The Frederick Arts and Humanities Council celebrated a very productive year on Tuesday night. Members of the council were honored with a meal served in appreciation for the dedicated service of various council members. The council highlighted many of the accomplishments from the past year and discussed events for the centennial celebration.

Many of the goals and tasks set by the council were met this past year. The council has actively participated in two community improvement projects at the Lois Long Center and the Ramona Theatre. At these facilities an aggressive clean up was accomplished. Tables and chairs were purchased to present a friendly and enjoyable atmosphere at these locations. There have also been some beautification improvements. Members of the council participated in a painting project at the neighboring facilities.

Several community programs were presented this past year on behalf of the council. Dr. David Byland, who is a university professor and veteran actor, visited Frederick to offer a live historical performance portrayal of President Theodore Roosevelt. The council sponsors concerts in the park, a annual art festival and breakfast with Santa Claus each year. A display of World War II posters in the Grand Hotel is a new event introduced this past year. It is important because this display will help attract visitors to the local community who are interested in learning about the Airborne Demonstration Team and the historical significance of the local airfield. Dana Greer shared “We wanted to honor our veterans locally and nationwide.” During July the arts council hosted an entertainment show with a USO performance and brisket dinner. This past year prolific songwriter Paula Carpenter and former Frederick resident Natalie Mitchell each entertained the community with individual concerts.

New officers were inducted by the council. Frederick Arts and Humanities Council Officers for 2007-2008 are President Dana Greer, Vice-President Richard Ryan, Secretary Jack Lowery and Treasurer Kim Fraley. Other members of the council include Amy Haynes, Sherry Jacobs, Jenny Perry, Krista Reyes, Carol Crawford and Diane Tatum.

The local centennial committee is working steadfast to insure that Centennial Park will be finished. Placement of the Abernathy brothers statue has added an attractive quality to the county courthouse lawn. A centennial museum exhibit is currently being prepared for the community. Funds were dispersed by the state centennial committee to the local committee for projects pertaining to Frederick's celebration. A running brush automobile has been obtained for Frederick's exhibit.

A project that will interest many Frederick residents is a docudrama that will be presented by Shawnee Brittan, who is the Filmmaker-In-Residence for the School of Art at the University of Oklahoma. There will be a summer premiere of the film in Frederick. The film focuses around the historical significance of the Abernathy brothers.

Anyone who is interested in supporting the efforts of the Frederick Centennial Committee is encouraged to get involved. Interested parties may contact Dana Greer at 335-5689 or Karen Caldwell at 335-2168.