Benefit planned for Webbers Falls congregation

Aug. 4--Reconstruction has resumed at the Webbers Falls First Assembly of God Church, one of two in the Muskogee County community nearly washed away by Arkansas River floodwaters.

Sheila Shamblin, a longtime congregant, said the flooding disaster destroyed everything inside the church, and just about everything else. The Webbers Falls congregation has been worshipping across the river since the Arkansas River inundated much of Webbers Falls during the latter days of May.

"Basically the shell of the building was all that was saved -- Gore First Assembly, from the start, has been letting us use their church for services on Sunday evenings," Shamblin said. "The HVAC, hot water tank, kitchen appliances, part of the sound system, all furnishings, flooring, bathrooms -- pretty much everything that you can think of was ruined."

Church members learned later the insurance policy for their place of worship would not cover the loss. The church pooled its available resources to get started on the path toward recovery and now are planning a fundraiser to help get the project across the finish line.

The benefit will feature live performances by Southern gospel bands that include The Stevens Family, The Ruckmans, Saved By Grace Trio, and special guests Dale Martin and Leslie Dallis. The Travelers will be on hand to perform some bluegrass gospel music, as well.

Shamblin said guests who attend the event will have a choice of three dinners -- spaghetti and salad, meatloaf with mashed potatoes and salad, or Indian tacos -- which will be sold for $7 each, and $2 hot dogs. All dinners will include tea, coffee or water.

There also will be a silent auction featuring a variety of donated items.

If you go

WHO: Webbers Falls First Assembly of God.

WHAT: Flood recovery fundraiser.

WHEN: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 17.

WHERE: First Assembly of God, 206 Third St., Warner.

INFORMATION: Call (918) 464-2571 or send message to sheila_shamblin@yahoo.com.

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