ABSOLUTLEY FABULOUS!!!

as i watched our final dress rehearsal last night (12/11), i was totally blown away. i wish you guys could sit where i did, and see what God is doing through all the hard work! wow! i am so proud of everyone - what a blessing for me to sit back and see physically played out what God put in our hearts months ago.
get some rest! the crowds for the performances are going to be blown away, as i was. God bless each one of you.
as always,
randy

Retha Cunningham and Her Sewing Sisters

It all started with a poodle skirt. That’s when the sewing talents of Retha Cunningham were discovered. Last spring, Retha’s granddaughter participated in the youth choir’s presentation of Sold Rock Café. The children were going to wear 50’s style clothing of a white shirt and blue jeans and saddle shoes. Retha suggested that the girls wear poodle skirts, and she offered to make them for all the girls. They turned out beautifully and Retha probably thought she was finished with sewing at church.

Enter Debbie Horton, who Randy had given the job of handling costumes, hair, and make-up for “A Time For Christmas.” If you’ve read Debbie’s bio, you’ll know that Debbie soon realized that God was leading her to form three subcommittees (one for hair, one for make-up, and one for costumes) and to assign and delegate some of the responsibilities she’d been given. Randy remembered Retha’s wonderful poodle skirts, and suggested Debbie contact Retha about the costumes. She did, and Retha agreed to help, probably not knowing what in the world she was agreeing to.

Actually, Retha’s sewing did not begin with a poodle skirt, but with little scraps of fabric that her mom used to teach her to sew before she was even old enough to go to school. She’s no stranger to sewing in large quantities, either, having made costumes for all the girls in her granddaughter’s dance recital. One year, she was making 40 red and white holiday dresses like the ones that Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen wore in the final scenes of White Christmas. She had a heart attack and says with a laugh, “I didn’t even get to see the performance!”

Retha has had many volunteers help with the costumes. Numerous ladies have come in to iron, cut, and sew, spending many hours and most every day at church working. I had the opportunity to sit down with Retha, Rose Lee, and Lynn Stauffer as they laughingly shared the fun they’ve had sewing together. Their self-proclaimed motto has been “leave it alone, it’s just a costume!” They explained that whenever someone got overly concerned about details such as the color of interior seams, they would remind themselves to “leave it alone” and just use whatever color of thread they had on hand because it’s only going to be on stage and no one in the audience will see those interior seams. They’ve teased each other about their mistakes and they’ve laughed until they’ve been sore! Their attitudes are so positive and they are all so lighthearted and cheerful. Retha is even sewing the last costumes while getting over pneumonia and I never heard one word of complaint.

Retha says that it is amazing how “A Time For Christmas” hasn’t even been performed yet, and it is already touching so many people. She told me about an elderly shut-in who was brought into the wound center by ambulance where she was cared for by Dr. Wolfe (his wife Carol is in the OCC choir). He realized this woman needed to get out and get involved in something, so he contacted Retha to see if she needed more sewing volunteers. The woman was so excited to have the opportunity to work on the costumes and was very disappointed when she was put in the hospital and wasn’t able to keep her commitment to sew. When she’s released, transportation is going to be arranged for her to start attending OCC and Retha plans to have her help with any sewing that might be left. Through these connections, all stemming from a production that hasn’t even been performed, this woman has received acceptance, friendship, hope, and the opportunity to be productive and feel needed.

After listening to all the stories these ladies had to tell, I suddenly wished I’d learned to sew, not only to be able to help them, but to be able to spend more time in their presence. When you come to see “A Time For Christmas,” and you see all the bright and beautiful costumes floating across the stage, be sure to remember how much work was put into them and the spirit with which they were so lovingly crafted.

MY BEAUTIFUL FAMILY

i just wanted to share this picture with everyone because it's my blog, and i think my family is amazing! i want to thank christianne, wesley, andrew, grace, aly, and emma!!! thanks for the support, the inspiration, the laughter (and sometimes tears...), the hugs and kisses, and your unending love for me... i am so proud to be a part of our family!!! i love you!

UPCOMING REHEARSAL SCHEDULE

we're coming down to the wire! hasn't the time just flown by?! ...in a good way.
here's what this week looks like. we will be finishing up on the set. if you would like to help out, contact me and i'll let you know when we will be working.
COSTUMES, COSTUMES, COSTUMES!!! if you can help sew, please contact me. retha and her team have done amazing things in the past few weeks... any help on this home stretch would be greatly appreciated!
wednesday night (6:45) choir/vocals will meet in the choir room for rehearsal.
next saturday at 1:00 there will be a tech run through. ANYONE WORKING THE SHOW (TECH ONLY) NEEDS TO BE THERE.
next sunday (12/3) 3:00 pm we will run the first act (scenes 1-6).

the weekend of dec 9 & 10, the cast/choir will sing "o little town" for all weekend services.

please download the rehearsal schedule on the "about the show" page for the upcoming rehearsals. THESE ARE CRUCIAL!!!

see you all very soon...
as always,
randy

FRIEND OF JESUS (by Mike Ivey)

mike ivey plays the role of master lewis. mike has been a part of our seasonal productions for many years. thanks mike for sending this to me.

Friend of Jesus

It is Easter afternoon. I have just eaten and looking forward to removing some of the excess growth from my face. You see I just participated in the Easter program at Owensboro Christian Church. While standing in front of the mirror, with my beard trimmer in hand, I am pondering what has taken place this past week.
As in any program such as this, it is a hectic time. There are times when you wonder if it will all come together. But then things start to gel and you can see the finished production coming into view. Then you can shift your focus from learning what to do and how to do it to what it is really all about. There are moments when you almost feel like you are the character you are portraying. Excitement and sorrow comes over you just like it would have happened back then.
Then came the question that I have thought about ever since I first started looking at myself in the mirror. While in costume and in the hallway at church, a two or three year old girl came up to me and asked, “Are you a friend of Jesus?” I answered her simply, “Yes I am.”
As I thought about her question, new questions came to me. Isn’t that really what it is ultimately all about? Are we friends of Jesus? Do we know him like we should to be considered a friend? Considering all that friendship brings with it. How simply a perfect question that sums up what this week was all about.
I assume she asked me that question because of the way I looked and was dressed. But I now consider it an honor to have been asked it. I am almost finished with the beard trimming and I will not look as I did before. It is quite possible I will never be asked that question again. But I know that even though my appearance has changed, I am a friend of Jesus. I hope you are one too.


Mike Ivey

Mary’s Mother, played by Debbie Garrett (by Marla Carter)

If Debbie Garrett could give one piece of advice to those around her, it would be to rely on God for every detail of life. Debbie has experienced enough mountains and valleys with God to know that His timing is always perfect and that she can do all things with His strength. Originally from Hancock county, Debbie has lived in numerous cities across the United States and has been in several churches as her husband was once in music ministry. After having gone through “a very deep valley,” God worked out every little detail to move her and her family to Owensboro in 2005.

Debbie is a legal assistant at Yewell Law and her husband Ron is an assistant program director at Wendell Foster, as well as a part time substitute teacher. They have three children—Brett, in the Navy and stationed in Virginia; Brittany, who works part time and goes to college part time; and Bryce, a junior at Daviess County High School. Debbie and her family attend Church For All where she and her husband sing with the praise team. Debbie’s best friend since the sixth grade is Donna Dooley, a member at OCC, who informed Debbie of the auditions for “A Time For Christmas.” Debbie has a long list of experience when it comes to music and drama. She even remembers her very first solo, which was the Christmas song, “I Wonder As I Wander.”

Debbie’s favorite Christmas memory is that of her father’s last Christmas, 1996. She and her husband desperately wanted to come home for Christmas but didn’t think they’d be able to because the house was going to be so full of family members that there wouldn’t be any room for them to sleep. Debbie’s father gave up his bed and slept in a chair so they could come home. He had cancer at the time, but was undergoing treatment. No one knew that would be his last Christmas.

In “A Time For Christmas,” Debbie plays Mary’s mother, a character who worries about her daughter and offers her advice about mending her broken heart. After talking with Debbie, you realize she is aptly chosen for such a role. Her wealth of experience enables her to both encourage and challenge the rest of us to walk with God through every valley and let Him take you to the top of the mountain.

Shari Zehr, Children’s director (by Marla Carter)

Ten years of directing children’s musicals have taught Shari Zehr a lesson that has proven quite valuable for her current undertaking—rely on God! Shari worked with the children’s choir at OCC for 10 years, but that was 7 years ago, when her children were younger and involved in the choir themselves. When her children got older and moved on to other activities, she took a well-deserved break from children’s choir. She had been praying about getting involved again, now that her children are older and out of the house. Then she got a call asking her to help with “A Time For Christmas.” That seemed to be God’s answer to her prayers. Certainly an answer to Randy’s prayers, Shari brings her experience to this God-sized production, working with the children in “A Time For Christmas.”

Originally from Paoli, Indiana and currently living in Rockport, Shari and her family have attended OCC for 18 years. She is a librarian at Rockport Elementary, and her husband David is a nurse practitioner in Santa Claus, Indiana. Their son Bryan is a junior at WKU studying business, and their daughter Erin is a freshman at USI.

Shari says one of her favorite Christmas memories is getting a bike for Christmas as a young girl. Because it was too cold to ride the bike outside that day, her dad pushed her around in the house to help her learn to ride her new bike.

THANK YOU

great rehearsal tonite!!!
i am so proud of how everyone held together, and the spirit of community, teamwork, and family. 3:00 - 8:00 is a long time to all be together... but from the kiddos to the adults, you guys were amazing!!! i think God must be thinking, "yeah... that's what i mean! that's how you represent me... that's why i came."
over these next couple weeks, keep listening to your cd's... stay sharp on the music and lines.
the next time we're all together, we will add the orchestra! i know... it's hard to believe. so exciting!!!
everyone, get rest - have a wonderful thanksgiving - and i'll see you in a couple weeks.
keep checking the website for updates and new fun information...
as always,
randy

ps... if you get a chance, i'd like to put some favorite moments, or memories in my blog.... take a couple minutes and write me a few lines, and i'll try to put some of your thoughts on here. i may not get them all, but i think that would be a great idea.... don't you?

INSIGHT ARTICLE (by Marla Carter)

The average American family spends $218 each year on new Christmas decorations. Two hundred and eighteen dollars! Some families have a Christmas tree in every room and lights and wreaths on every exterior door and window. These same people sing in the choir, go caroling at nursing homes, bake cookies for their mail carriers, and kiss under the mistletoe. They know every word to every Christmas carol ever written and have DVD’s of all the holiday classics. Yet on the inside, they walk away from the Christmas season feeling unaffected, empty, and indifferent. These mere appearances of the holiday cannot satisfy a longing heart or fill an empty soul.

Now, meet Bill, the main character in Owensboro Christian Church’s production of “A Time For Christmas.” Bill spends no money on holiday decorations because he doesn’t celebrate Christmas. He has no tree, no gifts, and certainly no lights, mistletoe, or fake snow. What he does have is work—lots and lots of work. He feels the pressure to succeed at work and values Christmas only as a day to work on his accounts without distractions because no one is going to call or stop by. He ignores carolers, refuses dinner invitations, and has time for no one but himself. In fact, he has never really loved anyone but himself and certainly does not have time to be enveloped by the emotion of Christmas or the One whose birth extends the gift of real love and hope.

Despite his shortcomings, Bill has a friend in Mary, a single mom who sees something in Bill he himself has yet to see. Unlike Bill, Mary loves Christmas and stands her ground when Bill pushes her to work on Christmas Eve. Young in years but strong in faith and experienced in the trials of life, Mary faces the challenges of divorce, parenting, and juggling work and family.

This particular Christmas Eve, Bill’s life is about to collide with some very special people who help him to understand that the greatest tragedy of Christmas is loneliness—a loneliness of the heart and soul. Attempting to satisfy oneself with work, people, or things will always leave a hunger for more because those things were never meant to fill the human heart. “A Time For Christmas” will remind us that if we don’t leave room in our hearts for Christ, we miss out on the joy of not only the holiday season, but the joy of every day of every season of life.

An unexpected Broadway-style Christmas musical, you will not see a stable or wise men or Mary and Joseph holding tiny baby Jesus. What you will see is a visual masterpiece of colors and light, and you’ll hear music that will make your heart merry and your soul inspired. Worship Ministry Administrator Randy Buehler explains why he chose “A Time For Christmas” and how it has all come together.

“When it comes to religious musicals, the challenge is finding one with not only a great story, but great music as well. In the past, we’ve taken elements from several resources and pieced them together for a sort of “best of the best” type scenario. Around June or July of this year, we began the hunt for what would be this years’ musical, and as usual, nothing particularly grabbed us. We knew God had something amazing planned. He had already been stirring our hearts, I think giving us a “heads up” as to what He desired to do in and through those who would be involved as well as those who would attend. Then we found “A Time for Christmas” on my shelf, of all places. I guess I put it there for a rainy day... who knows. As we began listening through and praying about this musical, we began to see that this was going to be a project different than anything we had done in the recent past (at least since I’ve been here).”

“Early on, we felt God leading us to make the auditions open to the public, so we did, and the turn out was amazing. It also was very clear to us that we were going to need a production team to handle all the different aspects of a production of this caliber. So, one by one, God brought together a team of eleven amazing people. I wish I had the time and the space to tell you each of their stories so you could see how God had been preparing them, and so many others for this journey. So, it all began-- the rehearsals, meetings, phone calls, ordering stuff online, sewing, sewing, and more sewing, choreography rehearsals, publicity... the train is pulling out of the station.”

As Randy mentioned, this musical is different not just because of its style, but also because of the huge amount of work that it requires. Construction on the two-story set actually began in October with the addition of stage rigging before the first piece of wood was ever cut. The orchestra and the choir have been practicing since August, learning the lyrics and fine-tuning every note. The children play such a large role that they’ve had their own director this year. Because several scenes incorporate dancing of some kind, there’s been choreography to learn and rehearse. The costume, hair, and make-up teams have been working hard to teach everyone who will appear on stage how to dress in the approved color palette, what shoes are appropriate, and how to apply their stage make-up. Our seamstresses, all volunteers, have been working four to five days a week since the cast was selected in September. Each person involved in the performance has at least four costume changes, and with nearly 100 people on stage, you can see why there’s been so much sewing! Selecting eye-catching graphics, attention-grabbing text, and appropriate placing of community advertising has been the labor for the publicity team.

Another new aspect of this year’s production is that there will be tickets to purchase. Each ticket is $2 with all the proceeds going to the Owensboro Goodfellows Foundation. This local charity has been providing less fortunate children in Daviess County with an annual Christmas party since 1916 as well as clothing, coats, shoes, and dental care. Owensboro Christian Church will not profit one cent from the tickets. “A Time For Christmas” is simply the church’s gift to the community.

With all of this work to be done, it would be quite easy to get caught up in the monstrosity of it all and let it sort of sweep you away, forgetting Who was really in charge or What it’s really all about. It would be only natural to become like the character Bill, focusing on success and becoming numb to the people surrounding you. While Randy may be the physical director of the musical, God Himself has been orchestrating the details from the very beginning. Randy continues, “You know, the further down the tracks we get, the more I see God’s hand in every aspect. Through this, more than any other seasonal production with which I’ve been a part, I’ve seen God at work in my life, and in the lives of the more than 130 people already involved. That’s why we’re doing “A Time for Christmas,” which is also the true spirit of Christmas... what God wants to do in and through us when we open our hearts to Him. Our prayer is that you find your heart open to Christ this Christmas season, and we pray “A Time for Christmas” will be a part of your holiday celebration.”

Debbie Horton, Costumes, Hair and Make-Up Coordinator (by Marla Carter)

When Randy decided that “A Time For Christmas” would be this year’s OCC Christmas production, he knew he was taking on a God-sized project and that he would need God to provide him with all the right people to make it happen. Because this is a Broadway-style musical, the costumes, hair, and make-up aspects of the performance are hugely important and Randy knew he’d need some very talented people. About this same time, Debbie Horton had been praying about getting involved again in ministry at church. Debbie was diagnosed with breast cancer in January 2005, and at her doctor’s advice, she cut back on all extra activities in order to focus on beating the cancer. She underwent radiation and a lumpectomy, and she cut back on her work hours and stopped all ministry involvement at church. In August of 2006, she was healthy and feeling ready to get back into more things.

She happened to be sitting in Arby’s, eating lunch with her mom, when Randy spotted her. He had actually been in the drive-thru and come into the restaurant to get some straws that were left out of his bag. He asked her if she would consider taking on the costumes, hair, and make-up for “A Time For Christmas.” Debbie agreed and then, after learning how big a production this was going to be, had a couple of sleepless nights wondering if she’d gotten in over her head! God was faithful to provide an answer again, and He led her to form three subcommittees, one each for hair, make-up, and costumes. She prayed that God would send all the right people to these committees, and He’s done just that! Because of Debbie’s prayers and God’s provision, Retha Cunningham is overseeing all the costumes (boy, can she sew!), and Sherri McGary is overseeing all the make-up.

Debbie is an Owensboro native and has been a hair stylist for 32 years. She’s been married to her husband, Tom, for 29 years and has two children. Both Eric and Heather are married and they each have one child of their own. When asked what her favorite Christmas memory is, Debbie, without hesitation, tearfully explains that her first Christmas as a married woman was the most special Christmas she’s had. She was not only a new bride, but also a new mom because when she married Tom, he already had Eric and Heather from a previous marriage. Because of those overwhelming emotions of sharing Christmas with her new husband and two precious preschoolers, Debbie counts that as her favorite Christmas memory.

MEET OUR CHOREOGRAPHER (by Marla Carter)

Even though David encourages God’s people to “Praise His name with dancing,” you won’t see much of that on the OCC stage during a normal weekend service. (Come on now, how many of you are doing some praise dancing in your living rooms?) If you come to “A Time For Christmas,” you’ll get to see several different styles of dance, thanks to choreographer Kim Johnson.

Kim is just the person for the job of teaching all of us non-professionals how to sing and dance and act at the same time. An Owensboro native, Kim holds a bachelor’s of science degree in modern dance from Indiana University (we’ll forgive her for that), and danced in Chicago’s Rivernorth Dance Company and Denver’s Cleo-Parker-Robinson Dance Ensemble. Currently, Kim teaches dance classes for all ages at Joy Johnson’s Dance Studio and with the Owensboro Dance Theatre.

Kim is married to Steve, who works for the Daviess County Fiscal Court, and has two children, Jacob, 7, and Nicole, 4. Her favorite Christmas memory is spending time with her family and attending Christmas Eve worship services. Even when she was living far from Owensboro, she always came back home for Christmas to be with her family.

Kim says that God is presently teaching her to be patient as she waits on His timing, and to rely on Him in every situation.

UPCOMING REHEARSAL SCHEDULE

sunday, nov 12 – we will block scene 10 and review scene 1, if time allows.

wednesday, nov 15 – scenes 1-6

sunday, nov 19 – ALL SCENES (THIS REHEARSAL WILL BE FUN!!!)
3:00 – 5:00 – scenes 1-6
5:00 – 6:00 – supper provided (the leucht's)
6:00 – 8:00 – scenes 7-10

this is a partial dress rehearsal, and
the last time we’ll all be together without
the orchestra.

wednesday, nov 22 – NO REHEARSAL

sunday, nov 26 – NO REHEARSAL

wednesday, nov 29 – REGULAR CHOIR REHEARSAL

...which leads us to the december schedule.

Mary, played by McKena Tichenor (by Marla Carter)

From backstage work to front and center roles, McKena Tichenor may be young, but she’s no stranger to the theatre. Currently a freshman at Kentucky Weslyan College and majoring in music business, McKena has a long list of theatre productions under her belt. She’s appeared in shows such as Romeo and Juliet, Gary Grinkles Battles With Wrinkles, and Summer Sounds, just to name a few. She has played the piano since second grade and also takes voice lessons. Her favorite music related experience was her senior year of high school choir—finally getting to be on the “top of the totem pole.” (We all fondly remember that, don’t we??)

McKena and her family attend OCC. Her dad is the regional director of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and her mom is a full time foster parent, a job she’s had for sixteen years. Her family has supported and cared for numerous foster children with a wide array of needs over the years. She has one older, biological brother, Zach, who shares her love of music and plays the piano and guitar.

McKena’s character Mary plays a single mom who loves Christmas and reminds herself to keep her eyes on Christ during the season and not be overwhelmed by her own problems. McKena is doing that same thing off the stage in her real life, where she tries to remain focused on Christ in the midst of her college surroundings. She says she thanks God for keeping her strong and not getting involved with the wrong crowd.

Jenny, played by Paige Joines (by Marla Carter)

Maybe watching all those young stars on the Disney Channel has inspired Paige Joines to try her own hand at acting. Only eight years old, Paige debuts in her first dramatic role as Jenny, daughter of single-mom Mary. It is little Jenny who adds to the emotional complexities and reality of the plot, as Mary worries that Jenny feels abandoned and unloved by her father.

Paige attends Sorgho Elementary and has an older brother Dylan, 10, and a younger brother Aidan, 1. Paige’s mom, Shirlene, is a nurse at OMHS, and she and her family attend OCC. If you’ve spent any time in the Zone, then you’ll know her aunt, Sarah Vickery. Paige took two years of dance lessons and has participated in Christmas programs at school, but this is her first major role.

Paige candidly admits her favorite pastime to be watching television, particularly the Disney Channel. She loves the Zone (the OCC children’s worship/teaching area for elementary students) and says her favorite part of time spend there is when they break out into small groups. Her favorite Christmas memories include, of course, getting presents, as well as her family’s tradition of having each child pick out a new ornament for the tree each year.

"I'M DREAMING OF A WHITE CHRISTMAS" (by Marla Carter)

Alone at the piano, in a cozy fire-stoked living room, with snow blanketing the world outside, while reminiscent notes drip from the keys as a comforting and inviting voice sings—I can almost see Randy Buehler in that scene from White Christmas, can’t you? Well, maybe not “alone,” since he does have five vivacious children and a lovely wife, and maybe not in Kentucky, since snow rarely “blankets” our world here, but you get the point! Randy Buehler loves Christmas, and though he always brings that love for the holiday season to the OCC Christmas productions, never has he attempted a performance of the magnitude of “A Time For Christmas.”

Randy hails from a town in southwest Michigan called Hastings and attended Western Michigan University. The oldest of five, he now repeats that sibling pattern in his own family of two boys and three girls. Married to Christianne for 16 years, their children are Wes, 14, Andrew, 13, Grace, 12, Allie, 10, and Emma, 4.

Randy’s favorite Christmas memories include lots of snow and lots of family. He remembers jumping off the roof into the snow. This might scare you until you realize that the snow was so high, the distance from the roof to the snow was only about 2 feet! For those of us who’ve lived in the flurry-frightened state of Kentucky our whole lives, that seems nearly incomprehensible. Randy loved sledding and digging tunnels in the snow. Many times he and his siblings would dig out a huge circular area in the snow and place plywood over the top, creating a completely enclosed fort. (Makes me feel claustrophobic!) Christmas was always loud and always full of family as everyone went to his grandmother’s house. She was a bow-saver (aren’t all grandmothers?) and Randy’s family loved to aggravate her by playing in all the bows.

Recently, God has been challenging Randy to deepen his understanding of what worship really is. That may sound funny coming from a worship minister, but Randy says that the strength of his corporate worship of God is only as strong as the worship he gives God on a day to day basis. Randy says that every decision in life gives us the choice and the opportunity to worship--or not worship--God. It is this constant, daily adoration of God that makes the weekend’s corporate worship more powerful and meaningful. If you’ve walked with God all week and known Him intimately every day, then the musical worship is that much more exciting and significant.

Now, since we know Randy loves Christmas and is working hard to make this the grandest Christmas celebration yet, and, since we know he loves snow—lots and lots of snow--I have to wonder—will we be seeing any snow at OCC this year?

Bartholomew, played by Joel Johnston (by Marla Carter)

“In all of history, there’s no better Christmas than the one you celebrate now, as long you celebrate it with an open heart.” That is one of the key lines in “A Time For Christmas,” spoken by Joel Johnston who plays Bartholomew. Ironically, Joel describes himself as a bit of a scrooge when it comes to Christmas. Joel enjoys the anticipation of the holiday, but would rather not participate if the day itself is going to be filled with commercialism and self-centeredness as wrapping paper flies and gifts are shown off and compared. His favorite holiday memories involve visiting with neighbors, friends, and family.

Joel loves music and theatre. You might remember him from recent OCC productions, his most recent being the Easter presentation of “One Voice,” in which he played Nicodemus. His theatre experience includes, but is not limited to, Cabaret, Music Man, and Once Upon a Mattress. He has been in the OCC choir for 4 years but has been singing since childhood.

Joel is a physician in Hancock County, where he’s practiced since 1992. His wife Denette is a nurse. He has two sons, Joshua who is in graduate school at UK, and Jay, who is a student at Burns Middle School. Joel says that recently he’s been reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of taking one day at a time. God has pressed this upon his heart both through his medical practice and through the recent illness his wife has faced with non-malignant breast cancer. Perhaps, for more reasons that just his talent, he really is the perfect deliverer of those words, “there is no better Christmas than the one you celebrate now,” because he knows the magnitude of keeping your heart open to the joys of today without worrying about what tomorrow holds.

new pix are here! go check them out on the photos page...
this particular pic was taken last night around 9:30... we were all pretty nutty by then. a good time was had by all. ...still waiting for bailey's interperative dance to "walkin on sunshine."

WHAT A WEEKEND!

i can't wait for you guys to see the pix from the kids rehearsal this weekend. we had a blast, and the kids looked great! i am so proud of them! i can't wait to see it with the set painted, the costumes, and the lighting. it's going to be amazing!

also, the set crew stuck it out for another night of construction - even after a long weekend of services and such. thank you so much.

here's a fun little bit... i had a friend and his daughter stop by on a surprise visit - they were driving from nashville to northern indiana... haven't seen him in over a year - at any rate... his church did "a time for christmas" last year... he played bill, his wife played mary, and their daughter played jenny. how funny is that.

i heard the choir had a great rehearsal as well tonite. some of you peaked in at the kiddos... what great excitement and anticipation is building. woo hoo!!! ...that's what i say.

marla has been roving and reporting... all these great things to come.

say, what do you think about the website? let me know...
rbuehler@owensborochristian.org

allrightythen... i'm off for now.
as always,
randy

40 DAYS AND 40 NIGHTS...

lol!!! i totally had no idea we only have 40 days until opening night... and it rained, and rained, and rained... let's ask God to rain down on us these next 40 days and nights - rain his love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. i have to say, you guys have already been a witness to what God wants to do in and through us! i have been so proud of everyone, especially in the blocking rehearsals! there has been a great spirit and a strong sense of unity - which magnifies the message, because we're living out what God calls the spirit of unity.
from colossians 3...
12Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. 15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 17And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
see you soon!
as always,
randy

hey all! here is a pic of our production team... plus kim johnson, and shari zehr... they wanted their own pix! ha ha [jk] i am so proud of all these guys, and PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE... when you see them, tell them how much you appreciate them. they have, and will put in numerous hours to make this production everything it's going to be.

great rehearsal last night with scene 5! i can't wait to see how everything looks with the set and costumes. in my imagination, it looks amazing.

k...

that's all i have for now. look for more bios soon to come. marla carter is doing a fabulous job "getting the scoop!"

...and retha along with her team... CONTINUES TO AMAZE ME... and you should be amazed as well.

thanks everyone!
as always,
randy

GOODFELLOWS

The Goodfellows Club has been reaching out to Daviess County’s less fortunate school children since 1916, providing clothing, shoes, coats, dental care throughout the school year, and Christmas Joy and gifts through an annual Christmas Party. Since school personnel have firsthand knowledge of students’ needs, they are responsible for identifying those at risk and requesting Goodfellows’ assistance so the needs are addressed quickly and fairly. 100% of all contributions go to meet these needs. By becoming a “Goodfellow” today, you can make a big difference in the lives of children.

YESTERDAY...

i am so proud of everyone for a great rehearsal yesterday! you guys hung with me... and we got a lot accomplished. every day that goes by, i'm more and more excited.

and then... drum roll, please... let's give it up for scott galloway, katie noblitt, darlene runyon, dee ward, nathan grant, tim slonecker, jacob west, ryan and landon evans, and bailey long for staying until 10:00 last night working on the set... woo hoo.

today, kevin and wayne tudor, and jason robertson are finishing up the floor. you guys rock!

UPCOMING REHEARSAL SCHEDULE and other stuff

this sunday (oct 29) we will be blocking scene 1 – 3:00 to 5:00 pm

this will involve all cast and chorus (children included... i know we said initially the kids wouldn’t start until next sunday, however, our time with kim is short and this will be our only blocking rehearsal for scene 1)

wednesday (nov 1) we will block scene 5 (and scene 3 if time allows) – 6:45 to 8:00 pm

sunday (nov 5) we will block scene 6 – 3:00 to 5:00 pm

wednesday (nov 8) we will block scene 4 – 6:45 to 8:00

**********

jaime and paul (beck studio guys) are finishing up the last batten (that's the pole that goes up and down... ha ha) as i type. i'm even seeing it go up on the webcam. this afternoon, we will be finishing up the first layer of the wood floor, then setting up for the weekend.

woo hoo!

Bill, played by Calvin Malone (by Marla Carter)

After talking with Calvin for only a few minutes, it’s obvious that he’s a star—not just a theatrical star, but the kind of star that God refers to in Daniel 12:3. “Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens…like the stars, forever and ever.” At a relatively young age—he’s a senior at Daviess County High School--Calvin has a long list of accomplishments on stage and off. On stage, he’s appeared in Les Miserable, 42nd Street, Bye-Bye Birdie, Music Man, Sound of Music, and Annie Jr, just to name a few. He is currently working toward college and would like very much to attend Belmont in Nashville, a school widely known for its music program, as a musical theater major. Calvin comes from a very musical family. His mother has her masters degree in piano performance, teaches piano lessons, and plays the piano at their church. Both of his older sisters hold music degrees and teach music to children in various capacities. And recently his dad returned to his love of music and teaching by taking a job as choir director at South Spencer High School. Can you say, “Wow?”

Off stage and aside from all the music, Calvin shows wisdom beyond his years. His favorite Christmas memory is sitting at home with his mom, watching White Christmas and anxiously praying for his dad and sister who were traveling home on the dangerous, icy roads. Calvin says he is so blessed to have such godly parents and to be surrounded by such good examples of faith. God has already impressed upon Calvin the need to depend on Him for everything, and to trust Him to provide. Calvin said that recently God has been teaching him to be humble, a lesson he seems to be learning well. He is certainly a person of great talent, but with a humble and kind spirit.

...HOW MANY DAYS - AND COUNTING?

i have no idea... but i'm sure somebody has figured it out. 'course, me being the details guy that i am...

not even worth finishing that thought...

at any rate. here's what's happening this week. jamie and paul (they're the guys from beck studios out of cincinatti - you can see their pix on the photos page) are just about finished with the fly system. no, we're not "flying" anyone... although, connie osborne would be the first on my list - you were born for this stuff connie!

kevin and wayne tudor began putting the sub floor down. i'd like to have the sub layer finished by this weekend. (there will be one more layer of plywood on top of that.)

kim finished up the choreography for the castle and for two of the groups for "christmas all through time." kim is doing a fabulous job, and i think everyone is having a blast! check out the pix on the photos page.

marla carter (one of occ's top roving reporters) is in the process of getting the scoop on our principle characters. look for those somewhere on this website...

ben and the choir have been rehearsing since august. i think ben's doing a fantastic job with the choir!!! don't you?! choir, you guys are sounding great! thanks for all your hard work!

gary finished "tweeking" (no idea if that's a word, or how to spell it...) the orchestration for "gloria." and, i think all of the orchestra players are confirmed for the show. a 30+ piece orchestra... not too shabby!

MY PRODUCTION TEAM IS AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
if you have a minute to encourage these people, please do so...
here they are

ben browning, choir
gary laughrey, orchestra
shari zehr, kids director
josh hancock, lights/fx
john hunley, sound tech
scott galloway, stage manager
debbie horton, costumes/hair/make up
kim johnson, choreography
carson smith, publicity
phyllis & darrell humphrey, financial/seceratary


AND... IF YOU HAVEN'T HUGGED RETHA CUNNINGHAM (the costume lady) - DO IT THE NEXT POSSIBLE OPPORTUNITY. you would not believe all this lady has done. i mean it!!! WOULD NOT BELIEVE!!!!!!!!! retha! you're amazing!
p.s. she could print out this blog page and sew three wedding gowns... i garauntee!

along those lines... i'm so blessed to have debbie horton back in the saddle with me. remind me later, and i'll have marla uncover the scoop on debbie... how she got roped into this gig, and everything God is doing through her. WOW!!! you can't wait to hear the stories. i know... i know...

the posters, tickets, yard signs, and billboard are all underway. you will be hearing more about these from carson as time draws closer. btw - tickets go on sale the weekend of nov. 18/19.

i could say so much more... and i will. but, for those of you who think i have too much time on my hands (...and you would be sorely mistaken...), i will end my little blog for today.

bye for now.
as always,
randy

SO MANY PEOPLE!!!

i wish there was a way for everyone to see and experience what i have to date as it relates to the production. i will elaborate more later, but i am so proud to be a part of this ministry. woo hoo.
...so, that's my first blog. check back later for more stuff.
as always,
randy

Welcome!

Here's the first post! More to come soon!