LOCAL

Martins Win Top Ponca Bucks Prize
Gospel Groups To Sing Praises to God for the Millennium

Martins Win Top Ponca Bucks Prize

Braving chilly temperatures and the dark of night local residents filled the stands at Sullins Stadium Thursday evening hoping to cash in on the big bucks during the “$10,000 Ponca Bucks Giveaway” sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce.

A total of 450 pounds, over 75,000 tickets, filled a specially constructed hopper, from which the winners names were drawn.

The grand prize winner, winning $5,000 in Ponca Bucks was Kathy and John Martin.

Five winners took home $1,000 in Ponca Bucks: Gwen and Steven Warren, Paula Wright, Gina Herron, Claudia Otto and Michelle McNew.

Gospel Groups To Sing Praises to God for the Millennium

Several gospel groups will be performing at the First Baptist Church Worship Center on Dec. 31 from 1 p.m. until 5:45 p.m. for the Ponca City Millennium Celebration. These groups include The Thomas Family Singers, One Light, New Life Baptist Church Choir, Forgiven, and Foursquare Worship Team.

Thomas Family Singers

The Thomas Family Singers include Cynthia Crowe, Melva Emmons, Don Thomas, Ed Holick, Joe Holick, Christie Holick and Josh Emmons. Cynthia and Melva, daughters of talented parents, Emmett and Elsie Thomas, began harmonizing, playing the guitar and piano by ear at early ages. Since that time the girls still follow the call of their lives to sing the praises of God. As time passed God has blessed them with help from their talented brothers, grandchildren and cousins. The Thomas Family Singers have appeared on the KOCO TV talent show.

The Thomas Family Singers will be performing at First Baptist Church from 1 until 1:3 0 p.m. on Dec. 31.

One Light

Come meet this new Christian quartet! One Light sang for World Impact Tour fund raiser in Bartlesville, performed for a record-setting audience at the Brown Center in Arkansas City, Kan., and has been seen at many other area events. The group has been working with Nashville Producer Nick Bruno, a former keyboardist for Elvis Presley, and last year released its first recording titled, “Journey of Faith.”

Steffanie Livingston, Lindsey Ramirez, Deanna Bahm and Piper Ewing are the voices behind the praises. Their music is contemporary Christian and consists of a variety of styles and rhythms from this talented quartet. Each girl brings her own distinct sound, but altogether, they form a remarkable combination of angelic voices with a 90’s kind of beat.

The remarkable thing about this group is their faith in Jesus Christ. Each one is emphatic that the only secret to their success is based upon sharing their love of the Lord in the primary way that they really feel equipped to do: singing. And that is something that everyone is blessed by.

One Light will be performing at from 1:45 until 2:30 p.m.

New Life Baptist Church Choir

New Life Baptist Church Choir was started in 1994 under the direction of Rene’ Paul for the sole purpose of lifting up praises to God in song. Under the current direction of Max Burton, the New Life Baptist Choir sings songs of a contemporary-gospel style with an emphasis on Biblical lyrics. Their goal is to minister to people through song so that those who listen to their music will experience God’s love.

Associate choir directors are Kellie Anderson, Tia Williams and Lakeysta Tipton. The choir consists of a mass and youth choir whose members include: Gwen Anderson, Kellie Anderson, Max Burton, Nicholas Burton, Donovan Cousins, Heather Elstor, Latoya Frederick, Shauna Goldsmith, Tyra Gowdy, Lynette Guess, Byran Lawson, Dominque Lawson, Cody Orange, Kyndal Orange, Howard Parker, Tiffanie Pollard, Ann Tipton, Lakeysta Tipton, Micah Tipton, Mary Warren, James Williams, Karen Williams, Taren Williams, Tia Williams and Jeremy Stillwell, organist.

One Life Baptist Church Choir will be performing from 2:45 until 3:30 p.m. at the Worship Center.

Forgiven

The gospel group Forgiven has been spreading the good news of Jesus Christ through songs and testimonies since July 1981, and now they have a new look.

Mark Brooke is the only remaining original member and sings lead. Lynda Johnson, who joined the group in 1998, takes the high harmony and high lead parts on most of the group’s songs. Kris Johnson, Lynda’s oldest son, is Forgiven’s baritone singer.

Together, the group has one primary goal — that “when you leave one of their concerts you will have a clearer picture of the Lord in your mind and a stronger love for the Lord in your heart!”

Forgiven will be performing from 3:45 until 4:30 p.m.

Foursquare Worship Team

Ponca City Foursquare Worship Team is a group of people who love to “worship their Lord.” The Foursquare Worship Team consists of four vocalists: Deb Herron, Jennifer Meyer, Ty Owens, and Vicki Sroufe; guitarist Jim Birch; two keyboardists, Tom Wynn and Leslie Berry; a bass player, Dave Saylor; a trumpeteer, Theresa Rathbun; and two drummers, Mike Logan and Mickey Baldwin. Steve and Kathi Phipps are the sound team leaders.

The Foursquare Worship Team will perform from 5 until 5:45 p.m. at the First Baptist Church Worship Center.

DEATHS

Oleta Marie Stonehocker
John H. Schamahorn
Lloyd Caughlin
Judy Wilson
Elsie Mae Catlin

Oleta Marie Stonehocker

NEWKIRK — Oleta Marie Stonehocker, former Newkirk resident, died Wednesday, Dec. 22, 1999, in Mercy Health System of Kansas in Independence, Kan. She was 90 years old.

The funeral has been scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 27, in Miller-Stahl Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Harold Henderson, minister of the Crusaders Baptist Church, Wichita, Kan., officiating. Burial will follow in Newkirk Cemetery under the direction of Miller-Stahl Funeral Service. Friends may call at the funeral home Sunday from 1 p.m. until 9 p.m.

Oleta Marie Stonehocker was born April 15, 1909, on the family farm near Kaw City, the daughter of Basscom “Bass” and Maude (Ramey) Pemberton. The oldest of five children, she grew up on the farm and received her education at Kaw City.

On July 2, 1928, she and Otto Stonehocker were married in Oklahoma City. They established their first home in Kaw City, moving later to Newkirk. Mr. Stonehocker died Dec. 14, 1984. She remained in Newkirk until 1995, when she moved to Independence to make her home with her daughter.

She was a member of the First Southern Baptist Church in Independence. She enjoyed bird watching, walking on the deck, sewing and crocheting.

She is survived by one son, H. Leroy Stonehocker of San Angelo, Texas; two daughters, Dessie Marie Rather of Independence, Kan. and Clyla Mae Sumrall of New Orleans, La.; one brother, Hershel Pemberton of Ponca City; one sister, Vernice Darnall of Bartlesville; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, Otto, she was preceded in death by her parents and twin brothers, Merle and Verle Pemberton.

Those serving as casket bearers will be Keith Rather, Ronald Rather, Daryl Stonehocker, Jerry Ramey, Wayne Pemberton and Charles Eisenhauer.

A memorial fund has been established with the Newkirk First Baptist Church. Contributions may be made in Mrs. Stonehocker’s memory through Eastman National Bank, Box 468, Newkirk 74647-0468.

John H. Schamahorn

ARKANSAS CITY, Kan. — John H. Schamahorn, 78, Arkansas City, Kan., died Thursday, Dec. 23, 1999, at his residence.

Funeral service will be 1:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 27, 1999, at the Memorial Law Cemetery Chapel with the Rev. Ron Keith officiating. Burial will be in the Memorial Lawn Cemetery under the direction of Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home of Arkansas City, Kan.

John was born Jan. 21, 1921, in Arkansas City, the son of John A. and May (Turner) Schamahorn. He was reared and educated in Arkansas City, graduating from Arkansas City High School in 1940. John married Geraldine Salyer on May 22, 1940, in Newkirk. They made their home in Arkansas City.

Schamahorn was a veteran of World War II, serving in the United States Navy. He worked 38 1/2 years for the Santa Fe Railroad. was a life member of the American Legion.

Survivors include his wife, Geraldine, of the home; three sons, John A. Schamahorn, Jerry W. Schamahorn and Robert W. Schamahorn, all of Arkansas City, Kan.; three daughters, Verla J. Martin of Texas, Mary E. Coggins of Haysville, Kan., and Judy K. Sparks of Arkansas City, Kan.; 17 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

John was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, three sisters, one granddaughter and two great-grandchildren.

Memorials have been established for Hospice, Inc. or the American Cancer Society, and contributions may be made through Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home.

Lloyd Caughlin

Lloyd “Bucket” Caughlin, longtime Tonkawa resident, died Wednesday morning, Dec. 22, 1999, at the Blackwell Regional Hospital. He was 63.

Graveside service will be Monday, Dec. 27, 1999, at 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Ponca City with the Rev. Glenn Hunt officiating. Visitation will be Sunday, Dec. 26, 1-8 p.m. at McCafferty-Bolick Funeral Home in Tonkawa.

Bucket was born Nov. 11, 1936, in Three Sands, the son of Cecil and Juanita (Nutt) Caughlin. He received his education at the Marland school. He was best known for his ability to restore cars, motorcycles and three wheelers.

He is survived by one brother, Ed Caughlin of Tonkawa; two uncles, a niece, and several cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a niece.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, in care of Paula Coppock, Pioneer Bank and Trust, P.O. Box 111, Ponca City, OK 74602.

Services Pending

Judy Wilson

Judy Wilson, Ponca City resident, died early Friday morning Dec. 24, 1999, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 59. Arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home. Local survivors include her husband, Doug.

Elsie Mae Catlin

Elsie Mae Catlin, former longtime Ponca City resident, died Friday, Dec. 24, 1999, at Forest Hills Nursing Home in Broken Arrow. She was 93. Arrangements are pending with Trout Funeral Home.

NEWS BRIEFS

Two Rentals Available — 815 and 117 East Madison Avenue, one bedroom house, stove and refrigerator, $175 a month, $175 clean up deposit. Call Darrel Davis at 762-4883 or 765-8533.

Jim Bowen Construction­ Custom homes, room additions and remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv.

Nice Rental — 508 West Grand Avenue, nice big two bedroom, $250 a month, $250 clean up deposit. Call Darrel Davis at 762-4883 or 765-8533.

Paulines Will be closed 24th, 25th, 26th, and 27th for the Christmas holiday. Open the 28th at 5:00 p.m. Our staff wishes you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. adv.

Available — Large clean two-three bedroom house, central heat and air, ceiling fans, garage, phone 762-2785.

Enjoy The sun, golf in Green Valley, AZ. Furnished two bedroom town house for rent. Utilities included. Available January and February. 762-6813. adv.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of North Ash Street and West Liberty Avenue at 6:49 a.m. Thursday that a 22-year-old man was being held for driving under suspension, illegal window tint, and having no insurance. A vehicle was towed from the scene.

Head Country Saturday night special. All you can eat beef brisket with beans, potato salad and coleslaw, $7.49. All day. 1217 East Prospect. adv.

Car Fire — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 7:49 a.m. Thursday from a woman in the 5200 block of Lake Road reporting a car fire. A unit from the Ponca City Fire Department responded to handle the situation.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 300 block of South Franklin Street at 9:24 a.m. Thursday that a 16-year-old boy was being held on an emergency pickup order for 14 counts of auto burglary, one count of attempted auto burglary and two counts of grand larceny.

Items Missing — A man from the 7300 block of West North Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:31 a.m. Thursday that some property was missing from the house. The Kay County Sheriff’s office was notified to handle the situation.

Accident — The Ponca City Police Department received a report at 12:22 p.m. Thursday that an accident had occurred in the 800 block of North Fourteenth Street. Two officers were assigned and a report was taken.

Grass Fire — A man from the 3600 block of South Ranch Drive reported to the Communications Center at 12:29 p.m. Thursday that a grass fire was burning. Ranch Drive Volunteer Fire Department was notified and handled the situation.

Subject Held — An employee at Wal-Mart reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 12:31 p.m. Thursday that a woman shoplifter was in custody . An officer was assigned and a 33-year-old woman was held for petit larceny and trespassing.

Suspicious Activity — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 2:44 p.m. Thursday that a young girl was being chased by a man in the 100 block of West Hartford Avenue who was throwing bricks at the girl. Three officers of the Ponca City Police Department were assigned, the subjects were taken home and a report was made.

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. 765-

9689. adv.

Assistance Needed — The Communications Center received a 911 call from the 700 block of North Osage Street at 1:40 a.m. Friday that a fight inside the bar had been taken outside. Three officers of the Ponca City Police Department responded and a 24-year-old man was held for public intoxication and possession of marijuana, a 23-year-old man was held for public intoxication, a 24-year-old man was held for public intoxication, a 21-year-old man was held for public intoxication and possession of marijuana, a 22-year-old man was held for public intoxication and a 21-year-old man was held for public intoxication.

Subject Held — Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of North Pine Street and Overbrook Avenue at 4:49 p.m. Thursday that a 43-year-old woman was being held for public intoxication and a city warrant for failure to pay.

Accident — The Communications Center received a 911 call from a man at 12:16 a.m. Friday in the 700 block of North Osage Street that his vehicle had been hit and the other vehicle left the scene. An officer was assigned, located the suspected vehicle and the driver was issued a citation. A report was taken.

Suspicious Activity — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 5:17 p.m. Thursday that a subject in the 1800 block of North Union Street was attempting to start a fight. Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department and a subject was contacted. A report was made and information was logged about the situation.

Property Taken Anyway — An employee at K-mart requested assistance from the Ponca City Police Department at 9 p.m. Thursday when a subject attempted to purchase merchandise with a check that wouldn’t clear, and left the store with the property. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Subjects Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of Prospect Avenue and North Union Street at 9:50 p.m. Thursday that a couch was in the roadway. The officer took into custody, a 20-year-old man for driving under suspension and having no insurance verification. A 25-year-old man was held on a city warrant for failure to pay.

Citation Issued — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 5:20 p.m. Thursday that someone had driven through a yard at the intersection of South Eighth Street and East Oklahoma Avenue. An officer was assigned and information was logged that brakes had gone out on a vehicle. A citation was issued.

Subject Held — Two officers of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 400 block of North Osage Street at 5:58 p.m. Thursday that a 20-year-old woman was being held on a city warrant for failure to pay.

Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the intersection of Kingston and East Prospect Avenue at 1:55 a.m. Friday that a 28-year-old man was being held for actual physical control.

Drug Items Found — An employee at Wal-Mart requested assistance at 11:47 p.m. Thursday from the Ponca City Police Department concerning some illegal items found at the business. An officer was assigned and information was logged that some marijuana and two pipes were given to the officer.

For Rent — 801 South Ninth Street, large two bedroom with stove and refrigerator, $275. Flexible payment plan, 762-7205.

LIFESTYLES

Ponca Citian Has Needlework on Display in White House
Miriam Class Members Attend Holiday Party

Ponca Citian Has Needlework on Display in White House

By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE

News Staff Writer

Oklahoma and Ponca City are well represented at the White House in Washington D.C., again this Christmas with quilter Mary Sinton’s needlework on the tree skirt that depicts all of the states. This year Mary, who had never seen the skirt except on television, was treated to a private showing at the White House.

In 1993, at the request of First Lady Hillary Clinton, Mrs. Sinton received an invitation to prepare a square featuring Oklahoma. Given a narrow time frame of three-weeks Mary worked her fingers night and day creating needlework art for an Oklahoma emblem second to none.

The specifications were that the velvet square provided by the White House encompass the state flower, tree and bird. She added a touch with the Osage Indian ribbon work. Additionally she was asked to provide a fancy handmade heart ornament for the tree. The first year’s theme was “hearts.”

Whenever the White House Christmas tree is featured on television it nearly always shows the Clintons home state of Arkansas. Oklahoma’s patch is close by and is highlighted prominently.

The colorful and festive handmade tree skirt appeared on Good Morning America recently, when the decorations of the White House were featured. The skirting will soon be shown on the Home & Garden TV channel. A segment on Christmas decorations at the White House was filmed with Nancy Clark on Dec. 19th.

For the first time Mary, an award winning quilter whose works appear in books and museums, had the honor of visiting the White House this year. She was recently taken on a private tour by Nancy Clark who does the tours for television programs.

Mary was in Williamsburg, Va., taking a class in Japanese embroidery and decided she would like to tour the White House and see her handiwork on the tree skirt. Remarking on the location she noted that she had lived in Texas, Hawaii and West Va., and these state’s squares are near Oklahoma’s.

Naturally at Christmas time there is a large demand for tickets to the White House to see the decorations. But with a phone call to Nancy, who has decorated the nation’s showplace for the past 23 years, Mary hit pay dirt.

Not only did she get to visit, but two of her friends from the classes at Williamsburg, Joseph Shaw of Houston, and Louise Monk, granddaughter of her Japanese embroidery teacher were treated to a tour also.

She said it was a sunny day in Washington, D.C. and the temperature was in the 60’s. She noted this is unusual for this time of year in Washington.

Mary said that after the first year there had been receptions at the White House, but they were not included. But since then there has been a reception each year, but she had been unable to go.

This year’s theme for the White House tree is historical sites in Washington D.C. Tree ornaments are historical sites and the gingerbread houses are the same. Other decorations were dolls and angels made by various artists across the nation.

As far as the 50-state Christmas skirt is concerned it isn’t clear whether the historical cover will stay in the White House or if it will go to the Clinton Library. Mary is hopeful it will stay at the White House and continue to be used around the official tree.

Miriam Class Members Attend Holiday Party

Members of the Miriam Sunday School class of First Baptist Church met for the Christmas luncheon Dec. 13 in the home of Mrs. Jim Laughlin. There were 17 members of the class present. The Christmas decorating theme was followed, and miniature gold Christmas trees were given as favors as well as marking place settings. Faye Johnson, class teacher, presented members with miniature gold angels.

EDUCATION

Pioneer Tech Offers Certificate Program In Three New Areas
Extension Educators Learn New Teaching Techniques
Ponca City News Education Guide
NOC Regents Approve New Programs
All-State Nominees

Pioneer Tech Offers Certificate Program In Three New Areas

Since August, Pioneer Technology Center's Business Technology program has been working in cooperation with the American Management Association (AMA) and the Oklahoma State Department of Vocational and Technical Education (ODVTE) in offering certificates in three new program areas. The programs included in the AMA Certification are Customer Satisfaction, Success Skills, and Administrative Assistant.

The AMA is the world's largest professional training organization and has provided training programs for individuals, managers, and executives for over 75 years. The AMA curriculum along with guidelines from the ODVTE works to establish the program and requirements for each course certification.

The Customer Satisfaction certificate course has five program requirements that are designed to enhance overall customer service skills for any type of job. In this program the coursework includes, Achieving the Competitive Edge with Customer Service, Keeping Customers for Life, Managing the Customer Satisfaction Process, Using Quality Improvement Tools to Build Customer Satisfaction, and Interpersonal Communication Skills in the Workplace.

“Enrollment in this course is growing,” said Sheila Foxworthy, Business Technology Instructor. “Business and industry professionals are always looking for employees with excellent customer service skills. People with customer service training can help deliver greater profitability and productivity within an organization.”

The Success Skill certificate provides basic foundation skills for current entry level workers. There are five courses required for this certificate program. This program requires students to take three core courses and two elective courses before receiving the Success Skills certificate. The core course requirements include Developing Basic Job Skills in the Workplace, Practical Problem-Solving Skills in the Workplace, and Career Development in the Changing Workplace. Some of the electives include Personal Financial Planning, Communication Skills for Managers, and Developing Leadership Skills in the Workplace.

The Administrative Assistant's Certificate provides a basic introduction to the skills needed to perform administrative assistant or duties. The five course requirements for this certificate include, How to Read and Interpret Financial Statements, How to Interview Effectively, Guides for Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, How to Sharpen Your Business Writing Skills, and Interpersonal Communication Skills in the Workplace.

These programs can be taken individually or for the AMA certification. Each course book has a pre-test and a final test that must be passed to complete each section.

When a student completes the courses required for each certification program, they will receive a certificate from the AMA and Pioneer Technology Center. The certificate also includes the list of required courses taken, the certificate title, and verification by Pioneer Technology Center.

Other certificate programs that are under consideration for future offerings include Business Communication Certificate, Certificate in Management, and the Certificate in Finance and Accounting.

For more information or course descriptions, call Pioneer Technology Center at 762-8336.

Extension Educators Learn New Teaching Techniques

Although they are not found in front of a traditionally classroom, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension educators are in a teaching role as part of their jobs.

Extension educators from around the state gathered in Oklahoma City recently to learn more about effective teaching methods.

Mary Rhyne, Kay County Extension Educator, and Julie Scheirman, Nutritional Education Assistant, attended this educational opportunity.

Renee Daugherty, OSU Cooperative Extension education methods specialist, taught the in-service titled “Creative Ideas to Enhance Teaching and Learning.”

“The role of an Extension educator often is that of a teacher,” Daugherty said. “Through educational experiences such as this in-service, Extension educators continue to enhance their role as effective teachers.”

Extension educators often are called on to present educational information to groups such as 4-H, Family and Community Education and other special-interest groups.

During the in-service, participants learned a variety of teaching techniques geared specifically toward adults and older youth.

In addition, the group also learned to use a variety of lesson openers and energizers as well as how to use selected teaching evaluation techniques.

Daugherty covered more than 20 teaching and evaluation methods that Extension educators can use with a variety of topics geared toward targeted groups.

“Keeping the participant involved in the learning process requires techniques that keep the learning fun, engaging and involving,” she said.

The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age or disability or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices or procedures and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Ponca City News Education Guide

School news is very important to the citizens of Ponca City. For many it is the only way to find out what’s happening in the local schools. The information you give out should be accurate, complete and timely.

The Ponca City News would like to do everything possible to help the educators (teachers, principals, etc.) that submit articles to The News. Following are several suggestions which may help you in getting the best possible publicity for your school.

Deadlines

Be prompt in meeting deadlines. Deadline for stories and pictures for Friday’s Education section is noon on Wednesday.

Deadline for daily editions is noon the day prior to publication. These deadlines are not set arbitrarily. Stories and headlines must be written and edited on computer and sent to typesetter. Layout sheets for the composing room must be completed. Pages are then set up by hand in the composing room, photographed and printed. These things take time. Deadlines for the Education section are earlier than certain other portions of the newspaper since this section is completed first.

Although reporting on past events at your school is important, keep in mind that upcoming events are considered more newsworthy and thus receive priority. Just as in other sections of the newspaper, Education section readers are interested in NEWS. An event which is 10 days old is not as newsworthy as one which is one day old.

Please try to submit your stories within two days after the event. Please do not ‘save’ stories or pictures and submit two or three at a time. The older the story or picture the more likely it will have to give way to more recent news if an editor is forced to delete copy due to lack of space.

Please keep in mind that the Education section is only one page. It is next to impossible to submit two pictures and a story and expect them to run together on the same page.

Pictures

Keep picture possibilities in mind at your school. The News is happy to run pictures you have taken providing the quality of the photo is good. The News will not accept pictures of check passing, honor roll members, scholarship winners or college graduates. The only pictures of college graduates that will run are students that receive at least a master’s degree. Please understand that hundreds of Ponca City students graduate from colleges every year and The News does not have enough room to run everything.

Kristi Hayes, Education Editor, is usually available during normal business hours, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you would like her to take a picture you need to call at least two days in advance. Her schedule is very busy during the school year and it is impossible to call her and expect her to take a picture in ten minutes. Since numerous activities occur at night, it is also impossible for The News to provide a photographer at these events.

Color or black and white photographs are acceptable if they are clear and not too dark. Polaroids can seldom be used since these do not reproduce well. Check with the editor.

Description

All stories submitted will be edited and rewritten in newspaper style after submission to the editor. However, you will find that fewer changes are made if newspaper style is followed.

Check stories in the newspaper for comparison. Tip: the most newsworthy or interesting part of the story comes first. Keep the five Ws in mind: Who, What, When, Where and Why (and, sometimes, how). Newspaper stories use the “inverted pyramid” style of writing. In other words, the most important or interesting facts are used in the “lead” or beginning paragraphs. Space is limited in the Education section. Longer stories will probably be cut so make sure the important information is at the beginning.

Please be sure to include a name and phone number (where you can be reached during business hours) at the top of each story.

If you have any questions or if we can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to call us at 765-3311.

NOC Regents Approve New Programs

TONKAWA — Northern Oklahoma College Regents approved two proposed Associate of Applied Science degree programs during their December meeting on the Tonkawa campus.

Engineering Technology-Manufacturing Technology Option is tailored to the needs of MerCruiser Corporation at Stillwater. Northern will serve as a broker for Oklahoma State University for general education courses while OSU will provide the technical courses. Computer Information Systems will be offered via Interactive Television (ITV) in partnership with Western Oklahoma State University.

Other Items

Other items discussed at the meeting included major grants received by the college include $37,800 from the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education to fund the second Summer Academy for Math, Science and Multidisciplinary Studies in June 2000. Instructors Dr. Virgil Ackerson and Brian Box will direct the four-week academy for 20 selected high school juniors and seniors studying basic science, drafting, chemistry and physics.

An OCAST Intern Partnership award of $20,000 from the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology, granted to Northern in partnership with Conoco, Inc., will allow three students to work in the Conoco research division. Conoco will add major funding to the award.

The Dave Morgan Foundation has awarded a $16,500 grant to the Fine Arts Division, used to purchase five portable mirror lights to provide special effects for performances.

Northern President Joe Kinzer reported that by paying delinquent property taxes of $76.06 the college could acquire a parcel of land abutting vacant lots belonging to the Enid campus. He said since Phillips University personnel will vacate the Everest Administration Building shortly, Northern will close the building temporarily for economic and security reasons. All offices will move to the south end of the Hallie Gantz Student Center with the Registrar's and Business offices housed in the extreme southeast room.

“Our goal is to move [the offices] back to Everest in a year or two,” Kinzer said. He added that Northern is not responsible for Phillips University permanent transcript records.

Kinzer also noted that concrete work has begun on the foundation of the Fitness Center on the Tonkawa campus and that the building should be delivered in about a month. After approximately six weeks to construct the building shell, college crews will finish the interior.

Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Roger Stacy presented spring enrollment figures showing a head count of 1,075 at Tonkawa, 634 at Enid and 82 at other sites for a total of 1,791. Total credit hours equal 21,091. “"As ITV labs are put in place, we expect a landslide of students from local high schools during the next three years,” he commented.

Computer labs are being moved to the Wilkin Technology Center, Tonkawa, and cable will be run to the Gantz Student Center, Enid, according to Vice President for Information Systems Marion Tucker. Two summer Multi-media and Digital Communications workshops are planned for high school sophomores, juniors and seniors.

Dr. Ed Vineyard, dean of instruction at Enid, noted that the Enid campus has been designated as an official national ACT test site. The ACT test will be offered April 1 and beginning next year the test will be offered on three different dates each semester.

Major purchases approved by the board included a Section 13 allocation request for computers and networking software subscription for the POISE model at Tonkawa and for ITV for Computer Information Systems degree program. Also approved was the purchase of two additional team station systems for the expansion of the ITV studios at the University Learning Center in Ponca City.

In other action, the board approved the monthly financial report, presented by CFO Anita Simpson; approved the academic calendar for 2000-01; accepted resignations of Jeannette Redman, financial aid coordinator, Enid; John Holland, roofer, Tonkawa; and Lorrene Holmes, registrar clerk, Tonkawa; approved the employment of Patricia Howard, bookkeeper in the Office of Financial Affairs, Tonkawa; and decided to meet at 4 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month.

Following an executive session for performance evaluation of the president, the Regents said they wholeheartedly support the job Dr. Kinzer does as president and appreciate his commitment to high education and economic development in this area. They also commended on support staff “for the great job getting the Enid campus going.” “Lots of good things have been happening this past year,” Kinzer commented.

Regents attending the meeting were Chairman David Trojan, Enid; Vice Chairman Keith James, Pond Creek; Secretary Bill Bridwell, Ponca City; and members Bill O'Connor, Ponca City, and Carl Hamm, Perry. The Board will meet at 4 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 20 in the President's Conference Room on the Tonkawa campus.

All-State Nominees

Lacey Goodger, senior at Po-Hi, has been named to the class of 200 for the Oklahoma Academic All State Award. Goodger was accidentally left off the list from last Friday’s Education page. The News apologizes for the error.

RELIGION

Southern Gospel Musical Program Scheduled Here
Presbyterian Award Honors Bonita James
Prince of Peace Church Event Set
New Year’s Eve Singpiration Set
Church of Christ Lists Schedule
Network Looking for Volunteers
Missionary Will Address Group
Gospel Band Celebration Planned
Christian Music Plays on Radio
Albright Sanctuary Choir Presented Christmas Music Dec. 19
Pioneer Woman Afghans Still Available
Bowl Games Get Into Full Swing

Southern Gospel Musical Program Scheduled Here

Robert Williams will be presenting a Southern Gospel Music program during the 10:30 a.m. Sunday worship service at the First Church of the Nazarene in Ponca City. He will be singing some old songs such as “One Day at a Time” and “Wings of a Dove.” Also on the agenda will be songs from more recent years including “Midnight Cry” and “The Son Rose.”

Williams is a graduate of what is now Southern Nazarene University in Bethany. He is an ordained minister and has pastored 27 years in Oklahoma and Texas.

He served two terms as Youth President on the Southwest Oklahoma District Church of the Nazarene. He has directed several summer youth camps and served on various District boards.

At the present time he is a public school employee in Andrews, Texas and directs the music at the Church of the Nazarene in that city. He also does pulpit supply work and is involved in gospel music concerts.

The public is cordially invited to attend. The First Church

of the Nazarene in Ponca City is located 1900 West Grand

For more information call 765-6060 or 765- 6028

Presbyterian Award Honors Bonita James

Bonita James was presented with an honorary life membership in Presbyterian Women of the Presbyterian Church (USA) at the Dec. 9 luncheon at the First Presbyterian Church. A pin and certificate were presented to Mrs. James by Agnes Hatlelid, the 1994 recipient of the honor.

Mrs. James served as moderator of Presbyterian Women in Ponca City for the past four years. She is currently chair of the Elizabeth Reynolds Circle and has served in many capacities in Presbyterian Women. She has also served the First Presbyterian Church in Ponca City as a deacon and church school teacher and is an ordained elder. She and her husband, Jack James, are active in the scouting program.

The program for the luncheon was Christmas music and included piano solos by Mary Sunshine Cogman and vocal solos by Jo Lessert. The women also enjoyed singing Christmas carols and songs accompanied by Mrs. Cogman on the piano.

Hostesses for the luncheon were the members of the Elizabeth Reynolds Circle with Joan Jones as luncheon chairperson. Table decorations and name tags consisting of angels were provided by Virginia Brown and Marcia Black. Lorene Kinslow asked the blessing, and Joan Jones gave a Christmas devotion.

During the business meeting moderated by Esta Kirk, Barbara Younger announced that a new commercial-sized stove and refrigerator would be installed in the coming week. A large part of the cost of the stove was donated by Presbyterian Women.

Prince of Peace Church Event Set

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church invites all to worship with them on Christmas Eve at 7 p.m., as we celebrate the birth of Jesus in the small town of Bethlehem, meaning, “house of bread.”

This worship service will include many Christmas carols and Holy Communion. Join with us, as we give witness to Jesus’ birth and his abounding grace.

We would also like to invite you to join us on the First Sunday after Christmas, Dec. 26th, as we continue to celebrate Jesus coming to us in flesh and blood; the incarnation. Worship time is 10 a.m.

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church is located at 2800 Turner Road. Phone number is 762-7698.

New Year’s Eve Singpiration Set

First Church of God, located at West Grand and Peachtree, will host a special New Year’s Eve event. The event will be co-hosted by two other churches St. Luke’s Church of the Nazarene and Second Baptist Church.

The evening will include a "singspiration" time from 7:00 to 9 p.m. Persons are encouraged to bring a song to share, or a favorite scripture, or a testimony.

After the singspiration time, there will be an “open” time when there will be snacks (bring finger foods to share), board games, or a time for playing in the gymnasium.

The open time will be from 9 to 11 p.m. Then from 11 o’clock until sometime after midnight will be a time for reflection and prayer in the sanctuary. This “watch night” is open to anyone who chooses to honor the Lord by ushering in the new year with Him.

Church of Christ Lists Schedule

The Hartford Avenue Church of Christ invites you to share God’s word with us every week. Sunday Bible classes begin at 9:30 a.m., worship at 10:30 a.m., Sunday evening service at 6 p.m., and Wednesday service at 7 p.m. We have classes for all age levels, nursery through adult. Watch the Search program, Sunday, 8 a.m, television channel 5 or 8.

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.” Luke 2:14. After a multitude of angels appeared to the shepherds and announced Jesus’ birth, they concluded with a message of praise to God and hope for peace. The angels reveal the keys to true joy and peace. Praising God for his being and character provides the solid rock upon which to build lives and families and every relationship. We can have serenity when we praise God for sending the Prince of Peace into our lives. Jesus’ peaceful relationship with God encouraged others to seek the peace he came to give.

Network Looking for Volunteers

Regional AIDS Interfaith Network (RAIN) is looking for caring, non-judgmental people to join their teams of volunteers. RAIN is a non-profit organization which provides non medical direct care and services to people living with AIDS (PLWAs) through faith community sponsored volunteer teams.

RAIN Teams offer support based on the individual's needs and requests, and may include meal preparation, transportation assistance, visiting and emotional support.

RAIN Will be holding its next RAIN Team Volunteer Training Session at the First United Methodist Church located at 200 South 6th Street in Ponca City.

The dates for this training session are Fri. Feb. 18, from 6 to 9:30 p.m. and Sat. Feb. 19, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will cover a variety of subjects pertinent to HIV/AIDS, such as Home Care and Infection Control, Psycho-Social Issues and basic HIV/AIDS Information.

For more information call the RAIN OKC Office at (405) 947-3434 or 1-800-324-RAIN.

Missionary Will Address Group

Jamie Saunders, International Missionary & Author, will be the speaker at the Word of Life Christian Center this Sunday at the 10 a.m. service. He is currently part of an apostolic team with the International Missions Center.

He has authored several books for missionaries on how to support their mission effort in order to bring closure to the Great Commission. He has just returned from the Philippines where he spoke to a large gathering of pastors, evangelists and missionaries on the concept of financing the closure of the Great Commission.

Come and hear how God is positioning leaders for the big thrust of reaching the unsaved in this decade. Word of Life Christian Center is located at 3401 North Union. Nursery is provided. For more information can call the church office at 762-4376.

Gospel Band Celebration Planned

Brother Mike’s Gospel Band plan a New Year’s Eve celebration of the Lord from 7 p.m. to midnight at the building located at the corner of Howard and Highway 60. Doors will open at 630 p.m.

Throughout the evening they will be joined with Vickie Wright, Forgiven, and J.C.'s Crew to entertain with good gospel music and fun. This is a celebration of what the Lord has done and is yet to do for us. We will join together to lift up his name, and make it an evening that the whole family will enjoy and not forget.

Christian Music Plays on Radio

KLVV Christian radio is featuring 88 hours of Christmas music. The program started Wednesday and will conclude Christmas night. This holiday KLVV remembers the real reason for the season. Enjoy 88 hours of Christmas music from the best Christian artists like Michael English with his Mary, Did You Know; Amy Grant’s Grown Up Christmas List, and Christmas classics like 0 Holy Night by Point of Grace.

KLVV is a non-profit radio station broadcasting on 88.7 FM Northern Oklahoma and Southern Kansas with translator stations at 98.3 FM in Enid, 106.7 FM in Stillwater, and 97.3 FM in Guthrie or you can go to their web site at www.lovestation.org.

Church Briefs

Albright Sanctuary Choir Presented Christmas Music Dec. 19

The Albright United Methodist Church Sanctuary Choir presented their annual Christmas cantata during worship on last Sunday morning. Pat Purkey, Music Director, led the choir in singing “Do You Hear What I Hear? Listening to the Spirit of Christmas”, by Mark Brymer and Susan Naylor Callaway.

The cantata blended fresh arrangements of carols and beautiful new songs with compelling narrative to create an exciting new musical for Christmas. Solos were performed by Frieda Hill and Norma Hurd, and there was a special duet by Mollie Brown and Anna Combs-Francis. Narrators were Paula Coppock and Kay Miller.

Pioneer Woman Afghans Still Available

The original Pioneer Woman Afghan - available in “jewel tones” - make great gifts for anyone, anytime. The afghans feature many historical sites in this area, and are made available through the United Methodist Women — their mission project. The afghans cost $50 each and the UMW will deliver them or mail them, as you prefer. For more information or to make an order, please call 765-1956 or 762-1681.

SPORTS

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Bowl Games Get Into Full Swing

Bowl season swings into high gear this weekend as college football fans begin the long wait for the game that really counts — No. 1 Florida State vs. No. 2 Virginia Tech for the national title in the Sugar Bowl on Jan. 4.

The remaining 20 games prior to the Sugar Bowl feature several compelling matchups, from Oregon State vs. Hawaii in Saturday’s Oahu Bowl, to potential shootouts in Marshall vs. BYU in the Motor City Bowl and Miami vs. Georgia Tech in the Gator Bowl to a renewed rivalry with Texas vs. Arkansas in the Cotton Bowl.

Most of this season’s stars will be showcased, too, including Heisman Trophy winner Ron Dayne, who leads Wisconsin against Stanford in the Rose Bowl on Jan. 1. Other top players looking for one more big day include quarterbacks Joe Hamilton (Georgia Tech), Drew Brees (Purdue), Chad Pennington (Marshall), Eric Crouch (Nebraska) and Chris Redman (Louisville); running backs Thomas Jones (Virginia) and Shaun Alexander (Alabama); wide receivers Peter Warrick (Florida State) and Troy Walters (Stanford); and Penn State linebackers LaVar Arrington and Brandon Short and defensive end Courtney Brown.

On Saturday, the most unlikely matchup of all has Oregon State (7-4), in its first bowl game since 1965, playing Hawaii (8-4), which went 0-12 last season. Both teams experienced amazing turnarounds under former NFL coaches — Dennis Erickson for the Beavers, June Jones for the Rainbow Warriors.

Hawaii is led by quarterback Dan Robinson (3,853 yards and 27 TDs); Oregon State features running back Ken Simonton (1,329 yards, 17 TDs).

Marshall (12-0), led by Pennington (3,515 yards, 34 TDs), looks to complete a perfect season against BYU on Dec. 27. The Thundering Herd averages 37 points, but the Cougars score 30 per game and are led by quarterback Kevin Feterik (3,554 yards, 25 TDs).

It should be offense galore when Miami and Georgia Tech hook up on Jan. 1. Hamilton, the Heisman runner-up, threw for 3,060 yards and 29 TDs, while Miami’s Ken Dorsey (519 yards, six TDs) starts but could share time with Kenny Kelly, who has been out with an injury. The Yellow Jackets average 40.7 points; the Hurricanes 31.7.

Texas and Arkansas meet for the first time since 1991. The former Southwest Conference rivals have played 73 times, with the Longhorns leading 54-19. The Hogs won the last meeting 14-13.

In the Sugar Bowl, the outcome might ride on the performance of Hokies freshman quarterback Michael Vick (1,840 yards passing, 585 rushing). So far, the surprise star of the season has shown the poise of a veteran in leading his team to a perfect regular season.

The Seminoles counter with a variety of offensive stars, from Warrick ( 71 catches, 934 yards, eight TDs) to quarterback Chris Weinke (3,103 yards, 25 TDs) to kicker Sebastian Janikowski (23 field goals, 116 points).

The picks:

Aloha Bowl (Saturday)

Arizona State (minus 3) vs. Wake Forest

Sun Devils’ J.R. Redmond looking for one last big game. ... ARIZONA STATE, 31-21.

Oahu Bowl (Saturday)

Oregon State (minus 9) vs. Hawaii

Rainbow Warriors’ home state advantage may not be enough. ... OREGON STATE , 34-31.

Motor City Bowl (Dec. 27)

No. 11 Marshall (minus 2 1/2) vs. BYU

Herd QB Pennington vs. Cougars QB Feterik. ... MARSHALL, 34-30.

Alamo Bowl (Dec. 28)

No. 18 Texas A&M (plus 6) vs. No. 13 Penn State

Lions hope to give longtime assistant Jerry Sandusky a winning sendoff. ... TEXAS A&M, 28-27.

Music City Bowl (Dec. 29)

Kentucky (minus 3) vs. Syracuse

Each team lost five times during the season — why bother? ... KENTUCKY, 27-21.

Holiday Bowl (Dec. 29)

No. 7 Kansas State (minus 11 1/2) vs. Washington

Could this be another crash landing for the Wildcats? ... WASHINGTON, 31-28.

Humanitarian Bowl (Dec. 30)

Boise State (plus 4) vs. Louisville

Cards QB Chris Redman tries to impress NFL scouts in his final game. ... LOUISVILLE, 41-33.

Micronpc.com Bowl (Dec. 30)

Virginia (minus 2 1/2) vs. Illinois

Cavs’ RB Thomas Jones vs. Illini QB Kurt Kittner. ... VIRGINIA, 34-31.

Peach Bowl (Dec. 30)

No. 15 Mississippi State (plus 2 1/2) vs. Clemson

Tigers can score, Bulldogs can’t. ... CLEMSON, 31-17.

Insight.com Bowl (Dec. 31)

No. 25 Boston College (plus 8) vs. Colorado

Buffs coming off OT loss to Huskers; BC off a loss to Hokies. ... COLORADO, 28-21.

Sun Bowl (Dec. 31)

Oregon (plus 2 1/2) vs. No. 12 Minnesota

Golden Gophers underrated all season. ... MINNESOTA, 31-28.

Liberty Bowl (Dec. 31)

Colorado State (plus 4) vs. No. 16 Southern Mississippi

Golden Eagles out to avenge last year’s collapse in Humanitarian Bowl. ... SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI, 33-27.

Independence Bowl (Dec. 31)

Mississippi (plus 4) vs. Oklahoma

Sooners back in bowl business for first time in five years. ... OKLAHOMA, 34-27.

Outback Bowl (Jan. 1)

No. 21 Georgia (plus 5) vs. No. 19 Purdue

Preview of 2000 Heisman contenders — Purdue’s Brees vs. ’Dawgs Quincy Carter. ... GEORGIA, 33-31.

Cotton Bowl (Jan. 1)

No. 14 Texas (minus 7 1/2) vs. No. 24 Arkansas

Just like old times. ... TEXAS, 35-24.

Gator Bowl (Jan. 1)

No. 17 Georgia Tech (plus 4 1/2) vs. No. 23 Miami

1,000 yards and 100 points? MIAMI, 48-41.

Citrus Bowl (Jan. 1)

No. 10 Florida (minus 1) vs. No. 9 Michigan State

Nice-guy approach works for coach Spurrier’s Gators. ... FLORIDA, 28-24.

Rose Bowl (Jan. 1)

No. 22 Stanford (plus 11 1/2) vs. No. 4 Wisconsin

Dayne looking for second straight Rose MVP award. ... WISCONSIN, 38-31.

Orange Bowl (Jan. 1)

No. 8 Michigan (plus 1 1/2) vs. No. 5 Alabama

Wolverines capable of slowing down ’Bama’s Alexander. ... MICHIGAN, 27-24.

Fiesta Bowl (Jan. 2)

No. 3 Nebraska (minus 4) vs. No. 6 Tennessee

Watch the Huskers’ defense shut down Vols’ offense. ... NEBRASKA, 24-17.

Sugar Bowl (Jan. 4)

No. 1 Florida State (minus 5 1/2) vs. No. 2 Virginia Tech

Tech’s whizkid Vick hasn’t let anyone down, yet. ... VIRGINIA TECH, 31-30.