September, 2007

Big O's

The Big O's Square Dance Club was the creation of organizer Delia Wiseman who wanted a club in which she and her son Eddie could call together. She started lessons in Olathe in 1976. The club was federated shortly after in 1977. Jim and Lucy Wilson and John and Carole Griffin were charter members and have kept the club strong since with the help of many others.

By the end of the 1978-79 season, the Big O's membership hit 62 members. With the passing of Delia in 1984, Eddie called for a year solo. He wanted a partner caller, and Jay Holgram filled the position for ten years. When both men wanted to retire, Roberta Renicker took over as caller. At about this time, round dancing was introduced to the club. Later when line dancing gained in popularity, the Big O's were lucky to have Ray and Cheryl Lemon as members. Ray became the club's cuer and did a great job.

In 1997, the Big O's membership reached 93. It was at that time that the club celebrated its 20 years with an anniversary dance, following it up ten years later with a 30th anniversary dance.

In 2000, Roberta Renicker resigned due to a job transfer. At the same time, the Arrowhead Squares disbanded. In turn, the Big O's welcomed six couples and their caller, Gene Arnott, to the club. Arnott managed calling duties for a while until the Big O's opted for guest callers. That arrangement has worked well, as the club has enjoyed a variety of guest callers since.

Fun club activities in addition to square dancing have included going to members' farms for hay rides, Christmas parties at the Wilson household, baseball games (this year it will be the T-Bones), New Theatre, picnics, and ballroom dancing at the Ritz Charles in Overland Park.

The club has actively participated in banner stealing and Vigorous Visitors for many years. The Big O's welcome you to come by for some fun.

For further information, please contact Helen and David Firestone, 816.415.9608.