A MAJORITY of us know him as the man ejected from a Wheeling Nailers hockey game for playing a song deemed "unsportsmanlike."  That incident and accompanying story made its way around the country providing Dan Wheeler some unexpected recognition.  No, Wheeler and the Nailers didn't part company in later years because of his lively rendition...or varitations of "three Blind Mice."  Injured in an auto accident in 1994, Wheeler was forced to abstrain from many activities, primarily traveling cross country as part of his work in the church and community.  A man of great faith, Wheeler slowly recovered from a serious back injury, yet was more determined than ever.  In his capacity as music minister for Wheeling's historic Fourth Street United Methodist Church, Wheeler has long worked with Ohio Valley youth, most notably as instrutor.  Recognizing today's youth seeking out wholesome recreational and inspritational outlets, Wheeler initiated a unique program, " Keyboards for Christ." geared towards bringing youg people together for a greater cause.  Self-admittedly, Wheeler was somewhat discouraged when the program first appeared in jeopardy, a result of low participation.  As word spred, however, more and more parents discovered the unique benefits and opportunity for their children to take part in worthwhile endeavor, all within a friendly, caring environments.  Today, Wheeler oversees " Keyboards for Christ., a totally free program offering music lssons for youths in tow age groups.  The first is 7-12 year olds and the second is for those ages 13-17.  " It's so rewarding having an opportunity to work with these young people and be able to watch them develop their skills...both as musicians and individuals," Wheeler notes.  Each class begins as Wheeler instructs the basics of music, notation, staff, timing and advances into chord structure.  " There's absolutely no pressure on any of these kids to excel at a high level, " Wheeler stresses.  " More than anything, " keyboards for Christ' we want young people to have fun with and at the same time, we want this program to be a wonderful learning experience."  Wheeler conducts classes once a week over a 12-week period.  Each session is  45 minutes in duration.  The second and third parts of the program run for another 12-week period.  After each 12-week period, students perform a recital together in an ensemble setting.  The Keyboards for Christ program is believed toe first of its kind in the country.  Wheeler stresses the program is open to all children in age groups and is a non-denominational program.  As Wheeler poinsts out on the programs's website: " I have used my 37 years of experience and knowledge to incorporate into a lesson program to seed and spark interest in music and music in workshop.   " With the introduction of keyboards and digital pianos, the number of children taking lessons and getting involved in their church music ministries have started to increase, perhaps, at smaller numbers due to the fact there are some members of congregations that still look at only 'organ' or piano in worship                                 Back to top of page