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June 17, 2009

Local trio of performers advance to nationals

Lauren McFarland, 11; Bowen Page, 11; and Ashlyn Frix, 10; attended the Oklahoma Kids State Talent Competition recently in Moore.

The competition hosted 78 acts in categories of specialty, gospel, serious, country, pop, musical theater and dance. McFarland, daughter of Marty and Stacy McFarland of Fort Gibson, received two silver medals, two first in age medals, and a gold. Page, son of Drs. Gary and Ann Page of Oktaha, won a silver medal. Frix, daughter of Shane and Amy Frix of Fort Gibson, won a silver medal and a first in age medal.

All three advanced to the national competition July 13 to 17 in Branson, Mo. They are members of the group Oklahoma Kids, which is a member of the national group, American Kids Inc.

Also a local family was awarded Oklahoma Kids Family of the Year. Marty, Stacy and Lauren McFarland were presented with a plaque and recognition. They have dedicated many hours to recruiting, coordinating bookings, assisting during shows with sound, fundraisers and encouraging the children.

When Clarence Moore, state director, was announcing the award, Stacy McFarland was surprised when the director called her daughter to stand and bring her parents on stage to receive the award.

The nonprofit organization, founded by Dr. Dale Smith, in 1982 is a little league of entertainers ages 4 to 18. The emphasis is on personal development and family unity as well as providing a clean, positive environment for kids who have a talent they wish to develop and share with others. Oklahoma groups perform for many events. Information: www.oklahomakids.us, www.americankids.com or contact Tara Raby, regional director, at tara_raby@yahoo.com.

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