Member of OCU Dance & Arts Management Family Passes Away

Fletcher McClendon (BPA in Dance Performance 1990), a member of The American Spirit Dance Company from 1986 to 1990, died on September 19th after a long battle with cancer. Fletcher was one of those truely great dancers who could do everything -- tap, ballet, jazz, musical theater dance, partner, turn, jump -- you name it. He was also the kind of performer who immediately established contact with the audience, drew their focus, and stole their hearts. When Fletcher partnered, he made the girl look good. When he was a soloist, he always looked good. When he was in your dance, everyone looked good.

While Fletcher was one of the best performers, he was also one of the best teachers. He liked working with children, sparking their imaginations, and showing them how to move with grace and meaning. His teaching became the most important aspect of dance for him, and he started his own dance studio. He also started a family and with his wife Cathleen had a beautiful daughter, Corine.

Fletcher's quick smile, positive attitude, and easy sense of humor quickly won him a special place in the hearts of many people at Oklahoma City University. When he was a student, all dancers walked past the cashiers on the way to the administration building dance studio. Every cashier was a "Fletcher fan" who couldn't wait to come to American Spirit shows to see him dance and cheer him on. It was that way all over campus. Until his death, people were still asking about Fletcher. That's the kind of impact he made on people.

Jo and I are pleased to announce that the Spring 2005 American Spirit Dance Company show will be dedicated to Fletcher McClendon, one of our own. Those of us who knew and loved him know that Fletcher's spirit will be with us in March, dancing with us once again.

Love to all in our family of dance and arts management. Cherish each other and your moments together. You are all special and life is so short.

- Dean John Bedford

Any letters or cards can be sent to:
Starz Choice Dance Academy
348 S. Seaboard Ave.
Venice, FL 34285

Contributions:
Memorial donations may be made to an educational fund for Corine McClendon at:
Community National Bank
201 Center Road
Venice, FL. 34285.