LOCAL

Southern Oklahoma Gets Taste of Winter
Nearly News
Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute Auditions Set January, February
Immunization Requirements Have Changed This Year
Russ Reeves Brings Fun Here Dec. 31
Former Mayor Andrews Chairs Good Roads Panel
First Presbyterian Church Schedules Candlelight Service
Festival Services At First Lutheran
District Court
Bright, White Getaway
Area Calendar
District 4-H Shared Talents and Fun

Southern Oklahoma Gets Taste of Winter

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Motorists traveling south for Christmas were finding the going tough today as a thin coat of ice covered roads across much of southeastern Oklahoma.

‘‘It’s just lovely. If you had a pair of ice skates we wouldn’t have to pay to skate,’’ said Calvin Carney, assistant division manager with the Oklahoma Transportation Department’s Division 2.

‘‘Just all of a sudden we got a rash of freezing rain and sleet,’’ he said.

Division 2 covers nine counties in southeastern Oklahoma. Bryan, Atoka and McCurtain appeared to be the hardest hit in Carney’s division as well as a portion of Choctaw County. The icy conditions in his region extended north 30 miles from the Red River border with Texas.

Terry Angier, a spokeswoman for the department, said Oklahoma crews are doing what they can to get traffic through. But she expressed concern about travel south into Texas.

‘‘All indications are they might risk getting caught in Texas,’’ she said.

Lt. Chris West, a spokesman for the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, said traffic was backed up to the five-mile marker on Interstate 35 from the Texas border. No roads were reported closed, but motorists were being advised to either not travel or to take it slow and easy.

Police in Gainesville, Texas, said I-35 wasn’t barricaded but was very slick and there had been a number of accidents.

Carney said motorists were being detoured on a route that took them across the dam on Lake Texoma because a portion of U.S. 69-75 was closed in north Texas.

One death was reported on an icy stretch of I-35 in Carter County this morning. No other details were immediately available, the OHP said.

‘‘It was slick, very slick,’’ said Carter County Deputy Steve Maxwell, who was out about 7 a.m. working an accident on U.S. 70 where a car hit a mailbox. Maxwell said drizzling rain was falling ‘‘making a pretty good glaze.’’

A winter weather advisory covered much of southeastern Oklahoma and extended into central Oklahoma as the freezing drizzle drifted northward at mid-day.

The Transportation Department had 40 trucks out in McCurtain, Bryan and Atoka counties trying to make the roads less hazardous.

Southern areas of the state had largely escaped the icy weather that engulfed the remainder of Oklahoma on Monday. The cold temperatures have spread throughout the state.

Worries about plumbing and balky cars continue as the cold settles in.

AAA Oklahoma handled 1,233 calls on Monday — twice the normal number — and expected to surpass that number Tuesday, said spokesman Chuck Mai.

‘‘Yesterday there were more emergency situations. Today it’s more residential calls — can’t starts, that kind of thing,’’ Mai said Tuesday.

Fourteen people died in traffic accidents on icy and slick highways Sunday and Monday. Carbon monoxide from a portable heater killed a Tulsa man and left a woman hospitalized in serious condition Tuesday. Another woman found the victims, whose names were not released, around 5 a.m. inside a Tulsa home.

The cold wasn’t expected to go away soon. Daytime highs today will be in the 20s and lows will be mainly in the teens and 20s.

Forecasters say the chance for snow could spread statewide Thursday and Friday, with highs in the 20s and 30s. Overnight lows will be in the teens and 20s.

‘‘We go from one extreme to the other,’’ said David Binghom, farm store manager of the Farmers Co-op Association in Hobart.

Hobart, like much of southwest Oklahoma, baked in the state’s drought this summer. As late as last week, temperatures were near 70, Binghom said.

‘‘You could wear short sleeves to work.’’

On Tuesday, Binghom had on long sleeves, a wind jacket and a coat to keep him warm as he loaded feed for ranchers getting supplies for their cattle.

At 7 a.m., the temperature was 7 degrees.

‘‘We’re not used to that,’’ Binghom said. ‘‘I think about 9 a.m., it was up to 13. It’s pretty cold, but it’s bearable.’’

Plumbing companies in Oklahoma City were busy Tuesday trying to keep up with a torrent of calls for pipe-thawing and burst-pipe repairs.

‘‘We got a lot of ‘frozen’ calls and busted pipes,’’ said Lowell Aumiller, assistant service representative for Gregory’s Plumbing.

‘‘It started Sunday night, Monday morning,’’ and continued all day Tuesday, he said.

Don Sherry, a spokesman for ONG, said gas flow to the utility’s customers jumped from 900 million cubic feet a week ago, when temperatures were in the 50s, to 1.6 billion cubic feet during the 24 hours ended Tuesday morning.

Sherry said frigid temperatures and wind contributed to the shutoff of gas to 92 homes Monday night in south Oklahoma City.

‘‘The demand for gas simply outstripped the capacity of the distribution system,’’ Sherry said. ‘‘It wasn’t a question of not enough gas. It was just capacity to deliver. And we’ve taken some temporary steps to increase that capacity, and service now is fully restored.’’

Nearly News

NN has been informed that the St. Mary’s Church Christmas Vigil Mass starts at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 24 and not last Monday as was reported earlier. A second Vigil Mass will begin at 6:30 p.m. Music for these services will be supplied by Katherine Paschal on the violin for the earlier Mass and a brass quintet for the later Mass. NN regrets the error.

Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute Auditions Set January, February

The Oklahoma Arts Institute is setting out to find the state’s most talented students ages 14 to 18 to attend the Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute. OSAI will once again reside at University of Oklahoma while facilities at its historic home of Quartz Mountain are under construction.

OSAI is a two-week residential school (June 12-27) that provides pre-professional training to Oklahoma students. At OSAI, students receive in-depth instruction in their chosen area of visual, literary or performing arts. Nationally recognized artists teach courses in the tradition of the master/apprentice approach.

“We feel fortunate to be in residence a second time at OU before we return to Quartz Mountain in 2000. President David and Mrs. Boren are very gracious to have given us a home with excellent facilities while our historic retreat at Quartz Mountain is under construction,” explained Mary Gordon Taft, OAI vice president and director of programs.

Auditions for OSAI will be January and February and are in orchestral music, choral music, ballet, modern dance, acting, poetry, drawing, sculpture and photography.

OSAI costs $1,800; however, all attendees receive an $850 scholarship from the Oklahoma State Department of Education and an $850 scholarship from private OAI donors. The remaining $100 is paid by the student.

Photography students will audition by sending portfolios to OAI by no later than Feb. 28. OAI’s mailing address is P.O. Box 18154, Oklahoma City, Okla. 73154.

The following lists the auditions by disciplines, cities, dates, times and locations.

Orchestra and Choral Music

• Ponca City — Thursday, Jan. 21, 3:30 to 5 p.m., Ponca City High School Fine Arts Building, Fifth and Overbrook.

• Lawton — Thursday, Jan. 14, 3:30 to 5 p.m., Music Building, Cameron University, 2800 W. Gore.

• Stillwater — Saturday, Jan. 23, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Stillwater High School, 1224 N. Husband.

• McAlester — Tuesday, Feb. 2, 3:30 to 5 p.m., McAlester High School, 1 Buffalo Drive.

• Durant — Saturday, Feb. 6, 11 a.m to 2 p.m., Southeastern Oklahoma State University, Fine Arts Building, Fifth and University.

• Bartlesville — Friday, Feb. 12, 3:30 to 5 p.m., Bartlesville Mid-High Band Room, 100 Mockingbird Lane.

• Tulsa — Saturday, Feb 13, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Oral Roberts University Music Building, 777 S. Lewis.

• Tahlequah — Tuesday, Feb. 16, 3:30 to 5 p.m., Northeastern State University Fine Arts Annex, 605 N. Grant.

• Woodward — Tuesday, Feb. 23, 3:30 to 5 p.m., Woodward High School, 13th and Downs Street.

• Norman — Saturday, Feb. 27, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., University of Oklahoma, Catlett Music Center, Boyd and Elm Street.

Ballet and Modern Dance

• Oklahoma City — Sunday, Feb. 7, 1 to 2:30 p.m. and 3 to 4:30 p.m., Ballet Oklahoma, 7421 N. Classen.

• Tulsa — Sunday, Feb. 21, 1 to 2:30 p.m. and 3 to 4:30 p.m., Tulsa Ballet Theatre, 4512 S. Peoria.

Visual Arts (drawing and painting, and sculpture)

• Lawton — Saturday, Jan. 30, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Cameron University Department of Art, 27th and “B” Street.

• Durant — Saturday, Feb. 6, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Southeastern Oklahoma State University.

• Norman — Saturday, Feb. 13, 10 a.m. to noon and 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., University of Oklahoma School of Art, Fred Jones Art Center.

• Tulsa — Saturday, Feb. 20, 10 a.m. to noon and 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.. Tulsa University School of Art, Phillips Hall, Fifth and Delaware.

Theatre (acting)

• Tahlequah — Saturday, Jan. 23, 1 to 3 p.m., Northeastern State University.

• Oklahoma City — Saturday, Feb. 6, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Jewel Box Theatre, First Christian Church, 3700 N. Walker.

• Tulsa — Friday, Feb. 19, 3:30 to 8 p.m., University of Tulsa, Theatre II, Kendall Hall.

Writing (poetry)

• Oklahoma City — Saturday, Feb. 13, 3 to 5 p.m., Oklahoma City Art Museum, 3113 Pershing Boulevard.

• Tulsa — Saturday, Feb. 20, 3 to 5 p.m., Philbrook Museum of Art, 2727 S. Rockford Road.

Auditions are subject to change. Applications for the 1999 OSAI are ready for distribution. For additional information call the Oklahoma Arts Institute at (405) 842-0890.

Immunization Requirements Have Changed This Year

The Oklahoma State Board of Health has approved changes to the immunization requirements for attending school and day care.

Hepatitis A and varicella (chickenpox) vaccines were added to school requirements, and hepatitis A, hepatitis B and varicella were added to day care requirements. The changes to the school immunization law were adopted by the Board of Health on an emergency basis on June 18, 1998, and became effective on July 29, 1998, when they were approved by Governor Keating. The new day care requirements were adopted by the State Board of Health on Nov. 19, 1998, and will become effective in late spring of 1999.

Students attending kindergarten and seventh grade this year (1998-99) are required to have two doses of hepatitis A vaccine, with the first dose on or after the second birthday and the second dose six to 18 months later. Each year hereafter the requirement shall be extended one grade level so that in the school year beginning in 2004, all children attending school shall be required to have two doses of hepatitis A vaccine.

Students attending kindergarten this year (1998-99) are required to have had one dose of varicella (chickenpox) vaccine given on or after the first birthday, or a parent’s statement of a history of the disease will be accepted instead of vaccination. Each year hereafter the requirement shall be extended one grade level so that in the school year beginning in 2010, all children attending school shall be required to have the one dose of varicella vaccine or a parent’s statement of a history of the disease.

When the new rules become effective in late spring 1999, children attending licensed day care centers and homes will be required to have both the hepatitis A and varicella vaccines on the same schedule described above for school children, as well as hepatitis B vaccine. Hepatitis B vaccine was already required for schools. Other vaccines required for school and day care attendance include MMR (measles, mumps, rubella); DTaP or DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis); polio; and haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib).

For more information on immunization requirements for children call 1-800-522-0203.

Russ Reeves Brings Fun Here Dec. 31

Get ready to experience something fresh, fun and something you won’t soon forget. Come and hear comedian Russ Reeves from Arlington, Texas at the New Year’s Eve Celebration. Russ will be appearing with One Light and Damascus Road Praise Band Dec. 31 at Hutchins Memorial.

You say, “Who is Russ Reeves?” Well, he is a very funny man who shares Jesus with compassion and humor and has been doing so since 1984. Through the use of stand-up comedy, Russ encourages people to experience joy and laughter.

Reeves is a graduate of the University of Texas at Arlington and currently completing his Master of Theology degree at Dallas Theological Seminary. He has taught and entertained at churches and conferences throughout America as well as Europe.

Russ will encourage and lift your spirits using comedy.

The public is invited to spend New Year’s Eve with Russ along with One Light and Damascus Road Praise Band. Tickets are available at the Master’s Touch. They are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Come start the new year with a smile!

Former Mayor Andrews Chairs Good Roads Panel

Former Ponca City Mayor Marilyn Andrews has been named Legislative Chairman of the Oklahoma Good Roads and Transportation Association.

Focus of the story in the organization’s newsletter was that “women are the key to state’s transportation future.” The news letter noted “Andrews’ appointment was just the latest evidence of the emerging leadership role women are playing in transportation.”

Andrews, who was named Mayor of the Year in Oklahoma in 1995, earned a Superior Achievement Award several times. She also took part in the Good Roads panel discussion involving local road building leaders at the annual forum.

In 1996, Andrews appeared in the 1996 film “Transportation: the Vanguard of Economic Development” produced by the Good Roads association.

In that film, she said that expansion of the city’s airport runway was critical to landing two new industries.

When she becomes legislative chairman, Andrews will succeed Tony Dark who is to become president in October. “I’m so pleased to have Marilyn Andrews become legislative chairman not because she’s a woman, but because she has the interest, the knowledge and the talent to do a great job,” Dark said.

“She was wonderful to work with as the mayor of Ponca City. She will be a true asset to the Oklahoma Good Roads and Transportation Association. I’m excited to have her on board.”

First Presbyterian Church Schedules Candlelight Service

First Presbyterian Church has scheduled a Christmas Eve Fellowship and Candlelight Service on Christmas Eve, beginning at 6 p.m. with a time of fellowship. Guests are always welcome to come and share, enjoy the gathering in Fellowship Hall.

At 7 p.m. the gathering will celebrate the Christmas Eve candlelight worship, according to Dr. Monty Fey, pastor. “We will experience, once more, the enrichment brought to each person through the Christmas story, the music of familiar carols, communion and the service of lights”, Dr. Fey said.

The public is welcome to come and join the church family for this Christmas Eve celebration.

Festival Services At First Lutheran

Two festival services are scheduled for Christmas Eve at First Lutheran Church. The service at 7 p.m. will be a family service of Lessons and Carols. In that service various families have been asked to read the Lessons as a family unit. Also “The McDaniel Family Players” will present a skit relating the true Christmas story. A candlelighting ceremony will conclude the service.

The second service at 11 p.m. will be a beautiful service of carols and readings followed by a candlelight communion. The service will conclude with a candlelighting ceremony while the congregation sings “Silent Night.” One verse of the carol will be sung in its original German.

The congregation invites anyone in the community to join in the worship of the Christ child in these services.

District Court

Newkirk

Marriage Licenses

Shawn David Crockett, 25, Michigan, Mich., and Debbora Ann White, 35, Ponca City.

Richard Allen Beard, 46, and Linda Jean Culver, 52, both of Ponca City.

Eric Shane Scott, 19, and Alisha Janell Williams, 24, both of Ponca City.

William Michael Sheaffer, 26, Edmond, and Dawn Michelle Reser, 23, Blackwell.

John Nelson Fleharty, 73, and Peggy Joan Nelson, 64, both of Ponca City.

Roger James Brown, 37, and Christine Rose Wilcher, 25, both of Ponca City.

Laurent Marie Jean Gabriel Henri Vellieux, 38, and Kerry Ellen Kliewer, 26, both of Ponca City.

Paul Douglas Burgell, 41, and Oakley Hopkins, 43, both of Meeker.

Tom Charles Tyler Jr., 22, and Lisa Marie Burns, 21, both of Ponca City.

Leonard Paul Ewing II, 24, and Tracie Michelle Toney, 20, both of Newkirk.

Christopher Paul Pederson, 23, and Lae Ann Adams, 19, both of Ponca City.

Richard Nelson Norris, 54, and Gay Nelle Hughes, 47, both of Ponca City.

Rafael Ochoa, 21, Tonkawa, and Kimberly Kay Youngblood, 28, Ponca City.

Alvaro Rascon, 43, and Patricia Calleja, 29, both of Blackwell.

Bart Lee Sewell, 31, and Michelle Lee Walcott, 22, both of Blackwell.

James Gregory Hadley, 33, and Louenda Michelle Looper, 23, both of Ponca City.

Divorces Sought

Tracy Allen Parker vs. Laura Lynn Parker.

Gina Marie Marchesoni vs. John Anthony Marchesoni.

Venus Lyn Gooch vs. Ronald Lee Buchanan.

Civil Petitions

Providian National Bank vs. Euvon A. Simmons; plaintiff seeking judgment for $6,616.98.

Ponca City

Divorces Sought

Misty Marie Looper vs. Shayne Patrick Looper.

Ronney Joe Alcantra vs. Audrey Melinda Alcantra.

Jill Ranay Bennett vs. William John Bennett.

Misty D. White vs. Michael L. White.

Melanie Sue Steelmon vs. Darrell Ray Steelmon.

Terri Dawn Grace vs. Leonard Eugene Grace.

Divorces Granted

Teresa Kay Rogers vs. Bruce Alan Smith.

Laura Lea Fredrick Shook vs. Larry Gene Shook.

Kevin Walter Covill vs. Denisa Covill.

Edgar Charles Vincent vs. Rebecca Cherrice Vincent.

Michael Moulton vs. Amanda Moulton.

Civil Petitions

Joe Ramirez et al. vs. Rosalinda Ramirez; plaintiffs seeking judgment in excess of $10,000.

Charles Roy Cooper and Laura J. Cooper vs. Barry Lynn Mai and Branson Truck Lines Inc.; plaintiffs seeking judgment in excess of $10,000.

Betty Pollet et al., vs. Donna White; plaintiffs seeking judgment in excess of $10,000.

Midweek

Bright, White Getaway

By S. L. Dickey

News Staff Writer

Gravity. Resistance. Momentum. Those three simple words describe the essence of alpine (downhill) snow skiing — the beauty and the blunders.

Snow skiing is not a new sport. Archeologists in Sweden discovered a short wide ski estimated to be about 4,500 years old. In Norway, rock drawings of hunters on skis are believed to be about the same age.

Other written and illustrated documentation exists showing that skis were used for hunting and military troops in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.

Downhill skiing is a popular once-a-year event for many Ponca

Continued From Page 1-C

Citians. Colorado and New Mexico are well-liked and accessible mountain slopes for throwing up powder, however ski resorts exist world-wide for the ski enthusiast.

The pictures accompanying this article were taken at Angel Fire, New Mexico. For information via the Internet about Angel Fire go to www.skiangelfire.com.

Probably one of the detrimental aspects of alpine skiing is the amount and bulkiness of equipment necessary. Ski boots are the most important part of a skiers wardrobe and must fit comfortably.

The boots are bulky, big and hard to walk in — but skiers soon get the feel of the cumbersome coverings and become quite adept at stomping around the ski deck and lodge.

A skier also needs skis and poles to get down a mountain slope. The ski length and shape is determined by the height and weight of the skier, as well as his or her skiing ability.

Poles are used as an aid in balance, turning, transfer of weight from one ski to another and propelling the body over flat snow surfaces.

For young skiers (those 12 and less), however, the use of poles is of no benefit — young beginners do best by focusing on their skis and placement. Poles only confuse the young skier and upset his or her center of balance.

Boots, skis, poles, and snowboards can be rented from businesses near the ski location. Rental equipment is adjusted to the individual at the rental site.

Other essential items include gloves or mittens and sunglasses or goggles (the sun on white slopes is blinding even in the cold of winter, and eye covering also protects the eyes from blowing and falling snow).

Depending on the outside temperature, long underwear, wool sweaters, wool socks, ski jackets, ski pants and hats could be considered essential. The last few weeks of the season, usually late April, skiers are often seen on the slopes in shorts or swimsuits with the warm daytime temperatures.

At the bottom of the mountain, rows and rows of skis stored in racks make a colorful backdrop.

Skis and snowboards occupy side-by-side waiting space, ready for their owner’s next downhill run. Ski lockers are available so avid skiers can lock up their expensive skis.

For a beginning skier the chair lift is usually an apprehensive challenge. The lifts are actually a simple system of cable and pulleys. Operators assist riders, if needed, in negotiating the moving and soon-to-be airborne seats.

Actually getting on is easier than getting off for the beginner. Once at the top of the mountain the chair drops you off on an incline of snow and the skier is supposed to ski down and out of the way.

Often, first time riders wipe out as they exit the chair and those getting off right behind must quickly navigate their way around the fallen skier. The grounded skier is rarely hurt — just embarrassed.

Snowboarding is a combination of skateboarding and surfing done on the snow.

No poles are used and the experienced snowboarder seems to move down the mountain in a smooth graceful line of strength and acrobatics — like a child’s bop bag that cannot be knocked down. The snowboarder leans and circles and sways to the angle of the peak.

Snowboards are colorful and often display a unique graphic design. They also require a different set of boots.

The boots are a softer material than ski boots and both feet clamp onto the single board (about the width of four skis). As with skis, the bindings release if you fall.

Snowboarders usually lead with either their left foot forward “regular,” or the right “goofy,” (surfing terms) and the snowboard an individual rents or buys will be adjusted according to that person’s lead foot preference.

The snowboarder can rotate the board so that the lead foot switches but his feet cannot move — they are attached to the board with the breakaway bindings.

A comfort to all skiers regardless of their ability level is the presence of the ski patrol. Ski patrol members are certified in emergency medical treatment as well as cold weather survival methods — and they are all excellent skiers.

Ski patrol members also drive rescue snowmobiles in the event of injured or ill snow skiers. Snowmobiles can go anywhere on the mountains.

At the end of every ski day, the ski patrol must ski every mountain slope making sure there are no wayward skiers or snowboarders lost, hurt or defiant about leaving the mountain.

If a ski patrol sees ski tracks through the trees on an unmarked run, he or she must follow those tracks and make sure they do not lead to a fallen skier or snowboarder.

I have never experienced quiet like that on the ride up a chair lift. I think about the trees during the journey — they are the only constant witness to the stillness and beauty that graces the mountain year-round. Maybe that’s why they grow so tall — trying to reach the infinite silence and view of space.

Once at the top of the mountain, for a winter, ski, or adventure challenged enthusiast, it is a great thrill to wait poised at the edge of a quiet, snow-covered run, anticipating the adrenaline rush that occurs when the ski tips begin their downward descent — the legs synchronize their movement, the ski edges cut a path back and forth across the mountain in a varying “S” pattern, punctuated by a swoosh and spray of snow with each turn — bound only by gravity, resistance and momentum.

Area Calendar

November 27-December 27

Festival of Angels, Holiday Lighting Celebration, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. nightly.

December 6-31

Christmas Tree Collage, Wednesdays-Sundays, 1-5 p.m., Ponca City Art Center.

December 24

Christmas Eve Communion Service, 5:30 p.m., Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm Street, Ponca City.

Christmas Eve Vesper Service, 5:30 p.m., First Baptist Church, Ponca City.

Alzheimer’s Support Group, 7 p.m., Conference Room A, St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Ponca City.

December 27

Mini-Concert featuring Max Lyall, pianist, arranger and recording artist, 6:30 p.m., First Baptist Church, Ponca City.

January 4

Pioneer Christian Crusaders Motorcycle Association, 6 p.m., Conestoga at I-35 and U.S. 60, west of Tonkawa.

January 5

AARP, 12:30 p.m., Wheatheart Nutrition Center, Ponca City.

January 7

Kay-9 Dog Training Club, 7 p.m., Ponca City Library, public welcome.

January 12

Rural Water District No. 1 Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m., Enterprise School on Lake Road.

McCord Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., McCord School Library.

Osage Cove Volunteer Fire Department, 7 p.m., Fire Station at Keeler Road and U.S. 60.

January 13

Rural Water, Sewer and Solid Waste Management District No. 3 (Braden), 7 p.m., Braden Community Center.

January 14

Agrarian Club, 6 p.m., Southwest meeting room, Western Sizzlin’, Ponca City.

January 16

Martin Luther King Jr. community-wide celebration, includes appearances of Garfield Academy students, Keith Norris and the Workshop Chorale from Wichita, 6:30 p.m., First Baptist Church, refreshments served, all residents and families invited, more information, contact Laura 765-3873.

January 18

Multiple Sclerosis Support Group, 6:30 p.m., Albright United Methodist Church, 128 South Palm Street, Ponca City.

United Ostomy Association, Stillwater-Ponca City Chapter, 7 p.m., program “Have Pouch, Will Cover,” presented by Alice Bowman and other chapter members, Conference Room B, St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Ponca City.

January 19

Standing Bear Educational Committee, 11 a.m., Pioneer Bank Drive-in, Ponca City, interested citizens encouraged to attend.

January 28

Alzheimer’s Support Group, 7 p.m., Conference Room A, St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Ponca City.

District 4-H Shared Talents and Fun

Young people from all over Northwest Oklahoma shared talents and lots of fun Saturday, Dec. 12 at the Northwest District 4-H Share-The-Fun Festival held at the school auditorium in Seiling.

Twelve large group acts, 11 small group acts, 15 individual acts from 15 counties were on the program.

Share-The-Fun is a talent-sharing activity designed to help boys and girls discover, develop and demonstrate talents and begin to appreciate the performing arts, said Kevin Hackett, 4-H Program Specialist for the Northwest District.

“The contest helps the 4-Hers develop poise, confidence and skill by appearing before an audience, plus it may lead to vocational or professional careers related to entertaining for the 4-Hers,” he said.

Not only are the young people learning, but they are having fun — just like the name of the activity indicates, Hackett said.

The members have the opportunity to work and play together in groups and share their talents and ideas with their peers.

Representing Kay County in the small-group act were Christy McMillen and KayLynn Hubbard of the Heir Borne club, with their duet called “I Will Be Your Friend,” winning a red award.

Winning a blue award in an individual act from Kay County was Emily Lewis of the Heir Borne 4-H Club, with her recitation entitled “Yonder: A Recitation.”

The awards were sponsored by Oklahoma Red Carpet Country.

DEATHS

Michael F. Thompson
Meta K. Schaberg
William Eugene London
Kathleen Kelly
Edna Griffith

Michael F. Thompson

Michael F. Thompson, resident of Ponca City, died Tuesday, Dec. 22, 1998, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was 83.

A vigil service will be held 7 p.m. this evening in the Chapel of Trout Funeral Home with the Rev. Richard Robinson, deacon at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, presiding. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 24, 1998, with the Rev. John Michalicka, pastor, as celebrant. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.

Casket bearers will be Frank Koster, John Lee, Bill Schula, Fred Spellman, Lou Weingart, Harold Lyall, and Elbridge Orr.

Michael F. Thompson was born Feb. 19, 1915, in Oklahoma City, the son of Walker Oglesby and Lucile Lamb Thompson. He grew up in Tulsa where he attended schools. During World War II, he served with the Seabees in the South Pacific.

On June 2, 1945, he married Mary Jane Becker in Oklahoma City. Following his discharge, Thompson began working for Amoco. He was employed as an administrative clerk in exploration which took him to West Texas, New Mexico, Wyoming, and North and South Dakota. In 1978 he retired and moved with his wife to Ponca City.

Thompson was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. He was an avid golfer and had enjoyed hunting and fishing in earlier years. Following the death of his wife in 1993, he learned to play the piano.

He is survived by his son, James M. Thompson of Ponca City, and a sister, Patricia Page of Tulsa.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, John W. Thompson.

Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic School Foundation, P.O. Box 1330, Ponca City, OK 74602.

The family will be at the home, 1125 Rosedale.

Meta K. Schaberg

KINGFISHER — Meta K. Schaberg, resident of Kingfisher, died Tuesday, Dec. 22, 1998, at the Cimarron Nursing Center in Kingfisher. She was 88.

A funeral will be held 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 24, 1998, at the Federated Church in Kingfisher with the Rev. Tom Devitt officiating. Burial will be at Kingfisher Cemetery under the direction of Sanders Funeral Service of Kingfisher.

Meta K. Schaberg was born Feb. 9, 1910, in Loyal, the daughter of John and Emma (Homier) Kramer. She married Carl J.H. Schaberg at Kingfisher on Jan. 14, 1931. She is a member of the Federated Church and its Federated Women’s Association. She lived northeast of Kingfisher most of her life.

She is survived by four daughters, Janet Lorraine Barker of Ponca City, Elaine Carol Kadavy of Loyal, Beverly Darrough of Kingfisher, and Francine Kay Cline of El Reno; 12 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, two brothers and one sister.

William Eugene London

BLACKWELL — William Eugene “Bill” London, lifelong Blackwell resident, died Wednesday evening, Dec. 16, 1998, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Enid. He was 75.

The funeral was held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, at Immanuel Baptist Church in Blackwell, with the Rev. Rowland Briggs officiating. Burial was in Blackwell Cemetery under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home. A flag presentation will be made by Blackwell American Legion and VFW members.

William Eugene “Bill” London was born March 21, 1923, in Blackwell to William Paul and Viola Myrtle (Selvey) London. He grew up and attended schools in Blackwell, graduating from high school there in 1941. He then attended Northern Oklahoma Junior College in Tonkawa, where he was a member of the Maverick football team. In 1942, he entered the U.S. Army and served in the European Theater during World War II. Following his discharge he returned to Blackwell to assist his father in the restaurant business.

He was married to Joe Nelle Teague on May 23, 1946, in Bartlesville and the couple established their home in Blackwell. In 1966 he purchased the restaurant and operated the business until 1986. He was a member of the Blackwell First Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife Joe Nelle London of Blackwell; one son Paul Wayne London of Blackwell; and two nephews, two cousins and an aunt, most of whom live in the Blackwell area. He was preceded in death by his parents; step-mother, Sylvia London; a brother, Merlin Edward London; and a step-brother, Jack Kille.

Casket bearers were Tom Hall, Darin Wright, Doug Bathurst, Dale Sewell, Kenneth Love and Paul Sullivan.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. London’s name to the Immanuel Baptist Church, c/o Roberts Funeral Home, 120 West Padon, Blackwell, OK 74631.

Obituaries

Edna Griffith

Edna Mae Griffith, longtime Ponca City resident, died Sunday evening Dec. 20, 1998, at her home. She was 77.

The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday Dec. 23, 1998, at Sunset Baptist Church with the Rev. Ron Ledbetter, pastor, officiating. Burial will follow in the Longwood Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.

Edna (Wilkins) Griffith was born Jan. 1, 1921, in Ceres, the daughter of Roy and Fannie (Siler) Wilkins. She attended Three Sands and Marland schools.

On May 30, 1941, she was married to Glenn Griffith in Ponca City, where the couple established their home and have since lived. They had celebrated 57 years of marriage. Mrs. Griffith was a homemaker and enjoyed caring for her home and family. She had been an active member of the Sunset Baptist Church for 57 years and was in the Sunset Saints senior adult choir. She enjoyed sewing, crafts, cooking, camping and fishing. She also enjoyed traveling, taking several bus tours across the United States and Canada.

Surviving are her husband Glenn of the home; a daughter, Glenna Kerner of Wichita, Kan.; a son Robert Griffith of Ponca City; a sister Ethel Rupe of Claremore; one brother, Floyd Wilkins of Ada; five grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother Frank Wilkins; and one great-grandchild.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Sunset Baptist Church, 915 Greenwood Street, Ponca City, OK 74601.

The family will be at 720 North Palm Street.

paid obituary

Funerals

Thursday

Kathleen Kelly

Funeral will be 10 a.m. in the chapel of the Trout Funeral Home with the Rev. Robert Vaught, pastor of the Diamond Valley Community Church of Stillwater, officiating. A scholarship fund will be set up for her daughter, Kayla Kelly, c/o Paula Coppock, Pioneer Bank and Trust, 1223 East Highland, Ponca City, Okla. 74601.

Dorothy Wanda Young — Funeral will be 10 a.m. at the Miller-Stahl Funeral Chapel in Newkirk with the Rev. Jerry Albright, minister of Newkirk First Christian Church, officiating. Burial will follow in the Blackwell Cemetery. Visitation is up to time of service.

NEWS BRIEFS

Accident — At 7:38 a.m. Tuesday police were informed of an accident in the 500 block of North Oak 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.

Williams Joins Army — Jeffrey J. Williams has joined the United States Army under the Delayed Entry Program at the U.S. Army Recruiting Station in Stillwater. The enlistment gives Williams the opportunity to delay entering active duty for up to one year, the option to learn a new skill, travel and become eligible to receive as much as $50,000 toward a college education. He also qualifies for an $11,000 enlistment bonus. Williams, a 1996 graduate of Ponca City High School, will report to Fort Sill in Lawton for basic training on Jan. 19, 1999. He is the son of Joy L. Williams of 3150 Tonkawa Road, Ponca City.

Cross Oil Company will be closed December 25, 26, 27, and

January 1, 2, and 3. So our employees can spend time with

their families. adv.

Car Fire — At 9:50 a.m. Tuesday fire units responded to a report of a car fire in the 800 block of North Birch Street.

Jueschke Carpet Cleaners. For professional carpet cleaning, call

the professionals. Jueschke Carpet Cleaners. 765-3421. adv.

Forgery — At 10:52 a.m. Tuesday police were informed of a forgery at the Pioneer Bank, 1223 East Highland Avenue. A report was taken.

Total Close-Out. Prices reduced year cost. Graham Photo.

201 No. First. adv.

Theft — A man in the 400 block of North Tenth Street contacted police at 11:55 a.m. Tuesday reporting a theft from his car while it was parked in the 1100 block of East Prospect Avenue.

WCW/NWO Starrcade Coming to pay per view. Sunday, Decem-

ber 27th at 7:00p.m. Order early. Our office will be closed Friday,

December 25th. Call CABLE ONE at 762-6684. adv.

Accident — An accident in the 400 block of East Grand Avenue was reported to police at 12:08 p.m. Tuesday.

R&G Style Shop will close Dec 24th, at 3:00 p.m. and will be

closed thru Dec. 27th. adv.

Accident — At 2:03 p.m. Tuesday police were advised of an accident in the 100 block of North Third Street. An officer was assigned.

Windshield Chips repaired professionally. Guaranteed and

insurance approved. Ponca Glass, 762-6522, 762-7957. adv.

Extra Patrol — A woman in the 400 block of South Peachtree Street requested extra police patrol at 2:14 p.m. Tuesday due to “strange things showing up in her backyard” and gasoline being stolen from her vehicle.

Christmas Shopping? No time to cook? Let Snyder’s Grocery

help. We can cook the chicken. Order your meat and cheese trays

for the office parties. Snyder’s Grocery 762-4686.adv.

Embezzlement — At 3:06 p.m. Tuesday police were informed of an embezzlement at E-Z Mart, 2225 North Fourteenth Street. An officer was assigned.

Court Allen Construction. Concrete and flagstone walkways, pa-

tios and yard curbing. Call 765-2720. adv.

Attempted Theft — At 4:09 p.m. Tuesday a woman in the 800 block of West Oklahoma Avenue called police after she returned home and found two people attempting to steal her stereo.

Need A gift idea? How about tickets to the New Year’s Eve

Celebration! They can be bought at the Master’s Touch. Comedian

Russ Reeves, One Light and Damascus Road Praise Band will be

there for an evening of fun. adv.

Bathroom Fire — At 4:44 p.m. Tuesday police were contacted by a clerk at the Conoco Station, 1901 North Fourteenth Street, who called to report that two juveniles had set the toilet paper in the bathroom on fire.

Head Country, One half bar-b-q chicken with choice of vegeta-

bles, $3.95, Thursday, 4-? p.m. 1217 East Prospect. 767-8304. adv.

Shoplifter — A juvenile shoplifter was taken into custody at 5:17 p.m. Tuesday at Wal-Mart, 1101 East Prospect Avenue.

1999 101 Ranch Old Timers calendars, $10. Linda Rennie, Pio-

neer Bank, 762-5651. adv.

Stolen Purse — A woman in the 6500 block of Joe Colby Road called police at 5:53 p.m. Tuesday to report that her purse was stolen from a shopping cart at Wal-Mart, 1101 East Prospect Avenue.

Attempted Break-In — A man in the 1500 block of East Bradley Avenue contacted police at 8:42 a.m. Tuesday reporting someone had tried to break into his apartment during the night. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Cut Christmas trees, wreaths and roping, half price. Keathly

Nursery, 2448 Bridge Avenue. Mon.-Sat. 8-5, Sunday 1-5. adv.

Completes Deployment — Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael A. Blackburn, whose wife, Kelly, is the daughter of Bobby Corbin of Marland, recently completed a six-month deployment to the Western Pacific and India oceans and Arabian Gulf with Fighter Squadron 31, embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln. During the deployment, Blackburn’s squadron aided multinational interception operations in prohibiting contraband transports to and from Iraq. He and crew members had the opportunity to visit Hong Kong, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates. Home based in Virginia Beach, Va., Blackburn’s squadron provides fleet air defense by engaging in all-weather offensive and defensive air-to-air operations to establish and maintain local air superiority. The 1980 graduate of Moore High School of Moore, Okla., joined the Navy in January 1991.

Accident — An accident in the 300 block of West Grand Avenue was reported to police at 6:23 p.m. Tuesday.

Larceny — At 7:45 p.m. Tuesday a larceny was reported at Sally’s Beauty Supplies, 2005 North Fourteenth Street.

Jim Bowen Construction­ Custom homes, room additions and

remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv.

Assault — A woman in the 800 block of North Birch Street called police at 8:18 p.m. Tuesday regarding an assault.

Pauline’s Supper Club will be closed December 24th, 25th, 26th,

and open Monday 28th. Our staff would like to wish everyone a

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. adv.

Sleeper — At 12:54 a.m. Wednesday a woman in the 500 block of North Eleventh Street contacted police regarding a man lying underneath her window. No one was found when police arrived.

V.F.W. New Years Eve dance. Joe Solorio and The Country

Travelers. Thursday, December 31, 1998, 8:30 p.m. to ? Blackwell.

adv.

Basic Training — Army Pvt. Michael S. O’Daniel has arrived at Fort Leonard Wood, Waynesville, Mo., to complete basic military training. During the eight weeks of training, O’Daniel will receive instruction in drill and ceremonies, weapons, map reading, tactics, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, and Army history and traditions. O’Daniel is the son of Willard L. and Barbara J. O’Daniel of 1201 Bradbary, and a 1992 graduate of Ponca City High School.

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.

Hanger Joins U.S. Army — Charles W. Hanger has joined the U.S. Army under the Delayed Entry Program at the Recruiting Station in Stillwater, taking advantage of the program which gives young men and women the opportunity to delay entering active duty for up to a year, and also gives the new soldier the option to learn a new skill, travel and become eligible to receive $50,000 toward a college education. Hanger also qualifies for a $11,000 enlistment bonus. He will report to Fort Sill in Lawton for basic training on Jan. 19, 1999. A 1993 graduate of Ponca City High School, Hanger is the son of Jon C. Hanger, 1108 West Overbrook, and Pallie R. Hanger of 2028 North Seventh.

Offices Closed — The City of Ponca City will be observing Christmas on Thursday and Friday. All city offices will be closed both days. In addition there will be no refuge collection those days. Normal collection will resume Monday.

LIFESTYLES

Noble County FCE Officers Installed
Holiday Hot Lines Offer Cooking Help
Take Care of Pets

Noble County FCE Officers Installed

The Noble County Association for Family and Community Education met Dec. 10 at the Women’s Building, Noble County fairgrounds. President Catherine Robinson called the meeting to order, Vice-President Denise Kienholz let the Flag Salute, and association creed. Group singing of several Christmas favorites with Song Leader Barbara Luttmer and pianist Velta Stringer. Chaplain Margaret Tautfest shared “The day before Jesus came” and the invocation.

Extension Education director Kaye Tipton introduced the winners of individual titles: Member of the Year, Barbara Luttmer, Oak Grove; Rookie:, Vickie Oltmann, Bliss; Young Member, Linda Snowden, Oak Grove; and Heart of FCE, Alice Kelly, Bliss. These members will represent Noble County at the Northwest District meeting April 16, 1999 in Guymon.

Burdettya Linn, Bliss Homemakers FCE group, made a presentation to Kaye Tipton for the Noble County extension office. It was a framed quilt block made by Patsy Smithheisler.

Secretary Christy Woods read the minutes of the October association meeting and the Treasurer’s report was presented by Denise Kienholz.

1999 Fair Exhibits Chairman Mary Shupe presented ideas and suggestions to the group. The 1999 County Association April meeting will be in the evening, October will have a morning meeting, and the December meeting would include the traditional lunch.

Installation of 1999 County association officers was conducted by Mary Jo Bullis, OAFCE Vice-President for Program. New officers are President, Debbie Woods, Oak Grove; Vice-President, Denise Kienholz, Bliss; Secretary, Christy Woods, Oak Grove; Treasurer, Patsy Smithheisler, Bliss.

Ladies of ’76 presented Mrs. Mabel Eby, who gave a Christmas Book Review “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.”

Door prizes were provided by Betty Dillon, Ladies of 76 and were presented to Mary Shupe, Velta Stringer, Debbie Woods, Denise Kienholz and Norma Yowell.

The meeting was attended by 14 group officers, 11 members, and four visitors.

The Oklahoma Association for Family and Community Education, Inc., a nonprofit group, is organized for the purpose of continuing adult education in home economics and related subjects for educational purposes, and for such other charitable purposes as are related to the objectives of the association.

Holiday Hot Lines Offer Cooking Help

(AP) — Help with cooking problems is just a phone call away. Through the holiday season, and sometimes beyond, these sources offer to answer questions:

—U.S. Agriculture Department (800) 535-4555. Information on cooking meat and poultry, via recorded messages round-the-clock, and from food-safety specialists in person weekdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Year-round Web site: www.foodsafety.org.

—Butterball Turkey Talk-Line (800) 323-4848. Around the clock assistance, weekdays in person 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST through Dec. 23, with automated service after hours through Dec. 31. Offers solutions to turkey-cooking problems; also, free to every caller, recipe cards that include tips and coupons. Year-round Web site: www.butterball.com.

—Shady Brook Farms (888) 723-4468. Through Dec. 31, chefs offer recorded meal-planning advice, ideas and recipes. Web site: www.dialachef.com.

—Ocean Spray consumer helpline (800) 662-3263. Year-round, weekdays (except Christmas Day and New Year’s Day) 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Consumer department staff field questions on cranberries, offer recipes, cooking tips, nutritional information, menu-planning worksheets, product information. Year-round Web site: www.oceanspray.com.

—Land O’Lakes Holiday Bakeline (800) 782-9606. Personal help available 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST, seven days a week through Dec. 24, ‘‘for baking advice, to request recipes or get help with home baking emergencies.’’ All callers receive a baking leaflet, including recipes. Year-round Web site: www.landolakes.com.

—Perdue (800) 473-7383. Consumer representative on hand weekdays year-round (except Christmas Day) 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. to ‘‘coach’’ you through cooking dilemmas. Also offers a free booklet with tips on safe handling of poultry. Year-round Web site: www.perdue.com.

—Reynolds Turkey Tips Line (800) 745-4000. A year-round 24-hour automated hotline; through Dec. 31 offers advice on turkey defrosting, preparation and cooking options, free Holiday Dinner Solutions brochure and packet of holiday tips and recipes. Year-round Web site: www.reynoldskitchens.com.

Take Care of Pets

The rush of the holidays often leaves pets behind, sometimes for long periods of time. While their owners are out shopping for gifts or going to parties, pets often find themselves home along with too much time on their paws for getting into mischief. Sometimes that puts them in harm’s way.

Decorative holiday plants can make pets sick if they eat them, and all those electrical cords for Christmas lights are tempting to chew on, but dangerous.

Pet owners need to be aware of the extra care they should take to keep their furry friends safe during the holidays.

But they can also get their pet medical insurance, which may benefit owners as much as pets since unexpected expenses, like a veterinary bill, can put a strain on a family budget, especially at Christmas.

SPORTS

Pokes Adjust Their Attitude
Fatigue Catches Up With Sooners

Pokes Adjust Their Attitude

LAS VEGAS (AP) — A little attitude adjustment went a long way for No. 25 Oklahoma State.

Joe Adkins scored nine of his 10 points down the stretch Tuesday night as the Cowboys outscored UNLV 26-14 to finish the game for an 81-69 victory over the Rebels.

Two days earlier, Creighton scored the game’s final nine points in rallying for a 66-60 win over the Cowboys.

‘‘We got together and had to get some things straight,’’ said Oklahoma State’s Adrian Peterson, who had 21 points and six rebounds. ‘‘We just needed to go out and play and let everything fall in place.

‘‘We did what we do every day in practice. We were determined. We played well defensively and played smart basketball.’’

Desmond Mason had 21 points and eight rebounds for the Cowboys (7-3). Glendon Alexander added 16 points, and Doug Gottlieb had 15 assists to go with four points.

‘‘We played like we wanted to play all season,’’ Oklahoma State coach Eddie Sutton said. ‘‘The team played with intensity, and the defense was good. We hit some free throws at the end, hit some big shots, and we were able to finish the game.

‘‘Gottlieb ran the club, made some great passes, and played good defensively. He played just like last season, and he was the one who sparked us tonight.’’

Adkins made a 3-point shot with a little over five minutes remaining to snap a 55-all tie and ignite a 19-3 Oklahoma State run that put the game out of reach.

Kaspars Kambala and Shawn Marion led UNLV (4-6) with 18 points apiece. Kambala had 13 rebounds and Marion had 10. Kevin Simmons added 16 points for the Rebels, who lost their fourth straight game.

‘‘We’ve got to do a better job executing,’’ UNLV coach Bill Bayno said. ‘‘We’ve got to put this game behind us and go on. We’ve talked about it, now, we’ve got to act on it.’’

Oklahoma State led 37-33 at halftime. UNLV scored the first six points of the second half to take a two-point advantage, and neither team led by more than five points until the Cowboys got hot at the end.

No. 25 OKLAHOMA ST. 81, UNLV 69

OKLAHOMA ST. (7-3) 

Mason 9-15 3-3 21, Adkins 3-8 1-2 10, Webber 1-2 1-2 3, Alexander 4-10 5-6 16, Peterson 8-15 3-5 21, Jonzen 3-4 0-2 6, Montonati 0-1 0-0 0, Gottlieb 1-2 1-2 4. Totals 29-57 14-22 81.

UNLV (4-6) 

Simmons 4-11 6-7 16, Marion 8-16 1-2 18, Kambala 6-8 6-7 18, Keefe 3-6 1-2 9, Dickel 3-10 2-4 8, Stewart 0-0 0-0 0, Richardson 0-1 0-0 0, Daniels 0-2 0-0 0, Epps 0-0 0-0 0. Totals 24-54 16-22 69.

Halftime—Oklahoma St. 37, UNLV 33. 3-Point goals—Oklahoma St. 9-20 (Alexander 3-6, Adkins 3-7, Peterson 2-6, Gottlieb 1-1), UNLV 5-16 (Simmons 2-4, Keefe 2-5, Marion 1-2, Daniels 0-2, Dickel 0-3). Fouled out—None. Rebounds—Oklahoma St. 34 (Mason 8), UNLV 35 (Kambala 13). Assists—Oklahoma St. 23 (Gottlieb 15), UNLV 15 (Dickel 7). Total fouls—Oklahoma St. 20, UNLV 22. A—13,265.

Fatigue Catches Up With Sooners

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — Oklahoma coach Kelvin Sampson knows just why his No. 23 Sooners lost to Ole Miss in the semifinals of the Puerto Rico Holiday Classic.

‘‘Fatigue was a factor,’’ Sampson said Tuesday after Mississippi beat Oklahoma 75-72 for a berth in the championship game. ‘‘They do a good job of running their point guards in and out, and depth in the backcourt was definitely a factor down the stretch.’’

Keith Carter scored 20 points and 5-foot-5 freshman Jason Harrison hit five of six free throws down the stretch for Mississippi.

‘‘It’s a huge win for our team,’’ Carter said. ‘‘It seems like at home we play well but we struggle on the road. We played well against a quality team today.’’

Ole Miss coach Rod Barnes said his team ‘‘wanted to put pressure on them the whole game, and use our athleticism and quickness to our advantage. We try to make it a full-court game, and maybe we wore them down a little.’’

Ole Miss (9-2) went ahead for good with 15:59 to play on Michael White’s three-point play. His free throw made it 44-41.

Oklahoma (7-2) had a last chance to get even two minutes later when, with the Sooners trailing by six, Eduardo Najera hit a jump shot and was fouled by Rahim Lockhart, who protested and was assessed a technical foul. Najera made the free throw, and Eric Martin made the two technical free throws, completing a five-point trip that cut the Rebels’ lead to 47-46.

Oklahoma retained possession because of the technical, but Ryan Humphrey was called for charging and the Sooners never again got as close.

Carter’s drive down the baseline and then a steal and dunk pushed the Ole Miss margin back out to 51-46.

With Harrison leading the way, Ole Miss hit 11 of 16 free throws in the last 1:24 to hold the Sooners at bay.

Michael Johnson scored 20 for Oklahoma but he and his runningmate at guard, Tim Heskett, were guilty of 11 turnovers.

‘‘When your starting guards have 11 turnovers, you’re not going to beat a good team,’’ Sampson said.

Heskett was in the lineup a day after a jolting elbow to the head in a game against American-Puerto Rico, a flagrant foul that earned American’s Ramon Gomez a one-game suspension and cost his team a 2-0 forfeit loss to the Sooners.

MISSISSIPPI 75, No. 23 OKLAHOMA 72

OKLAHOMA (7-2)

Humphrey 4-10 3-6 11, Najera 5-18 1-3 12, Stone 5-8 0-0 10, Johnson 7-12 3-3 20, Heskett 3-4 1-1 9, Martin 3-8 2-2 9, Spaudling 0-1 1-2 1. Totals 27-61 11-17 72.

MISSISSIPPI (9-2)

Hicks 7-9 3-7 17, Smith 4-9 1-2 9, Rogers 1-1 0-0 2, White 1-2 3-3 5, Carter 7-12 3-4 20, Harrison 2-3 5-6 10, Flanigan 0-2 1-4 1, Lockhart 2-4 1-2 5, Brown 0-1 0-0 0, Williams 2-3 0-0 6. Totals 26-46 17-28 75.

Halftime—Oklahoma 36, Mississippi 32. 3-Point goals—Oklahoma 7-15 (Johnson 3-5, Heskett 2-2, Martin 1-3, Najera 1-5), Mississippi 6-14 (Carter 3-7, Williams 2-3, Harrison 1-2, White 0-1, Brown 0-1). Fouled out—Humphrey, Martin. Rebounds—Oklahoma 38 (Najera 14), Mississippi 27 (Carter 8). Assists—Oklahoma 13 (Johnson 6), Mississippi (Smith, Harrison 3). Total fouls—Oklahoma 20, Mississippi 18. Technical—Lockhart. A—NA.