Chancel Choir Update 6/28: News You Can Use
Dinner This Thursday Night
Join your Chancel Choir buddies for dinner at Sweet Tomatoes this Thursday night (7/1). We'll meet at the Sweet Tomatoes on Watson Road east of Lindbergh (south side of street) at 6:30 p.m. Sweet Tomatoes is a huge salad buffet that also has smaller food bars with pizza, breads, soups, freshly made pasta (best macaroni and cheese anywhere) and desserts. There was a discount coupon for Sweet Tomatoes in Saturday's Post-Dispatch. If you'd like to join us, reply to this email or call Sandy Ford at 636-227-5749 before noon this Wednesday to reserve your place at the table.

Chancel Choir Will Sing Patriotic Music For Worship This Sunday
This Sunday is the Fourth of July. The Chancel Choir will sing for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. worship services this week. We'll meet in the music room at 8:30 a.m. for a quick rehearsal. Kevin plans on singing some of our favorite patriotic music.

Summer "Pick Up" Choir Scheduled For July
If you can't bear to take the summer off from the loft, there is a weekly opportunity for you and anyone else you know who can sing. A summer "pick up" choir will sing each week at the 10:30 a.m. service beginning July 11. Report to the music room at 10 a.m. if you'd like to join in.

Chancel Choir Update 6/24: Cares and Concerns / News
Cares and Concerns
Baritone Larry Dietzel's father, Rich, remains hospitalized at Missouri Baptist Medical Center after surgery Tuesday (6/22) to open a blocked carotid artery. The blockage was greater then expected and some complications have developed, so he will remain hospitalized for a short time. Larry thanks the choir family for its calls, cards and prayers.

Grandchild number three for alto Carol and baritone Charlie Shaffer arrived on Tuesday (6/22). Ashley Marie was born to their daughter, Kristin, and husband Jeff Peters. She weighed 9 pounds, 2 ounces. They live in Kirkwood.

Help Needed For Vacation Bible School
If you can smile and like kids, the MUMC Vacation Bible School (VBS) needs your help as an assistant for preschool music. No, you don't have play the piano. Tracy Sheridan, director of preschool music, needs help with coordination, singing fun songs, helping kids get seated and generally having fun with the preschoolers, ages 3 to 5. VBS will be held during the week of July 26, Monday through Friday in the mornings. Child care is available for ages 0-2 and the helper will need to be safe sanctuary trained. There also will be a short program on Thursday evening that week for the kids to show off what they learned during the week. If you're interested, contact Michele Bonds, VBS director, at stlouisbonds@yahoo.com or Tiffany Conway at ptconway@juno.com.

Chancel Choir Update 6/21: Important News You Can Use
Thursday Night Dinner Will Feature Huge Buffet
Dinner this Thursday night (6/24) is at Buffet City located on Clarkson Road near Clayton Roads (former location of Patrick's). It's a Chinese, American and Japanese buffet billed as one of the largest in the city. If you would like to join, us reply to this email or call 636-227-5749 by noon on Wednesday.

Chancel Choir Will Sing Patriotic Music on The Fourth of July
The Fourth of July comes on Sunday this year. The Chancel Choir will sing for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. worship services on the 4th. We'll meet in the music room at 8:30 a.m. for a quick rehearsal. Kevin plans on singing some of favorite patriotic music.

Summer "PickUp" Choir Scheduled For July
If you can't bear to take the summer off from the loft, there is a weekly opportunity for you and anyone else you know who can sing. A summer "pick up" choir will sing each week at the 10:30 a.m. service beginning July 11. Report to the music room at 10 a.m. if you'd like to join in.

End of Year Party Set Attendance Record
This year's party to celebrate the end of the Chancel Choir season was a tremendous success and set an attendance record. A total of 143 persons enjoyed great cool weather and fantastic food under the trees at the Halls estate. Officers were installed, the Queen received coronation, and Kevin discussed plans for the coming year. If you missed this outstanding choir outing, not to fear. The annual back-to-choir kick off party will be at 5:30 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 21 at the home of Sandy Wilmoth. More on that party later.

Next Year Promises to Be One of Our Best
During his State-Of-The-Choir speech Saturday night, Kevin reviewed next year's schedule. Included on the calendar next year are:
-- the choir's annual fund raising concert on Oct. 24 entitled "You Raise Me Up!" which will include songs of inspiration and hope
-- a return of Keyboards and Carols for Christmas. The Chancel Choir will be joined by the Manchester Choral for a holiday concert featuring two pianos.
-- Holiday concerts with the St. Louis Symphony are tentative this year, a decision will be made later this fall
-- A memorial concert honoring friends and family connected to the MUMC Music Ministry on Sunday, April 3. It will feature the Chancel Choir, One Voice and Coventry Choir and will debut two commissions of music written in honor of Kevin's mother. The pieces will be written by Mark Hayes and Robert Ray.
-- A preview concert of our Great Britain tour music on May 22.
-- The big Great Britain tour in June.

Cares and Concerns
Baritone Larry Dietzel's Father -- Larry's father, Rich, will undergo surgery to clear a blocked carotid artery Tuesday (6/22) at Missouri Baptist Medical Center.
Soprano Beth Morey -- Surgery for treatment of breast cancer has been rescheduled for Friday, July 2 at St. John's Mercy Medical Center.

Chancel Choir Update 6/15: Cares and Concerns
Funeral services for Alto Lois Hendrickson's mother, Dorris Mason, were held on Sunday (6/13). She died Friday (6/11) in Florida after a long illness. Home address for Lois is 1047 Camargo Dr., Ballwin, MO 63011.
Alto Kristie Whitney underwent surgery this morning at St. Luke's Hospital. She is expected to remain in the hospital for a few days. Her address for Kristie is 735 Foxwick Drive, Ballwin, MO 63011.

Chancel Choir Update 6/14: News You Can Use / Cares and Concerns
Thursday Night Summer Dinners Begin This Thursday
We'll kick off the summer "traveling" dinners this Thursday night at 6:30 p.m. at Applebee's in Ballwin. If you plan on joining us, reply to this email or call Sandy Ford at 636-227-5749 by noon this Wednesday. Each Thursday evening, we'll visit a restaurant for dinner and conversation. The location of the next dinner will be announced each Thursday evening. Please call Sandy by Wednesday noon to find the location and reserve your spot at the table.

Huge End-of-Year Party Choir Party Set for Saturday, June 19, at 5:30 p.m.
You can't miss this annual event. Installation of choir officers, coronation of the Chancel Queen and a State-of-the-Choir speech by Kevin in which he will reveal some very exciting news. Bonnie and Gary Halls have graciously agreed to host the party at their home again this year. Here are the details:
Directions -- The address is 2415 N. Ballas Road. From Clayton and Ballas roads, go south on Ballas. Count 13 houses on your right (west side of Ballas). There's a white mailbox in front of 2415. If you're coming north on Ballas Road from Manchester Road, look for the white mail box on the left. If you really are geographically challenged, here's a link to map:
http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?ed=ohH9JOp_0TofVMhFiwZZzBakzeKjQsFtzQ1XjA--&csz=St.+Louis%2C+MO&country=us&new=1&name=&qty=
Parking -- First come, first serve in the circle drive in front of house. You can park on the west side of Ballas Road. You can park on the two subdivision streets opposite the house: West Point Lane and Crystal View Lane.
If you have questions, direct them to Bonnie at 314-994-3777 or by email at gbhalls@sbcglobal.net.
Food -- Bring your favorite covered dish.

Indianapolis Tour Was A Success
The Chancel Choir's 2004 Tour to Indianapolis was a flawless success and one of the best tours the choir has taken to date. The choir performed an excellent concert at Broadway United Methodist Church Saturday evening and was received by an enthusiastic audience. Sunday morning the choir sang two anthems for two worship services at St. Luke's United Methodist Church and joined the St. Luke's Chancel Choir in singing one anthem. The service was carried on local television. Eating and shopping occupied the remainder of the choir's time. Eating venues included: P.F. Changs, an excellent Italian restaurant nearby, the Slippery Noodle Blues Bar, Hard Rock Cafe, the Ram and Alkatraz Micro Breweries, Johnny Rocket's and a huge food court. Shopping included the city's largest mall across the street from the hotel and featured a Nordstrom's, a Parisian store, every possible mall shop you could think of and some you haven't. Other activities also occupied the choir, including movies, the state capitol, a museum, the Brick Yard race track, and a home tour of newly built mansions. The bus arrived back at the church at 7 p.m. Sunday evening. To choir members who didn't make the trip -- we missed yah.

Cares and Concerns
Pat Riley, husband of Georgia Mitchener (who was wife of former MUMC pastor Al Mitchener) died Sunday from heart failure at the age of 86. He had been in failing health for some time. Funeral services are at 3 p.m. Tuesday (6/15) at the First United Methodist Church in Poplar Bluff, Mo., with a visitation preceding the funeral at 2 p.m. Pat is a former member of MUMC and was married to Georgia in 1998.

Chancel Choir Update 6/13: Death In Chancel Choir Family
It is with sadness that we report the death of Alto Lois Hendrickson's mother Friday (6-11) in Florida. Lois had traveled to Florida last week to be with her mother who was in failing health. Funeral arrangements are not immediately available. Home address for Lois is: 1047 Camargo Dr., Ballwin, MO 63011.

Chancel Choir Update 6/10: Indy Rehearsal / Summer News
Indy Tour Participants Rehearse Tonight
All singers going to Indianapolis this weekend will have their "dress" rehearsal tonight at 7:30 p.m. in the music room. It is important that you be there for any final instructions and details on this weekend's tour. The rest of the choir has the night off.

Summer Thursday Night Dinners Begin Next Week
Our regular summer Thursday night "traveling" dinners begin next Thursday, June 17. The first dinner will be at Applebee's in Ballwin and begins at 6:30 p.m. This year you must make a reservation before attending. Please reply to this email or call Sandy Ford at 636-227-5749 by noon on Wednesday if you plan to attend. Location for dinner the following week will be announced at dinner each Thursday night. Reservations are due each week by noon on Wednesday the day before.

End of Year Choir Party Is Saturday, June 19
The annual end-of-year Chancel Choir party will be held on starting at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, June 19 at the home of Bonnie and Gary Halls, 2415 North Ballas Road in Town and Country. Directions to find the Halls estate will be provided to you in an email early next week. It's easy to find, fear not. In addition to a sumptuous covered dish buffet table, the party will feature the annual "state of the choir" address by Kevin who says he has "big new" to announce and installation of officers. The Chief Justice of Chanceldom has notified us of a special session of court that evening for the Coronation of the next Chancel Choir Queen. This is an event you won't want to miss.

Chancel Choir Update 6/7: Death In Chancel Choir Family
It is with great sadness that we report the death June 4 of Emma M. "Saundie" Hogan, mother of soprano Mary Ann Heisel. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 9, at the Pacific United Methodist Church in Pacific, Mo. with burial in the Pacific City Cemetery. A family visitation will be held from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m., Tuesday, June 8, at the Nieburg-Vitt Thiebes Funeral Home located at 231 East Union Street in Pacific, Mo. Memorials are preferred to the Pacific United Methodist Church or the Lymphoma Association. Mrs. Hogan worked as an operating room nurse at Missouri Baptist Hospital for more than 48 years.

Chancel Choir Update 6/7: Cares and Concerns / Wedding
Several Chancel Choir Members Need Our Prayers and Thoughts In The Next Few Days
We have word that Soprano Mary Ann Heitsel's mother died last week. No other information is available at this time.
Alto Roxanne Miller will undergo additional dental surgery tomorrow (6/8) to repair injuries she suffered during a fall in March.
Baritone Larry Dietzel's father, Rich, will undergo surgery on Thursday, (6/10) at Missouri Baptist Medical Center to open a blocked carotid artery discovered during testing for a previously diagnosed melanoma. Larry reports it was a blessing that the skin cancer was discovered and further testing was done because his father's carotid artery was blocked 99 percent and he was at grave risk for a stroke. Surgery to treat the melanoma will be scheduled later.
Soprano Beth Morey will undergo surgery to treat breast cancer on June 17.
Alto Kristie Whitney will undergo an hysterectomy on June 15.
Alto Fran McMillan will undergo dental surgery on June 29 to correct problems with five teeth.
Dorothea Bante, accompanist and wife of former choir director Gus Bante, suffered a heart attack last Wednesday afternoon. Angiography revealed arterial blockage which was corrected with the installation of two stents. Dorothea remains hospitalized at Barnes Jewish.
Our thoughts and prayers are with these Chancel Choir members this week.

Alto Is Getting Married Sunday in Las Vegas And You're Invited To Witness
It's not all sickness and bad news this week. Alto Jackie Smith is getting married this Sunday (June 13) in Las Vegas, Nev., to fiancee Scott Laugherty. The couple will be joined by 19 relatives and close friends for the wedding ceremony in the Treasure Island Chapel at 6:30 p.m. St. Louis time. Jackie says her daughter, Sydney, will be her only bridesmaid and will walk her down the aisle. A dinner reception will follow at the Buccaneer Bay restaurant. Jackie wants her choir family to share in her wedding and is inviting you to witness the ceremony through the Internet. The wedding will be broadcast live by streaming video at www.treasureisland.com. Those of us on the bus returning from Indianapolis during the wedding can log in later for a replay.


Chancel Choir Update 6/4: Sunday Schedule / Cares and Concerns
Choir Sings For Two Services This Sunday, June 6
The Chancel Choir will sing for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services this Sunday. Call time is 8:30 a.m. There was a very light turnout at rehearsal last night. Hopefully we'll make a better showing on Sunday morning. If at all possible, please sing for both services. Anthem: Shout To God and Prayer of St. Francis.

Cares and Concerns Update
Baritone Larry Dietzel's Father -- Larry's father, Rich, was diagnosed with melanoma on his neck. Testing revealed the melanoma has not spread and can be successfully treated with surgery. However, the testing also revealed a blocked carotid artery which needs to be opened before the surgery for the melanoma can take place.
Soprano Donna Biolchini's Husband -- Donna's husband, Paul, has been suffering from a sever infection in his right thumb. Donna reports the infection involved the joint in his right thumb and appeared without cause. Paul was hospitalized for eight days undergoing intravenous antibiotic treatment and had four operations on his thumb to treat the infection. He is home from the hospital and undergoing physical therapy to regain use of his thumb. Donna's says Paul is lucky because the infection did not involve the cartilage or bone in the joint otherwise he could have lost his thumb or hand. There is no explanation for how he contracted the infection.

Nancy Wilson Will Be Ordained During Annual Conference in Columbia, Mo.
Rev. Nancy Wilson will be ordained during a special ceremony Sunday evening at the Annual Conference in Columbia, Mo. This will make her a "full octane" minister (we're sure there's a better explanation than that, but we don't have it). Nancy has been working on this for many years. Coventry Choir has been asked to sing for the ordination service. Congratulations to Nancy.

Internationally Known Handbell Choir Will Perform
The Raleigh Ringers, a professional community handbell choir from Raleigh, N.C., will present its first St. Louis area concert at 7 p.m., Tuesday, June 22 in the Sanctuary. This is "high end" handbell playing, we're told. If you know of friends who would enjoy this concert, please pass the word. Advance tickets are $12 or $5 for persons 18 years of age and under. Admission at the door is $15. Advance tickets are available from the church office. Concert proceeds will benefit the church's handbell program.

Chancel Choir Update 6/2: Cares and Concerns
Soprano Martha Holt's daughter, Susan, lost all of her personal possessions in a house fire on Memorial Day. Susan lives with her father at Rockaway Beach near Branson. The fire started in the garage and quickly spread to the house. Susan was in the backyard when smoke began pouring from the house. The house is located in a rural area and a tanker truck was needed to haul water to the fire. No one was injured.

Chancel Choir Update 5/28: Cares and Concerns
Baritone Larry Dietzel's father, Rich, will undergo surgery next Wednesday for removal of melanoma from his neck. Our thoughts and prayers are with Larry and his family.

Chancel Choir Update 5/28: Weekend Schedule / News You Can Use
Chancel Choir Sings At 10:30 a.m. Worship Service Sunday
We will sing only for the 10:30 a.m. worship service this Sunday, May 30. Call time is 10 a.m. in the music room. Anthem: Christ Is Made the Sure Foundation.

Schedule For The Remainder Of The Year
Thursday, June 3 -- Regular rehearsal.
Sunday, June 6 -- We sing for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services. Anthems: Shout To God and Prayer of St. Francis
Thursday, June 10 -- Final "dress" rehearsal for the Indy tour. Only singers traveling to Indy need attend this rehearsal. (Money for the Indy tour is due to your section manager by June 10.)
Friday, June 11 -- We're off to Indianapolis.

End of Year Choir Party
Plan on attending the annual end of year choir party beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 19. The party will be held at the home of Gary and Bonnie Halls and will feature outstanding food, the installation of choir officers for next year, the formal coronation ceremony for the Chancel Choir Queen, and a state-of-the-choir address by Kevin.

Summer Thursday Night Dinners
Each summer the choir's social director offers a way of avoiding choir withdrawal. We will meet at various restaurants on Thursday nights during the summer to eat and visit. These dinners are open to anyone who wants to attend. The dinners will begin at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, June 17 at Applebee's in Ballwin. You must let social director Sandy Ford know if you plan to join us by noon on Wednesday, June 16. The gathering will move to a different restaurant each week thorugh the summer. The next dinner location will be announced each week at the Thursday dinner and a signup sheet will be circulated. Because the size of the dinner groups last year averaged more than 40 people, advance reservations each week will be required this year. If you don't attend a dinner to sign up for the next week, you'll need to call Sandy Ford by noon on Wednesday the day before the dinner to get the location and indicate if you plan to attend that week. Sandy's number is 636-227-5749. The dinners will continue on Thursday nights throughout the summer until rehearsals resume in the fall.

Chancel Choir Will Sing on Sunday, July 4
If you are available, plan on joining the choir in the loft on Sunday, July 4. We'll hold a short rehearsal on Sunday morning and sing for the holiday. More details will be announced that week.

Summer Volunteer Choir Will Sing This Year
During the summer choir recess, a volunteer choir will sing this year. The summer choir is open to anyone who wants to sing on Sunday morning. Meet in the choir room 30 minutes before the 10:30 a.m. service. Summer choir will sing on July 11, 18 and 25 and on Aug. 1, 8, 15, and 22.

Great Britain Tour
There are currently 72 people signed up for the 2005 Tour of Great Britain. It's not too late to join the tour. Your $100 deposit is due now. Use a Great Britain envelope available in the choir room and turn you money in to Jacque Rocchio.

Chancel Choir Update 5/24: Cares and Concerns
Baritone Larry Dietzel's father has been diagnosed with melanoma and will undergo further testing tomorrow. Larry asks for our thoughts and prayers as the severity of the disease is discovered and treatment options are considered. Larry's father lives in St. Louis.

Chancel Choir Update 5/21: Pentecost Gift Correction
Pentecost Gifts Were Less Valuable Than Reported
The value of the 2,500 Pentecost Gifts presented last Sunday was less than the $75,000 reported in this morning's Chancel Choir email update. Maida says accounting for all the gifts is still underway and a final number won't be known for some time. So how far off was our initial report? When pressed, Maida says it will be about a third of that amount. We stand corrected and apologize for the error.

Chancel Choir Update 5/20: News You Can Use / Concert Schedule
Allen Pote Concert This Weekend
The Chancel Choir will be busy this weekend preparing for Sunday night's concert with Allen Pote. The choir sings only at the 10:30 a.m. service on Sunday. Call time is 10 a.m. Anthems with Allen Pote: On The Third Day and A Jubilant Song. The choir will rehearse from 10 a.m until noon on Saturday. The choir will also rehearse from 3 p.m. until 4 p.m. on Sunday. The concert is scheduled for 7 p.m. Call time for the concert is 6:30 p.m.

Pentecost Gifts Benefit Chancel Choir and Music Program
The Chancel Choir was given six new anthems by members of the congregation as part of the Pentecost Gifts program last week. More than 2,500 gifts totaling more than $75,000 were given to the various ministries of the church. Gifts to the Music Ministry totaled $11,330 of which $2,420 was earmarked for new music. Here is a breakdown of the value of the gifts by various music programs: Chapel Choir, $300; Sunshine Singers, $135; Carol Choir, $210; Music Makers, $1,006; Handbell Program, $4,400; various Music Ministry, $5,280. Alto Maida McCormack was in charge of the Pentecost Party and gifts program.

Business Is Handled During Town Hall Meeting Thursday Night
Several business items were discussed and handled during a Town Hall Meeting following rehearsal last night. For those not present, here is a summary of what happened.

Chancel Choir Funds Management Policy Approved
By a unanimous voice vote, the choir approved a new policy to guide the Chancel Choir treasurer and officers in the management and use of the choir's activity funds. The policy updates a previous financial policy and spells out procedures for collecting, accounting and spending the activity money earned by choir members during fund raising events or collected from them for special trips and events.

Chancel Choir Officer Slate of Candidates Is Challenged by Anonymous Nominations
In an unexpected and unprecedented move, the slate of candidates for next year's choir officers was challenged during the election of officers last night. As a result of the challenge, the proposed candidate for assistant secretary was replaced by a last minute nominee who won in a run off vote.

The challenge originated from an anonymous note given to choir president Moe Parisien during last night's rehearsal. The note nominated Dave Divjak for vice-president/president elect and Janie Walker for assistant secretary. The slate of candidates recruited by the Choir Officers had listed Mary Dean as nominee for vice president and Cece Spatola as assistant secretary, a position she held this year.

Upon reading the names of the proposed replacement nominees to the choir, Moe asked if the two were willing to serve if elected. Dave said he would not and refused the nomination. Janie Walker indicated she would serve if elected. The choir then approved the unchallenged nominees by unanimous voice vote. A special run off election was then held for assistant secretary. Janie was asked to leave the room during the vote. Cece was attending her son's baccalaureate with her family and was not present. By a show of hands, Janie Walker was elected as assistant secretary by a wide margin. Moe also announced prior to the voice vote that Jacque Rocchio had agreed to serve as treasurer elect. No objections were heard and she was added to the list of unchallenged officers.

New officers for the 2004-2005 choir year will be installed during the end of year party on June 19. They are: President, Jim Descher; vice president/president elect, Mary Dean; treasurer, John Lemen; treasurer-elect, Jacque Rocchio; secretary, Ann Garber; assistant secretary, Janie Walker; and member representatives, Barb Barrett, Lois Hendrickson, Dave Givens and Chris Kennedy. Appointed operations staff will be announced by president-elect Jim Descher at a future time.

The process currently used to nominate and elect choir officers was adopted by the choir in 1996. It calls for the outgoing and incoming choir presidents to recruit a slate of nominees who are willing to serve for the following year. The slate is presented to the choir officers for approval and then announced to the choir during a rehearsal in mid-May. At the second rehearsal following the initial reading of the officers, an election is held. Opportunity is given at that meeting for choir members to stand and offer nominations from the floor for additional candidates.

Kevin Opens Discussion For Possible Changes in Music Programming
A list of "what ifs" was presented to the Chancel Choir by director Kevin McBeth during the Town Hall meeting. Kevin reported that the church was continuing to grow and that change was inevitable. He agreed that not everyone likes all forms and styles of worship music, but asked the choir to maintain an open mind as the church continues to grow.

Kevin acknowledged that choir members had probably heard many rumors and discussions about potential changes in worship programming. He stressed that no decisions had been made and that formal discussions about the possibilities were only now beginning.

He proposed three questions which he labeled "what ifs" for the choir to begin thinking about and discussing.

-- What if the choir grows to 200 members and we begin rehearsing together each week, but divide to sing for the two services on a permanent basis?
-- What if the Chancel Choir sings only at the 9 a.m. service on a permanent basis.
-- What if the current music staffing cannot handle the growth?

The new Alternative Contemporary Worship Service is still in the planning stages and contrary to popular belief has not be finalized. It is possible that the current music ministry may be asked to provide music for that weekly service as well. Kevin said the new service also will free us to do a lot of other things differently.

A meeting between Carl, Kevin and Lori is scheduled soon and meetings are planned with the worship planning team, chancel choir officers, and other groups for input. Kevin asked that in discussing the "what ifs" Chancel Choir members only speak for themselves and not represent their individual opinions as those of larger groups of people in the church.

New Music Is Commissioned From Composers In Memory of Kevin's Mother
It was announced that Chancel Choir officers had approved at their meeting in April the commissioning of new music as a memorial to Kevin's mother. Kevin told the choir that he was very excited about the projects and would provide more details on the new music at the choir's end of year party on June 19. The new pieces will be debuted at a memorial concert to be scheduled next fall.

Great Britain Tour Proposed Itinerary Is Announced
A proposed itinerary for the Chancel Choir's tour of Great Britain in 2005 was announced to the choir during the Town Hall meeting. Tour schedule sheets were also distributed and are available for those not present. The tour will include stops in London, Westminster Abbey, Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, Coventry Cathedral, Edinburgh, and the Scottish Highlands. Cost of the tour will be $2,600 and the initial $100 deposit is now due.

Other points made about the tour:
-- Costs are based on double occupancy which is about all you can comfortably put in the small hotels used.
-- Frequent flyer miles may be used by purchasing the land package only. Details to follow.
-- A passport will be needed. No immunizations are necessary.
-- Extra side trips both at the front and back of the tour are possible. More details later.
-- This is an "add on" activity trip and not required of choir members. The possibility of fund raising to support members financially is not practical.

Indy Trip Costs Are Announced
Final costs for the tour to Indianapolis were announced. payments may be made between Sunday, May 23, and Thursday, June 10. The bus will leave the church at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, June 11. We will meet at the church at 1 p.m.
Here is a break down of the costs and a total for various traveling classes:
Bus -- $47 per person
Hotel - $158 per night, per room (we're there two nights)
double occupancy - $158 per person (two night total)
triple - $106 per person (two night total)
quad - $ 79 per person (two night total)
Totals by Traveling Arrangements
Couples driving - $316 (per couple)
Couples riding the bus - $410 (per couple)
Triple occupancy and bus - $153 per person
Quad occupancy and bus - $126 per person

Indy money should be paid to your section manger: Soprano, Cece Spatola; Alto, Barb Farmer; Tenor, Bud Kemper; Bass, Larry Woolweaver.

We're Going To Great Britain
A European travel and diplomatic expert called to our attention that people living in England, Scotland and Ireland do not like to be called Europeans. So traveling there is not a European trip. We stand corrected. So, from now on, it's the Chancel Choir 2005 Tour of Great Britain.

Chancel Choir Update 5/19: Town Hall Meeting Tomorrow Night
Choir General Business Meeting Will Be Held During Rehearsal Tomorrow Night
It is important that as many Chancel Choir members as possible attend rehearsal tomorrow night. One reasons is because it's one of the final rehearsals before the concert with Allen Pote on Sunday night. But there's also an important business meeting scheduled. Following a one-hour rehearsal to prepare for the concert, a "town hall" general business meeting will be held to discuss a number of important topics including:
-- Election of officers for next year (the slate of officers was distributed last week)
-- Approval of choir funds accounting policy (the written policy was distributed last week)
-- Discussion of Indy trip and announcement of trip costs
-- Discussion of European trip. The final itinerary will be announced along with costs, payment schedule, concert venues and other important info. Your $100 deposit for the European trip is due tomorrow night.
-- Brainstorming on the choir's potential role in worship services in the future.

Chancel Choir Update 5/16: Cares and Concerns
Injury At The Rascal's Game
Kristin Brader, daughter of Alto Debbi Brader and Tenor Bruce Brader, suffered a serious injury to her ankle while attending the River City Rascal's ballgame with the choir in O'Fallon, Mo., last night (5/15). Kristin turned her ankle while leaving her seat at the stadium and was examined at the scene by Dr. Bruce Jones, orthopedist and husband of Soprano JoAnn Jones. Debbi took Kristin to the hospital where her ankle was x-rayed. There was no break, but she did sustain several severely torn tendons which may require surgery to repair. Debbi says weak ankles run in her family.

Belated Birth Announcement
It was a girl for Soprano Shannon Merriweather. Molly Sarah Merriweather was born to Shannon and her husband, Jason, on April 25. Shannon has been on leave from the choir this year and we were unaware of Molly's arrival until this morning.

Chancel Choir Update 5/14: News / Cares and Concerns
Choir Sings At 10:30 Service This Sunday
The Chancel Choir will sing at the 10:30 a.m. worship service on Sunday. Call time is 10 a.m. in the music room. Anthem: Many Gifts, One Spirit.

Choir Officers Approve Funding Policy and Slate of Officers For 2004-2005
Chancel Choir officers approved a policy for the administration of Chancel Choir activity funds -- money raised by choir members and used for choir activities and charitable programs -- during their meeting Thursday night. The policy was distributed to the choir at rehearsal Thursday night. The policy will be presented for a vote of approval at the choir's general business session next Thursday, May 20. The policy outlines uses for choir funds, how the funds are to be handled by the choir treasurer, and procedures for accounting for the funds. If you were not at rehearsal, click this link to view the fund policy: http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/ChoirFundPolicy.htm

Officers also gave approval to a slate of officers for the 2004-2005 choir year. The officer candidates were announced to the choir Thursday night and will be voted on during the choir's general business session Thursday, May 20. All candidates have agreed to serve in their nominated offices. Choir policy also allows nominations from the floor at the May 20 meeting if other choir members wish to challenge the slate of candidates. The proposed slate of elected officers for the coming year are:

President -- Jim Descher
Vice-President (president elect) -- Mary Dean
Secretary -- Ann Garber
Assistant Secretary -- Cece Spatola
Treasurer -- John Lemen
Treasurer Elect -- To Be Announced
Member Representatives -- Barb Barrett, Lois Hendrickson, Dave Givens and Chris Kennedy.
Past-President -- Maurice Parisien (serves for one year following term as president)

The choir also has an operations staff of about 30 appointed persons. The list of appointments for next year will be announced soon.
Elected officers will be installed at the annual end of season party on June 19. The Chancel Choir Queen, traditionally the president's spouse, will be affirmed during a formal coronation ceremony at the party.

Chancel Choir Scholarship Recipient Is Selected
Each year the Chancel Choir presents a $2,000 scholarship to a graduating high school senior for use to pay for college or professional school tuition. The scholarship selection committee met Wednesday night to interview the six candidates applying this year. A recipient was selected and will be announced during youth Sunday activities at the 9 a.m. worship service on May 23. Unfortunately due to scheduling complications again this year, the choir will not be present in the loft when the scholarship is announced. However, the recipient will be introduced at the 10:30 a.m. service when the choir is scheduled to sing. The choir's vice president, this year Jim Descher, heads the scholarship selection committee each year. A formal selection process, approved by the choir several years ago, is used to guide the committee in identifying the scholarship recipient.

Rascals Game, Choir's Final Social Outing of The Year, Is Saturday Evening
If you have tickets to attend the River City Rascals ballgame and picnic this Saturday, the choir's final social outing of the season, remember to arrive at the ballpark in O'Fallon, Mo. at 5:45 p.m. The game will follow the picnic at 7:05 p.m. The journey to O'Fallon can take as long as 45 minutes to an hour, so leave in plenty of time. Directions to the ballpark were included in the envelope with your tickets. Chancel Choir Alto Karen Yeomans, who also happens to be a district engineer with MO-DOT, suggests that you not take I-270 north to I-70 on Saturday as suggested in the directions because of construction at the Ladue Road intersection. She recommends instead that you take 40 west to Route K, turn right (north) and take Route K north to I-70. Continue on Route K north under I-70 about one mile to Tom Ginnever Ave. Take right (east) on Tom Ginnever Ave. and continue for about one-half mile. The T.R. Hughes Ballpark is on the right side at the corner of Tom Ginnever Ave. and Ozzie Smith Drive.

Choir General Business Meeting Set For Thursday, May 20
Following a one-hour rehearsal next week, the choir will conduct several items of important business. Included on the agenda:
-- Election of officers
-- Approval of choir funds policy
-- Discussion of Indy trip and announcement of costs
-- Discussion of European trip. Final itinerary will be announced along with costs, payment schedule, concert venues and other important info.
This is a very important meeting for choir members. Try to attend if at all possible.

Robe Money Is Due, Please Pay For Cleaning Of Your Robe
So far about $2,100 has been collected for cleaning of Chancel Choir robes. That's about $400 short of the amount needed for robe cleaning. If you've been absent this spring or haven't had a chance to chip in for robe cleaning, please do so this Sunday. Cost of cleaning your robe is $13.50. Envelopes for robe funds will be available in the music room before worship on Sunday morning or money may be sent to choir president Maurice Parisien. Due to significant cuts in the Music Ministry budget this spring, money for cleaning of the Chancel Choir robes was eliminated from the budget for this year. Hopefully the budget cuts making choir members responsible for this expense will be a one-time issue. Choir members are being asked to voluntarily contribute the cost of cleaning their robe this year.

Cares and Concerns
Alto Jean Kinnard began chemotherapy treatments for breast cancer this week. She is reportedly very ill from the treatment and anti-nausia medication is not working for her. She is scheduled for a total of five chemo treatments spaced three weeks apart to be followed by five weeks of daily radiation therapy.
Soprano Donna Biolchini's husband, Paul, underwent surgery Thursday to treat a seriously infected thumb.
Alto Janie Walker's father underwent surgery Thursday to remove a kidney. Further details were not immediately available.
It's a grandson for Soprano Bertha Erhardt and Tenor Don Erhardt. Benjamin was born Thursday morning and weighed in at 6 pounds, 12 ounces.

Chancel Choir Update 5/11: Cares and Concerns
A memorial service will be held Thursday for Hillary Grace Farmer, still born infant of alto Barb Farmer's son, Chris, and daughter-in-law, Christy. The child died during the ninth month of pregnancy due to a knotted umbilical cord.

Chancel Choir Update 5/9: Cares and Concerns / News You Can Use
Alto Barb Farmer's son, Chris, and daughter-in-law, Christy, have lost their baby girl in the ninth month of pregnancy. Chris, who is a doctor, did not feel the baby moving on Sunday (5/9) and tests determined the baby had died. Christy is being induced tonight and Barb has left for Columbia, Mo., to be with them. They ask for our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Alto Bonnie Halls, Barb's cousin, will keep us informed.

Rascal's Ballgame Tickets Are Distributed
If you ordered tickets to the Rascals ballgame and picnic on Saturday, May 15, and did not pick them up on Thursday or Sunday, they will be mailed to your home address tomorrow (Monday). There are three tickets for the event available. Doug Ross has one ticket he is willing to give away. Larry Dietzel has two tickets for sale.

Chancel Choir Update 5/9: Cares and Concerns
Baritone Jim Love is recovering from emergency surgery late last week to repair a perforated colon. He is hospitalized at St. John's Mercy Medical Center.

Chancel Choir Update 5/7: News You Can Use
Choir Sings Early This Sunday
The Chancel Choir will sing at the 9 a.m. service this Sunday. Call time is 8:30 a.m. Anthem is One World.

Allen Pote Concert Flyer
If you like to email posters about our concerts to your friends and neighbors, an electronic version of the Allen Pote concert poster is available for download or email on the choir's Web site. You may copy the link below into an email message or you can download the poster to your hard drive. The link is:
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/allenpoteconcert.html

Chancel Robe Cleaning Contributions Needed
If you haven't had a chance to contribute your $13.50 for robe cleaning, please do so either this Sunday or at rehearsal next Thursday night. If you are not currently attending rehearsals, we still need your robe cleaning money. You may mail a check for $13.50 to the Chancel Choir president: Maurice Parisien, 1210 Berquist Court, Ballwin, MO 63011. So far we have collected about $1800 of the $2500 needed to clean all the robes.

Chancel Choir Update 5/2: News You Can Use
River City Rascals Tickets Will Be Distributed This Week
Tickets for the Rascals ballgame and barbecue picnic on May 15 will be distributed Thursday night to the 66 choir members and their families attending. We will meet at the Rascals ballpark at 5:45 p.m., Saturday, May 15 for the picnic. The game will follow at 7:15 p.m.

Two Rascals Tickets Are Up For Sale
So you didn't get signed up for the Rascals game and still want to go or maybe you know some friends you'd like to invite. Two tickets for both the ballgame and picnic are up for sale. Contact Larry Dietzel at 314-909-1151 or 314-757-7653 (work). The tickets are $18 each.

Chancel Choir Update 4/30: News You Can Use / Cares and Concerns
Chancel Choir Sings For Both Services This Sunday
We will sing for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services this Sunday. Anthems are: You Are Almighty and Joy In The Morning. Call time is 8:30 a.m. in the music room.

Get Out The Calendar, Important Dates Announced
Here are some important upcoming dates for your calendar:
End Of Year Party -- Saturday, June 19, at 5:30 p.m. at the home of Bonnie Halls
Back To Choir Party -- Saturday, Aug. 21, 5:30 p.m. -- Home of Sandy Wilmoth
Fall Choir Retreat -- Friday and Saturday, Sept. 24 and 25 at Dittmer, Mo.

Room Assignments Due Next Thursday For Indy Trip
Everyone -- whether you're going to Indy or not -- needs to turn in a tour sheet indicating if your going or not. About 30 choir members still haven't turned in sheets. The hotel needs a list of final room assignments by the end of next week. The rooming lists are due at rehearsal, next Thursday, May 6.

Robe Cleaning Collection Will Resume on Sunday
If you haven't turned in money to pay for cleaning your choir robe, a collection envelope will be available this Sunday morning. Cost of cleaning a choir robe is $13.50.

Cares and Concerns
Alto Jean Kinnard is recovering from knee surgery earlier this week. No additional information is immediately available.
Alto Kristie Whitney received her final chemotherapy treatment on Wednesday.

Chancel Choir Update 4/23: Much News You Can Use
Choir Sings at 10:30 a.m. Service This Sunday
The Chancel Choir will sing only at the 10:30 a.m. service Sunday. Call time is 10 a.m. in the music room. We'll do three anthems: Feed My Lambs, We Remember You, I Know That May Redeemer Lives.

Schedule For Allen Pote Festival of Praise Concert
Noted composer Allen Pote will visit Manchester on the weekend of May 22 and 23 and conclude with the Festival of Praise concert at 7 p.m., Sunday, May 23 in the Sanctuary. Chancel Choir will rehearse with Allen Pote from 10 a.m. until noon on Saturday, May 22, and again on Sunday, May 23, from 3 p.m. until 4 p.m.

Europe Tour Information Distributed
Information for the Chancel Choir's 2005 tour of Europe was distributed at rehearsal Thursday. The choir will depart on Sunday, June 5, 2005 and return on Tuesday, June 14, 2005. The schedule will include: 2 days travel, 4 days in London, 1 day in Stratford-Upon-Avon, and 3 days in Edinburgh. Cost will run between $2,500 and $2,600 per person. An initial deposit of $100 will be due on Thursday, May 20. If you didn't get an information sheet, it is available in PDF format at the link below or by going to the Chancel Choir Web site in the Notes section.
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Member/Notes/Europe%20Tour%20Info%20Sheet.pdf

Choir Town Hall Meeting Set For Thursday, May 20
An important meeting to discuss a number of business items will be held on Thursday, May 20. A one-hour rehearsal will precede the business meeting. Topics for discussion include: election of 2005 choir officers, revised policy for managing the choir's activity funds, and additional information and signups for the 2005 European Tour. Plan on attending this important rehearsal and town hall meeting.

Indy Tour Sheets Are Due Now
If you haven't turned in an Indianapolis Tour Sheet yet, please do so as soon as possible so Kevin can get a count. Everyone needs to turn in a sheet to indicate either if you are or are not going on tour. As of Thursday night, Kevin reported at 40 people going and 40 indicating they could not. So, if you are on the fence, we need you to participate in the tour. It's great fun, a great way to get to know people in the choir, and a lot of fun . . oh, we mentioned that already.

End Of Year Choir Party Is Set For Saturday, June 19
The annual Chancel Choir end of season celebration will be held at the home of Bonnie and Gary Halls, 2415 North Ballas Road, on Saturday, June 19 beginning at 4:30 p.m. In addition to a sumptuous potluck dinner, you'll see the installation of officers for the coming year, the coronation ceremony for the incoming Chancel Choir queen, and the State of the Choir Address by Kevin. Mark your calendars now. This is a great way to wind up the year and kick off summer.

Collection For Cleaning Of Chancel Choir Robes Continues
Chancel Choir members are being asked to contribute money this year to clean their choir robes. Cost of cleaning a choir robe is $13.50. Choir President Moe Parisien will collect donations to the cleaning fund. Deadline for submitting robe cleaning contributions will be Thursday, May 13. Persons wishing to have their robe cleaning contribution count toward their church contributions and receive a tax deduction, may use an offering envelope and clearly mark it "Chancel Choir Robe Cleaning." The choir is being asked to cover the cost of cleaning this year due to budget cuts made necessary by a pledging shortfall during the church's stewardship campaign last fall.

Summer Thursday Night Dinners Will Continue This Year
The Chancel Choir's social director once again will schedule Thursday night dinners this summer at favorite area restaurants. We meet at 6:30 p.m. each Thursday during the summer at a predetermined location.

Summer Pickup Choir and July Fourth Worship Service
The last Sunday for the choir to sing in church is June 6. During July and August, we'll have a summer "pickup" choir open to anyone in the congregation who might be interested. No rehearsal, just meet in the music room 15 minutes before the morning worship service. Since July 4 falls on Sunday this year, as many Chancel Choir members as possible are encouraged to sing at both the 9 and 10:30 services that morning to sing patriotic music.

Cares and Concerns
Alto Mindy Zimmerman's wedding is Saturday. Congratulations.

Chancel Choir Update 4/21: Cares and Concerns / Robe Cleaning
Cares and Concerns
The latest addition to the Belval singing dynasty arrived right on time yesterday afternoon (April 20). Ethan Andrew Belval weighed in at 9 pounds, 8 ounces and is the son of Soprano Marci Belval and Bass Andy Belval. He is the grandchild of Soprano Sue Belval and Baritone Jim Belval and the niece of Soprano Becky Williamson. All are doing well, we might add.

Collection To Pay For Cleaning Of Chancel Choir Robes Begins Thursday Night
As Choir President Moe Parisien announced last Thursday, Chancel Choir members are being asked to contribute money this year to clean their choir robes. Cost of cleaning a choir robe is $13.50. An envelope will circulate this Thursday night for choir members to donate to the cleaning fund. Deadline for submitting robe cleaning contributions will be Thursday, May 13. Persons wishing to have their robe cleaning contribution count toward their church contributions and receive a tax deduction, may use an offering envelope and clearly mark it "Chancel Choir Robe Cleaning."

Robes will be cleaned this summer by a commercial dry cleaner we have used for the past several years. The cleaner was selected for consistence, quality, security and convenience since they pick up and deliver. Because we need to maintain control over the cleaning process, you may not take your robe to your favorite dry cleaner.

Chancel Choir members are being asked to pay for robe cleaning this year due to a shortfall in the amount of pledges received from church members. In an effort to balance the church's budget, many of the church's ministries took significant cuts this year. The Music Ministry budget for this year was reduced by more than 31 percent over our original request which was equal to our budget last year. In addition to cuts for robe cleaning, five of the 10 concerts in next year's concert series were eliminated and reductions were made in money allocated for purchase of new and "fill in" music, some equipment purchases and programming. Hopefully, the need to ask choir members to kick in for robe cleaning will be a one-time thing and pledging next year will improve and our budget will be restored.

Chancel Choir Update 4/19: Cares and Concerns
Alto Joyce Humphrey's father will undergo surgery tomorrow (April 20) to treat a reoccurrence of colon cancer.
Soprano Marci Belval (along with Bass Andy Belval) will give birth to child number two at 4 p.m. tomorrow (April 20). More details, including specifications, stats and name, will be available after the blessed event (in this case C-section.)
Alto Kristie Whitney has suffered a relapse of the acute intestinal infection she has been fighting as a complication from chemotherapy for previously diagnosed breast cancer. A note from her, received this morning, appears below:

"Thanks for thinking of me. I have had a relapse of the infection. My oncologist finally admitted she didn't know what else to do so she sent me to an internist. He put me on a different medication last Friday so I am still waiting to see whether or not it helps. I am supposed to have my final chemo this Thursday, but I am lobbying hard with the oncologist to let me skip it.

"I did manage to make it to church yesterday. I was at the 10:30 service in the Fireside Room. I enjoyed the music immensely and wished I could be up there with you guys. We tried to slip out early to avoid the crowds, but when we got to the car David had left his lights on and the battery was dead. A very nice fellow parked next to us gave us a jump so we finally made it home.

"Hope the social outing Saturday night was fun. I wanted to go but I can't risk being around crowds yet. I have received so many cards from choir members that I feel truly blessed. Please let everybody know how much I appreciate their thoughtfulness."
Kristie

Chancel Choir Update 4/13: Cares and Concerns / Movie and Moos
Cares and Concerns
Alto Jean Kinnard will undergo surgery for treatment of breast cancer Thursday morning (April 15). The outpatient procedure will be performed at St. Lukes Hospital. Prayers and cards are appreciated -- hold off on phone calls for now. Her address is: 182 Ameren Way, No. 551, Ballwin, MO 63021.
Baritone Jim Descher's sister, Stacy Banker, Waterloo, Ill., is recovering from complications resulting from surgery to remove her gallbladder. She remains hospitalized at Missouri Baptist Medical Center.
Our thoughts and prayers remain with these members of the choir family.

Movie and Moos This Saturday Night
We're bringing back "Movie and Moos" this Saturday night. Attend the rush hour movie of your choice at the Des Peres Theater and then meet up after at Maggie Moos on Manchester Road in Ballwin for some outstanding homemade ice cream. If you gave up dessert for Lent, this will be an excellent opportunity to get back in shape. No signups or advance payments are needed for this one. Just a sweet tooth and a hunger for movie theater popcorn. This event was popular a few years ago and we're bringing it back because Mark McGuire's appearance at the stadium Saturday will will pack the piano bar at the landing -- our original destination.

Chancel Choir Update 4/9: Easter Schedule / Cares and Concerns
Choir Sings for Two Services on Easter Sunday
As most of you know by now, the choir will sing for two of the five services this Sunday. It's Easter. Chancel Choir will sing for the 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services. Call time is 8:30 a.m. in the music room.

Cares and Concerns
Alto Kristie Whitney is recuperating at home after being hospitalized this week for treatment of a sever intestinal infection caused by a suppressed immune system resulting from chemotherapy treatments for previously diagnosed breast cancer. Kristie became ill last week after receiving the fifth of six chemotherapy treatments. Her address is 735 Foxwick Drive, Ballwin, MO 63011.
Former singer Judi Burket is undergoing surgery reconstructive surgery this morning in Florida. Her email address is: JudiBurk3@aol.com

A Reminder about Perfume and Cologne
Many people in the choir react badly to some or all fragrances in perfume and cologne. The reaction can range from a tightening in the throat to a full-blown sneeze (no pun intended) as many of you enjoy hearing from the back row occasionally. Cologne was particularly potent in the bass section during the Maundy Thursday service last night and it diminished the ability of several people to sing at their best. So, please be considerate and not wear heavy perfume, cologne or after shave. If there's a particular problem, a nice unscented product might be worth a try.

Chancel Choir Update 4/7: Sing For Maundy Thursday Service, Rehearsal After
Choir Sings For Maundy Thursday Service; Easter Rehearsal To Follow
The choir will sing for the Maundy Thursday services tomorrow night (April 8) at 7 p.m. Call time is 6:30 p.m. in the music room. The Easter rehearsal will begin at 8:30 p.m. following the service and last about an hour or more. The Easter Sunday chancel choir rehearsal scheduled for Saturday afternoon, April 10, has been canceled due to the funeral of Kevin's mother. Instead, the rehearsal following the Maundy Thursday service will include practice with the brass for Easter Sunday. Due to the need to amend schedules, it is important that as many choir members as possible be present for the rehearsal Thursday night.

Chancel Choir Update 4/5: Cares and Concerns / Memorial Concert For Kevin's Mom
Cares and Concerns
Sever Infection -- Alto Kristie Whitney has been hospitalized at St. Luke's Hospital for treatment of a sever intestinal infection caused by a suppressed immune system resulting from chemotherapy treatments for previously diagnosed breast cancer. Kristie became ill last week after receiving the fifth of six chemotherapy treatments. She cannot have visitors or flowers, but cards would be thoughtful, sent to: 735 Foxwick Drive, Ballwin, MO 63011.
Mother Hospitalized in Ohio -- Soprano Joyce Lang will travel to Akron, Ohio, on Monday to be with her mother, Evelyn Poulton, who has been hospitalized for treatment of an infection. Mrs. Poulton, 87, was readmitted to the hospital after being discharged earlier in the week. Joyce is asking for prayers that she and her brothers may make the right decisions for their mother. Mrs.Poulton's address is: 3833 Stow Rd., Stow, OH 42244.

Planning Is Underway For Tribute Concert For Kevin's Mom
Chancel Choir President Maurice Parisien announced to the choir Sunday morning that an effort has begun to plan a concert at the church as a tribute to Kevin's mother who died last week. Church music associate Lori Borger is spearheading the effort for the concert with Kevin's blessing. The concert will involve all of the choral and performance groups in the church's Music Ministry and be an addition to next year's concert series at the church. Donations will be sought from Music Ministry program participants to pay for concert expenses including musicians, music, and other costs. (Music Ministry budget reductions have required next year's concert series to be reduced to five performances from the normal 10.) Choir officers have also expressed interest in purchasing music for the Chancel Choir library in Kevin's memory. Kevin plans to invite his three sisters to the concert next year. Chancel Choir members wishing to make donations to help defray the costs for the Madie McBeth Tribute Concert can give them either to Maurice Parisien or Chancel Choir Treasurer John Lemen.

Chancel Choir Email Updates Are Available On The Choir Web Site
Email updates to the Chancel Choir are archived on the Chancel Choir Web site as soon as they are distributed. So, if you erase or miss important information or addresses, or wonder what's going on while you travel, you can access previous email updates from any computer in the world. The updates are located in the Member section of the Web site.

Chancel Choir Update 4/3: Funeral Arrangements For Kevin's Mother / Revised Rehearsal Schedule
Funeral services for Kevin's mother, Madie McBeth, will be at 10 a.m., Saturday, April 10, at Fiesta Missionary Baptist Church, 11105 Cullen Blvd., Houston, Texas 77047. A visitation and wake will be held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, April 9, at the church. Flowers are welcomed and can be sent to either the church at the above address or to Kevin's mother's house at 4921 Holloway Drive, Houston, Texas 77048. Kevin has three sisters: Deborah Clemons, Carolyn Raglin and Gwen McBeth. Kevin's address in St. Louis is: 9038 North Swan Circle, Brentwood, MO 63144-1169.

Saturday Easter Rehearsal Has Been Canceled; Extended Rehearsal Thursday Night Instead
The Easter Sunday chancel choir rehearsal scheduled for Saturday afternoon, April 10, has been canceled due to the funeral of Kevin's mother. Instead, the rehearsal this Thursday following the Maundy Thursday service will be extended and will include practice with the brass for Easter Sunday. The choir will sing for the Maundy Thursday services at 7 p.m. Call time is 6:30 p.m. in the music room. The Easter rehearsal will begin at 8:30 p.m. following the service and run until 10 p.m. Due to the need to amend schedules, it is important that as many choir members as possible be present for the rehearsal Thursday night.

Kevin's Travel Plans This Weekend
Kevin plans to be present at the Maundy Thursday service, the Easter rehearsal on Thursday night following the Maundy Thursday service, and all of the Easter Sunday services. He will leave for Houston on Friday morning, April 9, and return to St. Louis Saturday afternoon, April 10.

Chancel Choir Update 4/2: Death In Choir Family - Broyles
It is with sadness that we report the death of bass Bob Broyles' father, Harold Broyles, on Tuesday, March 30, following a long illness. Mr. Broyles and his wife, Evelyn, lived at Gambril Gardens. Visitation will be today (Friday, April 2) from 2 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Schrader Funeral Home in Ballwin. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m., Saturday, April 3, at Manchester United Methodist Church. Bob Broyles' home address is: 413 Shetland Valley Court, Chesterfield, MO 63005-4842. Our thoughts and prayers are with Bob and his family during this difficult time.

Chancel Choir Update 4/2: Important Info
Daylight Saving Time Begins This Sunday -- Set The Clocks Forward Saturday Night
That's right, it's spring. And that means the annual adjustment of the time piece. So, if you want to arrive at church on time Palm Sunday morning, set your clocks forward one hour before going to bed Saturday night. Otherwise, you could be seen wondering aimlessly about the Narthex on Sunday with a dazed look on your face. (At least this time, you'll have daylight savings time to blame.)

Choir Sings For Two Services This Sunday
The Chancel Choir sings for both the 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services this Sunday. It's Palm Sunday and we need as many singers a possible. Call time is 8:30 a.m. in the music room.

Easter Week Schedule Reminder
Next week is a busy time in the life of our church. It's Holy Week and that means some special responsibilities for the Chancel Choir. Here is a quick summary of the week's events for the choir:

Palm Sunday, April 4 -- Sing at both 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Call time is 8:30 a.m. in the music room. Music: Shout to God (introit) and When I survey the Wondrous Cross (offertory).
Maundy Thursday, April 8 -- The Chancel Choir sings for the 7 p.m. Maundy Thursday service. Warm up in the music room at 6:30 p.m. We'll rehearse for about 45 minutes following the Maundy Thursday service which should last about one hour and 15 minutes. Music: Hear My Prayer, Prayer to Jesus, How Beautiful, Were You There.
Saturday Easter Rehearsal, April 10 -- We'll rehearse with the brass from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Sanctuary. Call time for the rehearsal is 12:45 p.m. in the Sanctuary -- be ready to go.
Easter Sunday, April 11 -- We sing for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services. Call time is 8:30 a.m. in the music room. Music: Festival Hymn, Joy In The Morning, and Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's Messiah.

Palm Sunday Choral Concert Opportunity
The St. Louis Metro Singers will perform the Requiem by Gabriel Faure at 3 p.m., this Sunday, April 4, at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 3140 Meramec Street in the city. Kevin directs the Metro Singers.

Reminder: Monday Deadline for Rascal's Ballgame on May 15
If you'd like to join us at the River City Rascals game and barbecue picnic on May 15, we'll need your reservation and money by Monday, April 5. Cost is $18 per person. Makes check to Sandy Ford. An envelope will be available Sunday.

Chancel Choir Update 4/1: Death In The Choir Family
It is with great sadness that we report the death of Chancel Choir director Kevin McMeth's mother, Madie McBeth, today (Thursday, April 1) in Houston, Texas. She was 73. Mrs. McBeth had been hospitalized for about two weeks for treatment of congestive heart failure and had been moved from intensive care late last week after showing signs of improvement. Her condition worsened early Thursday and she returned to intensive care and again was put on a ventilator. She arrested and was revived twice during the afternoon and died at 5 p.m. Funeral services are pending in Houston and will likely be held on Monday or Tuesday. Kevin will travel to Houston Sunday afternoon to be with his family and plans to return to St. Louis on Thursday. Members of the Chancel Choir present at Thursday night's rehearsal were informed of the death of Kevin's mother by senior pastor Carl Schenck at the close of the evening. Although Kevin lead the rehearsal, he had asked Carl to deliver the news to the choir. Kevin's home address is: 9038 North Swan Circle, Brentwood, MO 63144-1169. Our thoughts and prayers are with Kevin and his sisters at the difficult time.

Chancel Choir Update 3/31: Important News You Can Use
Last Call For Picnic And Attend Minor League Baseball May 15
The absolute deadline for signing up and paying to join us at the River City Rascals is Monday, April 5. So far we have 32 making the trip to the T.R. Hughes Ballpark in St. Peter's on May 15 for a picnic and old-fashioned minor league baseball. Don't you want to join us? We'll start the evening at 5:45 p.m. with a group picnic in a private picnic area at the ballpark. All the barbecue, hotdogs and sodas you can eat or drink. Then we'll move to our box seats for the game at 7 p.m. All of this, the food, the soda and game tickets for just $18 per person. (Beer is only $1 and parking is free). Unfortunately, the cost for the picnic and game is the same for children. The signup envelope will be available both Thursday night and Sunday morning. You can make checks payable to Sandy Ford.

Mark McGuire Bumps Us From The Landing Piano Bar, But We Have A Plan "B"
Wouldn't you know it. No sooner than we plan an exciting outing to a dueling piano bar on Laclede's Landing and the Cardinals decide to honor Mark McGuire that afternoon. Go figure. It's not like he's been around for a while. That means the landing will be jammed with McGuire fans on April 17. Not a relaxing, pleasant scene to enjoy music as we planned. So, the choir's social director is dusting off a popular event we did several years ago. We're bringing back "Movie and Moos". It's fun and it works this way. We'll attend the rush hour movie of our choice at the Des Peres Theater and then meet up after at Maggie Moos on Manchester Road in Ballwin for some outstanding homemade ice cream. If you've given up dessert for Lent, this will be an excellent opportunity to get back in shape. No signups or advance payments are needed for this one. Just a sweet tooth and a hunger for movie theater popcorn. (We're big into eating in this group. Have you noticed?)

We're Heading to Indianapolis In June -- Check Your Calendars Now
Kevin and Ted have spent the first part of this week on a scouting mission to Indianapolis in advance of our tour there in June. We're sure details of the mission will be released soon. But, this much we do know. The Monday after we return home from Indy, more than 20,000 Baptists will descend on the city for a huge convention -- or whatever it is that Baptists do away from home. That means hotel rooms on the weekend leading up to their convention are at a premium and will need to be reserved soon. So, check your calendars now so that when the time comes to sign on the dotted line, you can make a quick decision. We'll leave for Indy on Friday, June 11, and return to St. Louis on Sunday, June 13.

Choir Shifts Into Easter Holiday Schedule -- We Sing For Two Services This Week
The Chancel Choir will sing for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. worship services this Sunday, which is Palm Sunday. Call time is 8:30 a.m. in the music room.

Daylight Savings Time Begins This Weekend
Here's perhaps your first reminder this Spring about Daylight Savings Time. Fast time begins at 2 a.m. this Sunday morning. Set your clocks forward before going to bed Saturday night and you'll be right on time for Palm Sunday services.

Chancel Choir Update 3/26: Cares and Concerns / News You Can Use
Cares and Concerns
Kevin's Mom -- It is good news for Kevin's mom. The ventilator was removed yesterday afternoon. She is gaining strength and gradually improving. Kevin will return to St. Louis tonight and will direct the choir on Sunday morning.
Tenor Tim Zink -- A serious accident involving a ladder has resulted in two dislocated shoulders for tenor Tim Zink. The accident occurred earlier this week at a house Tim is rehabbing. He was climbing into an attic when the ladder slipped out from under his feet. He grabbed the access opening to the attic to avoid falling and in the process injured his shoulders.

Chancel Choir Sings At 10:30 a.m. Sunday
We are scheduled to sing only at the 10:30 a.m. service on Sunday. Call time is 10 a.m. in the music room.

Chancel Choir Will Picnic And Attend Minor League Baseball Opener May 15
We'll need your signup and money as soon as possible for this fun spring outing. Join us for baseball like it used to be in a ballpark with no bad seats, plenty of barbecue and hotdogs, and free sodas. That's right. The Chancel Choir will attend the season opener of the River City Rascals minor league baseball team on Saturday, May 15 at the T.R. Hughes Ballpark in St. Peter's. We'll start the evening at 5:45 p.m. with a group picnic in a private picnic area at the ballpark. All the barbecue, hotdogs and sodas you can eat or drink. Then we'll move to our box seats for the game at 7 p.m. All of this, the food, the soda and game tickets for just $18 per person. (Beer is only $1 and parking is free). A signup envelope will be available on Sunday and next Thursday. We'll need your money turned in with your reservation as soon as possible to hold the group booking. You can make checks payable to Sandy Ford.

Chancel Choir Update 3/25: River City Rascals Outing
Chancel Choir Will Picnic And Attend Minor League Baseball Opener May 15
Join us for baseball like it used to be in a ballpark with no bad seats, plenty of barbecue and hotdogs, and free sodas. That's right. The Chancel Choir will attend the season opener of the River City Rascals minor league baseball team on Saturday, May 15 at the T.R. Hughes Ballpark in St. Peter's. We'll start the evening at 5:45 p.m. with a group picnic in a private picnic area at the ballpark. All the barbecue, hotdogs and sodas you can eat or drink. Then we'll move to our box seats for the game at 7 p.m. All of this, the food, the soda and game tickets for just $18 per person. (Beer is only $1 and parking is free). A signup envelope will begin circulating at choir rehearsal tonight. We'll need your money turned in with your reservation as soon as possible to hold the group booking. You can make checks payable to Sandy Ford.

Chancel Choir Update 3/24: Kevin's Mother
Kevin flew to Houston on Monday to be with his mother this week. She remains in intensive care on a ventilator for treatment of pneumonia and congestive heart failure. However, she is no worse and appears to be improving.

Here is a brief update from Kevin. The cardiologist visited Kevin's mother this morning and indicated that from the looks of things, she probably also had a mild heart attack. His mother responded to the doctor and moved her arms and legs when he asked her to. Hopefully she will be off the ventilator soon -- she is breathing mostly on her own now. She is starting to focus in on people and looks at them when they speak to her. The doctors are feeling "very encouraged." She is responding better overall. The cardiologist is unsure if the probable heart attack was caused by a blockage or by fluid. No decision has been made yet on the need for a pacemaker or heart catherization. There will be an MRI today. Kevin hopes the tubes will be removed before he leaves to return to St. Louis.

Kevin had originally intended to return to St. Louis tomorrow (Thursday) but has decided to stay an extra day and will return Friday night instead of Thursday. Ted will lead Chancel Choir rehearsal on Thursday. Since Easter approaches, it is important that we make every effort to be at rehearsal this week.

As those of us who have had loved ones in intensive care know, it is very, very stressful on the family to be so focused on the health condition of a loved one. Our thoughts and prayers are with Kevin and his family and we hope for a speedy recovery for his mother.

Chancel Choir Update 3/21: Cares and Concerns / News You Can Use
Cares and Concerns
Kevin's Mother Hospitalized -- Madie McBeth, mother of Chancel Choir director Kevin McBeth, was hospitalized yesterday (Saturday) in Houston, Texas, for treatment of pneumonia and congestive heart failure. Kevin reports his mother is being treated in an intensive care unit and is currently on a ventilator. Kevin may visit his mother in Texas this week.
Care and Concern Updates -- Soprano Claudia Fallert is recovering from surgery Thursday to treat varicose veins in her leg. She is not allowed to remain in a sitting position for more than 15 minutes at a time for the next two weeks. Soprano Beth Morey reports she may now put full weight on her broken leg, but has at least six weeks to continue with a walker and maybe crutches and a full-leg brace. She is staying with her sister in Webster Groves (314-961-8927) and continues to work at an accounting firm in Clayton. She injured her leg last fall while visiting her son in Indianapolis. Baritone Mike Latimer is fully recovered from an endoscopic procedure Friday to treat a stricture in his esophagus.
Former Choir Member Is Grandmother -- Former alto Carole Allen is now a grandmother. Her daughter, Kristin Busby, Oxford, Miss., gave birth to a baby girl on Wednesday, March 17. Hattie Elizabeth weighed 7 lbs., 1 oz., and was 18 1/2 inches long, and, according to eyewitness reports, has lots of dark hair. Carole's other daughter, Julee, and husband, Dave, are expecting grandbaby number two in a couple of weeks. Carole Allen moved to Blue Mound, Ill., three years ago.

Fran McMillian Is Chancel Choir Trivia Champ
Alto Fran McMillian took top honors at the Chancel Choir's First Trivia Dinner Saturday night at the Olive Garden in Des Peres. A total of 42 choir members and guests competed for the honor during three rounds of intense choir trivia testing. Fran received the Grand Prize by answering 15 of the 30 choir trivia questions correctly. Winners of each of the three interim rounds included: Joyce Lang, Karen Yeomans, and Sue Sturhahn and Fran McMillian (tie for the second round). All of the interim round winners answered six of 10 questions correctly. Barb Barrett was runnerup for Grand Prize with 14 correct answers. The grand prize was a large chocolate Easter egg. Wonder how you would do answering Chancel Choir trivia? Well here's your chance. The trivia quiz is now available on the Chancel Choir Web site. A link appears below for two versions, one with the answers and one without. The quiz can also be reached by going to the Notes page in the Member section of the Web site. Choir trivia was obtained from the Chancel Times archives, a written history of the choir, and some questions provided by Merry Gnaegy.
Quiz without answers -- http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Member/Notes/Trivia%20Quiz.htm
Quiz with answers -- http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Member/Notes/Trivia%20Quiz%20With%20Answers.htm

Chancel Choir 50th Anniversary Slips By Unnoticed
We should have had a party. During research for the Chancel Choir Trivia Dinner it became apparent that the choir's 50th anniversary slipped by unnoticed last year. The Chancel Choir began singing for Sunday worship services in 1953 in what we now know as the historic chapel. Gus Bante was the first Chancel Choir director. The choir has sung each Sunday since and has grown from less than a dozen members to more than 150. Perhaps we can have a belated 50th anniversary party?

Chancel Choir Update 3/17: Cares and Concerns / News You Can Use
Cares and Concerns
-- Alto Roxanne Miller fell last Thursday striking her face and suffered two broken teeth and bruises.
-- Soprano Claudia Fallert will under surgery tomorrow (Thursday, March 18) to treat varicose veins in her leg.
-- Soprano Christina Vogel's grandmother, Marjorie Swan, is recovering from surgery to repair a perforated colon. She is in intensive care at Saint Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau, Mo.
All of these choir members and their families ask for our thoughts and prayers.

Chancel Choir Rehearsal Resumes Tomorrow Night, March 18
The choir will resume rehearsals tomorrow night after a week off. It's important that you are there -- we'll begin rehearsing Easter music.

Ted Receives Honors At The Peabody Hotel
As you all know, Kevin and Ted attended the regional meeting of the American Choral Director's Association in Little Rock last week. What you may not know is that Ted received rare recognition while there. Ted was selected from hundreds of people standing nearby to serve as the official Grand Marshal for the March 12 parade of the Peabody Ducks in the lobby of the Peabody Hotel in Little Rock. Here's the story. Many years ago in the 1930s, the owner of the Peabody Hotel in Memphis returned from duck hunting with five live decoy ducks. It was too late to return the trained decoy ducks to their owner, so he put them in the hotel lobby fountain for the night. The ducks attracted a lot of attention from the guests and the next day when he went to retrieve them, people complained. Knowing a good marketing gimmick when he saw it, the hotel manager made the Peabody Ducks famous by training them to march into the lobby each morning and march out again each evening. This tradition continues today at all Peabody Hotels. The Ducks march on a red carpet each day at 11 a.m. and return to their hotel suite at 5 p.m. Each day a parade Grand Marshal is selected from the audience. On Friday, well you know the rest. Ted rode down the elevator with the ducks and led them into the lobby. Like to see what that looked like? Click on the link below to see a brief slide show of Ted leading the Peabody Ducks. You can also reach the photos by going to the Notes section of the Chancel Choir Web site.
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Member/Notes/peabodyducks.html

Last Call To Test Your Knowledge of Choir Trivia on March 20
Do you know everything there is to know about the Chancel Choir? Some of you think you do. Well you'll get your chance to prove it at the Chancel Choir Trivia Dinner. We'll have dinner this Saturday, March 20 at the Olive Garden on Manchester Road in Des Peres at 6 p.m. Then we'll conduct a choir trivia challenge with amazing prizes for the winner. Don't miss it. Yes, this is Chancel Choir trivia. Do you know when the current edition of the Chancel Choir was started? Who the first director was? The first song they sang? These and many other trivia tests await you at the Chancel Choir Trivia Dinner. We must have a reservation from you to attend. Deadline to sign up is this Thursday night.

Chancel Choir Update 3/11: No Rehearsal Tonight / Sing Early On Sunday
No Rehearsal Tonight, March 11
Choir rehearsal will not be held tonight, March 11. Kevin and Ted are attending the regional convention of the American Choral Directors Association in Little Rock, Ark. Enjoy the night off. Maybe watch the Princess Diana Tapes or Donald Trump?

Chancel Choir Sings At The 9 a.m. Service On Sunday
The Chancel Choir is scheduled to sing at the 9 a.m. service this Sunday, March 14. Call time is 8:30 a.m. in the music room. We will sing: Wade In The Water.

Test Your Knowledge of Choir Trivia on March 20
Do you know everything there is to know about the Chancel Choir? Some of you think you do. Well you'll get your chance to prove it at the Chancel Choir Trivia Dinner. We'll have dinner at the Olive Garden on Manchester Road in Des Peres at 6 p.m. Then we'll conduct a choir trivia challenge with amazing prizes for the winner. Don't miss it. The sign up sheet will be available Sunday and next Thursday or reply to this email. Yes, this is Chancel Choir trivia. Do you know when the current edition of the Chancel Choir was started? Who the first director was? The first song they sang? These and many other trivia tests await you at the Chancel Choir Trivia Dinner.

Youth Auction Reservations Offered To Choir Early
If you are planning to attend the annual Youth Auction on April 23, now is your chance to get a reservation in early. Tickets go on sale March 14, but choir members can buy now. Cost is $35 for the gala fundraiser dinner and auction held at the Marriott in Maryville. This year there's London Broil and Salmon for entrees and we all know what a good time everyone has. It's the talk of the spring. This is the place the Chancel Choir's fancy dinners are sold to the highest bidder. If you'd like to attend, see or call Alto Judi Shepard at 636-458-3660.

Chancel Choir Update 3/8: Death In Chancel Choir Family
It is with sadness that we report the death of Bass Tom Lawrence's mother, Mildred Lawrence, at noon today, March 8, in Panama City, Florida. Mrs. Lawrence, 88, had been in failing health for some time and suffered from Alzheimer's disease. Funeral services are pending. Our thoughts and prayers are with Tom and his family.

Chancel Choir Update 3/5: No Choir Sunday / News You Can Use
See Jim Belval Dressed As Goliath
The Chancel Choir will not sing on Sunday, but you will have a chance to see Jim Belval typecast in the role of Goliath for the Music Maker's musical "David and The Rock Slinger." His appearance is promised to be "quit a sight" to quote someone in the know. The musical will be presented at the 9 and 10:30 a.m. services on Sunday morning and at 7 p.m. Sunday evening.

No Rehearsal Next Thursday, March 11
The Chancel Choir will get Thursday night off next week. Kevin and Ted will be attending the American Choral Directors Association convention in Little Rock, Ark. The Coventry Choir will perform at the Convention on Friday serving as the "demonstration" choir so director's can hear new church choir music performed live. Coventry will also provide music for a worship service on Friday night where they will be directed by Jackson Berkey of Mannheim Steam Roller Fame, and composers John Leavitt and Mark Hayes.

Youth Auction Reservations Offered To Choir Early
If you are planning to attend the annual Youth Auction on April 23, now is your chance to get a reservation in early. Tickets go on sale March 14, but choir members can buy now. Cost is $35 for the gala fundraiser dinner and auction held at the Marriott in Maryville. This year there's London Broil and Salmon for entrees and we all know what a good time everyone has. It's the talk of the spring. This is the place the Chancel Choir's fancy dinners are sold to the highest bidder. If you'd like to attend, see or call Alto Judi Shepard at 636-458-3660.

Chancel Choir Update 3/4: Amazing Spring Social Events Announced
The Chancel Choir's social director has been working overtime to plan some very different, exciting and perhaps even life-changing social outings this spring. Advance signups and reservations will be needed. Mark your calendars now so you won't be left out of the memories.

Choir Trivia Dinner, Saturday, March 20, 6 p.m. -- Do you know everything there is to know about the Chancel Choir? Some of you think you do. Well you'll get your chance to prove it at the Chancel Choir Trivia Dinner. We'll have dinner at the Olive Garden on Manchester Road in Des Peres at 6 p.m. Then we'll conduct a choir trivia challenge with amazing prizes for the winner. Don't miss it. Since there will be only one rehearsal after tonight before the dinner, please respond to this email if you'd like to sign up to attend.

Dueling Piano's On The Landing, Saturday, April 17 -- If you like sing-along, live piano music, this event is for you. We'll have dinner on Leclede's Landing at a restaurant to be announced, then head to The Big Bang where two dueling pianists take requests and sing the night away. Voted one of the best spots on the landing for live music, The Big Bang is a favorite for groups - including church choirs. We'll meet for dinner at 5:30 p.m. and head to The Big Bang at 7 p.m. Don't miss this one - we'll be talking about it for a long time. Want to know more, check out the Big Bang's Web site at: www.thebigbangbar.com Dinner location and costs will be announced in a few weeks. Advance signups and reservations will be required, so check your calendar.

River City Rascals Baseball, Saturday, May 15 -- It's baseball like it used to be. Join us for up close and personal professional baseball at the River City Rascals Minor League Stadium in St. Peter's. We'll meet at the stadium for a bar-be-que picnic at 5 p.m., then move to our seats in the stadium for the game. There isn't a bad seat for this one - the nose bleed section is only 20 rows from home plate. Details and signup will be circulated in a few weeks. Mark your calendar now. Want to know more about the River City Rascals? Check out the team's Web site at: www.rivercityrascals.com

Chancel Choir Update 3/2: Cares and Concerns
Alto Charlotte Shelton's mother, Rose Haynes, 85, was hospitalized Monday (3/1) in Blytheville, Ark. She is suffering from internal bleeding of undetermined origin. Our thoughts and prayers are requested by the family.

Chancel Choir Update 3/1: Cares and Concerns
Knee Surgery -- Bass Buddy Rains will under go outpatient arthroscopic surgery on his knee Tuesday at an outpatient surgery center in Creve Coeur. He originally consulted an orthopedist for a problem with his shoulder and learned his knee needed work sooner.
Heart Surgery -- Alto LuAnn Bearmans' father-in-law is recovering from heart bypass surgery.
St. Louis Women's Chorale -- Soprano Claudia Fallert reports that the St. Louis Women's Chorale will present "The Poet Sings" a concert featuring words of poets Levertov, Blake, Teasdale, Pound and Dickenson set to the music of Elgar, Walker, Copeland and Szymko. The concert will be March 13 and 14 at the Trinity Presbyterian Church in University City. Check with Claudia for time and tickets.

Chancel Choir Update 2/27: News/Cares and Concerns/Sunday Schedule
Chancel Choir Has Regular Schedule Sunday
It's a return to the regular singing schedule on Sunday. The Chancel Choir will sing at the 10:30 a.m. service only. Call time is 10 a.m.

Cares and Concerns
-- Soprano Lynn Willitts' father-in-law, Levi Willits, will undergo hip replacement surgery on Monday, March 1, in Tucson, Ariz. He is 81. The family asks for our thoughts and prayers.
-- Soprano Christina Vogel's grandmother, Marjorie Swan, had surgery on Thursday to remove a tumor from her colon. She is at Barnes Jewish Medical Center. She is doing well.
-- Soprano Mary Ann Heisel's mother underwent surgery this week. No further details are available.

Chancel Choir Will Again Donate Fancy Dinner To The Youth Auction
The Chancel Choir approved a plan presented Thursday night by choir officers to again offer a dinner to be sold at the annual Youth Auction in April. One dinner will be offered. If the bidding goes above $1000, a second dinner will be offered for purchase to the unsuccessful competing bidder. Last year the dinner was sold for $800 and the auctioneer orchestrated a second dinner for $800 for the runner up. The annual youth auction is a gala fund raiser for the church's youth program.

Additional Dose of Choral Music Available on Sunday Afternoon
If you'd like to hear some choral music as a warm up to viewing the academy awards on Sunday, then we've got a concert for you. The Coventry Choir will be joining the Salem In Ladue United Methodist Church Chancel Choir for a concert at 4 p.m. Sunday at the Ladue church located on the east side of Lindbergh just north of Highway 40. The worship service/concert will feature both choirs, a brass ensemble and readings from all the clergy from both churches.

Chancel Choir Update 2/22: Useful Information About Computer Viruses
Another Computer Virus Makes The Rounds;
Here's Some Tips To Help Avoid a Problem
Yet another version of a potent, email borne computer virus is making the rounds. The virus is named W32.NetSky.B@mm and has reached some members of the choir in the past couple of weeks. If you receive an email message from someone with the following messages in the subject line, don't open it -- even if they are from someone you know. Just delete it immediately.
- hi
- hello
- read it immediately
- something for you
- warning
- information
- stolen
- fake
- unknown
Since these subject line messages are being used by the virus creators, don't send email messages out with these words or phrases in the subject line because they may be confused with viruses and be deleted by your recipients without being read.

The actual viruses are contained in attachments to these emails. The attachments will have one of the following extensions (the letters after the "dot"):
- .rtf
- .doc
- .htm
- .exe
- .scr
- .com
- .pif
- .eml
DO NOT OPEN OR SAVE TO YOUR HARD DRIVE ANY EMAIL ATTACHMENT WITH THE ABOVE EXTENSION FROM AN UNKNOWN SOURCE. Once you open a bad attachment, the virus will attack your email address book, create bogus email messages from your list of addresses and the addresses of emails you have received, and send our hundreds of messages with the virus attached without your knowledge. They can also attack your hard drive and cause problems ranging from lost files to a complete shut down. They generally only effect computers running Microsoft Explorer or Outlook as the email client (the program you use for a browser and to read email.)

As with any concern in life, don't over react. Just take precautions. Don't be afraid to read email or open attachments. Just make sure you know the person it is sent from, don't open it if it has any of the words or phrases listed above in the subject line. If the message is suspicious, don't open or save any attachment to it, especially if the attachment ends in one of the extensions shown above. As we've said before, it's important to run an anti-virus software program, such as Norton Anti-Virus, on your computer in the background and update it often, or better yet, set it to update automatically every time you log onto the Internet. That way you'll have the best chance of stopping the virus before it can attack your computer. Also, if possible, use Netscape Navigator or Eudora for your email client.

What's the Story With That Email SPAM Causing Aggravation and Message Problems
If you're like most of us, you're getting between 10 and 30 junk email messages each day. They are commonly called SPAM. Aside from being an irritation or perhaps causing you to blush, they also clog up email servers and interfere with the delivery of legitimate messages you'd like to receive.

There are three ways SPAM filters may interfere with receiving the Chancel Choir email updates.
-- Many Internet Service Providers (ISP), the companies you get Internet services from, have instituted filters to attempt to stop some of this traffic. However, SPAM is difficult to eliminate without stopping good messages from bulk servers like the Chancel Choir Updates and messages from the church or other organizations you belong to. I have done what I can to make sure our email updates are delivered in such a way that they will not be mistaken for SPAM, but there are a couple of choir members who can't receive them because their ISP is filtering them out. If this is the case, complain to your ISP.

-- People with Web based email accounts such as yahoo, hotmail, msn, and the like may also encounter problems since the default filter settings provided on these accounts may filter out our messages. You can turn these filters on/off or tell the filters you want to receive email from a certain address by adjusting the defaults. If you have such an email account and believe the choir messages are being filtered out before they reach you, let me know and I'll tell you how to tell the filter that you specifically want to receive email from the choir.

-- The email "client" software you use to open and read email messages may have a default filter in use. Even though this software may be provided by your ISP and even have its name on it (such as AOL, Earthlink, ATT, Yahoo DSL, etc.) it is still actually one of the three commercial browser programs. Netscape, Explorer and Eudora all have the capability of diverting certain SPAM emails to either the trash or a special folder for junk email. This feature can be turned on or off and adjusted to allow email through from a specific address. If you aren't receiving choir email, check the preferences in your email client. If you want to keep the filter active and receive choir email if you aren't, I'll tell you how to tell the filter.

If you're getting choir email okay, don't worry about any of this stuff. But, here's some handy tips on how you can avoid getting yourself on a SPAMMER's address list. They are suggestions. Some of these things are almost impossible to do, but at least you'll know how you land on junk email lists.

1. Never use your email address on public Web sites, use an alias or free email account for such purposes (Almost impossible to do, but some people creat "alias" email accounts a Yahoo or Hotmail just to use on these public Web sites so their personal email addresses don't become known.)
2. Never pass on email that makes a request for you to send it to everyone you know. (These fun "chain" emails often contain a cookie or hidden collection mechanism that collects email address and sends them to a SPAMMER. Surprise!) If you want to pass on a funny message to your friends with out this danger, cut the main message from the forwarded email you got and generate a new message with out the chain of addresses and the hidden code.
3. DO NOT reply to an unsolicited email or use the "opt-out" information at the bottom of the email, this is usually just a way to add your email address to even more mailing lists or a way to prove that your email address is active and send you more stuff. (You answered it so it must be active, right?) Just delete, after a few months of inactivity you may be purged from the list.
4. Always use at least default security on your browser (to eliminate email capture when you are surfing). That's right, your email address can be captured while you're surfing unknown to you through your ISP address if you haven't enabled basic browser security or use a software firewall such as BlackIce. Call me and I'll tell you more about this.
5. Always review a Web site's privacy policy before doing business online. Make sure they will not share your email address or opt out if you can.
6. Never buy anything from someone who sends you unsolicited advertising by email, even if the product is something you want. If no one bought anything from spammers, they'd stop spamming. Don't make it profitable for them.
7. Use email filters as described above and carefully set them to allow legitimate email to make it through.

If you receive email at an office or business behind a company server firewall, most of this isn't important to you. However, keep in mind that some legitimate attachments with the extensions listed above may not make it through the firewall because your company security may mistake them for viruses. Also, some legitimate email messages may be deleted before you get them due to the way they are sent or the message contained in the subject line because your company server may think they are SPAM. Hope this helps and answers a few questions.

Chancel Choir Update 2/20: Cares and Concerns / Sunday Schedule
Choir Sings Only For 10:30 a.m. Service This Sunday, 2/22
It a "regular" Sunday this Sunday. The Chancel Choir will sing only for the 10:30 a.m. worship service. Call time is 10 a.m. in the Choir Room

Cares and Concerns
Shoulder Surgery -- Tenor Chris Kennedy will undergo surgery Tuesday to repair a torn rotator cuff in his right shoulder. Chris sustained the injury last month while attending a "fantasy" baseball camp sponsored by the Chicago Cubs. Chris says he'll be out of singing action for a while since he won't be able to hold his music folder.
Wedding Bells -- Alto Mary Schmitz is on her honeymoon this week. She was married over the weekend. Soprano Mary Ann Heisel is sporting a diamond engagement ring she received on Valentines Day. No additional details are immediately available on either of these developments.
Singing Grandson -- Alto Jean Kinnard's grandson, Paul Ryder, is a featured soloist with The American Boychoir, a premier concert boy's choir (Grades 5 through 8) located in Princeton, N. J. They will appear in concert here in St. Louis on Tuesday, March 30, at the Cathedral Basilica, 4431 Lindell Blvd. in the Central West End. The concert is at 8 p.m. with a preconcert by a local choir at 7:20 p.m. Jean says the choir sounds very much like the Vienna Boys Choir. For tickets, call 314-533-7662.

Chancel Choir Update 2/13: Sunday Schedule / Officer Meeting Developments
Sing for Two Services and a Concert Sunday
This Sunday is the big day. Sunday is "spiritual day" at church and we'll be doing five pieces by Moses Hogan for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. worship services. If you were at rehearsal last night, you know how good they will sound. We hope you'll join us for both services Sunday morning. Call time is 8:30 a.m. And, we'll be joining the Cameron Youth Chamber Orchestra for a portion of its concert at church Sunday evening. We'll sing two spirituals and three selections from the Vivaldi Gloria. The concert is at 7 p.m., but our call time is 6:30 p.m. in the choir room.

Chancel Choir Officers Meeting Notes - News You Can Use
A number of items were discussed at the Chancel Choir officers meeting Thursday night before rehearsal. Here is a quick summary to get you up to date:
Treasurer's Report -- The choir's activity account balance is currently $9,653.56. Final total for the Fall Follies Talent Show is $8,121.02. As required by choir policy, 10 percent or $812.00 (a tithe) of the net profit for the event was given to the church.
Next Fall Follies -- The choir's ad hoc fund raising task force met recently to discuss future talent shows. The group recommended to officers that a talent show alternate every other year with a large-scale chancel choir fundraising concert. It was felt to do both each year as we did last year would be too much work and prevent the choir from presenting other programming. This returns the choir to having one big fund raiser each year, but doesn't prevent the choir from also doing other smaller fund raising activities. It was also recommended that these large concerts be presented in November due to church calendar conflicts and busy personal schedules in the spring. Choir officers endorsed the recommendation. This means the choir will do a large-scale performance this November and a talent show in November of 2005. Bill Borger has agreed to return as director for the next talent show which will generally follow the current format with some possible refinements. Kevin has some ideas about the fall concert for this year, but he ain't talkin' yet.
Scholarships -- Work is beginning on the process to select the 2004 recipient of the choir's annual $2000 scholarship which is presented to a graduating senior who has been active in the church's music ministry and meets criteria set by the choir's scholarship guidelines. President Maurice Parisien reported that the Youth Auction Committee is also planning on presenting a $2000 scholarship this year to a graduating senior active in youth ministries of the church other than music. The Youth Auction Committe has requested that we coordinate the programs so one student doesn't win both scholarships. As it stands now, seniors may apply and compete for either or both scholarships, but the committees will compare notes on the final winners. Criteria, selection and presentation of the two scholarships will be done separately. This will not affect the way our scholarship is selected or awarded. Winners will be announced during worship in late May.
Indianapolis Tour -- Kevin is busy putting together the schedule for the choir's tour to Indianapolis June 11-13. If you haven't been on one of the choir's midwest bus tours, you're in for a treat. We go to a city within a 5 to 6 hour drive every other year. This year it's Indy. So far, Kevin has confirmed that we will sing for worship on Sunday morning, June 13 at St. Luke's United Methodist Church, rumored to be Indiana's largest Methodist church. A site for our traditional Saturday night concert is still to be determined. We will probably stay at a hotel in downtown Indy and have some entertainment opportunities available nearby. Kevin is planning a scouting mission to Indy in the next few weeks. Full details will be announced when he returns.
2005 European Tour -- Initial planning and research into the choir's 2005 European Tour has begun. Dates for the trip are tentatively set for June 5 through 14 in 2005. Kevin is interviewing several tour companies, checking references and talking with other choir directors who have made similar trips. Mum's the word, but the tour company that handles travel for the Morman Tabernacle Choir is the current front runner. Details such as cost, final duration, destinations, singing venues, and logistics are still to be worked out and should be announced to the choir later this spring.
Dinner and Song Auction Project -- The final of two dinner and song events sold at last year's Youth Auction will occur on Saturday night, Feb. 14. Successful bidder for the dinner was our own Jim Descher. The dinner for Jim and 9 of his favorite friends and relatives will be served at the home of Sue and Jim Belval. A number of choir members have signed up to cook, serve, and sing for the Descher entourage. We have it on good authority that there will be two male waiters dressed in tuxedos at the event -- one with hair and one without.

Be Careful Out There -- It's Friday the Thirteenth
In case you haven't checked your calendar, Friday The Thirteenth comes on Friday this month. Be careful out there. It's not a good day to buy a car, invest large quantities of money, propose marriage, sign a contract or make a long-term commitment. But come to think about it, most any day may be questionable for these things for some folks. Take care . . .

Chancel Choir Update 2/10: Cares and Concerns
Tenor Dan Dorrance was admitted to St. John's Mercy Medical Center this morning (Tuesday, Feb. 10) for observation after experiencing chest pains last night. He was seen in the hospital's ER last night. His wife, Beth, reports that Dan has a history of heart problems and underwent heart bypass surgery about 18 months ago. Her parents are enroute from Illinois to take care of their children, and then Beth will go back to the hospital. Beth said she would appreciate our thoughts and prayers.

Chancel Choir Update 2/6: We Sing Early Sunday / Virus Alert
Check your calendar -- this Sunday is the second Sunday of the month and that means the Chancel Choir sings at the 9 a.m. worship service. One service this Sunday only -- the early one. Call time is 8:30 a.m.

Be Aware of Potent Computer Viruses Making The Rounds
There is currently several versions of a very potent computer virus circulating on the Internet through email. The most prevalent travels in an attachment to an email message disguised to look like a notice that an email message you sent has failed to be delivered. If you get an email failure message reporting that an email sent to someone you are unfamiliar with was unsuccessful, delete it immediately. Do not open the attachments. I have received about a dozen of these in the last week. Also, do not open attachments sent with email messages from unknown individuals with the words "test" "hello" or "thanks" appearing in the subject line. They likely contain viruses. One you've deleted them, empty your trash bin or trash folder. Remember, until your trash folder has been emptied, those attachment files are still on your computer's hard drive. As we have said before, don't be afraid, just be cautious. Don't open email message attachments from people you don't know. Run an antivirus software program on your computer in the background set to automatically update it's virus detection programs. This is a must now for everyone using the Internet and email. And remember that Microsoft Explorer and Outlook are the usual targets for email viruses. If you use Netscape Navigator or Eudora for your email "client" program, you are very likely to be immune from email viruses.

Chancel Choir Update 1/30: Sing For Two Services Sunday / Weather Alert Process
Choir Sings For Both Services This Sunday, Feb. 1
Set your alarm clock a little earlier Saturday night because this week the Chancel Choir is scheduled to sing for both services Sunday morning. Call time is 8:30 a.m. If for some pressing, rare, important and unavoidable reason you are only going to join us for the second service, your call time is 10 a.m. See you Sunday.

Winter Weather Alert Page Is Added To Choir Web Site
As mentioned at rehearsal last night, in those rare events when winter weather causes a choir rehearsal, appearance or performance to be canceled, the Chancel Choir Web site will be used to notify the choir. A Weather Alert page has been added to the Web site and will be updated if and when an event is canceled. Log on to the choir Web site at www.mumcchancelchoir.org. On the main page you will see a yellow box that says Choir Winter Weather Bulletins & Cancellations. Just click on the box and you'll see the latest information. You will not need a password or user ID to check the weather alert page. You may check from any computer anywhere. You may also call the church office at 636-394-7506 to check on cancellations. The Chancel Choir Web site weather bulletin page will be for Chancel Choir activities only. Check the church's Web site or call the office to check on other church related events.

About 40 choir members sang at church last Sunday. Worship attendance was about 100 at 9:30 a.m. and 50 at 10:30 a.m. Carl told the congregation that it was his policy not to cancel worship on Sunday morning. But, no one is expected to risk life and limb to get to church in cases of bad weather. Check the Web site or call the church to see if an event is proceeding as scheduled. Then everyone should determine the difficulty and risk of travel to the church and make a safe decision on whether to attempt travel.

Chancel Choir Update 1/28: Cares and Concerns
Soprano Carleen Anderson's Sister
Soprano Carleen Anderson reports that her sister, Sharon Fermquist, will undergo surgery Feb. 4 on her leg to treat complications in an incision where a vascular graft was removed for heart bypass surgery she had last year. Her sister is diabetic and there is concern that she might lose her leg. Carleen asks that the choir family remember her sister in thoughts and prayers.

Fall Follies Recordings Available Thursday Night
The digital audio recordings of the Fall Follies talent show will be available at rehearsal Thursday night. The CDs feature a digitally remastered recording of all of the show's acts. If you ordered a recording, you may pick it up Thursday night. If you didn't and would like one, please let me know by replying to this email.

Chancel Choir Update 1/23: Vreeland Memorial Service Scheduled
A memorial service for Margaret "Peg" Vreeland, wife of tenor Dick Vreeland, will be held at 3 p.m., Monday, Jan. 26, in the church Sanctuary. A visitation is scheduled immediately following the memorial service in Fellowship Hall. Dick Vreeland and family asked that we communicate the following message to the choir: "We have received a beautiful plant and many messages of condolence from our musical friends. The church community is certainly a small sample of God's wish for the family of all his people."

Chancel Choir Update 1/21 - 10:30 p.m.: Death In The Chancel Choir Family
It is with deep sadness that we report the death of Margret "Peg" Vreeland, wife of tenor Dick Vreeland. She suffered fatal injuries in a vehicular crash on Vance Road near her home at Meramac Bluffs late Wednesday afternoon, Jan. 21. Disposition will be by cremation with a memorial service to be held later. Dick Vreeland's address is: 182 Ameren Way, Apt. 752, Ballwin, MO 63021-3317. Telephone: 636-825-6351. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Vreeland family tonight.

Chancel Choir Update 1/21: Sudden Social Outing This Saturday/ Cares and Concerns
Impromptu Social Outing: Movie Night This Saturday Evening
So much pressure for a break from winter boredom was placed on the choir's social director, she's decided that we'll go to the movies this Saturday night for relief. Plan on attending a Rush Hour (late afternoon) show at the Des Peres Cine and then join us at the Steak 'N Shake at Manchester and Mason roads following your movie (in the 7 to 8 p.m. time frame). We're not going to the movies as a group, so you can see any movie you want. Then we'll hook up at the Steak 'N Shake to discuss our cinematic experience. Movie night has long been a January choir tradition, but this year the social director thought the January Holiday Party would be enough togetherness to hold us for the month. She was wrong. Join us if your calendar will allow and look for the list of remaining social events for the spring to be announced soon.

Cares and Concerns
Tenor Gene Stukey is asking for the choir family's thoughts and prayers for his 91-year-old father-in-law who has been hospitalized with a broken leg and has become combative, delusional, and disoriented. Gene's wife Carol and her siblings are facing decisions for his care and recovery (he has been living alone).

Chancel Choir Update 1/13: Cares and Concerns
Dean Carlisle, husband of soprano and librarian Rose Carlisle, is recovering from successful surgery this morning to open a blocked carotid artery. He will remain hospitalized tonight at St. John's Mercy Medical Center and is scheduled to return home tomorrow morning (Wednesday, Jan. 14).

Chancel Choir Update 1/9: Sing Early This Sunday / Cares and Concerns
Report for Duty at 8:30 This Sunday, Jan. 11
The Chancel Choir will sing for the 9 a.m. service this Sunday, Jan. 11. Call time is 8:30 a.m. in the Choir Room. Yes, we know some of you have pointed out that, yet again, we sing early on the morning after a big choir party. Hey, we're just the messenger -- talk to the management. ;-)

Cares and Concerns
Dean Carlisle, husband of soprano and librarian Rose Carlisle, will undergo surgery to open a blocked carotid artery next Tuesday morning at St. John's Mercy Medical Center. Mary Ann Sumpter is scheduled to undergo a knee replacement later this month. Soprano Beth Morey is recovering at home from injuries she sustained from a fall Sunday while visiting her son in Indianapolis. She suffered a leg fracture which required pins and will be using a walker while recuperating. Please keep all of these member of our choir family and others we may not know about in your thoughts and prayers.

Chancel Choir Update 1/07 (p.m.): Cares and Concerns / Confirmation Mentors
Beth Morey Is Injured
Soprano Beth Morey was injured in a fall while attending church Sunday morning with her son and his family in Indianapolis. She suffered a leg fracture which required pins and will be using a walker while recuperating. She plans to return to St. Louis today.

Mentors Are Needed For Confirmation Class Members
Alto Merry Gnaegy is looking for a few good people to serve as mentors for this year's crop of confirmands. Here's the details from Merry:

Our 2004 Confirmation Class is starting this week, and is looking for caring individuals to serve as "mentors". Many Chancel Choir members have served as mentors in the past, and found it to be a rewarding experience. As a mentor, you would be provided with a profile of your assigned confirmand. You would be asked simply to pray for them throughout the confirmation process, periodically give them a call or write them notes of support and encouragement, and occasionally surprise them with a candy bar, etc. This is a great way to share your faith with one of MUMC's youth, as well as enrich your own faith journey in the process. If interested, or if you need more information, you can contact Merry Gnaegy meredith.gnaegy@hp.com, or call the church office and ask for Kathy Myers or John Guiney.

Chancel Choir Update 1/07: Rehearsal Resumes Tomorrow / News You Can Use
First Rehearsal of 2004 Is Tomorrow Night; We Sing Sunday
Brush your teeth, grab the mouth wash and begin warming up, Chancel Choir rehearsal resumes at 7:30 p.m. tomorrow night, Thursday, Jan. 8.

Big Holiday Party Is Saturday Night
The much discussed, greatly debated and highly anticipated Chancel Choir Holiday Party is Saturday night. The festivities begin at 7 p.m at Spazio's in Westport. If you've signed up and paid, plan on joining us for an evening of good food, good music and fun. The deadline for reservations was last Sunday. Spazio's is located at the Comfort Inn on Lackland Road. Here are the directions:
Directions To Spazio’s -- From I-270, take Page east approximately 1/2 mile to the Lackland Road/Westport Plaza exit. Turn right onto Lackland Road. The hotel is located at the intersection of Lackland Road and Westport Plaza Drive on the right. Look for the Comfort Inn sign.

Christmas Concert Recordings Available At Thursday Rehearsal
The recording of the Dec. 7 Christmas Fanfare concert is complete and will be available at Thursday's rehearsal. If you ordered a CD, you can pick it up then. If you didn't, let me know and I'll make one for you. You Christmas concert doubters will be pleasantly surprised. We sound pretty darn good -- kind of a Ben Hur meets the Morman Tabernacle Choir for the holidays.

Cares and Concerns
As we begin the new year, we want to be sure the choir family is kept informed about the concerns of our membership. If you know of a choir member or someone in a choir member's immediate family who is having a health crisis, undergoing treatment, or has died, please provide complete details, including name, date, location and situation, to Gary Ford at garyford@fordcom.net. Notices are intended to inform about choir members' most immediate family.