional performers including international stuntman, actor, singer and dancer Kevin Kem; two leading lady vocalists-dancers, Julie Adams and Dana Poulson-Nesselrode; and professional actress, singer and dancer Cara Kem.
Adams and Poulson-Nesselrode will be headlining the cast and both have had leading roles at NOC and in Ponca Playhouse productions. Dana will be appearing in Reno in February 1998 in "Anything Goes," Dana has won numerous state and national vocal contests including a recording contract for an album. Both Julie and Dana are former Miss Northern Oklahoma College Pageant winners.
Kevin has just returned home from a nine month contract with Branson City Lights, where he performed six nights a week in several acts. The City Lights show is the newest and largest production show in Branson, Mo. Previously Kevin worked in a stunt show in Europe, where he performed with Michael Jackson in Germany. He has also performed with Gregory Hines and Will Rogers Jr. and numerous other internationally known stars.
Cara Kem has been working in professional theater since age 13. She performed both solo and in several dance numbers at Opryland USA in "I Hear America Singing," during the 1996 Opryland season. She has also worked in television commercials and danced in a workshop with Tony Award winner Tommie Walsh. Walsh also awarded her a scholarship to the Joff School of Ballet in New York City.
Others in the adult performers cast include Kevin Goldman and Robert Maril, two outstanding award winning Po-Hi students. Both are seasoned actors of the musical theater. Ryan Foster, an NOC Roustabout performer will be adding her vocal talents to the show as well.
The second half of the show "Toyland" is a Christmas story of a young girl who learns to celebrate the season in a special way. She dreams of a wondrous place where fairies take the audience to a land of tumbling teddy bears, clowns, sugar plums, Christmas dolls and dancing presents.
A few unruly characters try to dampen her spirits when she wakes and the action begins.
Randy McDaniel and the "Hip Hop Dancers," including Kimberly Evans, Kristin Pickering and Amanda White will round out the cast and two dozen tumbling elves from all over Kay County will begin the show with a surprise opening number.
Santa will be present after the evening's shows to visit with children in the audience.
Tickets will be available at the door at $5.
Persons with multiple sclerosis and their caregivers are invited to the Ponca City Area MS Support Group at 6:30 p.m. Monday at Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm.
The church is handicap accessible - enter the west door from the parking lot and take the elevator to the lower level.
Dr. Bruce Lutz will lead the program, talking about "MS and Your Emotions." Dr. Lutz is a child psychologist, associated with the Child Guidance program at Kay County Health Department. Along with his talk, he will have literature available.
For anyone with questions about the meeting, please call Beth Wright at 765-6738.
Three suspects were arrested early Saturday in connection with burglary at the Salvation Army Community Center. Police received a 911 call at 1:03 a.m. Saturday from a woman reporting a possible break-in in the 700 block of South Third Street.
A 28-year-old man was arrested at the scene for second degree burglary. Two other people were arrested an hour later from the 700 block of South Third Street in connection with the burglary. A 35-year-old woman was arrested for second degree burglary and a 35-year-old man was arrested for unlawful entry.
KLVV 88.7 FM, the local Christian radio station, will have two Licensed Professional Counselors available for their weekly call-in program on Tuesday. Listeners are invited to call KLVV at 767-1400 to speak with the counselors from 5 to 6 p.m. All calls are confidential, private, and not put over the air.
Mike Wiles, M.Ed., is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who provides individual, marital, family, and career counseling services that include psychological and psycho-educational assessments. He is a Certified Psychomotrist.
Kenny James is also an LPC providing counseling services to area residents.
He is also a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors.
DEATHS
Warren J. McInturff, former resident of Arkansas City, died Thursday, Dec. 11, 1997 at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Ponca City. He was 76.
The funeral is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 15, 1997 at the Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home in Arkansas City. Burial will be in the Memorial Lawn Cemetery, Arkansas City, with the Rev. Guy E. Rendoff officiating.
Warren J. McInturff was born Aug. 12, 1921 in Nardin, Okla., the son of Glenn and Emma (Mitchell) McInturff. He was reared and educated in Arkansas City. Warren served in the Army Air Corps during World War II. He and Mary Lee Studdard were married Aug. 21, 1949 in Bentonville, Ark. She preceded him in death on April 25, 1991.
Warren worked at many positions for the Kan-O-Tex, APCO, and Total Pipe Lines. He retired as the Pipeline Supervisor in 1985. He later married Irene Haynes on May 31, 1992 in Arkansas City, and they moved to Ponca City in 1995.
He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Arkansas City, the Crescent Masonic Lodge No. 133 AF & AM, and the Shelton-Beatty Post 18, American Legion.
Survivors include his wife, Irene of the home; one son, Don Blackwell of Ponca City; two step-sons, Ray Haynes of Owasso, Okla., and Tom Haynes of Arkansas City; two sisters, Lila Teufel of Arkansas City, and Katherine Davis of Council Grove, Kan.; eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his first wife, Mary.
Memorials may be made with the American Heart Association and the American Diabetes Association, through Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home in Arkansas City.
PAWNEE - Frank A. "Saviro" Sozio, resident of Pawnee, died Thursday, Dec. 11, 1997 at Pawnee. He was 93.
The funeral service will be Monday, Dec. 15, 1997 at 10 a.m. in the New Life Outreach in Pawnee with the Rev. Wendall Martin officiating. Burial will follow in Fairfax Cemetery under direction of the Poteet Funeral Home, Pawnee.
Frank A. "Saviro" Sozio was born May 30, 1904 in Manhattan, New York, the son of Nicola Sozio and Conchetta Manza Sozio. He and Laura Beatrice Wright were married in Great Bend, Kan., on April 20, 1952. They resided in Glencoe until moving to Pawnee in 1975.
Mr. Sozio, a former minister and fur mechanic, was affiliated with the New Life Outreach. He also belonged to Bro. Virgil Cook's Church in Yale, Okla.; Bro. Thurman Buffalohead's Church in Ponca City and Brother and Sisters Uglow's Church in Wellington, Kan.
Surviving are his wife, Laura Sozio of Pawnee; two stepdaughters, Billie Link and Willa Clines; also many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, his church family, many co-workers with God and many, many friends.
Letha V. Zerger, longtime Ponca City resident, died early Saturday morning, Dec. 13, 1997, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 81.
The graveside service will be held Tuesday, Dec. 16, 1997, at 1 p.m. at Longwood Cemetery. Other arrangements are pending with the Trout Funeral Home and will be announced later. Local survivors include a daughter, Sharon Hawthorn.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Mission, 909 East South Ave., Ponca City, OK 74601.
Bob J. Bowen, resident of Ponca City, died Friday morning, Dec. 12, 1997 at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 70.
Survivors include his wife, Virginia, of the home.
The funeral service has been set for 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, 1997 at St. Luke's Church of the Nazarene.
Friends and family may call at Grace Memorial Chapel until noon Tuesday.
NEWS BRIEFS
Legion Kids' Party Set - The American Legion Post 14 will host its annual Children's Christmas Party on Monday, Dec. 15 at 6:30 p.m. Children of Legion members will enjoy holiday treats, fun and a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus.
Accident - Police received a report of a two vehicle non-injury accident at 6:40 a.m. Friday in the 3500 block of North Union Street. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Hit and Run - A man in the 500 block of South Perry Street reported to police at 6:57 a.m. Friday that his vehicle had been hit while parked in the 1100 block of East Prospect Avenue. A report was taken.
Accident - An accident was reported at 8:11 a.m. Friday at Prospect Avenue and North Union Street. A report was taken.
Break-In - A business in the 900 block of North Union Street reported a break-in at 8:26 a.m. Friday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Accident - A two vehicle accident in the 200 block of East Grand Avenue was reported at 12:25 p.m. Friday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Wheelchair Found - A man in the 100 block of Whitworth Avenue advised police at 12:31 p.m. Friday that he had found a wheelchair on Lake Road.
Injury Accident - An accident was reported to police at 12:38 p.m. Friday in the 1700 clock of North Seventh Street. An ambulance was called but no one was taken to the hospital.
Stolen Bike - A person reported to police at 1:31 p.m. Friday that a bike had been stolen from Lincoln School. A report was taken.
Arrest - A 19-year-old man was arrested at 4:12 p.m. Friday from Lake Road and Dalewood for driving under suspension.
Hit and Run - A hit and run at North Birch Street and West Highland Avenue was reported to police at 4:48 pm. Friday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Animal Trapped - A resident in the 700 block of North First Street called police for assistance at 5:08 p.m. Friday because an animal was trapped in the dryer. It was found to be a "very large" rat.
Hit and Run - A hit and run accident was reported to police at 5:09 p.m. Friday in the 500 block of South Fifth Street. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Injury Accident - One person was taken by ambulance to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center after sustaining injuries in an accident in the 1100 block of East Prospect Avenue at 5:55 p.m. Friday.
Accident - Police received a report of a two vehicle accident at South Fourth Street and East South Avenue at 6:41 p.m. Friday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Arrest - At 6:48 p.m. Friday an 18-year-old man was arrested for petit larceny after Hastings, 2101 North Fourteenth Street, reported to police that they had a shoplifter in custody.
Vandalism - At 7:40 p.m. Friday it was reported that a vehicle at Jack Griffiths, 2501 North Fourteenth Street, had been vandalized. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Hit and Run - A resident in the 1500 block of Cedar Lane reported to police at 9:43 p.m. Friday that a hit and run had occurred in front of their residence. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.
Arrest - A 43-year-old man was arrested at 10:19 p.m. Friday from the 500 block of West Highland Avenue for possession of drug paraphernalia and public intoxication.
Break-In - Police responded to a break-in at 12:56 a.m. Saturday at Farha's, 201 South First Street. A report was taken.
Making Ice - At 1:01 a.m. Saturday police were called to the 1200 block of Bradbary Lane after it was reported that boys were pouring water on the street so that they would have a slick spot to ride bikes on in the morning. They were advised the water could create a traffic hazard and salt was poured on the spot.
Loose Cows - At 1:19 a.m. Saturday three cows were reported in
the road at Hunt Road and U.S. 60. The owner was contacted and the cows
contained.
LIFESTYLES
Mr. and Mrs. C. E. "Andy" Clark, 113 South Stephen, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary Dec. 20. The couple will be honored with a reception 2-4 p.m. Saturday at the Fellowship Hall of Community Christian Church, 2109 West Grand. An open invitation is extended to friends and family to attend and the couple requests no gifts.
Hosts for the golden wedding event will be their children and spouses: Ron and Jacque Clark and Lynnita and Sam Fisher. The honorees also celebrated with a recent trip to Las Vegas, Nev.
Andy Clark and the former Lois Dane were married Dec. 20, 1947 at Trinity Baptist Church in Oklahoma City. They made their first home in Ponca City and have resided at their current address for 35 years. Mrs. Clark is employed parttime in the business office at The Ponca City News and Mr. Clark is a 1983 retiree from Conoco. He is affiliated with the Masonic order and the Elks Lodge. Both are active members of Community Christian Church, Disciples of Christ.
Mr. and Mrs. Clark have four grandchildren: Chris Fisher, Andy Fisher, Crystal Renken and Todd Clark. Great-grandchildren are : Brett Renken, Taylor Renken and Cameron Fisher.
P. M. Patches and Pieces Quilt Guild will have a Christmas party and covered dish dinner at the home of Barb Kegler on Dec. 15. Members will exchange fat quarters of Christmas fabric and winner of this year's donation quilt will be announced.
The guild met Nov. 24 with 23 members present. Esther Bersche, co-president, presided. Guests were Lois Coats, Laura Bryson, Gladys Avers, Peggy Preston and Jan Browning.
Debra Burgess announced programs for the coming months. The January meeting will be "Back to Basics" presented by members of the guild. There will be four stations which members will attend for 15 minutes each. February's meeting will be a trunk showing by Karen Bogardi.
Phyllis Clark, hospitality chairman, presented door prizes to everyone present. Judy Wohletz, fundraising chairman, thanked those who worked at the Kildare craft show. She reminded members to bring all tickets to the December meeting.
The guild will decorate a Christmas tree with an angel theme at the Art Center. The tree topper will be an angel quilter made by Debra Burgess. Decorations are handmade by members and a drawing for them will be held at the December meeting.
Rose Coffee presented the pattern of the month. The quilt is made with a pieced star pattern providing the background for each block. Every month has a different applique design. The November pattern has a turkey.
Sue Roy showed samples of the presidents' blocks. Members can still get a kit from her. Ruth Zachary displayed the blocks for the next year's donation quilt. It will be a single Irish Chain made of dark blue and antique tan.
Margaretta Rains, Cleda Oertle, Jean Buskirk, Marlene Williams and Esther Bersche displayed results from the plaid bear paw workshop held Nov. 8. Show and Share participant was Deanna Hanly.
The program following the meeting was a silent auction. Hostesses were Jean Buskirk and Judy Wohletz.
Ponca City Area Habitat for Humanity is selling cookbooks as a fund raiser. There are three different cookbooks for sale.
"Simple, Decent Cooking", the most recently published one features easy-to-prepare recipes with few ingredients, as well as special sections of vegetarian and low-fat dishes - perfect recipes for today's health conscious, fast-paced lifestyles said a spokesperson. "From Our House to Yours" features appetizers, main dishes and desserts, with a special section on crowd pleasers. "Home Sweet Habitat" is full of rich desserts and sweet treats.
In addition to favorite recipes from homeowners and people active in Habitat all over the world, each book features "celebrity recipes" such as ones from Tipper Gore and Tim Allen. Locally, Sandy Foster, former Board member and president, and Carolyn Richardson, current Board president, have recipes listed in the latest cookbook.
Each of the cookbooks sell for $12 and make a "great" collection. One of the features about all three of the cookbooks is that each recipe lists the nutritional value which is very helpful information for those on a diet or in need of monitoring food intake.
The cookbooks make excellent gifts for Christmas, weddings, birthdays or other special occasions says a spokesperson.
Habitat is about to complete its seventh house which is located on South Franklin. The next renovated home to be completed is located at 117 South Birch.
Habitat for Humanity is an ecumenical, nonprofit Christian housing ministry working in partnership with people in need to build decent, affordable housing and to renovate existing housing. Because Habitat seeks to put faith into action, the houses are sold at no profit and with no interest charge. Monthly mortgage payments are placed in a revolving fund to finance additional houses.
For cookbook information call Carolyn Richardson at 765-2089 after 6 p.m.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
Don't pick an angel up by the halo. This is a good rule to follow according to glass angel creator Glenda Green, rural Red Rock.
Everyone loves angels. The mystic of angels is universal. Angels have no preference as to size, color, or gender. Angels are the guardians of all that is good and kind and give hope of eternal life.
Angels appear in a variety of forms at Christmas time - the most generous and wondrous time of the year celebrating the miracle birth of Jesus. During the Yuletide there is a penchant for all kinds of the delicate and oft haloed angels, and Glenda is in full flight filling orders for the winged beauties.
Some believe the winged creatures are the celestial attendants of God. Others tend to think of them as an attendant or guardian spirit.
One of the most attractive angels Glenda made this year is a Native American beauty. This colorful hanging piece is highlighted by delicate feathered wings. For the past three years Glenda has been working in the discipline of glass.
She has been a regular glass angel contributor to the Arts and Humanities Silent Auction at the Christmas Gala at the Marland Mansion.
A number of Kay and Noble County homes feature Glenda's works of art. Several of the homes have custom stained glass windows designed and executed by Glenda.
Various Art Skills
Before she got into the stained glass works, Glenda's art experiences were in macrame, wheat weaving and silk flower crafting, which she taught at Northern Oklahoma College.
After the macrame fad passed, Glenda took some wheat weaving lessons and then taught herself from a book written in England. She explained in England the stock figures were known sometimes as "corn dollies." These were hung at the door until the next planting and then buried with the seed for good luck.
Arkansas Native
Born near Ft. Smith, Ark., where she lived until she was about 15, Glenda moved with her family to Ft. Worth, Texas, where she finished high school and cosmetology school. Soon afterwards the family came to Blackwell, where her father was transferred.
Glenda first practiced her artistic side by creating hairstyles. The hairstyling came to an end when she married her husband Donnie. But over the years Glenda has been skilled in one way or another. First it was sewing, then macrame and now it is glass "big time."
Specializes in Glass
Glenda and Donnie reside on a farm in the Red Rock area, and she says she has to have some type of art project going to keep her from "getting bored." She considered pottery but then the fascination for glass art led to her present artistic "obsession."
The glasswork is far from boring, it is colorful, requires a steady hand and a lot of patience. Glenda does both lead work and foiling. She leans toward the foil work.
The process begins with a pattern, either purchased or an original she has designed. She uses two copies of the pattern - one is snipped apart and used to trace the pattern on the glass. The second is used to lay the pieces on sort of like putting a puzzle together when she is finished cutting.
After the glass pieces are cut with an oil diamond tip cutter grossing pliers are used to snip off stubborn areas. Then, running pliers are used if needed to define the cut of the glass. Another step is grinding the edges smooth with a diamond tip grinder. Then the pieces are put together on the pattern.
Next, copper foiling tape is applied by soldering. She has been working on some mirror pieces and turning them into designs. The last step is to put a border around the pieces.
Most of her projects are by commission and advertising has been by word of mouth. Her art works are in the Ponca City homes of Brian and Holly Harpster, Dane and Nancy Pryse and Hillary Cooley to name a few.
Angels Everywhere
The angels range from flying to standing. Some of them are made with purchased patterns and others are strictly "Glenda originals." And this year a new piece of art added to her repertoire is an all glass kaleidoscope. These beauties are colorful conversation pieces and are intricate in design, with the ever changing color and design wheels.
Glass as a Pallet
Using glass as her pallet, Glenda does both lead and foil work and sometimes the glass piece will have a combination. The work is slow, tedious and exacting, but most satisfying, according to Glenda.
Her work bench is an extra tall kitchen island, where she has all the tools of the trade from a sophisticated oil glass cutter to an electric grinder with a diamond tip that uses water; grossing pliers, seam runner pliers and cutters and the most necessary soldering iron, as well as a variety of glass.
Glenda buys most of the glass in Stillwater where she took her training. The glass is already colored and that makes the art more enjoyable and quicker.
Angels are everyone's favorite - especially during Christmas when the carolers and choirs sing out "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," announcing the birth of the new born king.
The family of Gladys Kinser extends an open invitation to friends to attend a reception in honor of her 100th birthday. The event is planned for Dec. 27, 2-4 p.m., at the Ponca City Nursing Home, 1400 North Waverly. In lieu of gifts cards are requested.
One of six children, Gladys was born in LaPlata, Mo. on Dec. 27, 1897 to Charles and Fannie Bowen. She has three sons, five grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.
Gladys married Silas Wilgus and the couple left Missouri and made their home in the Liberal, Kan. area where they farmed. They reared three sons, Vernon Wilgus and Frank Wilgus, both now deceased, and L. R. Wilgus, who resides in Guymon.
In 1959 Gladys married Walter Kinser of Center, Colo. They farmed west of Center and when Walter retired they moved to Del Norte, Colo. Following his death in 1980 Mrs. Kinser moved to Ponca City where her son Frank was residing. She has been a resident of the Ponca City Nursing Home since June, 1995.
The Carmichael Family held the annual Thanksgiving family reunion at the Finley Community Center. The now deceased Sheridan and Mable Carmichael began the family reunion tradition over 55 years ago. Hosting this year's event were Brian and Ruslyn Hermanson, June Evans and Bill and Charlene Carmichael. There were 69 people attending.
Elmer E. Carmichael and the former Mary Stocking were married Jan. 25, 1891. They came to Oklahoma from Cedar Vale, Kan. in a covered wagon in 1897 with three children, Ezza, Sheridan and George, and settled on an 80 acre farm 1 1/2 miles north of Blackwell, where another son, Fred was born.
In 1900, the family moved to a quarter section 3 1/4 miles north and one miles west of Blackwell where Opal, Amna, Esther, Irvin, Marion and Mary were born. In 1921, they bought the Draper farm northwest of Ponca City in the Round Grove Community. Later, Sheridan and his family moved to the farm, residing there until late in 1950. Mary (Carmichael) Buxton of Ponca City is the only surviving child of Elmer and Mary Carmichael.
Those attending included C. O. (Buck) and Mary ( Carmichael) Buxton, Charley and Jacque (Buxton) Hollar of Ponca City, Gene and Pat Buxton, Steve and Regena (Buxton) Gladow of Hutchinson, Kan.
Also descendants of Opal (Carmichael) Blubaugh: Dorthea (Blubaugh) Claybaker of Topeka, Kan.; Dale and Arlene Blubaugh of Fort Worth, Texas; descendants of Ezza (Carmichael) Iman: Ida June (Iman) Evans, Brian and Ruslyn ( Evans) Hermanson, Brianna and Charlcy, all of Ponca City; Bob and Donna Jo (Evans) Bost, Rebecca and Bonnie of Tulsa.
Descendants of Sheridan Carmichael who attended the reunion were: Leroy and Geneva (Carmichael) Williams; Jim and Carolyn (Williams) Chanslor, Mark and Liliana Liegerot, David and Cheri (Liegerot) Rowland, Kelli, Krista and Kailea, Alicia Liegerot, and Melissa Bradley, all of Ponca City; Harold and Donna (Williams) Riechers and Amanda of Owasso; Ron and Cindy (Kirtley) Youtsey, Jennifer and Michael of Oklahoma City and Gary Kirtley of Tulsa; Bill and Charlene Carmichael of Ponca City; Owen and Reesa (Carmichael) Haggard and Hattie of Plano, Texas; Karen Carmichael of Tulsa; Chuck and Kelle (Carmichael) Jacques, Katie, Charley and Keylin of Ponca City; Hew and Beth Carmichael, Gideon, Clara and Lucy, also of Ponca City.
Special Guests were: Thelma McEnaney, Donna Evans, Millie Hiebert, Delbert and Jean Jelsma, Cindy DeMarco, Ralph Titus, Beth and Morgan Downs, JoAnn Muchmore, Nancy Vunovich and Michelle Roberts, all of Ponca City.
Mr. and Mrs. Leroy Vernon are residing at 1116 Rosedale following a Caribbean cruise. They were married Nov. 14, 1997 at the Ponca City Cultural Center. The double ring vows were solemnized in a 4 p.m. ceremony by the Rev. Marion Edward Lobaugh. Mrs. Leslie Rardin served as pianist for the occasion.
The bride is the former Danelle Proctor, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William F. Chevalier of Kirbyville, Mo. Vernon is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Vernon of Newkirk. Among the guests attending were the bride's mother, Susan Chevalier from Missouri and the bride's aunt, Patricia Calvin from Dallas, Texas.
The bride selected a designer gown of Italian satin for her wedding. The pearl and sequin embellished bodice featured an off-the-shoulder neckline and was complemented by a full length slim skirt. Her elbow length tulle veiling was secured by a circular headpiece in back and she carried a bouquet of Fire and Ice roses, ivory roses, greenery and ivy.
Janie Furnas attended the guest book and assisting with the reception at the Cultural Center were Tammy Lawson, Carla Roggenbuck, Lisa Pinegar, Terri Pinegar and Ms. Furnas.
Mrs. Vernon is an LPN employed with the Women's Clinic of Ponca City and Vernon is Director of Client Services for Boettcher, Ryan and Martin Law Firm.
A 4 p.m. ceremony Dec. 2, 1997 on the beach at St. Ann, Jamaica, West Indies, united Tamara L. Hall Willms and Joe C. Cooper in marriage. The double ring vows were officiated by the Rev. Lansford Lawrence.
The bride wore an ivory satin sleeveless gown overlaid with chiffon with a headband of pearls and rhinestones. She carried a bouquet of fresh tropical flowers in purple, yellow and white colors. Attending the couple were Sally and Carl McCloud of Hull, England.
Mr. and Mrs. Cooper are residing in rural Shidler. The bride is a registered nurse working in the Operating Room at St. Joseph's Regional Medical Center. The bridegroom is a self-employed rancher.
Parents of the newlywed couple are Nathan and Mary Hall, 3329 Kelley Avenue, and Charles and Deana Cooper, rural Shidler.
Red Rose Garden Club members met at the L.A. Cann Garden Center for dessert and a Christmas program recently. Hostesses were Tara Phansalker and Carolyn Bourne.
The serving table was centered with a large Poinsettia surrounded by pine cones, berries and pineneedle branches, which was flanked by candlesticks and candles with small poinsettias around the base of the candles.
The program for the afternoon was the Davanzatti Duo who were introduced by Jannie Ross. Mary Beth Lindsay on the cello and Carolyn Hook on the electronic piano comprise the duo. They played a variety of Christmas songs and received gilded bird nests as gifts presented by Mrs. Ross.
Ann Strickland conducted the business meeting which followed. She led the group in the Gardener's Creed and Rosalie Majors called roll with members answering with the "one thing about the holidays that particularly warmed their hearts." These included: children and their response to Christmas, the music, both popular and sacred, the Christmas lights and family coming home.
Jannie Ross gave the Garden council report which included a program from Mickey's on "Decorating for Christmas." The group decided to form a committee to discuss decorating Cann Center for next year.
The gardening tip for the month was "when decorating for the holidays, remember to use the natural foliage from your own garden."
The Jan. 12 meeting will be at 1 p.m. at the L.A. Cann Garden Center with Barbara Younger and Mary Coffee as hostesses. The program will be "A Better Alternative to Court - Early Settlement, Alternative Dispute Resolution."
Book Club
Tuesday Review Book Club Christmas luncheon and meeting will be Dec. 16 at noon at the home of Margaret Yeakley. A gift exchange is planned and reviewer will be Virginia Huth.
Lilac Garden Club members will meet for a luncheon Dec. 17. The event will begin at 11:30 a.m. and will be at the Western Sizzlin'.
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
The engagement and approaching marriage of Allison Elizabeth Piper and Ryan Stephen Rennie has been announced by her parents, Leon and Hedy Piper of Ellenwood, Ga. Rennie is the son of Robert and Rowan Rennie of Katy, Texas, former residents of Ponca City. The wedding is planned for 6:30 p.m. Dec. 31 at the Methodist Church in Decatur, Ga.
Miss Piper is a graduate from high school in Redan, Ga. and Rennie attended Ponca City schools before graduation from Taylor High School in Katy, Texas. Both are graduates from Baylor University.
They will reside in McDonough, Ga. where the bride-elect works in Special Education for the public school system. The prospective bridegroom is a flight instructor and charter pilot for Quality Aviation at Dekalb/Peachtree Airport in Atlanta, Ga.
Nikki Neal Bandy, former resident of Ponca City, with her husband, Rob Bandy of Springfield, Ark., announce the Nov. 6 addition to their family of Mara, born March 10, 1994, and Meche, born Sept. 16, 1995, in Campeche, Mexico. The sisters are grandchildren to Herb and Tobie Neal and great-grandchildren to Eleanor Stewart, Carl and Vera Neal, all of Ponca City and the late Ralph Stewart.
Paul and Brenda Bramlett of Haltom City, Texas announce the birth of a son at 6:12 p.m. Dec. 3, 1997 at Baylor Medical Center in Grapevine, Texas. The baby weighed 8-pounds, 10-ounces and was 20 1/4-inches long. He has been named Spencer Mark Michael Bramlett.
Richard and Mary Catherine Detten of Ponca City are the maternal grandparents and Ernest and Helen Bramlett of Fort Worth, Texas are the paternal grandparents.
Great-grandparents are Christine Schiltz of Ponca City and Verndale Bramlett of Fort Worth, Texas.
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Edward Slovacek were honored with a dinner and dance on Nov. 29 on the occasion of their 50th wedding anniversary.
Hosting the event were the couples' children and their spouses: Julie and Paul Soper of Frankfort, Ill., Mary and Bill Forbes of Ponca City, Edward and Rebecca Slovacek of Casper, Wyo.., Elizabeth and Tim Glaser of Ponca City and James and Kim Slovacek of Broomfield, Colo.
On Thanksgiving Day at the 8 a.m. Mass the couple received a simple blessing given by Frs. Michalicka and Pudhota with many friends and relatives attending.
Charles E. Slovacek and the former Joan C. Keating were married Nov. 29, 1947 at the "old" St. Marys Church on South Sixth Street.
In 1982 the couple built a log cabin in the Rocky Mountains near the town of Antonito, Colo. After 12 years they returned to Ponca City to be near friends and family.
Announcement is being made of the engagement of Melissa Anne Riel and David Allan Maxey. The couple plans a Feb. 14 wedding at St. Paul's United Methodist Church. The bride-elect is the daughter of Jeffrey Riel of Kansas City, Kan. and Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Sears of Overland Park, Kan. Maxey is the son of Ronald Maxey Sr. of Oklahoma City and Mr. and Mrs. Donald Romine of Ponca City.
Miss Riel is a 1993 graduate of Shawnee Mission West High School in Overland Park, Kan. She is employed as Rooms Controller and Assistant Supervisor at the Oklahoma City Marriott.
The prospective bridegroom graduated from Ponca City High School in 1990. He has served in the United States Marine Corps and is self-employed. He is owner of Maxey's Window Magic in Oklahoma City.
"Quilting for History" will be the title of the program to be presented Dec. 19 for members of the Ponca City Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution. Mary Alice Sinton will be the guest speaker for the 12:45 p.m. dessert meeting. An executive board meeting is scheduled for 11:30 a.m.
Mrs. Sinton created a Christmas tree skirt panel representing the state of Oklahoma which was incorporated into a skirt for the Blue Room Christmas tree at the White House. The item has become part of the permanent collection of White House seasonal decorations.
Mrs. Sinton is a graduate of Stephens College in Columbia, Mo. and became interested in quilting while residing in Hawaii. She and her mother-in-law took lessons in Hawaiian appliqué and have teamed together to create several prize-winning quilts.
The speaker has taught the art of Hawaiian quilting in the United States and England, Her quilt titled "Columbine" has been featured in the American Quilters' Calendar and was part of a national quilt show. Mrs. Sinton has earned numerous honors and awards with her quilting projects.
Hostess committee for the meeting includes Sue Ziegenhain, chairman; Patricia Anderson, Grace Flink, Mamie Riggs, Janice Browning, Leta Jackson, Myra Shultz, Laura Dodson, Kay Mrazek and Nancy Wetzel.
Charles Lowell Baker and Jodie Annette Mauk were united in marriage on Nov. 22, 1997. Their vows were officiated by the Rev. Finis Steelmon at the Turner Falls Chapel near Davis. The bride's children are Brandon Lee and Amber Dawn Mauk. The newlywed couple and family reside at 819 North Seventh. The bridegroom is employed by Ratliff, Inc. and the bride is a student at Pioneer Technology Center and is working part-time for Dr. Houk.
Parents of the bride are Jerald and Shirley Connelly of Eureka Springs, Ark. and Baker is the son of Charlie and Judie Dugan of Ponca City. Grandparents are Thelma Richardson, Ruby Connelly and Mary Baker.
Observing Their 53rd wedding anniversary Dec. 23 will be Francis W. "Bud" and Betty Herard, 3481 Cityview Road, Ponca City 74604. Visitors are welcome to call during the afternoon. Celebrating with them will be their children: David R. Herard and family of Bartlesville, Leah Rae Karlin and family of West Columbia, Texas and FrancAnn Herard Johnson and family of Eagle Lake, Texas.
Volunteers are needed to deliver meals to the home bound participating in the Wheatheart Nutrition Project. For more information call 767-1620. Wheatheart Nutrition Menus for this week are as follows:
Monday, Dec. 15: Hamburger Steak with beef gravy; mashed potatoes; tossed salad; biscuit with butter; mixed fruit.
Tuesday, Dec. 16: Turkey Tetrazzini; orange juice; buttered carrots; whole wheat roll with butter; red applesauce.
Wednesday, Dec. 17: Swedish meatballs with rice; buttered broccoli; pineapple and bananas; muffin with butter; iced raisin peanut butter spice bar.
Thursday, Dec. 18: Sliced turkey; mashed potatoes with gravy; tomato juice; seasoned green beans; whole wheat roll with butter; cherry cobbler.
Friday, Dec. 19: Ham; beans; tomato relish; cornbread with butter; fruit cocktail cake.
Installation of 1998 officers for the Order of the Eastern Star will be at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 16 at the Masonic Lodge, 1200 West Grand.
Installing officers will be Worthy Grand Matron JoAnn Sheppard and Worthy Grand Patron O. B. Philpot. Installing Marshall will be Reitagae Wilkerson.
Being installed are Virginia Perciful, Worthy Matron; Charles Rupert, Worthy Patron; Elsie Goosey, Assistant Matron; Ivan Nulik, Assistant Patron; Evelyn Pederson, secretary; Marguerite Rupert, treasurer; Francis Patton, Chaplain, and Richard Lucas, Marshall.
Also Carol McNitt, Conductress; Trina Myers, Assistant Conductress; Cindy Childers, Adah; Patti Ann Lucas, Ruth; Treo Vanderslice, Esther; Jimmy Smith, Martha; Norma Nulik, Electa; Irene Davis, Warder; Orrin Pederson, Sentinel; Laura Dodson, organist.
A reception will follow in the dining room of the lodge. Members are also asked to bring canned goods for donation.
Alice Bland was the hostess when members of the Chrysanthemum Garden Club met Nov. 21. The Gardener's Creed was recited and Mrs. Bland conducted the business. Florence Williams read the minutes and Mary Copeland gave the treasurer's report.
Members made arrangements to decorate at the L. A. Cann Garden Center for the Open House in December. "Country Home" will be the theme. The group will provide 16 tray favors for the holidays to be donated to the nursing homes.
A workday for decorating the Art Center tree was set at the Copeland home to be taken to the center by Deloris Letourneau and Mrs. Copeland.
The hostess gave a report on winter care of rose bushes and other plants. The annual Christmas brunch is planned for Dec. 19. The door prize was won by Florence Williams.
Applications are now being taken for Mrs. Ponca City International 1998 as a preliminary to the Mrs. Oklahoma International Pageant. All accepted contestants become ambassadors of their hometown and are awarded an official sash and title.
Requirements include being married for at least two years; aged between 24 and 56 by July 1, 1998; U. S. Citizen; resident of Oklahoma for at least six months; person of good moral value.
Mrs. Oklahoma International emphasizes the intelligence, accomplishments and inner beauty of married women whose lives reflect traditional family values and the importance of the family unit in our society today. There is no swimsuit competition.
For preliminary application or more information contact Tammi Martin,
Executive Director for Mrs. Oklahoma International, 918 451-3025.
SPORTS
By MATTHEW KOENIG
News Sports Writer
If the final score wasn't 54-76, it might be easier to say that the Lady Wildcats (1-2) had a great outing against No. 1 ranked Sapulpa. After all, the Lady Cats made a number of nice comebacks, were down by a scant point at halftime, and trailed by just eight, late in the fourth quarter.
So if not great outing, it was certainly nobel.
But it was the Lady Chieftains who beat the Poncans at their own game. The Lady Cats beat Stillwater last week by running the Lady Pioneers ragged, then poured it on in the fourth quarter. Friday, it was the opposition with the late-game rally. The Lady Cats, for the first time this season, got tired.
Then again, just watching the Lady Chieftains' dynamic duo - six-footer Kara Faulk (25 points) and 5-6 Mandy Nightengale (24 points) - is enough to make anyone feel weary.
"They've got those shooters they can rely on," said head coach Dana Pulley, "they can step up and bust 'em. And we knew they'd do that, we just wanted to go out and play our game."
In the early going, the Lady Cats played their game - and then some. Not only did they excel on the defensive end, the Lady Cats seemed to sink everthing they threw at the hoop. Keesha West was phenomenal, perfect from the field to post 12 points in the first half. Desiree Cries For Ribs was also on a tear, scoring eight, including a pair of 3-pointers.
"I didn't say anything at halftime, but I knew there was a chance," said Pulley. "Down by one to the number one team in the state is pretty amazing."
The Lady Cats came out to impress in the third quarter, as well. After the Lady Chieftains opened up a ten point lead, the Poncans came storming back. Natasha Anderson started off by burying three straight free throws, and followed up with a bucket. Tia Williams and Anderson then got back-to-back steals, fouls on their drives to the hoop, and sunk 2-of-4 from the line.
With three minutes left in the third, the Lady Cats were down by just three.
But that was as close as they would get. The Lady Chieftains went on a rampage in the fourth, outscoring the Lady Cats 23-11. For the game, the Lady Cats had 26 turnovers, where they had been averaging less than 16. Nine of those 26 were in the fourth period.
Cries For Ribs and West both had oustanding games, finishing with 14 points apiece, were 11-of-14 from the field, and combined for eight steals. Anderson followed up with 11 points, Alana Smith had six, Williams five, and Julie Schiltz had four.
The Lady Cats will try to even their record Friday, at home, taking on Jenks. Tip-off is at 6:15.
By MATTHEW KOENIG
News Sports Writer
There are no handicaps in basketball, but if there were, the Wildcats (1-2) would have come out on top in Friday night's 51-56 loss to Sapulpa.
The unranked Cats, playing against the No. 4 ranked team in the state, came back from a chronic ten-point deficit to close within four points in the closing seconds. They also held the Chieftains' blue chips, 5-10 David Marshall, and 6-9 tower Brian Cardwell, to season-low outputs of eight and 12 points, respectively. Both had been averaging close to 20.
"We outplayed them if they're fourth in the state," said head coach Ron Arthur, "I think we're more balanced - we wanted them to find somebody other than Cardwell and Marshall to beat us."
Unfortunately, the Chieftains did. Their savior Friday night was 6-5 senior Eric Hall, who had 18 points - 16 of those in the second half - and all five of the final five that sealed the Wildcats' fate.
The Cats' main mission going in was to play their game, which they did - in the second half. The first half was a offensive nightmare for the Poncans, as they led off the game with three straight turnovers and managed only 16 points through 16 minutes of play.
But the Chieftains - No. 4 in the state, remember - could only pick up 26 points of their own. The Cats held Cardwell scoreless in the second quarter, and limited Marshall to just three.
In the third quarter, the Cats' ten-point deficit ballooned immediately to 16, and it appeared as if the Chieftains would finally start pouring it on. But the wily Cats chipped away, and following a Micha Alexander 3-pointer and a pair of Kris Shores jumpers, fought back to within ten.
That ten-point deficit hung with the Cats like a bad cold. Though they scored 25 points in the fourth quarter, they never got any closer to the Chieftains until the final two minutes.
In an 10-3 run, Tom Engle started things off by hitting a pair of free throws. That was followed by a tip-in and a free throw by Alfred Delancy. Alexander then buried a three-pointer, and followed up with a short jumper.
Suddenly, with one minute to play and their smallest deficit since the opening moments, the Wildcats were poised to make a miracle comeback.
But the Chieftains - was it mentioned they're No. 4 in the state? - held their composure and played a game of keep-away. The Wildcats were forced to foul, and the Chieftains hit 5-of-6 free throws to ice the win.
"It was a valiant effort at the end," Arthur said, "those guys fought and fought and fought."
For the game, the Wildcats had 23 turnovers, most of those in the forgettable first half. The Chieftains had 20, eight in the fourth quarter.
"We weren't getting the ball up the floor in the first half, we were just stagnant," Arthur continues, "but we played our game in the second. We moved bodies, and our defense picked up.
"But 16 first half points isn't enough. And 23 turnovers is too many."
Alexander paced the Cats once again with 13 points. Engle followed up with 10, while Delancy added nine points, plus ten rebounds and four monstrous blocks. Ryan Treadway had nine points and six rebounds, Kris Shores had seven points, and Blake Geubelle added three.
The Cats take on Jenks, Friday, at home. Tip off is scheduled for 7:45.
By FRED HILTON
News Sports Editor
TULSA - Even with four starters sitting at home, Ponca City's Wildcat wrestlers had enough to finish fourth in the Tulsa Union Wrestling Classic Saturday night.
"If you can forget who's not here, we did pretty good," said coach Pat Young. "We placed six in the top three places of their weights. That's pretty darn good."
Three of the four missing Wildcats were in the finals of this tournament last year. Young said with those entered, the Wildcats would definitely have battled for the championship. As it was, the Poncans finished behind Tulsa East Central, Edmond North, and Tahlequah.
The Wildcats crowned one champion, heaviweight Hawley Tsoodle, and had three second placers, Phillip Gelino at 112, Jacob Beck at 152, and Kyle Duran at 160. The Poncans also had a pair of third placers, Lorenzo Jones at 140, and Jay Bentley at 171.
Tsoodle blanked Edmond North's James Adair 5-0, to win the 275 pound title.
The Tahlequah transfer broke up a scoreless match one minute into the second period. He then got a takedown with 30 seconds left in that period. Adair chose the neutral position to start the third period, but Tsoodle got an insurance takedown with 50 seconds left.
All three of the other Po-Hi finalists lost by falls. Gelino fell to Aaron Walston of East Central, Beck lost to Gordon Holt of Union, and Duran was pinned by Jerald Harris of East Central.
Walston is the defending state champion, while Harris placed third in state last year.
Jones collected 12 take-downs in a 15-8 win over Derek Rowan of Owasso.
Bentley wrestled his second straight overtime match, only he won this one, edging Jimmy Johnson of Union 7-5.
Trailing 5-0 midway through the third period, Bentley got a reverse and then a 3-point near-fall to send the match into overtime. He collected the winning takedown with 30 seconds left in the extra period.
The Wildcats play host to Shawnee Friday in their final duel before Christmas.
By FRED HILTON
News Sports Editor
Wildcat 119-pound wrestler Phillip Gelino is trying to make the most of his senior season as the Ponca Citians grapple with a lack of numbers.
"I don't have anything to lose," Gelino said of his bid to go out on a winning note. "This is my last year and I want to make the best of it."
Toward that goal, Gelino did a lot of work on weights during the off-season and the move paid off as a stronger, more confident Gelino is making his presence felt this season.
Gelino and his teammates were making the best of it in Friday's opening round of the Tulsa Union Wrestling Classic.
Gelino was one of four finalists for the Wildcats. Several more were making their way back through the consolation rounds Saturday.
In all, it was one of the team's better efforts, according to coach Pat Young. The trouble is there is not enough Wildcats to take advantage of that effort in the team scoring.
With vacancies at 103, 135 and 145, the Wildcats started the tournament short handed. The hand they were playing got even shorter when state champion Mark Dodgen had to drop out of the 130-pound battles with a back injury.
"That's 50 points (lost)," Young said of the absence of Mark and Matt Dodgen, who were likely tournament champions.
That may be too much for the Cats to be able to take the team title in the strong Union field.
But the remaining Po-Hi grapplers were going to give it a try.
Gelino, Jacob Beck, Kyle Duren and Hawley Tsoodle all reached the championship finals and the Cats came close to make it a sweep.
Of the 11 Wildcats who started the tournament, seven (including Mark Dodgen) advanced to Friday night's semifinals.
"We put four in the finals and should have had six," Young noted. "The other two should have won."
"We could have had a ton," groaned assistant coach Jim Sharon, agonizing over the lost manpower.
Gelino came out strong against Putnam City West's Stewart in the semifinal bout, gaining a pair of takedowns for a 4-2 first period lead. Stewart got an escape and takedown in the second period to forge in front 5-4. But Gelino got a reverse and then a takedown in the finals seconds of the second period to lead 8-6. The Poncan's escape was the only point in the third period.
After getting a first round bye, Gelino topped Justin Meek of Owasso in the quarterfinals, 11-3.
Beck went against Thornton of McAlester in the 152-pound semifinals and grabbed a quick 2-0 lead on a takedown. Thornton got a controversial penalty point in the second period, but Beck finished with a third-period escape and takedown for a 5-1 win.
Beck also got a first round bye and then topped Sourberry of Union 8-1.
Duran also got a first round bye at 160 and pinned Burkey of Edmond North in the afternoon to advance to the semifinals against Hancock of Wagoner, winning 8-6.
At heavyweight, Tsoodle took his bye and then flattened Smith of Tahlequah in 1:42.
That put him against Zugalder of Union, who towered over the Wildcat by six inches.
After a scoreless first period, Tsoodle escaped in the second period but Zugalder countered with his own escape to start the third stanza to tie the match at 1-1. But the frustration for the Union heavyweight became too much and he drew a penalty point with less than a minute left as Tsoodle won 2-1.
However, a penalty point cost the Cats another finalist.
At 171 pounds, Jay Bentley was aiming for his second straight berth in the finals. He had gotten a bye and pinned Deville of Tulsa Hale in just 33 seconds to reach the semifinals against Stevens of Owasso.
Bentley got a first period takedown and still held the edge after Stevens escaped to start the second stanza. Both wrestlers were up to start the third position with much pushing and shoving the only action. The referee, after a warning to Bentley, threw in a second warning seconds later, giving Stevens the tying point with just seconds to go.
Stevens got the winning takedown with 6.7 seconds left in overtime.
Another Ponca City near miss came at 140 pounds after Lorenzo Jones pinned two foes to reach the semifinals. Going against Green of Edmond North, Jones grabbed a 3-2 led with a second period reverse. But Green escaped near the buzzer to tie the score.
Jones was able to ride through most of the third period, but the Edmond wrestler escaped and got a quick takedown with just 11 seconds left to pull out a 6-3 win.
A put-back by Bret Skaggs at the buzzer gave the Wildcat sophomores a 38-36 win over Enid Thursday at Enid.
Ponca City led through the first half, taking a 17-15 advantage into the intermission. Enid came back to go in front 27-26 to start the final period and the battle was headed down to the wire.
Enid held a 36-35 lead with 11 seconds remaining but the Cats get the ball inside to Aaron Sattre who was fouled as he shoots with two seconds left.
Sattre hit the first free throw to tie the score, but missed the second toss. However, Skaggs grabbed the rebound and put the ball back in for the win.
"Bret made an excellent rebound move on the offensive boards to keep the game from going into overtime," said coach Jerry Orr.
Barry Chance led the Poncans with 9 points while Skaggs had 6, Barry Geheb and Arthur Vrioste each had 5, Evan Rupp 4, Jeff Furnas and Sattre 3 each and Wes Crossen 1.
The sophomores, now 2-0, are off until Jan. 1 when they will play host to Guthrie.
After giving up an eight point lead and losing in the final three minutes last week against Stillwater, the Wildcat junior varsity (1-2) survived what could have been a repeat nightmare, Friday, against Sapulpa. The JV held on to win this time, however, 56-46.
Up 39-32 heading into the fourth quarter, the JV's went cold, and Sapulpa took the opportunity to tie the game, then went on top by two.
But with four minutes left to play, the JV's reenergized, and outscored the Chieftains, 16-6, for their first win.
"It was the same thing as last week, but with a different result," said head coach Joe Matlock. "It was really good to get that first win. We made them play a fast paced game, we did well on transition, and we managed to keep them fresh."
Nathan Zimmerman paced the Poncans with 14 points, followed by Brett Skaggs with 11. Scott Larrison had eight, Barry Chance and Blake Geubelle both added five, Craig Thulsted had four, and Paul Broome had three. Barry Geheb, Jeremiah Payne, and Jeff Furnas all had two.
The junior varsity takes on Jenks next Friday at home. Tip off is scheduled for 4:45.
The Lady Cat junior varsity (2-1) won their second game in a row, Friday, burying the Sapulpa junior varsity, 26-16.
After going on top by four in the first quarter, the Lady Cats were matched, point for point, by the Lady Chieftains until the fourth quarter. In that period, the Lady Cats held Sapulpa scoreless, but got six of their own to seal the victory.
Aleena Ames led the Poncans with seven points, followed by Kristl Richardson, Alana Smith, and Jennifer Caughman with four apiece. Laura Sudbury added three, while Shari Winters and Lendsi Boyd each had two.
The Lady Cat JV takes on Jenks' JV Friday, at home.