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From the pages of The Ponca City News, Tuesday, December 28, 1999 LOCAL DEATHS NEWS BRIEFS LIFESTYLES SPORTS BUSINESS LOCALNearly News Nearly NewsNN has once again noted that it is indeed a small world. In the Dec. 26 paper issue of The Ponca City News, page 5B, a wire story ran concerning a bell collection belonging to Mary Burdick of Shawnee. Mrs. Burdick is the cousin of Pauline Love, rural Ponca City resident. Wal-Mart Hosting Holiday Blood DriveWal-Mart employees encourage area residents to join them in rolling up their sleeves to help local patients by donating blood this holiday season. The Oklahoma Blood Institute will set up inside the store on Wednesday from noon to 6 p.m. Each and every day, there is a critical need for blood products across the country, but during the holidays, that need is even greater. More people are traveling on the roads this time of the year and this results in additional traffic accidents. During the winter months, many people also choose to have elected surgeries and will need blood products. “We are grateful to Wal-Mart for their outstanding support of our blood donation program,” said Pixie Rowland, OBI Ponca City Center Manager. “By hosting six blood drives every year, Wal-Mart and their associates help to maintain an adequate blood supply for medical facilities in our community.” “Donating blood is such an easy way to help someone else,” said Gary Gregg, Wal-Mart blood drive coordinator. “Many of our store employees have become very dedicated donors, and we are honored to partner up with the Oklahoma Blood Institute in such a critical way. It is important for all of us to play an active role in our community and this is one way that we can make a difference. I hope that a lot of people will join us in donating blood on Dec. 29th.” In order to be a blood donor, the donor must be at least 17 years old, weigh 105 pounds and be in relatively good health. In addition to helping patients, all donors will receive free checks on blood pressure, temperature, iron and cholesterol levels. OBI also offers prostate-specific antigen blood testing for men at a fee of $15 for donors and $20 for those unable to donate. All donors will also receive the new “2000 — Millennium” T-shirt! The Oklahoma Blood Institute is the exclusive supplier of all blood products for St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph Cancer Center and the Outpatient Surgery Center in Ponca City. Anyone seeking additional information about the blood drive or blood donation, in general, may call OBI at (580) 762-9488. The Oklahoma Blood Institute is an independent, regional, not-for-profit blood collection center with locations in Oklahoma City, Ada, Ardmore, Enid, Lawton, Tulsa and Ponca City. Trails Grant Application Receives Approval of CityBy BOB PATTERSON News City Editor A top priority by the Trails Master Plan Steering Committee took another step toward reality Monday as the Ponca City Board of Commissioners acted favorably on a grant application request. The item on the agenda of the Board of Commissioners allows the city to submit a grant application with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the Ponca City Community Trail 2000 in the amount of $384,694.70. Park and Recreation Department Director Jim Sindelar explained the grant application request is for one of a series of connecting trails and street linkages connecting Standing Bear Native American Park, along Seventh Street to War Memorial Park, to Hartford Avenue, and intersecting Highland Avenue at Seventh Street, going east to the Pioneer Woman Museum and the Marland Mansion, then continuing northwest through Redbud Park to Hartford. The trail will serve every segment of the community, connecting with seven schools, several recreation facilities, and provide a safe means of commuting to work by alternate means of transportation such as bicycle, and pedestrian access to downtown services and shopping. Links Tourism Attractions By linking several of the major tourist attractions in Ponca City, it will serve regional and national tourists who come to Ponca City. The grant application includes a request for $288,207.42 in grant funds, with the city matching share of $96,487.28. The city match would be $32,482.71 in cash, while the remaining portion, $64,004.57 would be “in kind” services by city work forces. City Commissioner Keni Ray asked Sindelar if there were any other changes from a previous meeting when the whole trail system had been discussed, and Sindelar reported “no.” The item was approved by a 5-0 vote of the commissioners. One other item under new business for the commissioners was a resolution to create a joint airport zoning board with Kay County. That board adopted the resolution which will allow the city to administer, and enforce airport zoning regulations which apply to the Ponca City Municipal Airport hazard area which overlaps political subdivisions. Other Items Approved Commissioners approved the consent agenda at the start of the meeting. Items approved include: •Minutes from two previous meetings. •A grant request of $1,500 to Classic Cars of Ponca City to be used for promoting and advertising Draggin’ Grand. The event will be held June 2, 2000. •A resolution on the Mayor’s nomination to the planning commission. Dwain West will fill an unexpired term to May 2001. •Authorization was given Ratliff Inc. as an agent for the city on the Airport Industrial Park water pump station enhancements project at the water treatment plant. •A resolution appropriating money for payment of claims, amounting to a total of $1,201,188.41, on invoices from Dec. 8 through Dec. 22. Commissioners took time to remind citizens that the preparations for the Millennium celebration that will be held Thursday and Friday are well under way, and have been for some time. They stressed there had been a lot of work in preparations, and that residents should really be able to enjoy quite a celebration Reports on Y2K Preparations City Manager Gary Martin reported on a number of other situations that city employees will be preparing for specifically to keep an eye open on any possible flaws in the city’s Y2K preparations. “There will be several doing double duty at the time of Dec. 31 near midnight, watching the crowd and monitoring their systems,” Martin said, to make sure the city continues to run sufficiently. Commissioners met as members of the Ponca City Utility Authority and approved an amendment to the Camp, Dresser and McKee Inc.’s engineering contract for design engineering services associated with the water treatment plant residuals dewatering improvements amounting to $7,500. The PCUA also approved the consent agenda without removing any of the items for further discussion. Approved were: •Minutes of previous meetings. •Authorization for submitting the monthly operating statement to the Oklahoma Water Resources Board as part of the requirements for the OWRB loan to the city. •Payment of damages in association with the Turkey Creek sanitary sewer project. •Use by septic tank haulers of the city sanitary sewer. •Payment of claims, amounting to $1,537,659.28 on invoices processed from Dec. 9 through Dec. 22. Commissioners also met as the Ponca City Development Authority and approved payment of claims amounting to $626,180.61. Millennium Countdown Begins for Downtown EventsThe Millennium Countdown is on! Plan to be a part of the huge Millennium Celebration set for downtown Ponca City! Events begin at 10 a.m. and will continue throughout the day, culminating with a lighted ball drop (Times Square style) atop the Bank of American building, breaking of the 2000 flag and an expansive millennium fireworks display. The Ponca City Millennium Celebration is billed as a wholesome, entertaining, drug, alcohol and litter free event. Entertainers will be performing in 11 venues throughout the downtown area. Grand Avenue will be blocked off between Second and Sixth streets to accommodate an inflatable amusement park and many food vendors. Admission to all events (except those at the Poncan Theatre) is with the $5 Millennium Button. Cynthia CroweCynthia Crowe learned to play guitar and piano at a young age and is a self-trained artist both in instruments and voice. Cynthia has appeared on local, state and nationally syndicated television shows such as “The Ted Mack Show”. She appeared with Conway Twitty and his band, was on Red Foley’s tour, and has appeared at state fairs. Cynthia will be appearing at several venues throughout the Millennium Celebration on Dec. 31. She will appear with the Thomas Family Singers from 1-1:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church Worship Center, and with Larrell Birdsong from 2:15-3:15 p.m. on the lower level of the Commercial Federal Building. Cynthia will also be performing in the “Culture Shock Phenomonen” Show at East Junior High Auditorium from 4:30-5:45 p.m., and as a special guest of Byron Berline from 8-10:30 p.m. in the East Junior High Auditorium. Dr. Sally DowneyA native of Indianapolis, Ind., Dr. Downey has called Oklahoma home for 27 years and Ponca City has been her home for six of those 27. Downey started singing at age five with her father’s band, but it wasn’t until she moved to Ponca City, that she discovered how much she truly enjoyed singing, and began sharing her talents with those around her. She refers to this period of her life as her midlife crisis, since both of her sons had “left the nest” to pursue their own careers, and husband, Rich, remained in Lawton. Thus began a metamorphosis. Downey filled her spare time with music, and began to share her talents with others. She has given many performances to benefit various charities. Downey’s style is somewhat reminiscent of Patsy Cline, although she also enjoys singing an array of music, including country, easy listening, old time rock and roll and show tunes. Her rapport and interaction with the audience makes people feel a part of the performance said a spokesperson. Dr. Downey has been serving as the Superintendent of Pioneer Technology Center since 1997. She came to Pioneer Technology Center in 1993 as the assistant superintendent. Sally will be performing at Grand Central Station on Dec. 31 from 8:45-9 p.m. and also at 9:45-10 p.m. 12 Pearls12 Pearls — a quartet, is based in Edmond and Stillwater. They are billed as being “prone to wearing matching embroidered bowling jackets, inspiring interpretive dance, and producing feverish bouts of rock.” Playing an assortment of musical styles, from bluesy southern rock to hard-hitting punk core, 12 Pearls have been able to please most any music fans at gigs in nearly every major market in the state. They have also opened for regional and national touring acts. The band plays songs from today’s most popular musicians along with a set of solid, melodic originals. Rising in 1997 from the ashes of two Edmond/Guthrie area bands, (Jesus Truck Driver and Poindexter), 12 Pearls current lineup includes Jordan Doolen, vocals and guitar; Brandon Jackson, guitar and vocals; Kit Nowlin, bass and vocals; and Andy Beck. drums and percussion. In their spare time, the members of 12 Pearls are students at various central Oklahoma universities. Future plans for the band include a summer tour of Texas and recording their first full-length album. 12 Pearls will be entertaining teens at the YMCA from 8-11:30 p.m. on Dec. 31 as part of Ponca City’s Millennium Celebration. Larry StephensonLarry K. Stephenson has added another dimension to his artistic portfolio — he has written and illustrated a children’s book “The Butterfly King” - a legend for the new millennium. Larry, now of Wichita, Kan. was joined by his sister, Patti Weinbrenner, in authoring the book. Their brother, Randy, a commercial artist doing computer design work, was instrumental in the layout. Larry dedicated the book to his parents, Ponca Citians Virginia and Larry Stephenson, in celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary. Stephenson, artist and former Ponca Citian, will be entertaining children and adults with readings from the text of his new book at the Ponca City Library from 4-5:15 p.m. on Dec. 31. The book is a lavishly illustrated tale about a young boy in the mystical kingdom of Mill and his search for truth as the new age approaches. The marker that comes with the storybook reads: “We often make some fairly monumental choices as young people without realizing how these same decisions will later sculpt the grownup in all of us still trying to get out. Subtle things such as recognizing truth and the value of love.” Assistance Fund Set for Hill FamilyA family personal assistance fund for the Laci Griffin Hill family has been established at Home National by the Outpatient Surgical Center of Ponca City. Laci’s mother, Linda Griffin, is an LPN and has been employed at the Center since 1989. Mrs. Hill, 25, a former Ponca Citian, disappeared from her Bixby home Thursday. Her father is Larry Griffin, Ponca City, and her husband is Ron Hill, Bixby. Peggy Maples, executive director of the Outpatient Center, said, “The fund is to be used to assist the family for personal needs and bills that have come up during this crisis.” Contributions may be mailed to Kimberly at Home National, P.O. Box 1151, Ponca City, OK 74602. DEATHSMarvin Arnold Dobson Marvin Arnold DobsonMarvin Arnold Dobson, resident of El Reno and formerly of Shidler, died Sunday, Dec. 26, 1999, at the Gwinnett Medical Center, Lawrenceville, Ga. He was 77. A graveside service has been scheduled for 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 29 in Grandview Cemetery, Kaw City with the Rev. Kerney Graham officiating. Local arrangements are under the direction of Miller-Stahl Funeral Service. Viewing will only be at the cemetery prior to the service. Marvin Arnold Dobson was born April 6, 1922, at Shidler, the son of Charles Lowery and Iona (Brittingham) Dobson. He grew up and received his education in the Shidler area and graduated from high school there. Following graduation he served in the Marines and the Air Force. After receiving his discharge from the service, he moved to California and worked as a plumber in Marin County. He retired after 30 years and moved to El Reno. On Jan. 7, 1976, he and Nisha C. Quisenberry were married in Las Vegas. They made their home in El Reno where they have since resided. He enjoyed the handyman’s job of fixing things. He loved birds and had large parrots and canaries. He is survived by his wife, Nisha, of the home; one son, Mike Dobson of Minco, Okla.; three daughters, Diana Marsh of Lawrenceville, Ga., Linda Simms of San Jose, Calif., and Jacqui Reedy of Rohnert Park, Calif.; one brother, Charles “Bud” Dobson Jr. of Wellston, Okla.; 10 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, and one sister, Luella M. “Lou” Johnson. A memorial fund has been established with the Russell Murray Hospice in El Reno. Contributions may be made in Mr. Dobson’s memory though Eastman National Bank, Box 468, Newkirk, Okla. 74647-0468. Jesse J. MerchantTULSA — Jesse J. Merchant, former Ponca City resident, died Monday, Dec. 27, 1999, in Tulsa. He was 61. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 29, 1999, at the Eastside Baptist Church in Collinsville, Okla., with the Rev. Roger Brumley officiating. Interment will follow in the Ridgelawn Cemetery in Collinsville under the direction of Collinsville Funeral Home. Jesse J. Merchant was born Sept. 11, 1938, in Talala, Okla., the son of James E. Merchant and Zelma (Laughlin) Merchant. He graduated from Ponca City High School and received an associate’s degree from Tulsa Junior College. He worked for the City of Tulsa as a systems analyst. He was a Collinsville resident for 30 years and a member of the Eastside Baptist Church. Survivors include his wife, Merrilyn, of the home; mother, Zelma Merchant of Blackwell; one son, Kenneth Merchant of Owasso; one daughter, Julie Duncan of Collinsville; brother, Bill Merchant of Blackwell; one sister, Ethel Martin of Excelsior Springs, Mo.; and four grandchildren. ObituariesOdessa Ann TuckerOdessa Ann Tucker, longtime Ponca City resident, died Saturday morning, Dec. 25, 1999, at her home. She was 76. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 29, 1999, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Burial will follow in the St. Mary’s Cemetery Section of the I.O.O.F. Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel. The Rev. John J. Michalicka, pastor, will officiate. Mrs. Tucker was born on June 7, 1923, being the third of four children born to Charles Day and Eliza Lewis. Born in Dubach, La., and raised in El Dorado, Ark., she graduated from Washington High School in El Dorado, Ark. She then attended Arkansas A&M College in Pine Bluff, Ark., majoring in Home Economics. On March 9, 1944, she was united in marriage to Gershon A. Tucker, Jr. in Ponca City. In 1966 she was confirmed in the Catholic religion. She was active in the St. Francis Guild, the Renew Group, and the Rosary Group. She enjoyed her home, family and friends, and traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe. She leaves behind to cherish her memory her husband of 55 years — Gershon A. Tucker, Jr. of the home in Ponca City; two daughters: CharlesEtta Tucker-Sutton of Plainfield, N.J., and Diana Tucker-Mystal of Germantown, Md.; one step-son, James Tucker of Atwater, Calif.; two brothers, Warren Day of Richmond, Calif. and Willie Day of San Diego, Calif.; one sister, Pearlie Meeks of Detroit, Mich.; two sister-in-laws, Christine Woody of Ponca City and Verdie Day of San Diego, Calif.; one brother-in-law, Francis Tucker of Vacaville, Calif.; her mother-in-law, Mrs. Edna M. Tucker; longtime friend, Johnnie Cue Blake; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends. Casket bearers will be Alexander Sutton, Jr., Alexander Sutton III, Charles Omar Sutton, James Ford, Keith Caliachio and Benny Westbrook. Honorary pallbearers will be Olin Branstetter, Jack Monsour, Truman Smith, Julius Woody, Joe Coffee and James Jackson. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Ponca City, 1904 North Union, Suite 103, Ponca City, Okla. 74601, St. Francis Guild, c/o St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 421 South Seventh, Ponca City, Okla. 74601. and/or Manpower Rescue Service, c/o Ponca City Fire Department, P.O. Box 1450, Ponca City, Okla. 74602. The family will be at 2904 East Hartford in Ponca City. paid obituary Mary Louise BrighamMary Louise Brigham, longtime Ponca City High School teacher, died Saturday, Dec. 25, 1999, at Westminster Village. She was 94. The funeral service will be graveside, Wednesday, Dec. 29, 1999, 12:30 p.m. at the Greenwood Cemetery, Council Grove, Kan. with the Rev. Dr. Michael Kear, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of the Trout Funeral Home. Mary Louise Brigham was born Dec. 28, 1904, in Council Grove, Kan., the daughter of Lee Hanford and Lalla Maloy Brigham. After graduating from Council Grove High School in 1922, she attended two years of college at the College of Emporia, Emporia, Kan. In 1925, she received a teaching certificate from what was then known as Emporia State Teachers’ College. She earned her B.A. degree in English and Journalism from Kansas University in 1928 where she was a member of Chi Omega Sorority. Later she took graduate courses at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles and in 1941 received her master’s degree in English from Columbia University Teachers’ College, New York City. Her teaching experience began in 1924 in Pratt, Kan., where she taught fifth and sixth grades for two years. She later taught in Council Grove and Great Bend, Kan. In 1936 she moved to Ponca City to teach English and Journalism in Ponca City High School. She retired in 1970 and at that time remarked, “I loved working with the paper staff, but I like to teach literature better. I once thought I’d like to be a journalist, but I love teaching.” Her former students remember her as one who took a very personal interest in each of them, and many have visited her through the years, always grateful for the thorough training they had received in her high school classes. Having a special interest in writing, Miss Brigham worked as a reporter for the Council Grove Republican for two summers while in college. As a student at the College of Emporia, she worked on the school newspaper, and as a teacher in Ponca City, she was sponsor of the school paper from 1936 to 1957. As a young woman still in college, she became a member of Chapter H of the P.E.O. Sisterhood, her mother’s and sister’s chapter. She was a charter member of Chapter FC, Ponca City, organized in 1969. From 1957 until her retirement, Miss Brigham was a member of the Oklahoma High School Press Association and the National Scholastic Press Association. She held life memberships in the Ponca City Branch of A.A.U.W. and the Oklahoma Educational Association. An avid reader, she often reviewed books for club programs, and membership in those organizations gave her opportunities to use her talent for writing. She especially enjoyed music and attended and supported the Wichita Symphony Concerts and the Music Theater in Wichita as well as the Ponca City Playhouse and the Community Concerts in Ponca City. A member of Grace Episcopal Church, she served for seven years as a member of the Women’s Altar Guild. Miss Brigham’s parents and three sisters, Marion Brigham, Rosalie Ruggles and Nira Hamilton preceded her in death. She is survived by two nieces, Barbara Syrios of Wichita, and Mary Mead, Albuquerque; three nephews, William Ruggles, Bartlesville, Robert Ruggles, Tallahassee, Fla., and Robert Hamilton, Bellingham, Wash.; and a cousin, Mrs. Marge Moser Brown, Council Grove, Kan. Memorial contributions may be made in Miss Brigham’s name to Grace Episcopal Church, 109 N. 13th, Ponca City, Okla. 74601 or to the Morris County Historical Society, 725 Hockaday, Council Grove, Kan. 66846. Mrs. Brigham will lie in state at the Trout Funeral Home until 9 p.m. this evening. paid obituary Services PendingFloyd Nathan WestFloyd Nathan West, longtime Ponca City resident, died Tuesday, Dec. 28, 1999, at his home. He was 79. Survivors include his wife, Clara B. West; two sons, Dwain and Delbert West; and daughter, Florie Johnson. Services are pending with Grace Memorial Chapel. Margaret BarkerFAIRFAX — Margaret Davis Jamison Barker, former Fairfax resident, died Monday, Dec. 27, 1999, in California. Services will be Thursday, Dec. 30, 1999, at 11 a.m. in the Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Deacon Vernon Butler, officiating. Other arrangements are pending with Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home in Fairfax. NEWS BRIEFSWorking Downtown — As a result of the activities coming up for the Millennium celebration, city workers and trucks will be noticed downtown hanging cable on light poles on Grand Avenue from First Street to Fifth Street. Motorists should be alert to the activity, which began today. Prowler — A man from the 300 block of West Hartford Avenue reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 6:32 a.m. Monday that a prowler had been noticed looking in windows. Three officers were assigned but unable to locate the man. A report was taken. Accident — The Communications Center received a 911 call at 7:59 a.m. Monday that a vehicle had hit a residence at the intersection of West Grand Avenue and Ninth Street. Three officers of the Ponca City Police Department responded but found that a residence had not been hit, however a street sign had been knocked down. Traffic Engineering was alerted to the situation and a report was taken. Accident — The Communications Center received information at 8 a.m. Monday that a Kay County detention officer had backed a vehicle into a pole at the Wal-Mart parking lot. An officer of the Ponca City Police Department responded and a report was taken. Abandoned Bicycle — Animal Control reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 10:14 a.m. Monday that an abandoned bicycle had been picked up in the 1900 block of East Woodlands. Bicycle Stolen — The Ponca City Police Department received a report at 10:34 a.m. Monday that a bicycle had been stolen from the 1600 block of North Sixth Street. Accident — A man reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:01 a.m. Monday that he had hit a parked vehicle at the intersection of North Seventh Street and East Cleveland Avenue. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Vehicle Vandalized — A woman from the 500 block of North Thirteenth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:04 a.m. Monday that her vehicle had been vandalized. An officer was assigned and the information was logged. Suspicious Activity — A woman reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:44 a.m. Monday that several juveniles had been observed smoking at Crown Park. Two officers were assigned and several subjects were contacted and released. A 17-year-old boy was held for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Subject Held — An employee at Miller Market, 904 South Fourth Street, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 11:58 a.m. Monday that a shoplifter was in custody. An officer was assigned and a 22-year-old man was held for petty larceny and a city warrant for failure to appear. Stolen Check — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 1:43 p.m. Monday that a report was taken from a man concerning a stolen check. R&G Style Shop. Annual Pre-inventory sale. Wednesday Dec. 29th only. 7am to 7pm. 1/2 off regular price. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 700 block of Marland Drive at 2:30 p.m. Monday that a 39-year-old woman was being held on a Kay County warrant for failure to appear. 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. Money Missing — A woman reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 3:06 p.m. Monday that some money had been stolen from the business, Canine Creations, 911 North Union street, during the weekend. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Rusty Barrell will be open New Years Eve 5:00 till 8:00. First come, first serve. Any in Rusty Barrel by 8:00 will be served. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 400 block of South Oak Street at 3:58 p.m. Monday that a 38-year-old man was being held on two city warrants for failure to pay. Kaw City, Old Town Cafe, Open New Years Eve/Day. Baby Back Ribs for weedend. Sunday Dinner, Pot Roast. adv. Accident — A woman reported a minor backing accident in the 200 block of Westbury at 5:17 p.m. Monday. An officer from the Ponca City Police Department was assigned and a report was taken. R&G Style Shop. Annual Pre-inventory sale. Wednesday Dec. 29th only. 7am to 7pm. 1/2 off regular price. adv. Shoplifter — An employee at Wal-Mart reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 4:39 p.m. Monday that a juvenile shoplifter was in custody. An officer was assigned, the juvenile was issued a citation and the boy was released on a promise to appear. Curfew Violation — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 2:01 a.m. Tuesday that a 16-year-old girl was being cited for a curfew violation. She was released to a parent. Assault — An employee of American Legion Children’s Home requested assistance from the Ponca City Police Department at 5:06 p.m. Monday with a juvenile following an assault on a worker. An officer was assigned and the juvenile was issued a citation and released on a promise to appear. Every Wednesday š price clothes and shoes, except priced items. Check our daily specials. Caboose Thrift Shoppe, First and Central. adv. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported at 5:12 p.m. Monday that a 51-year-old man was being held on a city warrant for failure to appear. Vandalism — Two people in the 1000 block of North Fourth Street reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 5:23 p.m. Monday that property had been vandalized. An officer was assigned and reports were taken that buildings had been hit with paint balls. Burglary — A woman from the 1000 block of North Ash Street reported to the Communications Center at 4:21 p.m. Monday that upon returning home from vacation she had realized the TV and tapes were missing. An officer of the Ponca City Police Department was assigned and a burglary report was taken. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the 200 block of West Cleveland Avenue at 7:32 p.m. Monday that a 26-year-old man was being held for DUI, driving under revocation, having no insurance, having an expired tag, and a Kay County warrant. Gas Drive-Off — A clerk at Citgo, 400 East South Avenue, reported to the Ponca City Police Department at 7:32 p.m. Monday that a man had driven off without paying for $6 worth of gas. An officer was assigned and a report was taken. Subject Held — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from the South Avenue extension east of Flormable at 9:27 p.m. Monday that a 63-year-old man was being held for DUI and reckless driving. A vehicle was towed from the scene. Vehicle Recovered — An officer of the Ponca City Police Department reported from Darr Park at 2:30 a.m. Tuesday after finding a vehicle that had been reported stolen on Monday. The owner of the vehicle was contacted and retrieved it. LIFESTYLESThe Neighborhood Chef The Neighborhood ChefBy SHERRY MUCHMORE Most of our New Years are spent with family and friends, sitting before the fire watching football bowl games while enjoying the last of the holiday festivities. And, once again the season closes and opportunities for changes abound. Promises are made and hope is high, but whatever you do, don’t forget to eat your black-eyed peas for good luck for the new year! My kids still ask for these crunchy cookies about this time each year. The combined flavor and texture of creamy chocolate and peanuts is always a winner. Chinese New Year’s CookiesIn top of double boiler melt: 1 6-ounce semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 6-ounce butterscotch chips Note: Be sure the water isn’t touching the mixing pan, simmer water, don’t boil. Stir into melted chips: 1 3 1/2-ounce bag of crisp Chinese noodles 7 ounces of salted peanuts When thoroughly coated, drop by teaspoons onto waxed paper on cookie sheets. Chill to set. Store in plastic bags in refrigerator. They also freeze well. Makes approximately 36 little haystacks. Food of choice for the new year gathering is usually chili, a big pot of steaming, spicy hot chili. Well, here’s a recipe for you with a twist. This chili is made with chicken instead of beef and is delicious. White ChiliRobyn Boettcher, PC 1 whole chicken (stewed and boned) approx. 4 cups diced 6 cups chicken broth (reserved from stewed chicken) 1 pound white beans (Great Northern) 2 cloves garlic, crushed 2 medium onions, chopped (divided) 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 2 4-oz. cans chopped green chilies 2 teaspoons ground cumin 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 3 cups grated Monterey Jack cheese Combine beans, reserved chicken broth, garlic, half the chopped onions in a deep soup pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until beans are very soft, 3 hours or more. Add more chicken broth if necessary. In a skillet, saute remaining onions in oil until tender. Add chilies, cumin, oregano and cayenne and mix thoroughly. Add to bean mixture. Now add chicken and continue to simmer for 30 minutes to one hour. Serve topped with grated cheese, accompanied by squares of warm cornbread. 8 to 10 servings. Suggested condiments: Chopped tomatoes, parsley, green onions and/or ripe olives. Guacamole, sour cream, crumbled tortilla chips. Note: Substitute 2 cans of Great Northern beans for dried beans. Start with 3 cups of broth with the canned beans. Saute all the onion and garlic in the skillet with chilies and spices. Add to beans, chicken and simmer. When stewing a chicken, place a whole chicken in a stock pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 bay leaf, 10 to 15 peppercorns and salt to taste. Bring to a boil, cover and reduce temperature to simmer for several hours or until meat pulls away from bones. Use this broth for the beans and/or in the chili base. This is your basic chili recipe. One thing about chili, you can play with it, add to or take away. Make it spicy or tone it down. Some prefer their chili without beans and some like to add chopped jalapeno pepper for more heat. I believe cumin is the key ingredient in a good chili. It makes chili taste like chili. There’s just nothing better on a cold winter day. Chili2 pounds ground chuck 1 onion, diced 1 clove garlic, crushed 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1 large bay leaf 1 tablespoon cumin 2 tablespoons chili powder 2 8-ounce cans tomato sauce 1 can diced or crushed tomatoes, approx. 16 oz. 1 cup tomato juice 1-2 cans red kidney beans (optional) Brown ground chuck in a stock pot. Drain off excess grease and add onion and garlic, cook until tender. Add salt, pepper, bay leaf, cumin and chili powder. Stir in tomato sauce, tomato juice and crushed tomatoes. (Beans are optional) Simmer, serve and top with grated cheddar cheese. Serve with soda crackers or cornbread. Serves 4 to 6. Leftover chili dishes: Frito chili pie - Spoon chili over a bed of Fritos. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and sliced jalapeno peppers. Three-Way - This is one you’ve got to taste because it sounds crazy, but it really is good. Prepare spaghetti for first layer. Spoon chili over pasta and spoon pork ‘n beans over chili. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and serve with thick slices of hot buttered bread. Hearty goodness from down home. Another of Mom’s best that I’ve continued to make. I also use this recipe for my Cornbread dressing by doubling it. Golden Cornbread1 cup cornmeal 1 cup pre-sifted flour 1/4 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 4 teaspoons baking powder 1 egg 1 cup milk 1/4 cup shortening, vegetable oil or bacon grease Combine the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Add egg, milk and shortening. Beat until smooth and pour into a greased 8 or 9 inch square pan. Bake at 425 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes. Serves 9. If you like sorghum, then you’ll love a thick slice of hot cornbread, slathered with butter and sopped in sorghum. Steins is a good brand. Well, it’s almost time. Goodbye to the old and familiar. Hello to the new and unknown. How lucky we are to be at this point in time not only to celebrate the turning of the century, but to bear witness to the passage of a millennium. I imagine everyone won’t be able to keep from holding their breath for just a split second when old Father Time turns that corner into 2000. Only time will tell; we’ve done all we can - so as some say “Don’t worry, be happy” eat and be merry. We wish you and yours Health and Good Will for the coming New Year. Send your recipes to: The Neighborhood Chef, c/o The Ponca City News, P.O. Box 191, Ponca City, OK 74602, or e-mail me at: chef@poncacitynews.com (All recipes become property of The Ponca City News.) Former Resident Wins First Place Award for CompositionHalide Kamay Smith of Bradenton, Fla., a former resident of Ponca City, recently received a first place musical composition award for her recorder quartet piece, “Pioneer Man in Oklahoma Prairie” from the Florida State Association of National League of American Pen Women’s competition. This award was presented at the Silver Springs Hilton during the Biennial Conference, and was performed that evening. This 1998 revised version of a recorder quartet was composed and dedicated to Jay C. Wood on the occasion of his 90th birthday. The three part composition is based on his life: “On the Farm” (near Perry, Oklahoma); “World War I;” and “In the Oil Fields” (Marland Oil Co. now Conoco Inc.). Halide recently was accepted as a member of the Sarasota branch of the National League of American Pen Women. Pen Women is a Professional Organization of Women Writers, Artist, and Composers. Also Halide’s and Ruth Clark’s (another composer) original musical compositions have won a National Federation of Music Clubs American Women Composers Program Contest. The program was sponsored by the Sarasota Music Club. The club also received a superior program award from the Florida State Federation of Music Clubs. Halide Smith was the director of this program. Copies of some of the music in that winning program are on a cassette titled “Tranquility” at the Brace Books and More store in Ponca City. Little NewsTammy and Dustin Staiger of Jenks, announce the birth of a daughter Dec. 3, 1999, in Hillcrest Medical Center in Tulsa. Abbigayle Elizabeth Staiger weighed 8 pounds, 14 ounces, and measured 19 3/4 inches long. Grandparents are Stanley and Betty Hinshaw of Ponca City, and Gary and Tricia Staiger of Kellyville. Great-grandparents are E.S. and Lucile Hinshaw of Bartlesville, Forrest and Ruby Swan and Eloise Staiger of Kellyville, the late Max Staiger, and the late Benn and Elizabeth Palmer. A daughter was born to Brian and Lacy Bufford at 1:45 p.m. Dec. 8, 1999, at the Blackwell Hospital. Hope Nicole Bufford weighed 6 pounds, 11 ounces, and was 20 1/2 inches long. Maternal grandparents are Wanda and Joe Schooling of Blackwell, and paternal grandparents are Butch and Diane Clemens of Ponca City. Great-grandparents are Jim Schooling of Pawhuska, Lela Hess of Blackwell, Alvin and Delpha Clemens of Ponca City. BUSINESSBid Assistance Center at PTC Indicates Good News from Fed Bid Assistance Center at PTC Indicates Good News from FedThe Bid Assistance Center at Pioneer Technology has some good news from the SBA and DOT, according to Teresa Smith, Bid Assistance coordinator. U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Aida Alvarez and U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Rodney E. Slater recently signed an agreement that will help small socially and economically disadvantaged firms that want to do business with the government by streamlining the certification for disadvantaged businesses. “The move will make it easier for thousands of firms to gain access to the multibillion dollar marketplace linked to two distinct groups of contracts — those offered by the federal government and those available on many federally-funded state and local transportation projects,” said Smith. As stated by Administrator Alvarez, “Small business owners want to spend less time filling out government forms and more time working on contracts. This agreement recognizes this and opens even wider the doors of opportunity for small disadvantaged firms in the $200 billion-per year federal marketplace, as well as opportunities with state and local transportation projects. “This initiative fulfills two important priorities set out by President Clinton and Vice President Gore: improving opportunities for small and disadvantaged businesses, and removing unnecessary government burdens on the private sector,” Secretary Slater said. “From this day forward, it will be easier than ever for eligible firms to participate in the government’s programs for disadvantaged businesses.” “This new agreement allows most small businesses that have qualified for disadvantaged status through one agency’s certification process to qualify for the other’s without going through additional paperwork,” said Smith. “In most cases, all that will be required will be a supplemental statement confirming the eligibility requirements.” Nearly 8,000 small firms are currently certified by the SBA as Small Disadvantaged Businesses (SDBs), while approximately 50,000 small socially and economically disadvantaged firms have secured DOT’s Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) certification from DOT assisted state and local transportation agencies. Until now, these two certification systems operated totally independent from one another. In fiscal year 1998, the federal government provided small disadvantaged businesses with more than $11 billion in contracting opportunities. This total includes contracts obtained by disadvantaged firms in the SBA’s 8(a) Business Development Program, which is also covered by this agreement. According to Smith some of the qualifications for a DBE are any small businesses that are at least 51 percent owned, operated and fully controlled on a daily basis by a member or members of the following groups: African and Native Americans, Hispanic, Asian-Pacific and Asian-Indian Americans, women, and individuals found to be disadvantaged as defined by the Small Business Act under the 8(a) program. For more information on DBE qualifications and certification, please contact Teresa Smith at Pioneer Technology Center (580) 762-8336, Ext. 261. City Sales Tax Return Takes DipBy LOUISE ABERCROMBIE News Business Editor The December Ponca City sales tax return from the Oklahoma Tax Commission for business conducted during October follows the state trend, which is downward. The sales tax return to the City from the Oklahoma Tax Commission for October shows $855,251 compared to $973,617 a year ago. Marc L. LaBossiere, financial officer for the city of Ponca City, said “When comparing year-over-year collections on retail sales, total sales tax collections in the current month have decreased from the same period of the prior year by 12.6 percent. “This decrease can be explained in part by the extraordinary return during the same period of 1998 of 17.9 percent over the same period in 1997. Factoring out two extraordinary items in the 1998 period, current receipts decreased approximately four percent from the same period last year.” Red Rock’s return took a big jump from $841 collected in October 1998 to $5,997. This was because the sales tax increased from 2 percent in October 1998 to 5 percent this year, according to Red Rock city officials. Others in the region showing an increase in sales tax were Blackwell, Burbank and Tonkawa, while Braman, Deer Creek, Lamont, Marland, Newkirk and Stillwater were down. Larger area towns Enid and Bartlesville registered an increase in sales tax revenue. Holding steady showing little change up or down were Fairfax, Kaw City, Medford, Pawhuska, Pawnee and Ralston. Statewide the October distribution of city sales tax collections totaled $68,608 The disbursement to 490 cities and towns showed an decrease of $386,451 from the return of $69,095, 105 distributed to 487 cities and towns in December one year ago. Use Tax The Use Tax return to Ponca City shows an increase with $42,484 being collected in October The Oklahoma Tax Commission shows was no use tax collected in Oct. 1998. City Oct. 99 Oct. 98 Barnsdall $9,890 $9,167 Bartlesville 981,285 946,717 Billings 12,738 10,696 Blackwell 134,408 84,165 Braman 1,837 2,721 Burbank 1,373 576 Deer Creek 621 2,145 Enid 1,295,124 1,187,849 Fairfax 12,496 12,534 Kaw City 2,340 2,327 Lamont 1,827 2,017 Marland 870 969 Medford 20,074 20,554 Morrison 4,670 8,810 Newkirk 24,853 25,155 Pawhuska 54,886 53,667 Pawnee 36,404 36,764 Perry 74,083 80,034 Pond Creek 11,883 7,009 Ralston 1,028 1,070 Red Rock 5,997 841 Shidler 2,154 1,903 Stillwater 1,053,125 1,060,453 Tonkawa 41,213 40,273 PCUA Corrects Bank Draft Error QuicklyBy LOUISE ABERCROMBIE News Business Editor Oh what a difference hitting the wrong key makes! That’s what The Ponca City Utility Authority Billing Office found out last week, when they made two bank billing drafts on customer accounts in the same month. Sherri Tapp, Billing Office Manager explains, “Ponca City Utility Authority Billing Office wishes to advise anyone whose account is bank drafted on the 10th of the month of a manual error that occurred. “Accounts scheduled to be drafted on the 10th day of January 2000 were drafted on the 20th day of December 1999 due solely to human error by selecting the wrong cycle to be drafted. The following day the error was detected and corrected with a reversal entry sent to all banks. Each bank was notified with a list of the accounts and made aware of the error by the Billing Office.” Out of 716 accounts only three of the incorrect bills would have caused overdrafts of funds and the errors were quickly corrected with the City of Ponca City informing the banks of the matter, according to Marc LaBossiere, chief financial officer for the City. Local banks also worked with the City and canceled charges that might have been incurred to individual accounts through the billing office error. Craig Myers, Pioneer Bank, senior vice president and cashier, said “When they (Ponca City Utility Billing Office) found out about it they acted immediately and handled it as efficiently as possible.” Larry Buck, Home National Bank senior vice president and manager of the North Fourteenth branch, said that the City had informed the bank personnel handling the drafts and the matter had been taken care of without charge to customers. Tapp added, “Our office wishes to apologize for any problems or inconveniences this may have caused anyone. If anyone’s account has been adversely affected please speak to me at 767-0306 or come into the office at 516 East Grand.” Safe at Home Guarantee From Ponca City BankCustomers of Home National who receive Social Security Direct Deposit can rest a little easier since the bank announced its Safe at Home Guarantee. “The Safe at Home Guarantee is our promise that our Home National customers don’t have to worry about their Social Security retirement payments being delayed because of Y2K,” explained HNB president Mark Detten. “We’re confident that our bank is prepared, we have confidence in the Social Security payment system, and we’ll put the guarantee in writing.” The Safe at Home Guarantee is a simple promise by the bank: If your direct deposit from Social Security is delayed beyond its scheduled date in January 2000, the bank will issue a no fee, no interest loan in the amount of your scheduled deposit. Customers who receive retirement funds from the Social Security Administration, are eligible, and must request the guarantee prior to Dec. 31, 1999. “Even through banks around the country are in excellent shape, many of our customers are still nervous about the date change,” continued Detten. “We believe the Safe at Home Guarantee will reassure our clients that Home National Bank and other FDIC insured institutions are absolutely the best place for your money.” Home National Bank is a family owned bank with total assets of $480 million. Full service banking in Oklahoma is available in Ponca City, Stillwater and Blackwell, and in Garden City, Winfield and Arkansas City, Kansas. Kay Electric Cooperative Advises Members of Y2KKay Electric Cooperative recently held an advisory meeting with a group of its members to update them on the Cooperative’s Y2K preparations. Joe Harris, Kay Electric’s manager, told the group, “We are prepared for Y2K.” Harris outlined the cooperative’s plan of action for Dec. 31, if problems do arise. “My biggest concern is that some people may want to cause problems on New Year’s Eve that will cause panic and destruction.” The Cooperative’s director of administrative services, Tim Rodriguez. addressed the audience and explained the testing procedures KEC went through to ensure that Kay Electric’s computers were compliant and would make the century date roll-over. “We do feel confident we are going to be up and running Jan. 3,” Rodriguez said. Kay Electric formed a Y2K committee in the early part of the year. The committee was assigned certain tasks to ensure compliance in all aspects of the cooperative’s operation.. Kay Electric buys its electricity from Western Farmers Electric Cooperative. J.M. Shafer, Western’s General Manager, also discussed Y2K issues. “I think we’ve got more of an emotional issue rather than an actual issue.” He told the group that Western Farmers had done an inventory of everything that Y2K could affect, and identified compliance problems and repaired them. “Nothing we found should impact your lights on New Year’s day,” Shafer continued. WFFC has spent almost $350,000 to make sure all three of their generating plants are Y2K compatible, and has been compliant since June 30, the date set by the North American Electric Reliability Council (NERC). NERC is the national council that joins the electric supply grid together through oversight and regulation. Joe Harris, Kay Electric’s Manager, summed up the co-op’s Y2K concerns by saying, “Kay Electric’s mission is to provide dependable, quality electrical service 365 days a year, including Jan. 1, 2000.” Notes/QuotesAlcott to TeachJoe Alcott of the financial-services of Edward Jones has been to share his expertise and help train brokers with less experience at the firm’s headquarters in St. Louis. The three-week training series is part of the firm’s intense commitment to each broker’s education. State Insurance DepartmentOKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma City offices of the State Insurance Department are moving on Y2K weekend. Insurance Commissioner Carroll Fisher said the current offices at 3814 North Santa Fe will close at 5 p.m., Dec. 30. The agency will reopen with a grand opening ceremony in its new location at 8 a.m., Jan. 3, at Shepherd Mall, 2401 Northwest Twenty-third Street, Suite 28. Newkirkite HonoredSandra Sheik, Newkirk, was honored for outstanding leadership of young people during 1999 as director of the local Modern Woodmen of America Junior Service Club. Sheik led the group to merit status, an honor given by Modern Woodmen to recognize leaders of youth clubs for top-level performance. Judging in the merit club contest is based on the quality and quantity of meetings, programs, and community service activities held during the year. Modern Woodmen of America’s youth clubs are organizations for children who are members of Modern Woodmen and are 16 years of age or younger. The leaders are Modern Woodmen adult members. The clubs follow a fraternal youth program which provides children with opportunities to participate in social, civic, educational, and fraternal activities. Community Renewal WorkshopOKLAHOMA CITY — Conversations on Community Renewal is the first of a series of conferences workshops that are intended to put citizens in touch with the people, tools and strategies to realize the vision in their communities. The event is slated for Jan. 19-20 at the Oklahoma City Marriott and is presented by the Oklahoma Community Institute in partnership with Gov. and Mrs. Frank Keating and sponsored by Bank of America. Guest speakers are Peter Kenyon of Australia, co-founder and director of the International IDEAS Group and Gov. Keating. The registration fee is $95 and should be made by Jan. 10. Reservations may be made by calling 1 (800) 228-9290. County Unemployment Rate Shows ImprovementThe economy is showing an upward trend in North Central Oklahoma with more people holding jobs according to Oklahoma Employment Security Commission’s (OESC) preliminary figures for November. Kay County’s unemployment rate dropped 1.9 percent in November, according to the OESC. These newly released figures indicate that the Kay County rate for this year is 5.1 percent, compared to 7 percent in Nov. 1999. The unemployment rate for October was 5.6 percent. The county work force is listed at 22,680, with 1,160 out of work and 21,520 employed. Compared to the state average of 2.9 percent, the county unemployment remains ranks 2.2 percent higher. The national unemployment rate is listed at 3.8 percent. On a regional level the OESC figures indicate that more people are working this fall than last year in Kay, Payne Noble, Osage, Pawnee and Grant counties. Nearby Payne County continues to lead the state in employment with only 1 percent unemployed. Payne county’s work force is shown as 36,3450, with 370 unemployed. The October rate was 1.1 percent and the November 1998 figure was 1.6 percent. Other area counties and unemployment rates include, Noble, with 2.1 percent compared to 2.3 percent in October and 3.4 percent a year ago; Osage, lists 2.9 percent, compared to 3 percent in October and 3.8 in 1998; Pawnee shows, 4 percent unemployed, compared to 4.1 percent in October and 3.8 percent a year ago; Grant shows 1.4 unemployment, compared to 1.7 in October and 2.6 in 1998. Ponca City Grad Jim Epperson Now Head of State GroupPonca City High School graduate Jim Epperson, 44, has been named Oklahoma Division President of Southwestern Bell. Prior to being appointed to the new post, Epperson was vice president of Southern California area sales and services. In the new position Epperson will be responsible for the company’s government, regulatory, legislative and external affairs and industrial relations. Epperson, most recently with Pacific Bell, had been residing and working in Tustin, Calif. After graduating from Ponca City High School in 1973, Epperson received a bachelor’s degree from Central State University in journalism in 1977. He joined Southwestern Bell in Oklahoma City in April 1979, as assistant staff manager of public relations. Since then, he has held several positions in media and corporate communications. Other positions, Epperson held included executive director of external affairs in San Antonio in 1993, executive director of operations and communications a year later followed the same year by being named executive director of corporate communications, also in San Antonio. In 1995, Epperson moved to St. Louis, where he was vice president of business transition for Southwestern Bell Telephone. He became managing director of customer care, also in St. Louis. Latter Epperson became managing director of service improvement. He moved to Pacific Bell in California in 1998. Ike Glass Receives State RecognitionOKLAHOMA CITY — Ike Glass, president of Glass Trucking in Newkirk, recently was presented the Outstanding Achievement Award for 1999 by The State Chamber, Oklahoma’s Association of Business and Industry. Glass was one of five members of The State Chamber’s Board of Directors who received the award for outstanding service and response in developing and operating The State Chamber’s “Grassroots Action Network.” “The Grassroots Action Network is an important lobbying tool for contacting state legislators, congressmen and senators about issues of concern to Oklahoma businesses. Mr. Glass’s support and active participation has helped make the Grassroots Action Network the success it has become,” said Richard P. Rush, president and CEO of The State Chamber. Tonkawa Sets 84th Chamber Banquet Jan. 5TONKAWA — Tonkawa Chamber of Commerce’s s 84th Annual Banquet on Jan. 5, 2000, at 7 p.m., at the Northern Oklahoma College Cafeteria, announces President Connelly Wade. Keynote speaker will be Ron Hale from the Humor U Society. Hale has a background in stand-up comedy, broadcasting and has been writing a newspaper column since 1989. He has a variety of talks all focused to make everyone feel better and involve the release of stress. He uses proven theories and relates them with entertaining personal experiences. His talk deals with the healing power of music and laughter. Tickets are $15 each and may be purchased at the Chamber of Commerce office, 100 1/2 E. Grand, or reserved by calling (580) 628.2220. Checks should be made payable to Tonkawa Chamber of Commerce An RSVP is requested by Friday, December 31, 1999 to ensure availability of tickets. State Business Rep in CountyOn Jan. 5, 2000, a representative from the Oklahoma Small Business Development Center (OSBDC) will be in Kay County. The OSBDC provides free one-on-one counseling to individuals interested in starting a new business or to existing business owners needing assistance. Questions concerning the “how-to” of establishing your own business or problems relating to marketing, advertising, inventory, cash flow, and personnel can be discussed. Information about loan programs available thorough the United States SBA can also be addressed. The OSBDC network is funded in part by the United States Small Business Administration and the State of Oklahoma. The Northwest Regional office is located on the campus of Northwestern Oklahoma State University in Alva. Clients will be seen by appointment only from 9 a.m. to noon at the offices of Kay County Electric Association in Blackwell, Oklahoma and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the south conference room of the Administration Building on the campus of NOC in Tonkawa, Oklahoma. To schedule an appointment or receive additional information, call (580) 327-8608 prior to Jan. 5, 2000. SPORTSWoods Male Athlete of YearBy DOUG FERGUSON AP Golf Writer The next time Tiger Woods says that he only plays to win, pay close attention. After working for nearly 18 months to get comfortable with his new swing, Woods unleashed one of the most dominant golf seasons in the second half of the 20th century and left his peers wondering how much better he can get. He won nine of his last 13 tournaments and earned $7.6 million worldwide. Perhaps the best statement of his supremacy is this: Woods won more PGA Tour events in the final five months of the season (6) than any other player won in an entire season this decade. On Monday, Woods was named The Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year in a close vote over Lance Armstrong. ‘‘It’s great to be selected, very humbling to be part of that,’’ said Woods, who won the award for the second time in three years. ‘‘A lot of great athletes have won this award.’’ Woods received 29 first-place votes and 144 points from AP member newspapers and broadcast outlets. Armstrong, who overcame testicular cancer to win the Tour de France, had 31 first-place votes and finished with 130 points. Cy Young award winner Pedro Martinez of the Boston Red Sox finished third with 45 points, followed by John Elway and Heisman Trophy winner Ron Dayne. Rounding out the top 10 were: Andre Agassi, Tim Duncan, Payne Stewart, Sammy Sosa and quarterbacks Peyton Manning and Kurt Warner, who tied for 10th. The U.S. women’s World Cup soccer team was named the AP Female Athletes of the Year last week and also won for story of the year. Woods became only the seventh man — and second golfer — to win AP Athlete of the Year twice since it began in 1931. The others were Don Budge, Byron Nelson, Sandy Koufax, Carl Lewis, Joe Montana and Michael Jordan. Jordan is the only three-time winner. Woods, who turns 24 on Thursday, figures to have at least 20 more years to match or surpass Jordan. At this rate, the only thing capable of stopping him is a career-threatening injury or loss of desire. ‘‘He’s not even close to how good he can get,’’ Davis Love III said after finishing second to Woods in the Tour Championship. ‘‘He’s going to be good for a long, long time.’’ Woods won this award for what he did in a short period of time. Heading into the PGA Championship, the final major of the year, David Duval was still No. 1 in the world rankings. But Woods won at Medinah for his second major, then really separated himself from the rest of the sport. He won five of his final six PGA Tour events, including the final four, the best streak since Ben Hogan won four straight tour events in 1953. His eight PGA Tour victories were the most since Johnny Miller in 1974. ‘‘I exceeded my own expectations,’’ Woods said. ‘‘I thought I could possibly win seven times. It goes to show that hard work sometimes pays off.’’ That work started after his phenomenal season in 1997, when Woods became the youngest Masters champion in record fashion, won four other tournaments and was the AP Male Athlete of the Year. Why change after that? Woods insisted there were too many flaws in his swing. He was either winning big or out of contention, and he sought a swing that would keep his name on the leader board every day, every week. It all came together after his post-Masters layoff, and the results were staggering. Including the World Cup of Golf, a two-man team event where Woods’ score alone was good enough for a U.S. victory, he won nine of his final 13 events of the year. He finished lower than seventh just once. ‘‘What I have a hard time believing is what a high level he has played at,’’ Phil Mickelson said. ‘‘Normally, of all the guys in the field, a couple will get hot and go low. And it’s been Tiger every single week.’’ Such dominance is rare in golf these days because of the tremendous depth on tour. Nick Price in 1995 had been the only player to win five times in a year this decade, and no one had won as many as six tour events since Tom Watson in 1980. It all started on the practice range, the one place where Woods can find solitude from being perhaps the most recognizable star in sports since Jordan. Woods estimates he has hit 800 balls in one session, working on his putting for up to four hours without a break. Clearly, dominance does not come easily. ‘‘He has an inward desire to be the best player the planet has ever seen,’’ said Butch Harmon, Woods’ swing coach the past seven years. Jack Nicklaus, the player generally regarded as the best ever, didn’t see much of Woods this year, although the results he read in the newspaper told him all he needed to know. ‘‘He had a phenomenal year, and I think he’s got phenomenal focus,’’ Nicklaus said. ‘‘If he can keep that going for a long period of time, he’ll break all my records — and everyone else’s.’’
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