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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Friday, December 4, 1998 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES EDUCATION RELIGION SPORTS LOCALCROP Walk Successful CROP Walk SuccessfulThe annual Ponca City CROP Walk is history, the report is in and Ponca Citians can be happy with the results, according to the report received this week. Ponca Citians walked to the tune of $3,605.44 on Oct. 11, starting at 2:30 on that Sunday afternoon, following a brief commissioning service of music and prayer at First Christian Church, 210 North Fifth. There was also a shorter mini-walk for children and others who did not want to walk the longer course. Both courses had refreshment stations. By sponsoring a CROP walker or actually doing the walking, Ponca Citians benefitted Friendship Feast at First Christian Church by $901.36, and provided emergency food or long-term self-help agricultural projects. In announcing the outcome of the annual walk, Dr. Monty Fey , local CROP Walk director pointed out that those who walked and those who recruited sponsors, helped the people “Christ came to serve” by providing emergency food or long-term self-help agricultural projects, as well as benefitting Friendship Feast with 25 percent of the funds collected. Nearly NewsNN is wondering “what happened” — the Hospice Christmas tree in the Ponca Plaza atrium, in front of the Tag Office, is not receiving any “takers” for their angel gifts. Ponca Citians are reminded that the tree is there this Christmas season — a new location — and the “angels” on the tree represent children who will be forgotten if Ponca Citians fail them. NN believes a gentle reminder will get the attention of warm-hearted Ponca Citians to grab one of the tags and donate something for the youngsters. And Nearly News also has discovered that Betty’s Boutique is having an open house Sunday from 1-5 p.m. for their holiday specials. Such an announcement just simply got misplaced. Sorry! Somebody here in town also said El Nino’s sister, La Nina, translates into English as, “Mow your lawn during December.” Post Office Offering Help for Holiday MailThe Ponca City Post Office is ready to help you “Fly Like an Eagle” through the holiday season, but with mail volume continuing to increase, “Mail Early” are again the watchwords this year. “This 1998 holiday season, U.S. Postal Service customers will bring 20 billion cards, letters and packages to post offices during the holiday season starting after Thanksgiving,” Ponca City Postmaster Dannie Sawyer said. “We are asking customers to keep it coming during the busiest time of the year, but please start early so we can make sure everything is delivered on time,” he said. Postmaster Sawyer said that customers can help by providing window clerks with full information on packages, such as requirements for insurance, delivery confirmation, desired time for package arrival and other pertinent information. To help customers, he suggests the following mailing tips: •Write, type, or print the complete delivery address neatly. •Always use complete address information, such as Ave., Blvd. and St. Always use the apartment or suite number. Always use correct directionals, such as N, W and SW. •Don’t let an incorrect ZIP Code delay delivery of cards and letters. Local post offices and the Postal Service Web site-www.usps.com-offer ZIP Code information. •Select a container that’s strong enough to protect the contents. Leave space for cushioning inside the carton. •Always use tape that is designed for shipping, such as pressure-sensitive tape, nylon-reinforced craft paper tape or glass-reinforced pressure-sensitive tape. •Plain air-popped popcorn, shredded or rolled newspaper, bubble wrap, and Styrofoam peanuts work well for cushioning package contents. •The only addresses on packages for mailing should be the delivery and return addresses. Tip: Place a return address label inside the package. •Stuff glass and fragile hollow items, like vases, with newspaper or packing material to avoid damage due to shock. When mailing framed photographs, take the glass out of the frame and wrap it separately. •Packages that weigh at least one pound must be taken into the post office for mailing. •Access the Postal Service’s Web site-www.usps.com-for postage calculations, the latest address information and unique gifts. When writing to Santa, be sure to use a return address. Santa may write back! “The holidays are here, and we’re here to make sure mail flies like an eagle and is delivered on time. Just help us by mailing early,” Sawyer said. Classic Wizard of Oz at PoncanThe classic “Wizard of Oz” with Judy Garland has been re-released for the first time in a quarter of a century. A whole generation now has the opportunity to see the great film as it was intended to be seen, on the large screen of a theatre. The film is showing at the Poncan Theatre on Grand Avenue. “The Wizard of Oz” is “engraved in our culture,” writes critics Gene Ira Katz. Many people have seen the film, but few have seen it larger-than-life as it seems to be when projected on a theatre screen. The film has also been digitized, so that the colors and quality of the sound and imagery are more potent than ever. Critics have often discussed the values of the great film. All agree that it is a wonderful story, with exciting characters and great acting. Many also say that it touches on some universal quality, a myth that all people hold in their subconscious. “The story is infused with multiple layers of archetype” writes Katz. “The power of friendship and loyalty is high on the list.” Roger Ebert writes that elements in “The Wizard of Oz” “fill a void that exists inside many children.” He points out that for children of a certain age, “home is everything.” But most children have a fear of being separated from home and family. It is natural instinct to children that protects a child from getting too far from Mother, that makes the child cry when danger is near. “Over the Rainbow” is a land only vaguely guessed at, but there could be forces outside the child’s world that could sever the child’s ties to home. “The Uses of Enchantment,” a book on the sociology of fairy tales, explains how fairy tales teach the child. Its author, Bruno Bettelheim, says that fairy tales teach children that there are dangers in the world. But the tales teach that if children have good values, things will work out for the best. Cinderella will win the Prince because she’s a good person. Little Red Riding Hood disobeys her mother, and strays from the path. But she will still be saved, because the forces of good are stronger than the wolf. “The Wizard of Oz” touches on key lessons of childhood. Someday the child will be on her own, responsible to solve her own problems. But you can ask friends for help. And even the adults, like the Wizard, have problems. When Dorothy hits “The Yellow Brick Road,” she encounters a wonderful group of characters, each of whom has some fundamental flaw: no brain, no heart, no courage. But each of them learns to overcome perceived limitations, as does Dorothy herself. As she becomes a kind of big sister to them, she takes on aspects of adulthood herself. In the end, she learns the best lesson of all: there’s no place like home. It’s a perfect ending. Even adults watching this film seem to recall a journey they have taken. According to ABC, “in music, in imagery, in creating an atmosphere of magical belief,” this film is “the one against which all others are measured.” “The Wizard of Oz” is the sixth best American film according to The American Film Institute. The story comes from a series of books by Frank Baum, a turn-of-the-century writer. The stories have been made into dozens of films and one Tony Award winning musical, “The Wiz,” with an all-black cast. But the most enduring trip into the Land of Oz is the 1939 movie with Judy Garland (who was 16 when the film was made), Jack Haley, Ray Bolger, Bert Lahr, and Margaret Hamilton. The classic film is showing at the Poncan Theatre at 104 East Grand. For show times, patrons may consult the Ponca City News or call the theatre at 580-765-0943. DEATHSA. Keith Ratliff A. Keith RatliffMcALESTER — A. Keith Ratliff, resident of McAlester, died Thursday, Dec. 3, 1998, in the McAlester Regional Health Center of McAlester. He was 76. A funeral will be held 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, 1998, at the First Baptist Church of McAlester with the Rev. Randall Adams officiating. Burial will follow at 3:30 p.m. in the Ceres Cemetery, north of Perry. Casket bearers will be George Carman, John McPherson, A.C. Lewis, Dick Wills, Fred Slayton, and Harmon Stokes; honorary casket bearers will be Leon Bernard, Stanely McBee, and the deacons of the First Baptist Church of McAlester. A. Keith Ratliff was born Nov. 11, 1922, in Red Rock, the son of Albert Carroll and Bessie (Jones) Ratliff. He attended school in the Red Rock area and graduated from Red Rock High School. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II and was a crew chief on B-29 aircraft on Guam. He married Kathryn Lorraine Copeland on May 22, 1945, in Perry. He was employed as an accountant with Conoco in March of 1951 and retired from Conoco Oct. 31, 1980. He was a member and a deacon of the First Baptist Church of McAlester and taught Sunday school for many years. He is survived by his wife of the home; two sons, Donald Ratliff of McAlester and Rick Neal Ratliff of Norman; and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Jay Ratliff and Earl Ratliff. Bettyanne SmithBROKEN ARROW — Bettyanne Smith, formally of Ponca City, died in Broken Arrow Wednesday, Dec. 2, 1998. She was 73. A memorial service will be held 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6, 1998, at the First Christian Church in Ponca City. Arrangements are under the direction of the Floral Haven Funeral Home in Broken Arrow. Bettyanne Smith was born Oct. 28, 1925, in Ponca City to Dorsey and Blanche (Romine) Clark. She was employed as a court clerk and later served as a police dispatcher in Anadarko. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Anadarko Community Choir, Ponca City Bridge Club, First Christian Church of Ponca City and the Chancel Choir. She is survived by two daughters, Sally Lankford of Broken Arrow and Suzi Obenhaus of Oklahoma City, and six grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Donald; one son, Michael; and her parents. Barbara E. FoustNEWKIRK — Barbara E. Foust, resident of Acworth, Ga., died Thursday, Dec. 3, 1998, in a Marietta, Ga., hospital. She was 87. A graveside service will be held 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, 1998, in the Newkirk Cemetery with the Rev. Jerry Black, minister of the Acworth Redemption Baptist Church, officiating. Local arrangements are under the direction of Miller-Stahl Funeral Services. The only viewing will be at the cemetery prior to the service. Barbara E. Foust was born in Peru, Kan., the daughter of William C. and Maggie Jo (Bishop) Sparks. She was a homemaker and the widow of Lewis Bradley Foust. She is survived by two sons, John E. Foust Sr. of Jasper, Ga., and James C. Foust of Albany, Ky.; one daughter, Louise Everett of Acworth, Ga.; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. ObituariesDean O. ColemanDean O. Coleman, longtime Ponca City resident died Wednesday, Dec. 2, 1998, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 81. The funeral will be held 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, 1998, in the chapel of the First Baptist Church with the Rev. Hance Dilbeck, pastor, officiating. Burial will follow in the Newkirk Cemetery under the direction of Trout Funeral Home. Casket bearers will be Jason Caldwell, Justin Caldwell, Jeff Billups, Joe Knight, John Knight, and Ben Searcy. Honorary casket bearers will be Neal Ditmore and Lloyd Bryan. Dean was born on April 30, 1917, in Jay to Alfonso and Ollie (Shelly) Coleman. He graduated from Marland High School in 1937. After graduation he attended Oklahoma A&M for two years. On Nov. 1, 1942, in Tonkawa, he and the former Julia Knight were married. He and his family later moved to Ponca City where he worked for Conoco as a Research and Development Lab Technician. He retired in 1979 after 32 years of service. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church for over 40 years, where he served as a boys Sunday School teacher and was a member of the Disciples Class. He was also a member of the OCAW as well as a former Boy Scout leader. His hobbies included fishing, reading, watching sports, rebuilding machinery, working in the yard, helping other people and being an excellent handyman. He will be remembered by his family as a great husband, father and grandfather. He will be greatly missed by family and friends. Survivors include his wife Judy of the home; one son, Gary Dean Coleman of Fort Worth, Texas; one daughter, Cynthia Jane Caldwell of The Woodlands, Texas; one brother, Kenneth L. Coleman of Dallas, Texas; four grandchildren: Staci Coleman, Shelly Billups, Jason Caldwell and Justin Caldwell; and one great-grandchild, Jordan Billups. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Albert Coleman. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church Falls Creek Scholarship Fund, 218 South Sixth, Ponca City, OK 74601. The family will be at the home, 501 Irving. paid obituary NEWS BRIEFSChristmas Party — The Marland Roundup Club will have its Christmas party on Sunday at the Marland Fire Station. Lunch will be served at 12:30 p.m. Chili, hot dogs and the trimmings will be on the menu. Santa will arrive at 2 p.m. Parents are requested to bring gifts for their children. All members and friends are invited. Being Relocated, or in town for a short time? We have homes available by the month or longer. All homes are full furnished with appliances, furniture, linens, pots and pans. Inclusive of cable, local phone, and utilities. Please call 580-762-7980 or 580-718-0681. adv. Afghans Available — Ponca City theme Afghans are available in four colors. The items are great for gift-giving at a cost of $40. Sponsored by United Methodist Women, First United Methodist Church, the profits will go toward missions. For more information call 762-1429 or 765-0157. Scottish Antiques just arrived: chest on chest, desk, floor mirror, fire screen, and three other chests. Use our layaway plan. Christy’s, 3005 North 14th. adv. Conoco Retirees — The Christmas dinner for the Conoco Retirees Association is scheduled Dec. 14 at the chapel on the Marland Estate. The social will begin at 5 p.m. and dinner will be served at 6 p.m. Cost for the event is $14 per person. Tickets may be purchased from Gerry Morgan, 762-0601; Bill Locke, 762-5473; Louise Skinner, 762-5870; Elmore Johnson, 762-5086; Andy Longoria, 765-6330. Gas Drive-Off — A clerk at Citgo, 400 East South Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 8:03 p.m. Thursday that someone had left after paying $4 for gas that amounted to $5.64. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Ponca Tribal Meeting — A Ponca Tribal Land Owners meeting will be held Saturday, Dec. 5 at 10 a.m. Information concerning individual and tribal land allotments will be discussed. Also, copies of the original Ponca Allottee Map of 1902 will be distributed until supplies last. All Ponca Tribal Land Owners are urged to attend. Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential. Hours: Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and Thursday, 6- 8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. adv. ABWA Luncheon Set — The American Business Women’s Association Christmas luncheon buffet is scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 8 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Cultural Center. Proceeds from the luncheon will go to the organization’s scholarship fund. Cost of the luncheon is $5. Everyone welcome. 1/2 Off all clothing! Back on the Rack. adv. Accident — The Communications Center received a call at 6:46 a.m. Thursday that a minor accident had occurred five miles north of Newkirk. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol was notified to handle the situation. Head Country Saturday night special. All you can eat beef bris- ket with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $6.95. 4-8 p.m. 1217 East Prospect. adv. Collision — A three-vehicle accident at the intersection of North Fifth Street and Overbrook Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:55 a.m. Thursday. Two officers were assigned and subjects involved had exchanged information. Sandi Gore Evans, 1999 calendar, $10.95. Carla’s Hallmark, downtown. adv. Candidates Sought — The Ponca Tribe is now accepting names of interested tribal members who wish to serve on a newly-formed Ponca Tribal Utility Authority. For more information, contact Dwight Buffalo Head, business committee member at 580 762-8104. Names should be submitted to the office of the Executive Director at 580-763-0120, or write Ponca Tribe, 20 White Eagle Drive, Ponca City, OK 74601, according to Carol Brown, executive director Ponca Tribe of Oklahoma. Harassment — A man at Davis-Moore Auto reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 9:38 a.m. Thursday that a subject had caused a disturbance. An officer was assigned and information was logged on harassment. Cut Christmas trees, wreaths, and roping. Keathly Nursery, 48 Bridge Avenue, 762-2922. adv. Vandalism — A man reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 10:12 a.m. Thursday that some vandalism had been done at the Ponca City Country Club Golf Course. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Santa Visits in your home. Also, some store and daytime visits available. For information call 767-1205. adv. Accident — A man reported to the Communications Center at 12:24 p.m. Thursday that a two-vehicle non-injury accident had occurred in the 2700 block of North Fourteenth Street. An officer was assigned and reported the accident had actually occurred in a parking lot and a report was taken. Dougan's Bar-B-Q Saturday special 4-8 p.m. All you can eat beef brisket with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $7.49. 215 South 14th, 765-7979. adv. Accident — A non-injury accident at the intersection of North Fourteenth Street and East Highland Avenue was reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 2:46 p.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. R&G Style Shoppe, Newkirk. Open Sunday 1:00 to 4:30. Dress- es, corduroy, and selected denim 50% off. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of South Third Street and East Oklahoma Avenue at 3:43 p.m. Thursday that a 42-year-old man was being held on a city warrant for failure to appear and a Kay County warrant. Dougan's Bar-B-Q Friday special from 4-8 p.m., all you can eat ribs with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $7.49. 215 South 14th, 765-7979. adv. Fight — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 3:25 p.m. Thursday that a fight was occurring in the 1300 block of West Grand Avenue. Three officers were assigned and two subjects were taken to the Northern Oklahoma Youth Shelter. Beautiful Poinsettias multibloom plants. Keathly Nursery, 48 Bridge Avenue, 762-2922. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 3:26 p.m. Thursday that a 34-year-old woman was being held on a city warrant for failure to pay. Metabolife As seen on TV. Natural herbal capsules to loose weight and provide energy. Northcutt’s & Styles. 1413 East Hartford. adv. Suspicious Activity — An official at the Northern Oklahoma Youth Shelter requested assistance from the Ponca City Police Department at 5:05 p.m. Thursday with a juvenile girl suspected of having marijuana in her possession. Two officers were assigned and the girl was brought to the police department and later released to a parent. Tuesday Night heavyweight showdown! Only on pay per view Tuesday, December 8th at 8:00 p.m., $19.95. Five bouts of heavy- weight boxing includes a women’s heavyweight bout, also call Cable One at 762-6684 to order. adv Extra Patrol — A resident in the 200 block of North Peachtree Street requested extra patrol at 5:32 p.m. Thursday for the next few weeks after tires had been slashed and Christmas lights had been vandalized. Pure Water Wagon. 1717 North 5th. Reverse osmosis water. 25 cents a gallon. adv. Gas Drive-Off — A clerk at Citgo, 400 East South Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 5:56 p.m. Thursday that a subject had driven off without paying for gas. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 500 block of North Fourteenth Street at 1:36 a.m. Friday that a 20-year-old man was being held for DUI. A vehicle was towed from the scene. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 600 block of South Third Street at 9:59 p.m. Thursday that a 46-year-old man was held on a Kay County warrant for civil contempt of court. Jueschke Carpet Cleaners. For professional carpet cleaning, call the professionals. Jueschke Carpet Cleaners. 765-3421. adv. Subjects Held — An employee at Wal-Mart requested assistance from the Ponca City Police Department at 6:03 p.m. Thursday with two juveniles in custody for shoplifting. An officer was assigned and a 13-year-old boy and a 12-year-old boy were held for petit larceny. Art Association annual Christmas sale. Monday, December 7 and Tuesday, December 8. Large assortment of merchandise at af- fordable prices. Grounds and garage. 819 East Central. adv. Vehicle Vandalized — A clerk at Stratford House, 2320 North Fourteenth Street, requested assistance from the Ponca City Police Department at 6:44 p.m. Thursday. An officer was assigned and a customer had reported to management that his vehicle had been keyed. The information was logged. New And old items for sale. Southwest crafts. Old Tyme Pho- tos. Highway 60 at Silver City Flea Market (jail). Saturday and Sunday. adv. Gas Drive-Off — The Communications Center received a 911 call from a clerk at Pioneer Convenience, 530 North Fourteenth Street at 7:52 p.m. Thursday that someone had driven off without paying for $2 worth of gas. An officer was assigned a report was taken. Santa’s Forest Christmas tree farm, 3-1/2 miles west of Ponca City on Highway 60. Hours: Weekdays 5-8 p.m., weekends 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 765-9441. adv. Accident — The Ponca City Police Department reported at 11:14 p.m. Thursday that an accident had occurred on South Seventh Street near East South Avenue. Two officers were assigned and a report was taken. Jim Bowen Construction - Custom homes, room additions and remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv. LIFESTYLESXi Gamma Sigma Slates Parties Xi Gamma Sigma Slates PartiesXi Gamma Sigma Chapter members of Beta Sigma Phi sorority met on Nov. 24 in the home of Pam Sober. Members stood for the Opening Ritual, and Darlene VanDeburgh, president, conducted the business meeting. Barbara Feil reported receiving a card from former member Delorus Patterson. Ms. VanDeburgh discussed standing rule changes and additions and LaRannah Bartlett read from the Book of Beta Sigma Phi regarding absences from chapter meetings. Cindy Russell, sunshine chairman, organized a dinner to be taken to Jenny Ullery. Glenda Brown, membership chairman, announced a pledge training session for Ms. Sober Dec. 7 at 1:30 p.m. Donna Ross, scrapbook chairman, reported her committee will not meet again until after the holidays. It was also reported that the food basket and money were delivered to the chosen family for Thanksgiving dinner. Ms. Bartlett, historian, distributed Christmas cards to be signed and sent to members who have moved away. Juni Parks listed the birthdays and anniversaries for December, and secret sister reports were given. Glenda Brown displayed the senior citizen T-shirt she received from her Beta Sigma Phi sisters on the Branson trip, and Cindy Russell showed a Beta Sigma Phi friendship plate that her friend found in an antique shop. The next meeting will be Dec. 8. in the home of Barbara Ashlock. Ms. Parks will be in charge of the program, which will be a progressive ornament game. Each member is to bring a Christmas ornament, their secret sister Christmas gift, and an hors d’oeuvres. The couples’ Christmas party will be Dec. 11 at E.W.’s Restaurant in the Marland Mansion. A gift-wrapped white elephant should be brought for exchange. Members and their spouses will meet at Ms. Brown’s home for dessert afterwards. The program was presented by Ms. Sober, who reported on the many national holidays in November. ABWA Planning Buffet LuncheonWanda Morgan of Curves, Inc. was the guest speaker for the November meeting of the American Business Women’s Association at Hero’s in the Holiday Inn. Ms. Morgan told how and why she started her business, and the advantages for people who use it. Guests at the meeting were Vicki Sroufe, Gale Brandon, LaWanda Springer, Kim Floyd and Pam Williams. Lana Byers, president, conducted the meeting and Karen Graham, vice president, led the group in the salute to the flag and also gave the invocation and the benediction. Norma Griffith, a real estate associate, was the vocational speaker. She is chairman for the Christmas buffet luncheon planned Dec. 8 at the Cultural Center. Karen Graham is co-chairman for the event. The salad luncheon is planned for 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Lasagna will be served along with a variety of salads and a dessert. Tickets are $5 each and may be purchased at the door or from an ABWA member. Proceeds will go toward local scholarships. Art Courtney announced the pecans were in, and a silent auction of donated items was conducted by Johnnie Wilda and Shirley Davila. EDUCATIONSpecific Business Employees To Benefit from Vo-Tech School Specific Business Employees To Benefit from Vo-Tech SchoolOklahoma’s vo-tech system is training a skyrocketing number of employees for state business and industry, state vo-tech officials announced recently. More than 180,000 employees of Oklahoma businesses and industries were trained in the vo-tech system’s industry training programs in Fiscal Year 1998, an increase of 48 percent over the previous year, said Dr. Roy Peters, Jr., state vo-tech director. Peters said the training was delivered through the state’s network of 29 area vo-tech school districts operating 54 campuses statewide. The increase came in two areas, Peters said. The first area, customized training programs, experienced a growth of 40,531 enrollees, growing from 87,588 in FY97 to more than 128,000 workers this fiscal year. This category includes safety training classes and workers enrolled in customized training classes designed for a particular company. The second area, called the Training for Industry Program, trains new employees for new and expanding industry. This category saw an increase of 17,967 more workers trained than last fiscal year, growing from 34,892 in FY97 to 52,859. Larry Keen, who coordinates the vo-tech agency’s business and industry services, said the dramatic increase is due to a booming state economy and an increased awareness by companies about how area vo-tech schools can help improve their productivity and profitability. Keen said that vo-tech’s worker training effort is a huge benefit to companies considering Oklahoma as a future plant location site as well as state companies adding new product lines. Business leaders agree. “Vo-tech has a visible and direct impact on increasing the quality of the Oklahoma workforce. With the dramatic shortage of information technology professionals worldwide, programs like this (TIP) enables companies like WorldCom to attract, develop and maintain the best technical talent possible,” said Tom Pipal of Tulsa, WorldCom’s director of corporate training and development. Keen said worker safety is another area that has experienced a big jump in enrollment. “More and more Oklahoma companies are signing up for our safety training programs because they make the workplace safer and thus reduce Worker Compensation Insurance costs,” he said. Peters said the skyrocketing demand for employee training programs reflects a national and international trend by business to invest in workers. More and more adults are also returning to school on their own to enroll in short-term training programs, he said. Largest enrollment increases have been in the areas of health and computer training. Washington School To Present Assembly“Once on a Housetop” will be presented by Washington School fifth and sixth graders for the 1998 Winter Program on Dec. 8. “Once on a Housetop” centers around chimney sweeps who are finding that people celebrate this special time of year in many different ways. As the sweeps look into various homes, they find families celebrating Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Las Posadas. There will also be kings, shepherds and angels traveling to a tiny baby, and Santa will also be there. The fifth and sixth grade students will present two performances. There will be a school assembly at 10:30 a.m. and an evening program at 7 p.m. The community is invited to attend both performances in the gymnasium of Washington School. All fifth and sixth grade students have been working on the music, dance and script during each music class period since October. Suzanne Sumpter, music teacher, is the director, and Lela McCracken, visual art instructor, designed the scenery. PC Trustees Hold November MeetingThe Ponca City Public School Foundation’s Board of Trustees met on Nov. 18 at noon in the Library’s Programming Room. Pam Oster and Kathy Paczkowski reported that the recent statewide Fall Forum for teachers and trustees, sponsored by the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence, was a positive experience. They recommended that different teachers, principals and trustees attend next year. Board members received a report from the Allocations Committee on the Fall Grant applications. Those recommended by the Allocations Committee were approved, except for one. One other grant proposal required further investigation. Approximately $5,000 was appropriated at this time. The funds came from interest generated by the endowment plus 25 percent of donations. The next board meeting will be held on Dec. 16 at noon in the library. PTSA Announces Recycling WinnerIn November the Po-Hi PTSA sponsored a newspaper recycling project. The winning homeroom in the recycling contest is Lester Freeman’s world history class. This class of 22 students had the greatest percentage of recyclers. The PTSA congratulates Freeman and his students for outstanding involvement in this community service project. The class is being rewarded with a “coke” party. The Po-Hi PTSA encourages all students and parents to save newspapers, junk mail, magazines, cardboard, glass, tin cans, and aluminum cans. These materials can be taken to the Ponca City Recycling Center from Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. RELIGION1st Baptists To Present Yule Concert 1st Baptists To Present Yule ConcertThe Music Ministry of First Baptist Church, Ponca City, cordially invites the greater Ponca City area and surrounding communities to attend a free Christmas concert entitled “The Spirit of Christmas” on Sunday evening, Dec. 6, 6:30 p.m. The presentation will be under the direction of Larry Masters and accompanied by organist Marcella Johnson and pianist Carol Green. The Silvertones Choir and the Youth Music Ministry will both contribute to this sparkling evening of warm, inspiring and celebrative Christmas music and narration. Pastor Hance Dilbeck and the entire ministerial staff look forward to Ponca Citians joining with them for this special evening, Through “The Spirit of Christmas”, those attending will celebrate the joy, peace and love of Christmas. The Youth Music Ministry is comprised of various Junior High, Mid-High and Senior High ensembles under the direction of Dianne Clark, Bill Justice and Charlotte Smith. The combined youth ensembles will present the contemporary portion of the program. Those attending will hear them sing an upbeat Robert Sterling arrangement of “Joy to the World, the Lord is Come” and a peaceful rendition of Michael W. Smith’s “All is Well”. The Silvertones is a choir for Senior Adults and Retirees. Having sung before audiences both large and small and in several states, the Silvertones will present the traditional portion of “The Spirit of Christmas”. Singing the combined efforts of the father/son composing team of Joe and Marty Parks, the Silvertones will sing fresh, new arrangements of several timeless carols interspersed with five brand new Christmas songs that promise to touch the heartstrings. The Silvertones portion of “The Spirit of Christmas” will also be presented at the Renaissance Retirement Center and the Westminster Village Retirement Center. The narrators for “The Spirit of Christmas” are Larry and Amy Heslip, and Hank and Imogene Hull. The soloists (in order of appearance) are: Betty Lewallen, Marilyn Dorris, Verna Wilson, Jim Maxson, Phyllis Maxson, Iris Brewer, Tom Short, and Helen Ivie. The First Baptist Church Worship Center is located on the corner of Fifth & Central in downtown Ponca City. Admission is free and the public is urged to attend. Other upcoming Christmas specials include: “Sing We Now of Christmas”, an evening of music presented by the Elementary Choirs and features the musical “Christmas in Egypt”, presented by the Sonshiners will take place Sunday evening, Dec. 13 at 6:30 p.m. “A Light Still Shines” will be presented by the Adult Choir and Orchestra on Sunday evening, Dec. 20 at 6:30 p.m. The FBC Singers, a select ensemble, will entertain with “Holiday Classics” as part of an after-glow social in the FBC Assembly Center with food, fun and fellowship. First Christian Handbells ‘Ring Out’ In Christmas Concert Sunday EveningThe Handbell Choirs of First Christian Church under the direction of Marta Sullivan, will present a Christmas concert, “Joyful Expectations”, on Sunday, Dec. 6 at 5 p.m. in the sanctuary. Choirs participating include the JYF chime choir, the Youth Handbell Choir, the Chalice Carillon, the Renaissance Ringers and the advanced adult quartet ensemble. The JYF chime choir and the beginning adult choir, Chalice Carillon, will be making their debut performances. Music will include traditional Christmas carols, as well as beautifully arranged pieces such as Martha L. Thompson’s “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” and Cynthia Dobrinski’s “Angels from the Realms of Glory.” Kati Salmons, on flute, will accompany the Youth Choir on Barbara Kinyon’s “Noel Nouvelet” and the Renaissance Ringers on Cynthia Dobrinski’s “Lo! How a Rose E’er Blooming”. Interlude music will be provided by Lee Ann Cavener and Sheilia Kirkpatrick on piano. Choir personnel include: Chime Choir; Blake Braden, Brady Clark, Jordan Jamison, Ben Marchington, T.J. Tole, Robert Weber; Youth Handbell Choir: Michaela Cavener, Amory Clark, Andy Cooper, Leslee Cooper, Gracin Dorsey, Allison Ford, Shelli Novotny, Kevin Stauffer and Stephanie Tole; Chalice Carillon: Teresa Benson, Vicki Braden, Donetta Hicks, Susan Hill, Barbara Impson, Danya Kinkaid, Loretta Leathers, Angie Novotny, Randy Novotny, Sandy Pendergraft, Jan Schickram, and Kathy Turner; Renaissance Ringers: Elizabeth Beman, Lee Ann Cavener, Andy Cooper, Sharon Cooper, Bob Corbin, Terry Heyer, Ethel Jorgenson, Betty Kreger, Shelia Kirkpatrick, Claire Russell, Becca Stephens, Gary Stephens, Linda Wilson, Patti Zieggenhain. Wilson VanTine will be substituting for Becca Stephens. Sharon Cooper is Handbell Assistant. A reception will be held following the concert and before the Sunday Celebration service at 6 p.m. The public is invited to attend. Ponca Citians to Share Christ with Mexican PeopleJames W. (Jim) and Janna B. Lyon Griffin have joined the nearly 4,400 Southern Baptist International Mission Board workers sharing Christ in 125 countries among 336 ethnic people groups. Ponca Citians, the Griffins were among 90 people appointed by the International Mission Board Nov. 17 during a service at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. The new workers will fill diverse job assignments from starting churches to using community development, education and business as tools of ministry. In 1997 International Mission Board workers helped lead 283,100 people to Christ and baptism. They and their overseas partners started 2,451 churches and reported a record 4.11 million members in 41,521 churches overseas. The Griffins will live in Mexico. In 1880, Mexico became the first Latin American country where Southern Baptist representatives were assigned to work. They will work with a church-planting team and Janna will be involved in a variety of outreach ministries. Since 1989 he has been a computer analyst for Conoco Inc. and Computer Sciences Corp. in Ponca City. They are members of Northeast Baptist Church in Ponca City. Born in Borger, Texas, Jim is the son of LeRoy and Arnell Griffin of Bartlesville. While growing up he lived in Deer Park, Texas, and Bartlesville. He considers Ponca City his hometown and Northeast Baptist Church here his home church; First Baptist in Fort Smith, Ark. and First Baptist in Pasadena, Texas, also were influential in his Christian growth. He received the bachelor of business administration degree from the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond. He also attended San Jacinto College in Pasadena; Baylor University in Waco, and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He was a computer analyst for Data-Tronics Corp. in Fort Smith and a computer analyst for Phillips Petroleum Col in Bartlesville. Born and reared in Ponca City, Janna is the daughter of Fred and Peggy Lyon of Ponca city. She considers Northeast Baptist her home church. First Baptist in Fort Smith and First Baptist in Bartlesville also were influential in her Christian growth. She received the bachelor of science degree from Oklahoma State University in Stillwater. She also attended the University of Central Oklahoma, Northern Oklahoma College in Tonkawa, and Bartlesville Wesleyan College. Recently she was an elementary teacher for Ponca City Schools. The Griffins have three children: Laura Beth, born in 1987, Sarah Elaine, 1988, and Hannah LeAnn, 1996. The family will go to the International Mission Board’s training center in Rockville, Va., in January for a seven-week orientation before leaving for overseas. First Pentecostal Welcome PastorsThe First Pentecostal Holiness Church, 600 North Union, Ponca City, welcomes new pastors, the Rev. C.D. (Carthul) Robins and his wife, Emma Lee. The Rev. Mr. Robins enjoyed a successful pastorate here several years ago, and after leaving Ponca City, pastored churches in eastern Oklahoma and Texas. He says that returning to the church here is the fulfillment of a dream come true. He has a deep appreciation for the past, he points out, but great anticipation for the future. He is happy to again have the opportunity to serve the local congregation, and those who do not have a church home. Visitors are always welcome to attend services at First Pentecostal Holiness. They are: Sunday School 9:45 a.m., Sunday Morning Worship 11 a.m., Sunday Evening Worship 6 p.m. and Wednesday evening Worship 7 p.m. If you do not have a church home or a church you attend regularly, First Pentecostal invites you to attend their church where every visitor is an honored guest. SPORTSWildcat Cagers May Have Gotten Break Wildcat Cagers May Have Gotten BreakBy MATTHEW KOENIG News Sports Writer Thanks to the long armed-reach of Tulsa Union’s All-universe football team, the Po-Hi cagers could get a break in their home opener against Stillwater, tonight. The Pioneers were supposed to open their hoops season last Tuesday in Tulsa, but the Redskins begged for a reschedule. There’s too much going on at Union, it seems, and all of it has to do with football. Oddly, the Jenks Trojans — the other contenders for the 6A gold ball — didn’t cancel Tuesday’s games with Ponca City (then again, state championship games in Jenks have become novelties at this point). Thus, while the Pioneers will be suffering from first game jitters, the Poncans are 1-game veterans, having weathered a pair of losses in the ongoing Trojan War. And, while not off to a nifty start, much bodes well for the Po-Hi cagers tonight — other than their opponents’ nerves twanging at a slightly higher pitch. One year ago today, the Cats and Lady Cats gave Ron Arthur and Dana Pulley their first wins as high school head coaches, beating both Pioneer squads at Robson Fieldhouse in the second game of the season. Also, of five conference wins last year for the Cats, two came at the expense of Stillwater. The boys will play first, at 6:15, followed by the girls, at 7:45. Stillwater Pioneers (0-0) at P.C. Wildcats (0-1) The Wildcats got their ya-ya’s out on Tuesday, playing fast and furious in a 66-45 loss to the Trojans. That frenetic pace spelled disaster when it came to shooting, however, as the Cats buried just 34 percent of their shots and found themselves in early foul trouble. “Hopefully, we got that out of our system,” says Arthur. “We’re anxious to go home and play in front of our classmates — and if we can take good shots and stay out of foul trouble we should be successful.” The Pioneers, while young this year, were virtual infants last season. Two freshmen saw extensive playing time, including 6-0 guard Leonard Jones, who had 22 points in two games against the Cats. Also, 6-2 freshman (now sophomore) Nathan Hobbs had an 11 point total, and — if the roster is correct — has sprouted 2 inches in the off-season, to 6-4. Senior six-footers Nick Graham and Robert Duncan are the Pioneers’ other two major threats. Graham had 13 points through two games last year, and while Duncan had none, Arthur says he’s “a guy you gotta fear” — as Cats Crush Owasso an imminent 3-point threat. “They’re not very big, but they’re typically a scrappy team,” says Arthur. “They’re defensive. We’ve been emphasizing our half-court offense — moving and passing.” Lady Pioneers (0-0) at P.C. Lady Wildcats (0-1) As the boys did for Arthur, the Lady Cats endeared themselves to coach Pulley one year ago today with a 69-48 win over the Lady Pioneers. In that game, the Lady Cats came off a droopy shooting performance in game one (23 percent) to shoot a season best 51 percent. Pulley would like that same kind of gift tonight. “Our goal before the season started was to hold teams to less than 45 points,” she says. “Well, we held Union to 43, but we shot only 29 percent.” In an effort to get the buckets tonight, Pulley says they’ve been working on “quick-hitters,” set plays designed to give one of the Lady Cat aces an open shot. “We’ve got to get the momentum going our way,” Pulley says. Also, while Pulley and Co. have little to worry about defensively, two of the Lady Pioneers’ number could give them fits. Senior Shelby Hutchins (5-9) had 37 points through two games last year, while 6-foot senior Leslie Warner had 31. “Hutchins would just drive down the court as fast as she could, pull up, and hit a little jumper,” says Pulley. “We’ll have to key on her.” Also, senior Kathy Hallgren (11 points in two games) is listed at 6-feet 3-inches, making her one of the tallest girls in the Frontier conference. Cats Crush OwassoBy FRED HILTON News Sports Editor Ponca City’s Wildcat wrestlers opened the season with a bang Thursday, crushing Owasso 45-16 before a smallish crowd at Robson Fieldhouse. “These kids just weren’t going to be denied,” Todd Steidley said after picking up his first win as the Ponca City coach, admitting he was somewhat surprised by the margin of victory. The Wildcats got the gift of two forfeits from the Rams, but built on that with two falls, a technical fall and a major decision in winning 10 of the 14 matches. But even in the lopsided score, Steidley saw room for improvement. “We probably should have won two or three more matches,” he said, noting that the Cats’s lack of conditioning and experience showed up at a couple of weights. Owasso gave up forfeits at 103 and 125 pounds. That coupled with an 8-6 decision by newcomer Shawn Lee at 119, gave the Wildcats a 15-4 lead in the team scoring through the first four weights. The Poncans only picked up the pace. Clint Stafford won a 20-5 technical fall in 5:18 at 130 pounds and Cody Grogan collected a 2:44 fall at 135 to run the lead to 26-4. Owasso picked up a fall at 140 pounds, but the Cats ran off four straight wins to put the dual out of range. Matt Little won 15-8 at 145, Michael Osborn took a 9-2 decision at 152, Kyle Duren collected a 1:09 fall at 160 and Toby Red Leaf majored his opponent at 171, 18-4. That gave the Poncans a 42-10 lead. Owasso won two close matches in the heavier weights sandwiched around Jason Neurenberg’s 6-3 decision at 215. Neurenberg needed a takedown with 11 seconds remaining to secure his win. The other close decision came at 119 pounds as Lee had to survive a near fall in the final seconds to hold off Jeff Coats of Owasso, 8-6. The Cats had 30 takedowns to just 10 by Owasso and the Poncans held a 6-2 edge in near fall points. Ponca City is right back in action Saturday taking part in the Ark City Tournament. The teams in the tournament include Blackwell, Stillwater and Ponca City from Oklahoma with Kansas’ Ark City, Garden City, Wichita West, Wichita Northwest and St. Thomas Aquinas of Overland Park. The action starts at 10 a.m. at the Ark City High School. The second session starts at 6 p.m. with the consolation finals and the championship finals to follow. Ponca City 45, Owasso 16 103 — Swindall (PC) fft. 112 — Kersey (O) md. Brotherton 13-3 119 — Lee (PC) d. Coates, 8-6 125 — Bailey (PC) fft. 130 — Stafford (PC) tf. Jarmillo, 20-5 (5:18) 135 — Grogan (PC) p. Meek, 2:44 140 — Tumleson (O) p. Steichen, 1:23 145 — Littleton (PC) d. Berry, 15-8 152 — Osborn (PC) d. Torrie, 9-2 160 — Duren (PC) p. Keith, 1:09 171 — Redleaf (PC) md. Ahlburn, 18-4 189 — Dieklemann (O) d. Leavitt, 9-5 215 — Neurenberg (PC) d. McAbee, 6-3 Hwt — Dresher (O) d. Burns, 8-7 Mat Stats Takedowns — Ponca City 30, Owasso 10. Escapes — Ponca City 11, Owasso 16`. Reverses — Ponca City 3, Owasso 3. 2-Near Falls — Ponca City 4, Owasso 0, 3-Near Falls — Ponca City 2, Owasso 2. Forfeits — Ponca City 2, Owasso 0. Falls — Ponca City 2, Owasso 1. Technical Falls — Ponca City 1, Owasso 0. Major Decisions — Ponca City 1, Owasso 1. Decisions — Ponca City 4, Owasso 2. Mavericks Ease To WinBy MATTHEW KOENIG News Sports Writer TONKAWA — In NOC coach Mick Weiberg’s perfect season, the Mavericks would play junior varsity teams twice: once to open the season, and once to get warmed up after Christmas break. Everything else is just padding on the ol’ record. The Mavs padded their 11-2 record just a tad on Thursday, bombing the Oklahoma Christian JV Eagles, 97-52. Still, after a tournament title in the grueling Neosho Classic last weekend, they probably deserved it. Also, following the one game respite, the Mavs will face the nation’s No. 8-ranked team, Carl Albert, on Saturday. “Teams like that aren’t bad to have on your schedule,” said Weiberg, of the Eagles. “We didn’t need a real tough game, and it gives your younger guys a chance to play. “Then again, it wasn’t much in terms of the intensity level, which we do need. You want to avoid the highs and lows in this league.” The Mavericks came to within seven seconds of shutting out the Eagles in the first quarter, bolting to a 21-0 lead before Mark Deuel finally got the hapless Eagles on the board. First half antics by the Mavs included consecutive Larry Reid to Latarvis Norman alley-oops. Ryan Williams also did a nice job at the free throw line, hitting 9-of-10, while Reid buried back-to-back 3-pointers to open the second quarter. The assault didn’t let up in the second half, as Josh Regnier got consecutive steals and breakaway buckets to start things off, while Reid got 11 points in a 13-0 run to close the third quarter. Tylar Barnard, Josh Nichols and Jeff Newby also got some valuable playing time, and combined for all 22 of the Mavs’ fourth quarter output. The Eagles’ biggest run was one good for six points, early in the fourth quarter. For the game, the Mavs combined for 24 steals and forced 33 turnovers from the Eagles. Reid finished with 18 points (13 in the third quarter), followed by Williams with 17, Newby with 16, Regnier with 14 (and 5 steals), Barnard with 8, Sherman Rochell had 7, Norman had 5, Nichols had 4, Shere-Khan Jones and Ron Banks had 3, while Garrett Pelton had 2. Ryan Ware led the Eagles, with 13. The Mavericks take on No. 8 Carl Albert on Saturday, at 4. The Lady Mavs will play earlier, at 2. Game Notes — Last season, Weiberg got his wish with a junior varsity game to open the New Year — this season, the Mavs take on powerhouse Westark, January 7. . . not even the Mavs’ student section could really get into Thursday’s blowout. Norman’s tomahawk monster jam elicited only minor cheers in the first half. . . the Eagles were 9-of-24 from 2-point range, while the Mavs were 29-of-65. . . despite the score, the Mavs failed to convert four times, and didn’t score until nearly two minutes into the game. . . Eagles coach Scott Morris is a former assistant of Weiberg’s. . . the NAIA Div. I Eagles’ varsity is 8-0 on the year — but fourth in the Sooner Athletic conference. That conference is currently a combined 56-0.
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