LOCAL

Falling Prices Plague Oil and Gas Industry
Nearly News
Creating Holiday Traditions Theme of Saturday Event

Falling Prices Plague Oil and Gas Industry

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — There is no question the oil and gas industry has numerous issues to deal with — environmental regulations, natural gas gathering rules and simplification of production taxes.

But in large part, those issues serve to make an already troubled industry struggle that much more. Per barrel prices have fallen well below what many experts believed they would, which has apparently already driven some producers out of business.

Dr. Bruce Bell, chairman of the Mid-Continent Oil and Gas Association, said during the group’s annual wrap-up meeting Wednesday, that 180 well operators had failed to renew their surety bonds with the corporation commission.

Nearly every company operating wells in the state must put up a surety or cash bond which must be renewed every two years. Bell said that in all likelihood, those not renewing their bonds have gone out of business.

In addition, smaller producers have already laid off workers as a result of the industry downturn, said Michael Bernard, association president.

Bernard said that the overall apprehension of those in the industry was evident among those attending Wednesday’s meeting.

The price per barrel of Oklahoma Sweet was $8.75 Wednesday, compared with $8.50 the day before, said Bell. ‘‘When it got to $10, no one thought it would go lower.’’

A general rule of thumb, he said, is that at $15 per barrel most producers are just breaking even.

Indeed, during a March meeting of a governor’s task force developed to come up with ways to help the industry, Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Denise Bode said that in inflation-adjusted terms, prices then were the lowest they had been in at least 20 years.

At that time, Oklahoma Sweet was selling for $11 per barrel.

‘‘It’s a lot worse,’’ Bernard said.

Said Bell: ‘‘We’re seeing an industry that’s in crisis.’’

Bell told attendees at Wednesday’s meeting that one of the main theories about the low prices has been that there is a glut of product on the market, but that all oil-producing countries save one — Iraq — have cut production.

He said some experts are questioning whether there truly is an oversupply of product on the market, because there is some discrepancy in the number of barrels reportedly glutting the market and the number of barrels that can actually be accounted for.

Bell said other contributing factors include lower than anticipated demand due partly to weather conditions, and the price traders have attached to product which are based on future expectations.

Both men conceded that in the court of public opinion, the woes of oil and gas companies get little sympathy — especially when prices at the pump are as low as they have been in recent months.

But, Bernard said, the reality of the situation will hit home in states, like Oklahoma, where oil and gas is one of the, if not the, largest industries. He said that while it is true Oklahoma has diversified its economy since the 1980s oil bust — which has to some extent muffled the current downturn’s impact on state coffers — the reduction in tax collections and fees on state revenues will be felt.

He said state and congressional leaders have recognized the problem and are becoming more active in trying to find solutions.

State House Speaker Loyd Benson said Tuesday that a special session may be convened in January to address the industry’s slump. Gov. Frank Keating said that the issue can be dealt with as soon as the legislative session begins in February, but if it can’t a special session might be needed.

Nearly News

Ponca City’s Festival of Angels is considered a “must-do” holiday event by an article received at The Ponca City News from Inprint Publishing, Inc., located in Edmond. Inprint is reporting what we already have known — that Ponca City offers one of the most dazzling and varied lighting displays in south central America.

NN knows it happens to all of us! Jo Lessert called today to say “mea culpa” — she gave us the wrong last name for one of the Native American students participating in the American Heritage Week program. The story should have read Jeffrey Lynch and not Jeffrey Shaw as it appeared in this week’s MidWeek, distributed Wednesday. OK?

Creating Holiday Traditions Theme of Saturday Event

Creating holiday traditions will be the theme of the presentation by artist, author, art collector, and entrepreneur, Alda Ellis 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday at Brace Books & More.

Ellis, who lives in Little Rock, Ark., will also autograph copies of her books, “Always Friends,” “An Angel in My Garden,” “Mother So Dear” and “Story of the Christmas Rose.”

An avid collector of Victorian emphemera (paper), the author showcases this art in her book “Always Friends.” This richly illustrated book focuses on the special friendships of well-known women, including Helen Keller and Annie Sullivan, Ruth and Naomi from the Bible, and sisters Corrie and Betste Ten Boom.

Equally beautiful is the book “An Angel in My Garden” in which she shares about her survival of cancer and the kindness of those around her.

Ellis’ company, named “Alda’s Forever Soap,” manufactures gift soaps and items such as a silver “Friendship Ball” and a “Teacup Candle”, both of which can be used to create new traditions in a family.

Jean Brace, who met Ellis last summer at gift market, said “Alda introduced me to the lovely traditions of the Friendship Ball, and the Teacup Candle. Her comments about the beauty of friendship and just the art of living beautifully were inspiring. I was really pleased when she accepted our invitation to come here during the holidays.”

She related to Brace an old English tradition in which a special favor is traditionally passed back and forth as the occasion arises and exchanged through the years by friends, sisters and mothers.

“Our silver Friendship Ball contains soothing bath salts to enjoy in a quiet moment,” explained Ellis. “Maybe it will be returned with special chocolates, a piece of jewelry or potpourri, or an antique handkerchief for drying tears. In any case, use your imagination and pass it back and forth through the years. After all, the real gift inside is the treasure of your friendship.

“Tea time was meant to be shared with a friend. Maybe only in your thoughts is it possible with today’s busy schedule,” said the former Miss Arkansas Valley, who created a delicate porcelain English-inspired teacup filled with a fragrant votive candle. “Light your friendship candle, and ready a cup of tea, all the while keeping your friend near to your heart.”

Ellis is committed to family, church, community and philanthropic activities. She has helped raise funds for Advocates of Battered Women, American Red Cross, United Cerebral Palsy, and the Arkansas symphony. She has been featured in numerous magazines and newspapers, and has been a frequent guest on radio and television shows.

“Come for tea time with Alda Ellis on Saturday,” said Brace.

DEATHS

James Leon Toon
Wayne A. Cates
Hubert Vernon Porter
Letha Fay Smith
Hubert Vernon Porter
James Wiseman
Media Belle Neely
Stanley Wayne Ropp

James Leon Toon

James Leon Toon, former Ponca City resident, died Monday Dec. 7, 1998 at his home in Yelm, Wash. He was 59.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Dec. 11, at the Ponca City Odd Fellows Cemetery with the Rev. Ron Ledbetter, pastor of Sunset Baptist Church, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel. Military graveside rites will be presented by members of the U.S. Naval Reserve, Oklahoma City. Friends may visit at the funeral home until 10 a.m. Friday.

Born Feb. 13, 1939, in Cove, Ark., he was the son of Ben and Eva (Jones) Toon. He was a graduate of Guthrie High School.

Toon enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1955 and retired in 1976. He served overseas during the Vietnam War. Following his retirement from the U.S. Navy, he worked as an electronic technician in Oklahoma and California. He was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1201, American Legion Huff-Minor Post 14 in Ponca City, and the Loyal Order of Moose in Yelm, Wash. He enjoyed sports.

Surviving are his wife, Vivian, of Yelm, Wash.; one son, Donald Santos, of Yelm, Wash.; two daughters, Sherri Bravo, of Yelm, Wash., and Renea Storms, of Arlington, Texas; nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and three sisters, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Wayne A. Cates

PAWNEE — Wayne A. Cates, longtime Pawnee area resident, died Tuesday, Dec. 8, 1998, at Pawnee. He was 77.

The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11, at the Pawnee First Assembly of God Church with the Rev. James Eubanks officiating. Burial will be in the Masham Cemetery at Pawnee under the direction of Poteet Funeral Home.

Wayne A. Cates was born June 15, 1921, in Jackson County, Okla., to Thomas Meredith and Nettie Mae (Byers) Cates. After his fathers death when he was age seven, the family moved to the Pawnee area, where he grew up and lived most of his life.

He was married to Della E. Walker on Jan. 28, 1940, in Fairfax and the couple lived on a farm north of Pawnee for 41 years before moving into Pawnee. Walker operated a bulldozer for 39 years and farmed. He was a member of the First Assembly of God Church and enjoyed square dancing, hunting, playing horse shoes and spending time with his family.

Survivors include his wife, Della Cates of the home; two sons, Melvin Cates of Cushing and Cary Cates of Glencoe; one daughter Carol Cates Johnson of Pawnee; 10 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one step-great grandchild; and numerous other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death one son, Franklin Cates; his parents; four brothers, Albert, Ward, Harold and James; and four sisters, Opal, Ethel, Mary and Essie.

Hubert Vernon Porter

BLACKWELL — Hubert Vernon Porter, longtime Blackwell resident, died Tuesday evening, Dec. 8, 1998, at his home. He was 80.

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

Hubert Vernon Porter was born July 11, 1918, in Hunnewell, Kan. to Lawrence E. and Hazel (Dugan) Porter. He grew up in the Hunnewell-South Haven area and graduated from South Haven High School in 1936.

He married Hazel Hock on April 8, 1939, in Caldwell, Kan., and the couple made their first home in South Haven. In 1942, they moved to Wellington, Kan., where he began employment as a fireman for the Santa Fe Railroad. In 1945, they moved to Blackwell, where be began employment with Blackwell Zinc as a metal drawer for 29 years. He then was employed at Electron corporation for eight years, retiring in 1982. Porter enjoyed playing fiddle, guitar and singing for various bands. He was currently performing with the Country Travelers Band. For several years he and his wife spent winter months in south Texas.

Survivors include his wife, Hazel, of the home in Blackwell; one daughter, Donna M. Rose of Okmulgee; one son, Larry G. Porter of Amarillo, Texas; two sisters, Evelyn Hock of Blackwell and Wanda Robinson of Lawton; one brother, Don Porter of Blackwell; five grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Casket bearers will be Don Long, Clifford Coursey, Ron Finch and Clark Brenner.

Memorial contributions may be made to Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Cancer Research, c/o Roberts Funeral Home, 120 West Padon, Blackwell, OK 74631.

Letha Fay Smith

Letha Fay Smith, longtime Ponca City resident, died Monday, Dec. 7, 1998, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 70.

The funeral will be held Friday, Dec. 11, 1998, at 10 a.m. at Trout Funeral Home with the Rev. David L. Bigger, pastor of First Free Will Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will be in Ponca City Odd Fellows Cemetery.

Letha Fay Smith was born June 24, 1928, in Wichita, Kan., to Theadore and Nettie Israel. She grew up in the Wichita and Kingman, Kan., areas.

On April 19, 1957, she married Lloyd Smith. He preceded her in death Jan. 14, 1977. She spent most of her adult life in Ponca City.

She is survived by three sons, Joseph Smith and Theadore Ware both of Ponca City, and Robert Ware of San Bernardino, Calif.; daughter, Havana Ware of Fort Worth, Texas; sister, Havana Shields of Wichita, Kan.; 10 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husband, a son, Barney Ware, preceded her in death.

Hubert Vernon Porter

BLACKWELL — Hubert Vernon Porter, longtime Blackwell resident, died Tuesday evening, Dec. 8, 1998, at his home. He was 80.

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

Hubert Vernon Porter was born July 11, 1918, in Hunnewell, Kan. to Lawrence E. and Hazel (Dugan) Porter. He grew up in the Hunnewell-South Haven area and graduated from South Haven High School in 1936.

He married Hazel Hock on April 8, 1939, in Caldwell, Kan., and the couple made their first home in South Haven. In 1942, they moved to Wellington, Kan., where he began employment as a fireman for the Santa Fe Railroad. In 1945, they moved to Blackwell, where be began employment with Blackwell Zinc as a metal drawer for 29 years. He then was employed at Electron corporation for eight years, retiring in 1982. Porter enjoyed playing fiddle, guitar and singing for various bands. He was currently performing with the Country Travelers Band. For several years he and his wife spent winter months in south Texas.

Survivors include his wife, Hazel, of the home in Blackwell; one daughter, Donna M. Rose of Okmulgee; one son, Larry G. Porter of Amarillo, Texas; two sisters, Evelyn Hock of Blackwell and Wanda Robinson of Lawton; one brother, Don Porter of Blackwell; five grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Casket bearers will be Don Long, Clifford Coursey, Ron Finch and Clark Brenner.

Memorial contributions may be made to Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Cancer Research, c/o Roberts Funeral Home, 120 West Padon, Blackwell, OK 74631.

James Wiseman

James “Jim” Wiseman, longtime Ponca City resident, died Tuesday evening, Dec. 8, 1998, at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 91.

The funeral will be held Friday, Dec. 11, 1998, at 2 p.m. at Trinity Pentecostal Holiness Church, with the Rev. Paul Holmes, pastor, officiating. Burial will follow in the Longwood Cemetery under direction of Trout Funeral Home. The family will be at the church Friday for lunch and would like friends to feel free to come by and visit with them there.

Born Aug. 12, 1907, in the Charlie Creek Community of Osage County, he was the son of Robert and Sarah Isabel (Caldwell) Wiseman. He attended Osage County Schools.

On June 28, 1931, he married Nell Stevens in Ponca City. The couple lived in Ponca City where he was employed as a tractor mechanic for several firms in this area and later was self-employed. He was a member of the Trinity Pentecostal Holiness Church.

Survivors include his wife, Nell Wiseman of the home; two daughters, four sisters, one brother, and numerous nieces, nephews and grandchildren. In addition to his parents, one son and one brother preceded him in death.

Casket bearers will be Clayton Armstrong, Ron Janie, Don Reeves, Keith Locke, Ron Hernandez, and Larry Hernandez. Honorary bearers will be Leonard “Dink” Wilson and Jimmie Fairchild.

Obituaries

Media Belle Neely

Media Belle Neely, our cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother went to meet our Lord on Tuesday Dec. 8, 1998, at Integris Baptist Medical Center. She was 85.

The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11, 1998, at Faith Tabernacle with the Rev. Don Stanton, pastor, officiating. She will be laid at the IOOF Cemetery in Tonkawa under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.

Media Neely was born on Dec. 23, 1912, in Kellyville, Okla., the daughter of John J. and Sara Davis. She attended the Blackburn schools.

On April 4, 1929, she married John P. Neely in Perry. The couple made their home in the Fairfax and Ponca City area except for a brief period when they lived in California where she pastored a church. While they lived in the Ponca City area she was a home health aide and pastored several churches.

Media’s love for the Lord was evident in every area of her life. She was a prayer warrior and enjoyed any opportunity she had to minister to those in need. She passed on this legacy to her family whom she loved spending time with. She devoted her life to training her family in the fear and admiration of the Lord. Her gathering, reading the Bible and going to church.

She is survived by a daughter, Betty Myers and grandchildren Jeannie, Shelly, Harry and Melissa; great-grandchildren Terra, Monica, Bruce, Tanner and Christopher and great-great-grandchildren, Cole and Caleb.

Also a son and his wife, Jim and Ellen Neely of Ponca City and grandchildren, Jimmy, Jamie, and Jeff, great-grandchildren, James Logan, Erin, Kylia, Bradley, and Alexandrea.

A daughter and her husband, Pat and Jimmie Don Brown of Fairfax and grandchildren, J.D. and Debbie and great-grandchildren, Paul and Heather.

Also a daughter and husband, Ruby and Dean Cauthon of Duncan and grandchildren, Bill and Kean; great-grandchildren, Kelsey, Kirby, Kaitlyn, Tyler, and Kylah.

A son, Chuck Neely of Ponca City and granddaughter, Tina.

Also a son and his wife, Johnny and Debbie Neely of McAllen, Texas and grandchildren, Justin, January, and John Lee.

A daughter and son-in-law, Joyce and Shelby Epperson of Ponca City and grandsons, Charlie and Danny.

Also a daughter and her husband, Linda and Ike Arnold of Ponca City, and grandchildren, Greg, Jerry, Sandy, Kim, Mike, Thad, Kyle, Brent, and Drew; great-grandchildren, Mason, Magon, Conner, Jeremy, Chance, Matthew, and Kimbree.

A daughter and her husband, Pam and James Savage of Blackwell and granddaughters, Tami Shanna and Jenna.

In addition she is survived by a special friend, Ralph Pruitt.

She will be greeted in heaven by her parents, her husband, a son, Marvin John, two granddaughters, Ruby Dawn and Lisa Michelle, two great-grandsons, John J. and Rodney P. and one great-granddaughter, Angel Hope.

Casket bearers will be sons-in-law, Jimmie Don Brown, Dean Cauthon, Shelby Epperson, Ike Arnold, James Savage, and grandson, Terry Burns.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Faith Tabernacle Church, 501 South Fifth Street, Ponca City, OK 74601.

paid obituary

Stanley Wayne Ropp

TONKAWA — Stanley Wayne Ropp was born in Blackwell on June 17, 1961. He completed his elementary, junior high and high school in the Tonkawa public school system, graduating in May 1979. He entered the U.S. Navy in 1983 where he earned the rank of E-6 Electronics Technician before being discharged in 1990. In July 1990 he went to work for Conoco in Ponca City as an instrumentation specialist, where he was employed at the time of death.

Stan was a loving and caring father and enjoyed spending his time with his children. He was a member of the First Christian Church and Promise Keepers.

Stan passed from this life in Tonkawa on Monday, Dec. 7, 1998, at the age of 37.

Preceding him in death are his sister, Linda Lou Ropp, and his grandparents, Gerald G. and Opal L. Clawson.

Surviving are three children, Laura Ashley, Ian Christopher and Derek Brandon, all of the home; their mother, Angela Hope Ropp of Oklahoma City; his mother Betty Lou Ropp of Ponca City; his father Barton Wayne Ropp of Wichita, Kan.; two sisters and their husbands, Cheryl and Charles Caswell of New Orleans, La., and Debra and Ken Sullivan of Blackwell; two nephews, Aaron and Hunter Sullivan of Blackwell; his grandparents, Walter and Anna Ropp of Deer Creek; and a host of other family and friends.

The funeral is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 11, at 2 p.m. at the First Christian Church in Tonkawa.

Pallbearers are Ken Gentry, Larry Summerfield, Rex Johnson, Larry McMillen, Rick Ladd, Jay Laramy, Mark Klinger and Kenny Pedigo. Honorary pallbearers are Ron Walcher, Doug Boozer, Robert White, Marvin Klufa, Richard Simmons and Robert Simmons.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Ropp’s name to the Ropp Children’s Memorial Fund, c/o Service Bank of Tonkawa, 111 East Grand Avenue, Tonkawa, OK 74653.

paid obituary

NEWS BRIEFS

Singles Connection — Roller skating and white elephant gift exchange on Saturday, Dec. 12, 6 p.m., First Baptist Church Christian Life Center, 1st and Bridge Avenue in Blackwell. A meat and cheese tray will be provided. If your last name begins with A-I bring crackers or chips and dip; J-R bring two 2-liters of pop; S-Z bring a dessert. Bring a present for the white elephant gift exchange. For more information please call Krista or Mary at 580-363-4628.

Primetimers Trip, 4 nights in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more in-

fo, call Kate, 762-5651 before Tuesday, Dec. 15. adv.

Senior Citizens Dance — A Senior Citizens Dance will be held from 7 to 10 p.m. on Friday at the Senior Citizens Building, 320 South A in Arkansas City. The Pete Coli Country Band will play for dancing. All senior citizens are invited to attend and bring a favorite snack to share.

Donate A new toy and get the Best of HBO package activated

free! Save $10! Great entertainment for these cold winter nights.

Call Cable ONE at 762-6684 for details. adv.

Art Center Open House — The Ponca City Art Association will be holding its Christmas Open House 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday at the Ponca City Art Center. The Christmas Tree Collage and the Baron Creek Glassworks exhibits will be on display through Dec. 27. The public is invited to attend.

Dart Tournament. Wayne’s Tavern. Saturday, December 12,

6:00 p.m. $5.00 entry. House % added. adv.

Accident — An accident at Lucas Street and Harding Avenue was reported to police at 6:54 a.m. Wednesday.

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

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

1217 East Prospect. 767-8304. adv.

Accident — Police were called to the scene of an accident at 8:14 a.m. Wednesday at West Highland Avenue and North Waverly Street.

Fire Alarm — At 7:53 a.m. Wednesday fire units responded to a report of fire at Medi-Claims, 113 North Third Street. However it was determined to be only smoke caused by lint in the heating unit.

Practice 6:00 p.m. Thursday at the Ponca Indian Nazarene Church. adv.

Break-In — At 8:49 a.m. Wednesday a break-in at Rod’s Auto, 106 East Ponca Avenue, was reported to police.

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.

Theft — A woman in the 1500 block of Richway Drive called police at 11:44 a.m. Wednesday to report a theft. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

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

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

Fire Alarm — At 11:45 a.m. Wednesday fire units responded to a report of a house fire in the 100 block of South Elm Street. However, it was determined to be a smoking chimney.

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.

Forged Check — At 11:46 a.m. Wednesday police received a report of a forged check at Schlotzsky’s Deli, 2005 North Fourteenth Street. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

WWF Rock Bottom: In your home. Coming to pay per view.

Sunday, December 13th at 7:00 p.m., $29.95. Watch your favorite

wrestling star in your house!! Call 762-6684 to order Cable One!

adv.

Light Vandalism — At 9:42 p.m. Wednesday a man in the 1200 block of Brentwood Drive advised police that his Christmas lights had been vandalized.

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

4348. adv.

Big Band Christmas Dance — Stillwater Ballroom Dance Club is holding its Big Band Christmas Dance from 8 to 11 p.m. Friday in the Parks and Recreation annex, 315 East 9th Street, in Stillwater. The Moonlighters from Ada will provide live music. Admission is $10 per couple and the public is invited. For additional information call (405) 372-3432, (405) 372-7626 or (405) 372-5057.

Accident — An accident in the 500 block of South Lincoln Street was reported to police at 11:47 a.m. Wednesday.

Total Close-out. Prices reduced near cost. Graham Photo.

201 No. First. adv.

Vehicle Vandalism — At 12:03 p.m. Wednesday vandalism to a vehicle was reported in the 3200 block of North Fourteenth Street.

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.

Forgery — At 12:33 p.m. Wednesday Wal-Mart, 1101 East Prospect Avenue, reported a forgery.

Arrest — Police arrested a 21-year-old man at 1:31 p.m. Wednesday from Garfield Park on a Kay County warrant for failure to obey.

Arrests — A 19-year-old man was arrested at 2:46 p.m. Wednesday from North Elm Street and Glendale Avenue for obstructing an officer and a 19-year-old woman was arrested on a Kay County warrant for knowingly concealing stolen property.

Accident — A three-vehicle, non-injury accident at West Liberty Avenue and North Waverly Street was reported to police at 3:21 p.m. Wednesday.

Juvenile Arrest — At 3:33 p.m. Wednesday a 16-year-old girl was arrested for unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and robbery by force.

Juvenile Arrest — A 14-year-old girl was arrested at 4:23 p.m. Wednesday for robbery by force.

Bikers Struck — Two boys were treated at the emergency room of St. Joseph Regional Medical Center at 4:55 p.m. Wednesday after reportedly being hit by a car while riding their bikes.

Stove Fire — At 5:12 p.m. Wednesday fire units responded to a stove fire in the 900 block of South Sixth Street. The fire was extinguished.

Accident — A two-vehicle, non-injury accident at East Hartford Avenue and Pecan Road was reported to police at 5:55 p.m. Wednesday.

Juvenile Arrest — A 16-year-old girl was arrested at 6:21 p.m. Wednesday from Albertson’s Food And Drug Store, 2005 North Fourteenth Street for petit larceny.

Arrest — Police arrested a 37-year-old man at 10:05 p.m. Wednesday from the 200 block of South Elm Street for probation violation from Sedgwick County.

Extra Patrol — Extra police patrol was assigned in the 2300 block of Glenmore Place after police received a report of vandalism to Christmas decorations at 10:48 p.m. Wednesday.

Accident — Three people were taken by ambulance to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center at 11:36 p.m. Wednesday after sustaining injuries in an accident in the 800 block of North Third Street. A vehicle was towed the scene.

Purse Theft — At 4:04 a.m. Thursday police were notified of the theft of a purse, stolen out of a vehicle parked in the 1100 block of East Prospect Avenue.

Arrest — Police arrested a 23-year-old man at 11:50 p.m. Wednesday from North Fourteenth Street and East Hartford Avenue for no driver’s license, expired tag, no insurance and speeding.

Burglary — A burglary police report was taken at 2:54 a.m. Thursday at the Middle School, 1401 West Grand Avenue, after the alarm sounded and police found an open door.

Area Sailors Serving in Western Pacific — Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class William B. Dickerson, son of Harley B. and Elizabeth L. Dickerson of Pawnee, and Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Chris W. Graham, foster son of Paul and Lyn Wright of Route 1, Billings, recently departed on a six-month deployment to the Western Pacific and Indian oceans and Arabia Gulf while assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson, home ported in Bremerton, Wash. Dickerson and Graham are just two of more than 11,000 Pacific Fleet Sailors and Marines departing their homes and bases aboard the ships of the USS Carl Vinson Battle Group. These ships serve as a highly visible deterrent to would-be aggressors and, if deterrence fails, offer the most versatile and powerful weapons available. Dickerson, a 1990 graduate of Pawnee High School joined the Navy in March 1995. Graham graduated from Billings High School in 1995 and joined the Navy in September of that year.

Ponca Citian Graduates — Army Pvt. Keith A. Arterbury has graduated from the heavy-wheeled vehicle mechanic course at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C. During the course, the student was trained to perform maintenance and assist in the repair of heavy vehicles and associated equipment. Arterbury is the son of Keland T. and Alice A. Arterbury of 2017 El Camino in Ponca City. He is a 1998 graduate of Ponca City Senior High School.

Local Airman Graduates — Air Force Airman Anson G. Gardner has graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. During the six weeks of training, the airman studied the Air Force mission, organization, and customs and received special training in human relations. In addition, airmen who complete basic training earn credits toward an associate degree through the Community College of the Air Force. Gardner is the son of Larry and Ann Gardner of 158 Magnolia, Kaw City. He is a 1995 graduate of Ponca City Senior High School.

GARDENING

TP-40 Approved For Nuisance Birds in State
Buy Oklahoma Trees for Holiday

TP-40 Approved For Nuisance Birds in State

R. J. Advantage announced that they have received the much anticipated Federal EPA registration for applying its ReJeX-iT TP-40 by fogging for control and dispersal of nuisance birds. The product is already registered for spraying on landfills and on non-fish bearing bodies of water. However, “fogging” gives TP-40 the added benefit of being a more efficient, effective, and practical application method for controlling birds at small, large, and more diverse areas (e.g., electric substations, warehouses, hangars, industrial sites, transit and rail terminals and many other problem areas where birds represent a hazard or nuisance). According to R. J. Advantage, Inc. the product is available for use in Oklahoma.

Fogging ReJeX-iT TP-40 can be manual or fully automated. The TP-40 “foe’ sufficiently irritates target birds’ eyes and mucous membranes to make them leave the area. Exposing as many birds as possible to the TP-40 fog plus having enough available daylight yields the best results of chasing birds to a new roosting site. If necessary, additional fogging applications teach the birds that their former roosting site is no longer desirable.

Using standard fogging equipment, large areas can now be treated at surprisingly economical levels. Depending on the operator’s skills, it takes from 1-6 applications of only 2.5 ounces per acre to repel established bird flocks for the season.

The fogging label of TP-40 has already been submitted to several states. According to Dr. Vogt, “The list of registered states is growing daily. My best advice is to call our 1-800 number (1-800HAD-BIRD) to find out if the process is approved in your state.”

All ReJeX-iT products represent a logical alternative to harming nuisance birds. They are made from FDA GRAS (Generally Regarded As Safe) listed food grade ingredients. They are among the first to meet the EPA’s criteria for “Reduced Risk”, presenting a very minimal risk to applicators, treated areas, people, pets, and wildlife.

Buy Oklahoma Trees for Holiday

Across the United States each holiday season, over 30 million real trees are harvested to spruce up our homes and help us celebrate this joyous time of year. Most of these trees are grown for this very purpose by thousands of private growers. Their hard work gives us the chance to keep up or to begin a wonderful family tradition.

The State Department of Agriculture encourages Oklahomans to support another of the state's agricultural industries by buying Oklahoma-grown trees for the holidays. State Forester Roger Davis says, “There are many reasons why buying natural makes sense. This activity is a great family outing. Imagine the joy on a child's face when they actually help the family cut and bring home just the right tree.”

This activity helps restore a connection with rural Oklahoma, a feeling many of us have lost in our urban society. It helps the economy. It creates a reason for landowners to plant more trees. Trees clean the air, produce oxygen, create wildlife habitat, control erosion and improve the view.

According to the Oklahoma Christmas Tree Association, 34 member growers in 20 counties have trees for sale this year. For more information, contact the Association at 405-527-5873 or call the Department of Agriculture's Forestry Services Division at 405-521-3864.

After choosing just the right tree, be sure to treat it correctly when you take it home. Cut off another inch of the stem and stand it in water immediately. Move it indoors when ready, but keep it watered at all times. Fresh trees may use up to a gallon a day. After the holidays, use the tree as backyard habitat by decorating it with peanut butter and bird seed pine cones. Shred and compost it for the garden or recycle it in your community. These projects extend the usefulness of your tree and conserve landfill space.

If you are considering a living Christmas tree to plant outdoors after the holidays, select a high quality tree from your local nursery. Keep it outside or in an unheated garage until just before Christmas. Keep it indoors for only a few days before moving it back outside. Extended exposure to warm, dry indoor air is hard on living trees. Keep the roots moist but not wet before and after planting.

SPORTS

Limping Cats Face Beat Up Bulldogs
Area Basketball Roundup

Limping Cats Face Beat Up Bulldogs

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

EDMOND — Edmond Memorial wrestling coach Darren Huff was still trying to put together a lineup Wednesday for tonight’s dual with Ponca City.

“We’re pretty beat up right now,” he said as he checked off his list of wrestlers available.

That is one thing the Bulldogs and Wildcats may have in common. The Cats will be without a couple of starters tonight including 160-pounder Kyle Duren who is not likely to see action before Christmas due to an ankle injury.

But Huff may have more variety to pick from. The Bulldogs return five seniors from a team that went 5-5 in duals and finished 12th in the state last year.

That’s at the top end of Huff’s candidates. At the other end, Huff has started a couple of sophomores and two freshmen in the Bulldogs’ first two duals of the season.

Memorial slammed Moore 62-16 in the season opener, but were beaten by Midwest City 49-23 Tuesday. As that last score indicates, there was a lot of scoring in the dual. There was just one simple decision on the night.

Justin Biggs, 112-pounder for Edmond, had a fall, 125-pounder Greg Dixon got a technical fall while Mickey Henry (135), Jonny Hendricks (140) and Dylon Kidd (160) got major decisions.

But the Bulldogs gave up two forfeits and five falls along with one major decision. The Bombers pulled away by winning the final three matches with a forfeit and two falls.

Huff shrugged off the big win over Moore, noting then Lions, “had several holes in their line up.”

The Wildcats are looking to rebound from a 58-6 loss to Broken Arrow Tuesday, that was in coach Todd Steidley’s words, “much closer that the score indicated.”

Tonight’s dual is scheduled to start at 6 with the JV matches with the varsity to start about 7.

The Wildcats won’t get much of a chance to take a breath as they travel to the Tulsa Union Tournament Friday and Saturday.

The large (20-team) field at Union will be topped by Class 5A’s No. 5 ranked Tulsa East Central and 3A’s No. 4 Claremore.

The other teams are Coweta, Edmond North, Glenpool, Tulsa Hale, Inola, Jenks, MacAlester, Tulsa McLain, Tulsa Memorial, Owasso, Putnam City West, Tulsa Rogers, Stillwell, Tahlequah, Tulsa Union, Wagoner and Wichita West.

The sessions are scheduled for noon and 6:30 Friday and Saturday at noon and 5 p.m.

Area Basketball Roundup

Wildcat Sophomores

With part of his team taking part in the Frontier Shootout, coach Jerry Orr saw a lot of new faces in his line up when the sophomore boys lost to Bartlesville, 57-35, Monday.

He should have his group back together tonight when the Wildcats visit Stillwater.

“We played pretty well in the first three quarters,” Orr said of Monday’s game here, “But we had a breakdown in the fourth and had too many turnovers.”

The Cats managed to stay close to Bartlesville for much of the game, trailing 22-18 at halftime and 38-30 starting the fourth period.

Billy Struble led the Ponca City scoring with 9 points while Tim Rathbun had 6, Michael Martin 5, Terry Pappan 4, Dustin Barden 3, Jeff Hand 3, Stephen Michael 2, James Hendon 2, and Mark Parsons 1.

FRONTIER SHOOTOUT

RED ROCK — After a day of rest, the Frontier Shootout resumes today with the winners’ bracket semifinals filling the court at the Frontier gym.

In the boys’ bracket, Frontier takes on Covington-Douglas at 6 and Newkirk battles Coyle at 9.

In the girls’ play, Pawnee takes on Garber at 4:30 while host Frontier meets Newkirk at 7:30.

The consolation semifinals will be played Friday with the Ponca City junior varsity boys facing Garber at 6 and Tonkawa going against Oilton at 9. In the girls’ consolations, Tonkawa meets Coyle at 4:30 and Covington-Douglas tackles Oilton at 7:30.

The third place games and consolation and championship finals are set for Saturday.

The girls’ consolation finals are at 1:30, the third place game at 4:30 and the championship finals at 7:30.

On the boys’ side, the consolation finals are set for 3, the third-place game at 6 and the championship finals at 9.

Newkirk’s boys advanced to the semifinals Tuesday with a 54-36 win over Oilton.

Barrett Shupe and Troy Pankratz each had 11 points for the Tigers while Jay Dobson had 7, Sam Free 6, Nate Klein 4, Dustin Eisenhauer 3 and Jacob Chastain 2.

In the other games Tuesday, the Covington-Douglas boys topped Garber 60-53, the Garber girls returned the favor, beating Covington-Douglas 66-37 and the Pawnee girls edged out Oilton 50-47.

COUGAR FRESHMEN

SAND SPRINGS — The 9th grade Red (varsity) basketballers got off to a fast start in the Sand Springs Tournament, Tuesday, outlasting Sapulpa, 52-49.

The Reds played Monday, as well, blasting past Ark City, 57-44. The Reds are now 3-1 on the season, and have already equaled the number of wins of last year’s varsity squad.

Against Sapulpa, after tying the game at the end of the 3rd quarter, the Reds went on to outscore their foes 13-8 in the final stanza to take the win.

“I think we just out-gassed them,” said coach Brad Parent.

The Cougars fell down early, dropping behind in the first quarter, 23-7. They came back with a 20-9 advantage in the second, however, to trail by just five, 32-27, at intermission.

“We had a mental lapse in the first quarter,” said Parent. “But we came back around in the second quarter.”

Kyle Geheb paced the Poncans with 20 points, Jeremy DeNoya had 8, Trevor Viljoen had 7, Joe Rower had 6, Lucas Hudson had 4, Matt Ellis had 3, while Joe Yaffe and Robert Bushaw each had 2.

On Monday, in what Parent called “the best game we’ve played all year,” the Cougars bolted to 17-2 lead after one quarter and took a 26-9 lead at halftime.

In that game, Geheb and Rower each had 16, Hudson had 7, Bushaw and DeNoya each had 6, Colby Payne had 3, Drew Shelton had 2, while Viljoen had 1.

The Cougars return to the Sand Springs Tournament on Friday.