Local News and Sports

From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Wednesday, September 25, 1996

LOCAL
Charges Filed After Drug Arrests
Conditions at Lake Uncover Cemetery
Nearly News
Boy Scouts Annual Fund Raiser Begins Friday
Leaves Should Be Containerized
School Land Sale Set
District Court
Public Power Week Oct. 6-12
State Grants Heading to Small Kay County Fire Departments
Fire Prevention Week Scheduled
Emergency Sirens To Sound Thursday
Red Cross Relief Funds Dwindling
DHS Honors Opportunity Center of P.C.
Ponca Citians Set to Appear In NOC Show
Handcrafted Items at Oktoberfest
GOP Women Hear From Candidates; Get Information on Upcoming Tax Vote
Columnist Joyce Hifler Here to Autograph Books
Kay County Inmates Seek Early Release
Armed Robbery Investigation Still Going On

NEWS BRIEFS

DEATHS
Mary Margaret Coffman
Camille E. Ross

Services Pending
Karen Crapo
Thelma Weddle
Bertha Grimm
Maudie Jenkins

FAMILY LIVING
Chapter Names Logan Valentine Queen
Aqua Jog Water Exercise Classes Scheduled for Fall
Selecting Quality Child Care
Eta Delta Has Tour Of Pryse Monument

SPORTS
Po-Hi Line Confident In Selves
6A-4 Teams Square Off This Week
Eighth Blue Footballers 3-0
Volleyballers Place Fifth
JV Play
Mid-High Tennis
BASS Club
A Two-Man Fish

LOCAL

Charges Filed After Drug Arrests

NEWKIRK - Eleven suspects have been named in connection with a drug raid which occurred Monday, according to the District Attorney's Office. Kay County law enforcement officers arrested 15 individuals on various drug charges.
Those charged as of this morning are:
- Tommy Smith of Ponca City, was charged with two counts of delivery of narcotic (cocaine).
- Albert Larssen of Newkirk, received charges of delivery of controlled dangerous substance (methamphetamine).
- Junior L. Slavens of Ponca City, was arrested on charges of delivery of a controlled dangerous substance (marijuana) and delivery of controlled dangerous substance (marijuana).
- Donald K. Lawson of Ponca City received charges of possession of controlled dangerous substance with the intent to distribute (methamphetamine).
- Lesa Gail Duncan also of Ponca City, was accused of possession of marijuana.
- Kevin Covill of Ponca City, was arraigned on charges of delivery of a controlled dangerous substance (methamphetamine).
-Ryan Jon Russell of Ponca City was charged with delivery of controlled dangerous substance (marijuana) after a former conviction of delivery of marijuana.
- Thomas Ray White of Ponca City, was charged with delivery of a controlled dangerous substance (marijuana).
- Sharon L. Nelson, aka Sharon L. Treat of Ponca City was arraigned on charges of delivery of a controlled dangerous substance (marijuana).
- Tim Horinek of Blackwell, received charges of possession of marijuana. Dorothy Horinek of Blackwell, was also charged with possession of marijuana.
- Ruben Gustavo Balli of Ponca City, allegedly delivered controlled dangerous substance (marijuana).
The investigation began three months ago. The North Central Major Crimes Task Force, under the direction of the District Attorney's Office, and officers from the Kay County Sheriff's Office, Ponca City Police Department, Tonkawa Police Department and Blackwell Police Department assisted with the arrests.
These defendants made an initial appearance in district court Monday afternoon. Bonds ranged from $1,000 for misdemeanor possession charges to $20,000 for felony delivery charges.
The District Attorney's Office confirmed, the investigation continues and more arrests are expected.

Conditions at Lake Uncover Cemetery

By LAURA TREADWAY
News Staff Writer
Bones and casket material on the shore near Coon Creek Cove Park at Kaw Lake are from a cemetery that existed prior to construction of the lake, according to Bill Powers, lake manager for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Tulsa District.
Wave action, flooding and high north winds have continued to erode the banks south of Coon Creek Cove Park. Powers confirmed that no further grave sites have been identified in need of relocation. The cemetery was located three miles west and one mile north of Kaw City.
Powers indicated that some grave sites could have been missed or some graves may not have been included on records used by the contractor when the graves were transferred. Also, unmarked graves could have been overlooked.
In 1974, Oak Grove Cemetery was relocated to a site on the south edge of the Odd Fellows Cemetery on Waverly Street. An Oak Grove section within the present Odd Fellows Cemetery was established.
The project was included in the construction of Kaw Lake. Relocation consisted of moving 500-plus graves. The Big Wheel, Inc., of N.C., made the transfer under a contract with the Corps of Engineers. The transfer began in December 1973.
The final clean-up of the Coon Creek Cove area should begin in October. The Corps plans to back-slope the vertical banks and place stone protection at the toe of the slope, according to Powers. This will help protect it from further erosion.

Nearly News

The business editor of The News has received some interesting correspondence in regard to the business and industry Update slated for publication on Oct. 13. The most entertaining came from Betty Rutz of Sun n' Fun. Betty writes, "Please excuse the condition this is in. My dog really thought she should go with me and jumped into the car - on top of my papers!"

United Way Update: Emergency Resource Agency Offers Specific Needs to Needy
(Editor's Note: This is the eleventh in a series of articles describing the services provided to the community of Ponca City by United Way's 17 member agencies.)
The New Emergency Resource Agency of Ponca City started providing services to the community of Ponca City in the early 1920s, as the "Ponca City Humane Society," offering coal oil, clothing, food, wood, and other necessities when needed. Now in 1996, the Agency provides help with rent, utility, grocery, and life-threatening prescription needs.
"We do not sell anything. We give it away, not as a hand out, but as a hand up," stated Tom Short, Director of the New Emergency Resource Agency/Ponca City Welfare. He added, "However, we do require that clients meet certain criteria for help, to ensure that it is in the direction needed for them to become healthy members of society." One requirement is that clients show proof that they are actively seeking employment.
Short told the story of a young lady who came into the office needing help, but not knowing where to start. She had been abandoned by her husband, who had taken all of their valuables and money. The only thing she had was a place to stay. The New Emergency Resource Agency helped provide her with rent, clothing, and groceries. This young lady found a job through the state employment office. After awhile, through encouragement, she applied for a Pell Grant, went to college, and received her associate's degree. Short ended his story stating that a year later she came into the office and shared that she was getting ready to go to Oklahoma State University to continue her education.
"It is exciting to see people improve and take their place in society, but it takes investments of time, resources, and caring. No one agency can do it alone, it takes all of us working together," he said.
Short stated, "A good principle to follow is in the Bible, where Jesus said, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'" He concluded, "If we follow this principle we can find the time, resources, and caring to help others, and the United Way is an excellent way to apply this principle and give others a rare gift - the gift of hope and dreams."
United Way of Ponca City serves 17 agencies within the community, including the American Red Cross, Arthritis Foundation, Bluestem Girl Scout Council, Boy Scouts of America, Bridgeway, Child Development Center, Domestic Violence Program, Golden Villa Adult Day Care Services, Helpline Inc., Hospice, New Emergency Resource Agency, Northern Oklahoma Youth Services, Peachtree Landing, ProTeens, RSVP, Salvation Army, and YMCA.

Boy Scouts Annual Fund Raiser Begins Friday

The Will Rogers Council, Boy Scouts of America will hold its annual fund raising campaign Sept. 27 through Oct. 24. During that time Scouts will be selling Trail's End Gourmet Popcorn. The profit from the sale will help finance the activities of the units selling, the Scouts who sell, and the activities of the Council.
Scout Executive Chuck Rager emphasized the primary income for Scouting activities will continue to come from community support, such as the Council's Friends of Scouting campaign, and local United Ways. "However, escalating program costs, the need for camp equipment and maintenance, as well as continued growth in youth participation, has prompted the Executive Board of the Council to seek additional sources of support."
The local Scouts give a lot to the community and by helping to support them, you are actually helping the local community, Rager pointed out. And what a better way to help than through the purchase of popcorn - the all-American snack food.
"We appreciate the support that our Scouting activities have received from the communities in the Will Rogers Council and wish to express our thanks to everyone who participates," says Rager. When the Scout comes to your door, welcome him. Trails End Gourmet Popcorn is available only through this Scouting sale. It's some of the highest quality popcorn you can buy, Rager emphasized.
This year the Scouts will be selling value bucket (two 1.5 pound polybags of popcorn); microwave 5-pack; 12-ounce gourmet caramel corn; microwave bonus 15-pack, butter; microwave bonus 15-pack butter light; 24 ounce chocolate caramel crunch; 28 ounce gourmet caramel corn and, new this year, 20 ounce 97 percent fat-free caramel corn.
If a Scout misses your house or you miss him, and you want to order popcorn, contact the Will Rogers Council, Boy Scouts of America, 405-765-6669 or 1-800-478-2563.

Leaves Should Be Containerized

This fall residents are encouraged to use leaves for backyard garden composting, stated Ken Wilson, Solid Waste superintendent for Ponca City.
However, residents who want prompt leaf collection should containerize and place leaves next to the area of normal refuse collection, allowing for collection twice a week.
If residents choose not to containerize leaves, a call must be made to 767-0411 for collection service. The leaves should be placed directly behind the curb. According to Wilson, call-ins may wait as long as two to three weeks for this service, due to the large volume and demand.
Additionally, the Solid Waste Division reminds citizens not to rake or blow leaves into the street in order to keep storm drains clear. Leaves found blown or raked into the street may result in a citation, (Ordinance 4980, Section 16-22).

School Land Sale Set

By KRISTI GRABEAL
News Education Editor
Not since the 1889 Land Run has such an opportunity existed to acquire land in Oklahoma. The School Land Trust is offering for sale 99 select parcels of land, 14,769 acres, that are part of Oklahoma's original school land grant, with the proceeds from the land sales to be reinvested in the education of our state's children. This offering is the first in a series of auctions to be held over the next 12 to 16 years with a total of 500,000 acres to be sold by the State of Oklahoma.
The sale will begin on Sept. 30 and continue until Oct. 11. The Commissioners of the Land Office have designated property in 16 counties for the fall sale.
Here in Kay County, the auction is set for Sept. 30 along with Noble and Logan counties. Payne county will hold its auction on Oct. 1. Other counties across Oklahoma to hold auctions include: Alfalfa, Atoka, Comanche, Cotton, Craig, Jefferson, Lincoln, Noble, Pawnee, Pittsburg and Pottawatomie. These auctions will be held throughout Oct. 11.
"It's a privilege to announce the largest statewide land offering since the Boomers and Sooners made history in the Oklahoma Land Run," said Secretary Rob Johnson.
After conducting a thorough evaluation of all its properties, the Commissioners of the Land Office made the decision to sell select parcels of school land. Farming, grazing, fishing, hunting, development and even commercial tracts will be auctioned.
"During fiscal year 1996, ending June 30, the School Land Trust was proud to distribute $52,778,037 to public schools and universities throughout the state, and we continue to look for ways to build the Trust's profitability," Johnson said. "Land sale will increase school income, plus we will impact school revenue in another significant way. For the first time, these properties will be placed on ad valorem tax rolls, generating additional revenue for county government."
Detailed lists of properties are available from the Commissioners of the Land Office Real Estate Management Division. This list includes legal descriptions, appraised values and appraisals of improvements.
According to state law, school land must be sold at public auction for no less than its appraised value. Any improvements on the land are appraised separately and the value of the improvements are added to the purchase price of the land.
"When the sales are completed on Oct. 11, the citizens of Oklahoma can count on three things. We will have made history with the largest public land offering since the Oklahoma Land Run. We will have made it possible for many people to purchase land for many diverse purposes. And most importantly, we will have made money to support public schools, colleges and universities," Johnson said.
All questions regarding land scheduled for sale this fall, should be directed to the Commissioners of The Land Office Real Estate Management Division at (800) 522-8164.

Kay County Court Clerk Candidate at GOP Event

Representatives for Glenda Coussens Emerson, Kay County Court Clerk, will be featured at the Kay County Republican Party on Thursday, according to Chairman Deanna Hunter. The meeting will convene at 7 p.m., at the Ponca City Library, Fifth and Grand.
Tom Morris, campaign treasurer, and Carolyn Kahle, First Deputy Court Clerk will be on hand to speak about Emerson's campaign. Emerson was first elected in 1984, after serving the office of Deputy Court Clerk for five years.
The Court Clerk employs a staff of 15, the same number she started with in 1984. With offices in Ponca City, Blackwell and Newkirk, the Court Clerk's office is responsible for maintaining District Court records in accordance with law and Court rules which requires special knowledge and experience.
Emerson's knowledge and experience has led her to currently serving an appointment on the executive board of the Oklahoma State Court Clerk's Association, according to Hunter. The Board molds future legislation and procedures for Court Clerks' offices statewide. She has also served in every official capacity of the Northwest District County Offices Association, as well as numerous offices and terms within the Republican Party.
Other candidates for County offices will also be on hand and plans for upcoming events will be discussed. Hunter encourages all area Republicans to attend.

District Court

Newkirk
Criminal Proceedings
Plea Entered - Philip Ballard Jr. of Ponca City, charged with two counts of unlawful delivery of a controlled dangerous substance (marijuana). Defendant pled guilty to the incident which occurred on Oct. 18, 1995. Defendant sentenced to serve five years, however, after serving one, the balance is suspended. One count was dismissed on July 26, by Judge Welch during the preliminary hearing of co-defendant. A fine in the amount of $10,000 with $9,000 suspended was invoked. Defendant required to pay $1,000. to the drug enforcement fund. As a part of plea negotiations, state agreed no application will be filed on two counts of burglary of automobile which allegedly occurred on June 22, 1994. The matter came before the Honorable Leslie Page, Associate District Attorney Lee Turner, Assistant District Attorney, appeared for the state and Royce Hobbs, appeared as counsel for defendant.
Guilty Plea - Jacob Greenwell of Ponca City, charged with unlawful delivery of a controlled dangerous substance (marijuana). Defendant pled guilty. Defendant sentence deferred for five years and fined $10,000 with $9,000 suspended. Also, defendant required to pay $1,000 to the drug enforcement fund and ordered to perform 200 hours of community service. The incident occurred on Dec. 20, 1995. On the charge of unlawful delivery of a controlled dangerous substance, which occurred on Dec. 19, 1995, defendant's sentence was deferred for five years, concurrent with the previous charge. The matter was heard before Judge Page. Turner appeared for the state, and Hobbs represented the defendant.
No Contest - Aaron Michael Lyman Struble of Ponca City, charged with two counts of burglary in the second degree and a third count of false pawn declaration on March 1. Defendant pled no contest to the first two counts and guilty to the third. After no prior felony convictions, state recommended the defendant be sentenced to seven years, however, after serving eight months, the balance will be suspended upon the condition that he commit no further law violations and pay restitution in the amount of $2,220 as well as a $100 fine for the first count. On the second count, defendant was sentenced to seven years, to serve eight months concurrently with the first count. The balance will be suspended upon the same conditions as outlined for count one. Judge Page presided and Assistant District Attorney Ed Goodman represented the state. Defendant's attorney was Thomas Salisbury.
Plea Entered - Michael Anthony Williams of Ponca City, charged with grand larceny on July 25, 1995. Defendant pled guilty and after no prior felony convictions, state recommended and court concurred that he be sentenced to one year, upon conditions the defendant commit to further law violations. The matter was heard before Judge Page. Goodman appeared for the state and Salisbury represented the defendant.
Pled Guilty - Timothy Patrick Mulstay of Conrad, Iowa, charged with unlawful possession of a controlled dangerous substance (marijuana) with intent to distribute. Defendant entered a plea of guilty and was sentenced to five years with all time suspended. Defendant was fined $10,000 with $9,000 suspended. He was also to pay $1,000 to the drug enforcement fund. Court ordered forfeiture of the 1991 Ford pickup. The incident occurred on March 7. Turner represented the state in front of Judge Page. Defendant's counsel was Brian Hermanson.
Defendant Pleads - John Exton Curtis of Blackwell, charged with failure to return rental property on Dec. 13. Defendant pled guilty. After no prior felony convictions, state recommended defendant's sentence deferred for one year, upon conditions that no further law violations are committed. He was fined $200.
Sentence Suspended - Annette R. Aldridge of Medford, charged with obtaining cash and or merchandise by bogus check on Feb. 3. Defendant pled guilty and sentenced to serve one year with all time suspended upon the condition that no laws are violated. She was also fined $100. The matter came before Judge Donald C. Welch. State was represented by Assistant District Attorney Brian Surber and defendant's counsel was Craig Franseen.
Plea Entered - Edmond Lee Sroufe Jr. of Ponca City, charged with conspiracy to commit use of a vehicle to facilitate use of a firearm on May 1. Defendant pled guilty and is sentenced to 10 years, concurrent to previous sentence. The matter was heard before D.W. Boyd. Assistant District Attorney Lisa Tate appeared for state and Jack De McCarty appeared for the defendant.
Hearing Waived - Melissa Dawn Bonner aka Melissa Dawn Coleman of Ponca City, charged with robbery with a dangerous weapon. The alleged incident occurred on June 19, 1995. Defendant announced her wish to withdraw motion to certify as a child and to waive further preliminary hearing. Court ordered. Defendant bound over for formal arraignment before Judge Page on Sept. 12. State moved to amend information to assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and court agreed. Defendant pled guilty to amended information. Sentencing was deferred for five years, upon the condition that the defendant violate no other laws. Defendant will be on supervised probation and required to pay $1,000. Tate appeared for state and Mike Trewitt appeared for defendant.
Motion Withdrawn - Jodi Nichole Hilbert of Ponca City, charged with robbery with a dangerous weapon on June 19, 1995. The defendant announced her wish to withdraw motion to certify as a child and to waive further preliminary hearing. Defendant's parents were present and stated they are in agreement. Court allowed withdrawal of motion. Defendant appeared with her attorney Hobbs. State moved to amend the information to assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and court so ordered. Defendant pled guilty and was sentenced to five years with all time suspended upon the condition the defendant violate no other laws. Defendant will be on supervised probation and required to pay a fee of $1,000. Court allowed the defendant to transfer probation to Biloxi, Miss. where she will reside. The matter was heard before Judge Welch and Tate appeared for the state.
Hearing Continued - Chad E. Longnecker of Wichita, Kan., charged with felony count of trafficking in marijuana, a misdemeanor count of attempt to elude, a misdemeanor count of reckless driving, and misdemeanor count of failure to carry security verification form. The alleged incident occurred on Sept. 13, 1995. Preliminary hearing continued for Sept. 27, at 2 p.m.
Time Suspended - Billy Ray Thurman of Ponca City, sentenced to six years to serve six months for the charge of burglary in the second degree which occurred on Sept. 17, 1995. The court allowed the defendant to be released for medical reasons and good cause shown as per agreement of defendant's counsel, Tom Salisbury and Goodman, for the state. Balance of time is suspended.

Public Power Week Oct. 6-12

The Tenth Annual Public Power Week will be held Oct. 6 through Oct. 12 to honor the Ponca City Utility Authority, its consumer-owners, policy makers and employees.
The week was initiated by the American Public Power Association in 1987 to educate consumers and the public about public power's public service mission and community betterment goals, according to Mayor Marilyn Andrews.
PCUA provides area homes, businesses, farms, social service and local government agencies with reliable, efficient and cost-effective electricity employing sound business practices designed to ensure the best possible service at the lowest possible rates, Andrews stated.
PCUA is a part of a community of about 2,000 public power systems in the U.S. that through consumer-ownership ensure cost-cutting competition in the electric utility industry to the benefit of electricity consumers.

State Grants Heading to Small Kay County Fire Departments

OKLAHOMA CITY - Kay County fire departments will receive grants from the state, according to Sen. Paul Muegge. The state plans to distribute grant checks in the amount of $1,225.49 to Blackwell, the Dale Township Fire District, Kaw City, Kildare, Newkirk, Peckham, Tonkawa, Ranch Drive and 106 Fire District.
"It's expensive to fight fires and protect the public," Muegge said. "We ask a lot of the men and women who put their lives on the line every day fighting fires," he added. "It's only appropriate that we try to get them as much assistance as possible to help them to do their job."
Grant money can be used for basic operation expenses such as supplies and equipment purchases.
This year, the legislature appropriated $1 million for fire grants. Funding was divided among 816 rural departments. Only towns or fire districts with less than 10,000 people were eligible for funding.

Fire Prevention Week Scheduled

To commemorate the great Chicago Fire of 1871, which killed more than 250 people and left 100,000 homeless, Fire Prevention Week will be held Oct. 6 through Oct. 12, according to Mayor Marilyn Andrews.
The 1996 Fire Prevention Week theme, "Let's Hear it for Fire Safety: Test Your Detectors!", maintains the awareness that smoke detectors are the first line of defense against fire, Andrews said. Research shows that having a smoke detector cuts the risk of dying in a fire nearly in half.
Ninety percent of U.S. homes have at least one smoke detector. Estimates show that about one-third of fires which occur in homes have smoke detectors that are not working, usually due to dead or missing batteries.
Andrews indicated the community goal is to have a working smoke detector properly installed in each home.
"A smoke detector that isn't working can't protect us from deadly smoke and fire," stated Andrews.
Local efforts of the fire service are supported by organizations such as the American Burn Association, the American Red Cross, the Congressional Fire Services Institute, the Fire Marshals Association of North America, the International Association of Fire Fighters, the International Association of Black Professional Firefighters, the National Association of State Fire Marshals, the National Fire Protection Association, the National Volunteer Fire Council and the United States Fire Administration.

Emergency Sirens To Sound Thursday

The testing of the Ponca City emergency siren warning system will be held at noon, every Thursday, according to Tom Montgomery, emergency management operations officer.
The test is scheduled throughout the year.
Montgomery said that in case of inclement weather, the test will be postponed, and in this case or if additional tests are planned, the public will be notified by the Ponca City News and the radio stations.

Red Cross Relief Funds Dwindling

The America Red Cross has assisted more than 22,000 families to recover from damage caused by Hurricanes Fran and Hortense, according to Red Cross official records. Red Cross assistance to those affected can include replacement of basic necessities lost in the disasters, crisis counseling, temporary housing, and replacement of prescription medications.
It is estimated that the cost of providing these services will pass $25 million, stressing the already low disaster relief fund which is maintained to finance the American Red Cross disaster services. As of midnight, Sept. 22, the Red Cross had sheltered 48,184 individuals and had served 681,257 meals. Sixty-five shelters remained open housing 2,580 individuals.
All Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary gifts of time and money from the American people. The Red Cross is not a government agency. To help the victims of this and other disasters, call 1-800-HELP NOW, or send a check payable to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund to your local chapter of the American Red Cross. The Ponca City Chapter address is 525 Lake Road, Ponca City, OK 74604. The local chapter serves eastern Kay, northern Noble, Osage, and Pawnee counties.

DHS Honors Opportunity Center of P.C.

Opportunity Center, Inc. of Ponca City has been honored by the Department of Human Services with a Certificate of Excellence for outstanding services to persons with developmental disabilities.
The DHS Developmental Disabilities Services Division presents awards to those service providers who achieve 85 percent compliance or higher in meeting the standards of The Accreditation Council.
Dennis Bean, DDSD director of quality assurance, said The Accreditation Council is the national non-profit organization which establishes the standards which must be met by those who provide services for people with developmental disabilities.
He said standards developed by the council reflect optimum outcomes rather than minimum requirements.
Opportunity Center, Inc. achieved a compliance level of 92 percent. This agency provides employment and residential services for persons with developmental disabilities.

Ponca Citians Set to Appear In NOC Show

Ponca Citians Juli Adams, Paul Archer, Marie Beyer and Cara Kem will appear in "The No-Frills Revue," the first show of the theatre season scheduled at Northern Oklahoma College this year.
Kem, a Ponca City High School senior, is a concurrent student at Northern. The three other actors are studying at Northern.
Mariann Priboy, director, selected a total of 12 actors with singing and dancing skills to perform in the revue opening Oct. 10 in the Northern Performing Arts Center.
Also cast in the fast-moving production are Molly Hall, Edmond; Shawn Clark, Medford; Kristi Kirkpatrick, Katie Thompson and Bradley Ellis, Enid; Miles Moss, Stillwater; Kelly Haikin, Crescent; and Kimberly Guitron, Perry.
"The No-Frills Revue" was partially written and compiled by Martin Charnin, best known for his musical hit "Annie." The show is comprised of songs and sketches or scenes in one act, accompanied by a combo trio. The revue contains adult language and situations.

Handcrafted Items at Oktoberfest

Everyone with an eye for handcrafted items or a yearning for original art will want to be sure and come to the Marland Estate Commission's Oktoberfest set for Oct. 5 and 6 on the grounds of the historic Marland Mansion.
About 100 arts and crafts booths will be situated on the grounds of the estate, according to Sherry Tapp, chairman of the arts and crafts.
The event is shaping up to have a regional flair with crafters traveling from Texas, Kansas, Colorado and Oklahoma to show their wares at the annual Oktoberfest, which raises restoration funds for the Marland Mansion.
Handcrafted items range from clocks, handwoven baskets, jewelry, clothing and wooden items including furniture. These crafters will also include items such as tole paintings, pastel portraits, chimes, purses, birdhouses and ceramics, Barbie toys, soft sculptures, quilts and even items for pets will be on display.
Holiday decorating items and gifts for Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas will also be in the offering. Come join the fun at the Oktoberfest as there promises to be something for every one, according to Tapp.

GOP Women Hear From Candidates; Get Information on Upcoming Tax Vote

GOP women heard three speakers at the regular meeting of the Evening Chapter Republican Women's Club held recently at Golden Corral.
Pat Schieber, candidate for County Treasurer, reviewed her qualifications for the position. She has a background in bookkeeping and accounting, and has taken numerous courses related to investments. She has also assisted her husband in the cattle business and, of necessity, learned to handle tight budgets. She has 15 years experience in the County Treasurer's office and pledges professionalism, accuracy in accounting for the county's money, and wise investment strategies.
Linda Smith spoke as a candidate for Kay County Clerk. Her early work record included four years in the Treasurer's office. After motherhood, she worked at First National Bank in the credit department, Southwest Business Products in sales, sold real estate at Group One and worked for Security Title. She said she is familiar with the computing system used in the clerk's office and feels her varied and related experiences qualify her for the office.
Jim Holt represented the Economic Development Foundation, stating "a good voter is an informed voter." His purpose was to explain the 1/2 cent additional sales tax to be voted on Oct. 8. He said, "Now is the time to build our job base. The future of Ponca City's job market is uncertain. We must be prepared to offset future job layoffs."
The present city sales tax is 7 1/2 cents per dollar and is allocated 4 1/2 cents to the State of Oklahoma, 2 cents to city operation, 1/2 cent to roads and street, and 1/2 cent to EDF. The 1/2 cent tax for jobs (EDF) started in 1994 and now, only two years later, has created 1,000 new jobs with payrolls of 20 million through six companies. These six companies will grow to 2000 total jobs with payrolls exceeding $34 million in three more years. For every dollar we invest in jobs, Holt said, our community gets $4.30.
The additional 1/2 cent sales tax would begin around Jan. 1 and be in effect for five years. It could not be extended without a vote of the people. It is planned to include a revolving loan pool for low-interest loans for new businesses and expansions. The additional 1/2 cent tax is expected to create 1,750 more jobs in Ponca City.
It is now required that any new jobs coming into Oklahoma must provide medical insurance which helps keep medical costs down for all of us. Benefits also come to local vendors and businesses, revenues increase to the city and schools, retail sales increase, unemployment drops and property values stay stable.
Holt stressed that the EDF can only make recommendations. The City Commission makes all decisions and contracts. All monies go to Ponca City and are earmarked for economic development and jobs. Annual audits are required by law. He reminded the group that we can no longer depend on the oil and gas industry but must look to additional jobs for Ponca City. "Don't forget the date," Holt reminded the group, "Oct. 8."
President Ila McKee presided at the meeting. Fauna Olmstead gave the invocation and Daisy Johnson led the Pledge of Allegiance.
The Kay County Republican Women, Evening Chapter, meets on the third Thursday of each month at Golden Corral at Fourteenth and Bradley. Meetings begin at 7 p.m. with dinner at 6 p.m. Meetings are open to everyone.

Columnist Joyce Hifler Here to Autograph Books

Inspirational writer and nationally syndicated columnist, Joyce Sequichie Hifler, will be in Ponca City on Saturday to autograph at Brace Books and More on North Fourteenth.
From 1 to 3 p.m. she will meet the public and autograph copies of her inspirational books, "A Cherokee Feast of Days", volumes 1 and 2, and "Think on These Things", published by Council Oak Books of Tulsa.
The newest book, "A Cherokee Feast of Days," volume 2, is a book of daily meditational readings based on Native American wisdom, and brings readers more of the insight and inspiration of Hifler's Cherokee heritage, as well as that of other Native Americans. This she blends with her own experience in the twentieth century world.
Inherent in her writing is a deep appreciation of nature and the understanding that as we experience our connections with the natural world we gain strength and joy in living. Nothing escapes Hifler's notice, from the tiniest leaf bud to the grandest sunset. From these she draws the lessons for daily life which have inspired thousands.
Each day's reading includes a key Cherokee word and its translation, as well as a quote from a Native American historical figure or spiritual leader.
Descended from Cherokees who migrated to northeastern Oklahoma over the Trail of Tears, Hifler is the granddaughter of a non-denominational minister who preached in the Cherokee language. She grew up as an only child in those same hills where her ancestors settled. Her early experiences as she walked in those ancestral woods and discovered nature's beauty and harmony provided much of the inspiration for her writings. Today, she still holds title to that Indian land which was her family's allotment.
Now a nationally syndicated inspirational columnist and author of six inspirational books, Hifler lives with her husband of 24 years outside Bartlesville, Okla.
Publisher's Weekly said of her newest book, that "the virtues of patience, compassion and healing are foremost among the qualities that these enlightening meditations teach."

Kay County Inmates Seek Early Release

By LAURA TREADWAY
News Staff Writer
Ten inmates will be considered for parole, pre-parole conditional supervision or mandatory parole review by the State of Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board in October. They were sentenced from the District Courts of Kay County.
Cases will be heard at Mabel Bassett Correctional Center in Oklahoma City on Oct. 16. The meetings are scheduled to begin at 7 a.m.
Comments concerning any inmate on the docket must be submitted in writing and be received by the Pardon and Parole Board at 4040 North Lincoln, Suite 219, Oklahoma City, Okla., 73105-5221 no later than noon, Oct. 9.
Three inmates listed on the Parole Docket include Jammie D. Bonner, Melvin Hyde Jr. and Leroy C. Williams. Bonner received a five year sentence and a four year sentence for rape in the second degree. One 15-year sentence, one 10-year sentence and two two-year sentences were given to Hyde for rape. Williams, charged with battery on a police officer, was sentenced to 10 years.
Additionally, consideration will be given to four inmates on the Pre-Parole Conditional Supervision Docket. Janet O. Carr is serving six years for traffic in controlled dangerous substance (marijuana). James D. Goza, charged with arson is serving a 20-year sentence.
Richard D. Nichols is serving an eight-year sentence for unlawful delivery of controlled dangerous substance. James H. Northcross received a 99-year sentence for assault and battery with a dangerous weapon.
The Mandatory Parole Review Docket involves three inmates. John L. Klinger Jr. is serving a 10-year sentence for knowingly concealing stolen property. Gumaro Lopez, charged with traffic in controlled dangerous substance (marijuana), serves a four-year sentence. Danny M. Oxford received a 20-year sentence for perjury.

Armed Robbery Investigation Still Going On

No arrests have been made in the armed robbery that occurred in the parking lot of Perkins Restaurant Monday, according to the Ponca City Police Department. The incident remains under investigation.
Police investigation indicated that a subject apparently approached an employee in the parking lot, used an unknown substance that caused a temporary loss of vision to the employee, and escaped with an undetermined amount of money.
The restaurant had no comments regarding the incident.
Anyone with additional information concerning the crime, is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 762-5100 or the detective division of the police department, 767-0376.

NEWS BRIEFS

Pre-Game Dinner - Serve and Volley (Tennis) booster club pizza dinner, Sept. 27, 5:30-7 p.m., Po-Hi Cafeteria. Tickets $4.

Water Walking - Go for a walk - in the Water! Water Walking's 30-minute exercise classes at Community Pool, Seventh and Grand, meet Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 8:15 a.m. According to instructors, 30 minutes of water walking is equivalent to two hours of walking on land. Call the YMCA for details, 765-5417.

Aqua Kids - Parents are invited to enroll their children today in Aqua Kids, a developmental aquatic program for children five to 12. The class meets at Community Pool, Seventh and Grand. Call the YMCA, 765-5417.

Reports for Duty - Marine Pfc. Rocky E. Jones, son of Debra L. and Rocky E. Jones Sr. of Ponca City, has reported for duty with Marine Attack Squadron 231, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Corps Air Station, Cherry Point, N.C. Jones' assignment is an example of how Navy and Marine Corps men and women are assigned to ships, squadrons and shore commands around the world. Jones, a 1995 graduate of Ponca City High School, joined the Marine Corps the same year.

Marine Promoted - Marine Lance Cpl. Donald R. Garrett, son of Don and Linda L. Garrett of Tonkawa, was promoted to his present rank while serving with Inspector and Instructor Staff, Navy and Marine Corps Reserve Center, Wichita. Garrett was promoted based on sustained superior job performance and proficiency in his designated specilalty. A 1992 graduate of Alta Vista (Calif.) High School, Garrett joined the Marine Corps in June 1995.

Senior Citizens Dance Set - A senior citizens dance will be held from 7 to 10 p.m. on Friday at the Senior Citizens building, 320 South A in Arkansas City. The Pete Coli Band will be playing for dancing. All seniors are invited to attend. Bring a favorite finger food to share.

Benefit Dinner - A five-course gourmet dinner will be held Sept. 30 at 7 p.m. at Ristorante Bravo to benefit the Child Development Center. Cost is $50 per person. Reservations may be made with Jodi at the Boettcher Law Firm, 765-2541.

Legion Meeting - There will be a regular meeting of the American Legion Thursday, 7:30 p.m., Huff-Minor American Legion Post 14, 407 West South Avenue.

Ponca Tribal Language Program Set - The time schedule for the Ponca Tribal Language program has been announced. Meeting on Monday at 7 p.m. is Heduska Singing. Other classes include Beginning Ponca Language on Tuesday at 7 p.m., Beginning Ponca Grammar on Wednesday at 7 p.m., Advanced Ponca on Thursday at 7 p.m. and Traditional Ponca Church Hymns on Sunday at 3 p.m.

Circus Benefits Kids Inc. - Area residents that have been receiving telemarketing calls from the George Carden Circus can rest assured that a portion of the ticket sales will go to Kids Inc. of Ponca City. The circus, which is coming Oct. 29, is in the process of selling advance tickets for the circus. For further information, call 765-2957.

Church Fund Raiser - Kay City United Methodist Church will have a chicken noodle dinner on Oct. 7 at 6 p.m. The cost is $5 for adults and $2.50 for children 12-years-of-age or younger. Proceeds will go for church and Sunday school.

Code Violation - The owner of a 1960's Camaro at North Comanche Avenue and East Sixth Street received a citation from a Ponca City police officer at 9:07 a.m. Tuesday for a code violation. The car had been marked for 48 hours. According to the PCPD, the owner moved the vehicle prior to the arrival of a wrecker.

Vandalism - A Ponca City police officer took a report on destruction of private property in the 300 block of West Hartford Avenue at 10:06 a.m. Tuesday. A man reported that his vehicle was vandalized.

Accident - A non-injury accident occurred in the 2000 block of North Fourteenth Street at 4:22 p.m. Tuesday, according to the Ponca City Police Department. An officer took a report.

Vandalism - A woman in the 200 block of North Oak Street advised a Ponca City police officer at 7:58 p.m. Tuesday that she saw juveniles in an old maroon car drive by and throw rocks at her windows. A report was taken.

Burglary - A Ponca City police officer took a report of a burglary in the 300 block of North Union Street at 12:22 a.m. Wednesday.

Gunshots - The Ponca City Police Department received several 911 calls in the 300 block of South Osage Street around 12:25 a.m. Wednesday reportedly heard gunshots in the alley between Osage Street and Palm Street. Officers found several shell casings for a .45 caliber gun at the scene. Six officers responded to the scene and spoke with juveniles who were in the area. A destruction of private property report was taken for bullet holes in a camper.

Arrested - A 24-year-old man was arrested by a Ponca City police officer at 1:35 a.m. Wednesday for driving under the influence and no insurance.

Curfew Violations - Ponca City police officer issued a curfew violation to a girl at Second Street and East Grand Avenue at 3:55 a.m. Wednesday. She was taken home. Two boys were released.

DEATHS

Mary Margaret Coffman

PALO ALTO, Calif. - Mary Margaret "Johnnie" Coffman died unexpectedly at Stanford University Hospital at Palo Alto, Calif. on Friday evening, Sept. 13, 1996. She had maintained homes at 735 North Pine in Ponca City and 390 Ringwood Ave., in Atherton, Calif. She was 83.
Funeral services were held at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Palo Alto, Calif. on Wednesday, Sept. 18, 1996 at 1 p.m. with the Rev. Stewart Crown officiating. Private burial was at Alta Mesa Cemetery in Palo Alto following the church service. Roller and Hapgood and Tinney of Palo Alto were in charge of arrangements.
Mary Margaret Coffman was born Oct. 21, 1912 in Broken Arrow, Okla., the daughter of Charles Sherman and Laura Katherine Turley. Her early childhood was spent in the Tulsa area and included the oil boom towns of Oilton and Jennings where her father was engaged in the real estate and hotel business. After the death of her mother in 1921, she and her sisters and brother were cared for by her father and her aunt, Margaret Turley Jackson.
The family came to Ponca City in 1924 and Mary Margaret completed her education. Known throughout her life by her nickname, "Johnnie", her childhood hobby was horses and riding. Her first horse was given to her by E.W. Marland, a family friend.
She was a member of the First Lutheran Church. She also had been active in Cub and Boy Scouts and did volunteer work for the American Heart Association and the American Cancer Society in Ponca City and in California.
She and Benjamin F. "Bennie" Coffman were married July 3, 1931 in Newkirk, Okla. They made their first home on their farm between Blackwell and Ponca City, moving into Ponca City in 1934. Mr. Coffman was employed by Continental Oil Co., until his retirement in 1971. She and her husband celebrated their 47th wedding anniversary in California shortly before his death on July 28, 1978.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her mother, father and three sisters, Faye Marie, Estel and Marion Turley in their infancy, by her brother, Hugh Turley and her sisters, Jane Myers, Tincie Anna Grayson and Eva Greenwood.
She is survived by her sons, Sherman of Atherton, Calif., and Todd of Lakewood, Colo.; two grandsons, a granddaughter and great-granddaughter.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. Coffman's memory to the Trinity Lutheran Church, 1295 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto, Calif., 94301. The family may be reached at 390 Ringwood Ave., Atherton, Calif. 94025 or by calling 415-323-2900.

Camille E. Ross

FAIRFAX - Camille E. Ross, resident of Loveland, Colo. and a former resident of Fairfax, Okla., died Saturday, Sept. 21, 1996 at 7 p.m. at her home in Loveland. She was 66.
The funeral service will be Friday, Sept. 27, 1996 at 11 a.m. in the Fairfax Cemetery with Fr. Bill Powell of Stillwater officiating. Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home, Fairfax is in charge of arrangements.
Camille E. Ross was born Nov. 3, 1929 in Fairfax, the daughter of John Abner and Iva Presbury Thornburg. She grew up in Fairfax and attended Fairfax schools, graduating from Fairfax High School in 1947. She attended the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, graduating in 1969 with a degree in Elementary Education. She later attended Oklahoma State University.
She and Marvin Gene Ross were united in marriage on Feb. 1, 1950 in Stillwater. She taught third grade for the Thompson R2J Schools in Loveland, later at Van Buren and Lincoln, and for Namaqua Elementary Schools, retiring in 1989 with 20 years service as a teacher.
She was a communicant of All Saints Episcopal Church in Loveland; belonged to the Kappa Delta Sorority, Orient Chapter of Order of Eastern Star, Camco Antique Club, Daughters of the American Revolution, the Trinity All Saints Handbell Choir, Loveland Retired School Employees Association, and was a charter member of the Loveland Senior Police Volunteers.
She received a special award as the author of the 1994 Loveland Valentine Cachet Poem.
Surviving are her husband, Gene of the home; one son, David of San Diego, Calif., two daughters, Cathy Linn of Fruita, Colo. and Nancy Poloske of Antioch, Calif.; also her mother-in-law and five grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Carolyn.

Services Pending

Karen Crapo
Karen Ramsdell Crapo, daughter of Jack and Rosemary Ramsdell, 2705 Homestead, died Sunday, Sept. 22, 1996 in Micanopy, Fla. She was 46.
Funeral arrangements are pending with the Trout Funeral Home and will be announced later.

Thelma Weddle
Thelma Weddle, longtime Ponca City resident, died Tuesday, Sept. 24, 1996 in Albuquerque, N.M. She was 90.
Funeral arrangements are pending with the Trout Funeral Home, and will be announced later.

Bertha Grimm
Bertha Grimm, longtime Ponca City resident, died Tuesday, Sept. 24, 1996, in the Ponca City Nursing Home. She was 87.
Funeral arrangements are pending with the Trout Funeral Home, and will be announced later.

Maudie Jenkins
Maudie Jenkins, longtime resident of Ponca City, died Wednesday, Sept. 25, 1996 at her home. She was 83.
Funeral arrangements are pending with Grace Memorial Chapel, and will be announced later.

FAMILY LIVING

Chapter Names Logan Valentine Queen

Prior to the Sept. 19 meeting of Xi Zeta Lambda chapter of Beta Sigma Phi, Shari Conaley of the American Red Cross gave a program called "When an Adult Is Choking." She also spoke about the many classes available. Melva Keen, president, called the business meeting to order in the home of Terri Barnett, with 15 members standing for the Opening Ritual. Mrs. Keen read a letter from Patsy Bray, Red Cross Donor Recruitment representative, which said there were many programs available through the Red Cross and to call if the chapter was interested in others.
Andra Kasselman, corresponding secretary, called roll and read minutes of the previous meeting. She also read minutes of the executive board meeting held in the home of Mrs. Keen. Judy Watt gave the treasurer's report. A vote was taken following a discussion of changes to Xi Zeta Lambda's officer duties, standing rules and bylaws.
Lila Logan was elected chapter Valentine Queen at the Sept. 5 meeting. She will represent the chapter at the annual Valentine Ball in February. Mrs. Logan reported the next meeting will be in the home of Tobie Neal, who would also be in charge of the program.
Judy Mallory and Doretta Jackson, social chairmen, reported there would be a hayrack ride Sept. 28. Everyone is to meet at 6:30 p.m. at the home of Jeannine Gemmill. It was also announced the theme for this year's Halloween party would be "Hobos." The party and hobo dinner will follow the Oct. 17 meeting. Members were asked to mark their calendar for the first Saturday in December so as to be available for the Lighted Christmas Parade.
Due to the chapter voting to drop the annual booth at Oktoberfest, the ways and means committee was asked to review past budgets and submit a report on the minimum amount needed per member in order to meet chapter needs.
Karen Baurichter, 1996-97 president-elect, is moving to Houston and a going away party is planned. Calling will notify chapter members.
The traveling basket was won by Nida Austin.
A surprise breakfast was held Sept. 20 in the home of Dottie Johnstone. Judy Mallory and Doretta Jackson announced the breakfast was the September social and there would be no hayrack ride Sept. 28.

Aqua Jog Water Exercise Classes Scheduled for Fall

Aqua Jog, an aquatic exercise class held in the deep well, will be offered at three different class times for the fall; Monday, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, with Susan Henning, from 8:15 to 9 a.m.; Tuesday and Thursdays, 5:15 to 6 p.m., with Deena Marazas; and Saturdays, 10 to 10:45 a.m., with Amy Allen, at the YMCA Community Pool.
Enrollment is by daily walk-in fee, monthly fee, or free for YMCA members. Participants wear a flotation belt to keep them floating at shoulder level in the water. One does not have to know how to swim in order to participate.
Instructors for the classes are certified in YMCA Water Exercise and Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Exercise and are also certified lifeguards.
The United States Water Fitness Association (USWFA) reports an ever increasing popularity of water exercise. YMCA officials report participants in the classes find they can increase flexibility, cardiovascular stren-gth and endurance while reducing impact to their joints.
Officials added that, due to the increase in resistance of 12 times in water over the air, exercisers can burn twice the amount of calories per hour as a workout on land.
Class participants stay cool while working through a thermal warm-up, pre-stretch, and a 20- to 25-minute aerobic segment. The class comes to a close with an abdominal segment and a cool-down stretch.
Class routines and music are changed bimonthly to continue to challenge and encourage students to "stick to" a lifelong exercise opportunity. Child care is available during the week. For details, call the YMCA at 765-5417.

Selecting Quality Child Care

According to Mary Rhyne, Kay County Extension home economist, a survey conducted in 1990 showed that parents considered a warm and loving caregiver the most important factor in selecting a child caregiver. "While this is important, child care professionals urge parents to also consider other factors such as licensing, caregiver training, and appropriate programming as well," Rhyne said.
Quality programs can be found in churches, public schools, corporate businesses, as well as child care centers and family homes. There are general broad principles, however, that determine the appropriateness of these programs, such as interactions among caregivers and children' activities planned for children and communication with parents.
"Parents who are looking for child care are encouraged to visit the child care facility," Rhyne said. "Your first visit may require an appointment. but following ones should be welcomed on a "drop in' basis. Be sure to visit a child care facility more than once and at varying times of the day before making your final decision.
Rhyne said that basics parents should note about the caregiver include cleanliness, response to the children, careful listening skills, going to the children to speak, a sense of humor, interacting with the children and smiling, hugging, and enjoying the children.
"The importance of only dealing with a licensed facility cannot be overemphasized," Rhyne warned. "There are certain guidelines caregivers must follow in a licensed facility. Parents can be assured that the facility is visited at least three times a year by a state agent who checks to make sure that standards in health and safety, appropriate equipment, and caregiver training requirements are met. Training in child development and early childhood education helps caregivers guide children in several ways."
She noted that trained caregivers know what behavior to expect at each age level and do not have unrealistic expectations of children. "For example, sharing is not developmentally appropriate for two-year-olds," she said. "Trained caregivers will have several of the same toy to avoid conflicts or she will offer other choices to a child instead of forcing sharing or punishing for not sharing.
"When discipline is needed, it is done with respect. It is done quietly and shows the child what he may do, not just what he cannot do, and is suited to the misbehavior. For example, a child who throws sand may be guided to another area of the playground."
Rhyne added that child care facilities should have a parent manual which includes discipline techniques used at the center. "Discussing discipline with the caregiver will also be helpful," she said. Rhyne said that parents should consider asking questions such as:
"What training have you had in child development and guidance?"
"What would you do if my child hit another; wouldn't take a nap, used 'bad' language, etc.?"
Signs of appropriate discipline include quietly speaking to a misbehaving child alone, constant supervision of all children, stopping fights and name calling, helping children work out their differences, and activity centers set up for small groups to prevent misbehavior.
"Young children learn best as they play and manipulate materials," Rhyne said. "They need to experience life and learning in very concrete and active ways with real materials. It is inappropriate for children to sit quietly and do paperwork.
"In order to be informed consumers of child care, it is important to know what 'developmentally appropriate' means. In simple terms, it means the children's program is a play program. Activities planned are suited to the child's age and abilities. Equal importance is given to a child's physical, emotional, social, creative, and intellectual growth. No one part is more important than another since one builds upon another.
"Caregivers must have training in child development and early childhood education, in order to plan appropriate activities. Children have not changed over the years, but our pressures on them to learn more at an earlier age has increased. Pressuring pre-schoolers by forcing them into formal structured teaching situations may only dampen a child's natural enthusiasm for learning.
Selecting quality child care may seem overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. The OSU Cooperative Extension Service is participating in a nationwide campaign to help parents become better consumers of child care. For more information about selecting quality child care and a list of licensed facilities, contact the Kay County OSU Extension Center at 362-2200 or 362-3194 or the Kay County Department of Human Services at 1-800-493-7982. "Children are often in child care 50 hours a week," Rhyne said. "We want it to be the best."

Eta Delta Has Tour Of Pryse Monument

Eta Delta's second business meeting for the month of September was held at Pryse Monument. Nancy Pryse was hostess and gave members a guided tour of Pryse Monument, explaining how they worked on monuments and the fundamentals of their business.
A social will be held Saturday at 6 p.m. at the home of Carol Mounts. The next business meeting will be Oct. 14 at the home of Paula Harryman.

SPORTS

Po-Hi Line Confident In Selves

By FRED HILTON
News Sports Editor
Confidence and communication were the keys to the success the Wildcat running game had against Tulsa Memorial last week, according to offensive lineman Aaron Kreger.
Tailback Dennis Shields' 200-yard (officially upgraded to 202 yards on 29 carries) performance last week grabbed most of the fanfare. But as coaches and running backs keep saying, any success any back has starts up front.
"We found some confidence in ourselves," Kreger, a guard on offense and a tackle on defense, said Tuesday. "We were able to come together, go out and physically beat Memorial."
The result was a 350-yard rushing performance for the Cats. They accomplished that despite the fact the Chargers - like Tulsa East Central and Edmond North before them and like most teams the Cats will face in the future - threw up an eight-man front on defense.
In fact, Memorial at times had 10 players on the line of scrimmage.
How do you handle that many players, especially when they are blitzing and stunting?

"You abandon what you have planned," Kreger notes. "You have to communicate with the other linemen, let them know who is going to block who."

Changing blocking assignments at the line of scrimmage takes experience and for most of the Po-Hi offensive line, Friday was only their third varsity game.

"People have to remember I only have two players who were at that position last year," Wildcat offensive coordinator Terry Henderson said. "They are a bunch of puppies."
But they are a bunch of hard working puppies, according to Henderson.
"After all, we are 3-0," the coach notes.
That mark is not lost on the players.
"Oh, yeah, I like it," Kreger said of the Cats' record so far.
Kreger, 6-4, 264, is like most linemen in that he likes lining up and running at people. Pass blocking is a little harder, but once again the key is communication, he says.
"We're getting better at it," he says.
Kreger and his teammates know they have a big challenge ahead as they open district play against Stillwater here Friday, but he feels the Cats have a good chance.
"Stillwater has some good skill people," he notes. "But they don't have the big linemen they have had. They don't have a Denshio Cook (the 6-4, 260-pounder who is now at Oklahoma State). I think their biggest player is 6-2, 180 pounds. We can handle that."
Actually, the Pioneers are a little bigger than that but not by much.
Their starting offensive line averages 5-10 x 212 pounds and the defensive front four weighs in at an average of 207 pounds per man.
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Wildcat Notes - The Ponca City Quarterback Club will sponsor a Fifth Quarter at the Conoco Fourth Street Club House following Friday's game against Stillwater. Senior and junior parents are asked to bring cookies and brownies. Sophomore parents are asked to bring canned soft drinks.

6A-4 Teams Square Off This Week

By FRED HILTON
News Sports Editor
District 6A-4 play gets under way Friday and this first weekend of action should go a long way toward determining the district powers.
After three weeks of non-district play, there are four 3-0 teams and two of them clash Friday night at Sullins Stadium as Ponca City plays host to Stillwater. The Pioneers are ranked No. 6 in Class 6A, the Wildcats are unranked.
No. 9 ranked Sapulpa entertains 2-1 Tulsa Washington, which has rebounded from a season-opening loss to powerful Tulsa Union.
Unbeaten Sand Springs should have an easier time opening with undermanned Shawnee. The Wolves are winless so far.
In the other district matchup, two 1-2 teams, Enid and Bartlesville clash at Bartlesville.
Stillwater tops the District 6A-4 teams in the polls. The Pioneers have topped Edmond Santa Fe (31-21), Guthrie (21-12) and Edmond North (31-21). Stillwater has one of the top-rated quarterbacks in the state. Matt Holliday was 12-of-19 passing for 212 yards and four touchdowns against North.
Sapulpa has scored 110 points in three games, aided mightily by a 52-0 thrashing of Coffeyville, Kan., last week. Sapulpa opened with a 23-14 win over Broken Arrow and then eased past Tahlequah 35-14 in Week Two.
"I'm not sure that Sapulpa isn't the best team in the district," Wildcat coach Rick Sodowsky said.
Although the lopsided win at Coffeyville may be discounted, Sodowsky was impressed with the Chieftains' win over Broken Arrow and the follow-up victory against a good Tahlequah team.
Washington lost 38-12 to Union in the season opener but had little trouble against Tulsa McLain and Oklahoma City Douglas.
Sand Springs has sailed through its early schedule, beating Bixby 28-7, Tulsa Memorial 48-0 and Tulsa Edison 41-7. Shawnee has been struggling but has been in each game until Seminole ran off a 35-15 victory last Friday.
Enid is suffering from a bad case of schedule-itis. The Plainsmen faced No. 5 Norman in the season opener and fell 27-21 in overtime. They topped Memorial winning 30-3, but had to face No. 2 Jenks last week, losing 45-3.
Bartlesville has been held scoreless against Owasso and Broken Arrow, but the Bruins showed they have the potential when they slammed Tulsa Rogers 41-6 in Week Two.

6A-4 Standings
District 6A-4
Dist. All
School W-L W-L PF PA
Stillwater 0-0 3-0 89 54
Sapulpa 0-0 3-0 110 28
Sand Springs 0-0 3-0 117 14
Ponca City 0-0 3-0 50 27
Washington 0-0 2-1 74 71
Enid 0-0 1-2 54 75
Bartlesville 0-0 1-2 41 45
Shawnee 0-0 0-3 42 84
Week 1
Ponca City 21, T. East Central 14
T. Union 38, T. Washington 12
Stillwater 31, Edmond Santa Fe 21
Sapulpa 23, Broken Arrow 14
Norman 27, Enid 21 (OT)
Owsso 14, Bartlesville 0
Guthrie 22, Shawnee 6
Week 2
Ponca City 9, Edmond North 7
Stillwater 27, Guthrie 12
Sapulpa 35, Tahlequah 14
Sand Springs 48, T. Memorial 0
Washington 22, T. McLain 12
Enid 30. Edmond Memorial 3
Bartlesville 41, T. Rogers 6
Choctaw 27, Shawnee 21
Week 3
Ponca City 20, T. Memorial 6
Stillwater 31, Edmond North 21
Sapulpa 52, Coffeyville, Kan. 0
Sand Springs 41, T. Edison 7
T. Washington 40, OC Douglas 21
Jenks 45, Enid 3
Broken Arrow 28, Bartlesville 0
Seminole 35, Shawnee 15
Week 4
Stillwater at Ponca City
T. Washington at Sapulpa
Sand Springs at Shawnee
Enid at Bartlesville

Eighth Blue Footballers 3-0

ARKANSAS CITY - Ponca City's eighth grade Blue footballers improved to 3-0 on the season with a hard-fought 8-0 win over Ark City here Tuesday.
Steven Michael scored the game-winner on the first play of the fourth quarter as he broke loose for a 55-yard touchdown run. Billy Broughton added the two-point conversion and that put an end to the scoring.
According to head coach Mark Huster, the Cougars had other scoring opportunities but lost those on turnovers. Ponca City lost five fumbles in the game.
"The defense played really well but the turnovers really stopped us," said Huster, whose Blues host Enid Waller Thursday at Sullins Stadium beginning at 5 p.m.

Volleyballers Place Fifth

Fresh from their best outing of the season, the Lady Wildcat volleyball team steps up the pace this weekend, traveling to Skiatook Thursday and to the Norman Tournament Saturday.
The Lady Cats finished fifth in the Jenks Tournament last weekend, going against three of the top 5 teams in the state. The Poncans finished 1-2 against those rated team and 3-2 overall.
Ponca City opened against Tulsa Hale and won 15-7, 15-4 and had one of its better games of the season, according to coach Steve McKay.
Lauren Brune had three kills and two service aces. Heather Roth had two kills, five assists and an ace. Tiffani Essary had two kills and seven aces. Crystal Suggs had five kills and two assists. Amanda Hraban had two kills and an ace, Aileen Jackson had three aces and Caitlin Lane had two spikes for points.
In Game 2, the Poncans went up against No. 1 Jenks, losing 15-4, 15-11.
"We were the only team to score more than 10 points against Jenks," McKay said of the powerful Lady Trojans.
In that match, Essary had four kills, Suggs two kills and an assist and Brune one kill and an ace.
The Lady Cats rebounded against No. 5 Edmond Memorial, winning 15-3, 10-15, 15-11.
Brune had two kills and two aces, Suggs seven kills, five assists and two aces. Essary exploded for nine kills, four aces and six blocked shots for points. Hraban had four kills, Roth five kills and nine assist and Lane two blocks for points.
In Match 3, the Poncans rolled past El Reno 15-2, 15-3, with Essary getting six kills, three aces and six blocks while Roth had four kills and five assists and Suggs one kill, one assist and an ace.
That left the Poncans second in their pool play but it also pitted them against No. 4 Norman in the next round, "and they did a job on us," McKay said.
The Poncans were eliminated from championship play, 15-3, 15-1.
"Norman is good," McKay said. "But I think we ran out of gas a little."
Suggs was named to the All-Tournament team but McKay was unhappy the selection committee overlooked the play of Essary.

JV Play

WILDCAT RUNNING BACK Kentrell Wimms (21) finds a hole to run through behind the blocking of John Bateman, left, during Monday night's game between the Ponca City and Newkirk JV teams. Newkirk players are Nathaniel Klein (16) and Ben Vap (34). Ponca City won 30-0. (News Photo by Fred Hilton.

Mid-High Tennis

Ponca City's mid-high girls tennis team rolled to an 8-4 win over Stillwater Tuesday and saw its dual record improve to 7-0.
Up next, the Poncans will be split into two teams and will host the Ponca City Invitational Friday, weather permitting, beginning at 9 a.m.
Ark City, Winfield, Wichita Collegiate, Wellington and Stillwater are all scheduled to compete.
Results
Singles
No. 1 Alexander def. Fuhrman 8-2; No. 2 Winterrowd def. Kennedy 8-5; No. 3 Rolland lost to O'Neal 5-8; No. 4 Smith lost to McKeever 2-8; No. 5 Rutherford def. Malayer 8-1; No. 6 Summers lost to Martin 4-8; No. 7 Shaw def. Young 8-4; No. 8 Wilkinson def. Kay 8-5.
Doubles
No. 1 Alexander-Winterrowd def. Fuhrman-Kennedy 8-3; No. 2 Rolland-Smith lost to O'Neal-McKeever 7-8; No. 3 Rutherford-Summers def. Malayer-Martin 8-1; No. 4 Shaw-Wilkinson def. Kay-Young, 8-2.

BASS Club

PONCA CITY BASSMASTERS battled tough fishing conditions at Lake Eufaula to finish third in the Oklahoma BASS Federation State Championship. Team members include, from left (front) Jody Linder, Eric Wilson, Darrell Stolhand, (back) Robert Cartlidge, William Stuever and Al Jensen. Area fishermen are invited to take part in the Budweiser Tournament Oct. 5-6 at Kaw Lake. For information, contact Cartlidge (765-0165)

A Two-Man Fish

THIS 45-POUND FLATHEAD was caught by Mike Dady and Jim Azlin recently at Kaw Lake.