Chancel Choir Update 6/29: Cares and Concerns
Soprano Margo Foster underwent hip replacement surgery today at St. John's Mercy Medical Center.
Soprano Karen Fair is recovering from a mastectomy performed today at St. John's Mercy Medical Center. She is awaiting biopsy results and is expected to undergo chemotherapy.

Chancel Choir Update 6/29: News
Last Call For Dinner Tomorrow Night
Dinner before rehearsal seems to be a hit. The dining room at Senor Pique holds 56 people and so far we have 51 reservations. That means there are five seats left. If you want one, contact us by noon today -- the final deadline. The dinner this Thursday will be at 6:30 p.m. at Senor Pique, the new Mexican restaurant on Manchester Road directly across from Kohls. (Next to the Volvo dealer on the south side of Manchester Road). The building used to house the Springs. There's parking in the rear. We'll be in the banquet room.

Rehearsal This Thursday Night at 8:30 p.m.
There will be a short rehearsal this Thursday beginning at 8:30 p.m. to go over patriotic music for Sunday. The choir will sing at both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services Sunday, July 3.

Memorial Service For Charles Miller
A memorial service for Charles Miller, husband of Soprano Maureen Miller, will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 2, at the Forever Bellerieve Funeral Chapel on Mason Road south of Olive. Fran McMillian would like to organize a group to attend the service. Interested persons should contact Fran at mac-fe@juno.com or at 636-391-8297. The group will meet in the church parking lot and carpool. Kevin is one of three singers participating in the service.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Karen Fair will undergo a mastectomy at St. John's Mercy Medical Center today. Pathology results from less invasive surgery earlier this month revealed a more serious malignancy. Karen says surgeons will also do a biopsy on her other breast because the type of cancer found often effects both breasts and is difficult to detect. She will undergo chemotherapy following surgery.

Chancel Choir Update 6/27: Important News / Cares and Concerns
Rehearsal and Dinner This Thursday, June 30
Because the Chancel Choir is singing in church this Sunday, July 3, there's a rehearsal this Thursday night and we're going to have the regularly scheduled traveling dinner as well. Kevin says, "let's not cancel the dinner, let's do both." Why not join us for dinner before rehearsal? We have room for more than 50 people for dinner and as of Sunday, there are 21 reservations. The dinner this Thursday will be at 6:30 p.m. at Senor Pique, the new Mexican restaurant on Manchester Road directly across from Kohls. (Next to the Volvo dealer on the south side of Manchester Road). The building used to house the Springs. There's parking in the rear. We'll be in the banquet room. You can order from the menu -- gourmet style Mexican food. Then we'll go to the church just a short distance away and rehearse beginning at 8:30 p.m. If you are going to join us for dinner, we must have your reservation by noon on Wednesday, June 29. Either reply to this email or call 636-227-5749 by noon on Wednesday. If you can't make dinner, we'll see you at rehearsal at 8:30 p.m. for an hour of work on our patriotic music for the July 3 church services. We'll sing for both 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services this Sunday, July 3.

Rutter Carols, Easter Messiah Celebration, Full Messiah Concert, St. Olaf Choir, 'Best of Chancel' Night Fill Next Season
As Kevin's 10th anniversary as the Chancel Choir director approaches, he told members and spouses of the choir attending the end-of-year party Saturday night that this past season would be hard to top and was one of the most memorable in his career in choral music. He said singing in the great cathedrals of Great Britain was "an amazing experience and one that I won't forget." Kevin pointed to excellent singing and the dedicated commitment of the choir during the season. He then reviewed plans for next season. (The schedule appears below.)

"Next year will be a busy one, as usual," he said. Highlights of the year will be an all-Rutter concert of Christmas music in December, a performance of the full Handel's Messiah for Easter, and a "Best of Chancel" concert in the Spring where the congregation gets to vote on the music to be performed and a recording will be made available for sale. In addition, the biannual Fall Follies "talent show" will be presented on Oct. 29 as a fund raiser for the choir. Kevin also announced that the world-famous St. Olaf Choir has chosen our Sanctuary for a concert during its visit to St. Louis in February.

With the Great Britain tour just behind us, Kevin said the choir would likely not make a regional tour this spring even though it would be the year for us to make a local tour. The choir tours every other year and traveled to Indianapolis in 2004. Kevin said there had been some interest from Mid-America Productions in getting the Chancel Choir to return to New York for a performance. He said discussions were underway and the choir might make a repeat trip to New York in 2006 or 2007, possibly performing at Lincoln Center.

Kevin also thanked outgoing choir officers for their work during the year.

Following Kevin's state-of-the-choir speech and the announcement of July birthdays by Fran McMillian, the formal coronation ceremony for the new Chancel Choir Queen was held. Prior to the ceremony, the Chief Justice asked for 30 seconds of silence as a tribute to Chris Kennedy, who normally serves as a security agent for the ceremony, but was recovering at home from a medical problem. The Chief Justice also presented newly installed choir president Mary Dean with a copy of Robert's Rules of Order and a "how to" leadership manual for making sweeping changes in organizations without their members noticing. It was announced that the choir had reached the critical plateau of .5 MTC which is the threshold for a "mega choir". An MTC is a unit of measure equal to the membership of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir -- 300 singers. The chancel choir has surpassed 150. Formal coronation ceremonies were then conducted for incoming Chancel Choir Queen Kenny Dean, spouse of incoming choir president Mary Dean. The choir bid farewell to outgoing Queen JoAnn Descher.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, the proceedings were interrupted when the Chief Justice was put under house arrest and charged with "withholding important information from the Chancel Choir." It was announced that an investigation had revealed that earlier in the spring the Chief Justice, a.k.a. Gary Ford, had been named Teacher of the Year by students at Webster University, where he teaches. He had allegedly withheld this information. It is customary for similar achievements of other choir members to be made known. He was presented with a cake and memento of the occasion before being led away.

More than 80 Chancel Choir members and spouses braved hot, humid weather to attend the Chancel Choir end-of-year party, coronation and officer installation at the home of Soprano Bonnie and Gary Halls Saturday night.

Back To Choir Party Set for Aug. 20 at Home of Sandy Wilmoth
It seems that Chancel Choir can't begin its season without a gathering at the home of Sandy Wilmoth. This tradition, long standing for more than 10 years, will once again be observed this fall. The annual Chancel Choir back-to-choir celebration will be held at 5:30 p.m. at Sandy Wilmoth's home. Mark it on your calendar. Further details will be provided later this summer.

Chancel Choir 2005-2006 Season Schedule
Saturday, Aug. 20, 5:30 p.m. -- Annual Back-to-Choir Party at the home of Sandy Wilmoth.
Thursday, Sept. 1, 7:30 p.m. -- First rehearsal of the season.
Sunday, Sept. 11, 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. -- First Sunday back in the loft -- both services.
Friday and Saturday, Oct. 7 & 8 -- Annual Chancel CHoir Retreat at Mercy Center in Town & Country.
Sunday, Oct. 16 -- Annual Music Ministry Dedication Sunday
Saturday, Oct. 29, 7:30 p.m. -- Fall Follies fund raising cabaret (talent) show.
Sunday, Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m. -- Gloria! The Music of John Rutter. An evening of Rutter carol arrangements for choir and orchestra, and the exciting "Gloria!" (This is John Rutter's 60th birthday in September).
Friday, Feb. 10, time TBA -- The St. Olaf Choir in Concert in our Sanctuary.
Sunday, April 16, multiple services -- Easter Messiah Celebration.
Sunday, April 23, 7:30 p.m. -- Choral Masterworks Concert - Messiah, featuring the Chancel Choir and Chamber Orchestra.

Hundreds of Great Britain Trip Photos May be Viewed on Choir Web Site
So far there are seven photo albums available for your viewing pleasure at the choir's Web site. They may be accessed from the main page of the Web site by clicking the yellow link to the tour photos. If you've taken digital photos, please put them in an album and share them. It is easy, simple and free. Once you've transferred your photos to your computer's hard drive, go to www.shutterfly.com and set up a free account. Follow the directions to create a photo album and then upload the best of your photos using the software provided by Shutterfly. Then hit the share button and send the album to the choir's Webmaster at garyford@fordcom.net. I will then send the link to your album to the choir.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Joyce Lang will resume chemotherapy treatment on July 11 to treat a reoccurrence of a previously diagnosed and treated malignancy.
Soprano Beth Morey will undergo reconstructive surgery on Tuesday, June 28 at St. John's Mercy Medical Center.

Chancel Choir Update 6/25: Cares and Concerns
Tenor Chris Kennedy was released from St. John's Mercy Medical Center this afternoon (6/25) where he had been undergoing treatment for a pulmonary embolism. He will recuperate at home and is expected to make a complete recovery. Kennedy was diagnosed with the life threatening condition after complaining of leg and chest pain following a 7-hour flight home from Scotland Thursday. Physicians speculate he developed a blood clot in his leg while sitting on the flight. The clot then migrated to his lungs.

Chancel Choir Update 6/24: Cares and Concerns
Tenor Chris Kennedy remains hospitalized at St. Johns Mercy Medical Center this morning for treatment of a pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs). Chris and his family returned to St. Louis yesterday after extending their stay in Great Britain to visit relatives. On the return flight he began complaining of intense leg pain which later moved to his chest. Physicians believe he developed a blood clot in his legs on the flight and it then migrated to his lungs -- a life threatening situation. Chris is being treated with blood thinners to dissolve the clot. He will remain hospitalized for several days. Please no visitors.

Soprano Karen Fair will undergo a mastectomy at St. John's Mercy Medical Center next Wednesday, June 29. Pathology results from less invasive surgery last week revealed a more serious malignancy. Karen says surgeons will also do a biopsy on her other breast because the type of cancer found often effects both breasts and is difficult to detect. She will undergo chemotherapy following surgery.

Chancel Choir Update 6/22: Party Details / Cares and Concerns
Huge End-of-Year Party Choir Party Set This Saturday, June 25, 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. The event begins at 5:30 p.m., this Saturday, June 25. 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.
Map -- If you really are geographically challenged, here's a link to map:
http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=2415+N.+Ballas+Road&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 only 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 to gbhalls@sbcglobal.net.
Food -- Bring a tasty covered dish that will serve at least eight people. (This is a sophisticated way of saying that this event is a "potluck".)

Cares and Concerns
Chancel Choir Social Director Sandy Ford, and wife of Bass Gary Ford, will under surgery to repair the retina in her left eye Thursday, June 23.

Chancel Choir Update 6/21: News
Last Call For Thursday Dinner
If you plan on joining us for the first summer traveling dinner this Thursday evening, June 23, you need to make a reservation by noon tomorrow, Wednesday, June 22. Either reply to this email or call 636-227-5749. The first dinner is at Applebee's in Ballwin at 6:30 p.m. Next week, June 30, we'll be dining at a special, new place. Details provided at dinner Thursday night.

Share Your Trip Photos
There are several albums of photos from the Great Britain trip posted for your viewing pleasure. Just go to the choir's Web site and click on the Great Britain Photos link on the front page to take you to the albums. If you have some digital photos of the trip, why not share them with others? It's simple. Go to www.shutterfly.com. Create a free account for yourself and follow the directions to create an album. Then share that album with me at garyford@fordcom.net. I'll post a link so that everyone has access. You may view the photos, download them or order prints for yourself.

Photo In The Post-Dispatch
Soprano Beth Morey made the Sunday newspaper. Her photo, along with several other breast cancer survivors participating in the Koman Foundation Race for The Cure on Saturday, was included in the Sunday Post-Dispatch. Dig out your paper, she was wearing bunny ears.

Chancel Choir Update 6/18: Cares and Concerns
Fran McMillian, the choir's cares and concerns person, talked with Soprano Maureen Miller about the recent death of her husband. Here is a short report from Fran:

"I talked with Maureen this morning for several minutes. She shared with me the death of Charley. He had been ill since October. They removed his malignant spleen successfully. They were doing treatments as 'insurance'. He was in the hospital for his second treatment. He had done well, was dressing to go home, the wheel chair was there to take him to the car -- he died in Maureen's arms. Of course, the scurrying of doctors and nurses followed to no avail. The doctors had assured them he was going to be fine during the surgery and treatments. They opted not to do an autopsy. The memorial service is at 1:00 p.m., July 2 at Forever Bellerieve , 740 Mason Road. Debby Pebbles is doing the memorial service. Following the service that day, a lunch is being served at the Creve Couer Airport off Creve Couer Mill Road and anyone attending the service is welcome to attend the lunch. Charles and Maureen were avid flyers. Charley built airplanes. One of his sons is very involved with airplanes and flies. Charley's ashes are in various airplane parts that have been scrubbed and shined and will be spread over the airfield. In Maureen's words, "He was the love of my life." Both have children from previous marriages. Charley was 76, some years older than Maureen, but as she said, ‘Love doesn't choose age.’ A plant has been sent to her from the Chancel Choir Family. She is grateful for the support of the choir. She said she may be at choir Sunday morning, she would know she how she feels at the time.
Maureen sounded strong and sure and says she will get through this.
Please keep her and her family in prayer.”
Fran

Chancel Choir Update 6/17: News / Cares and Concerns
Chancel Choir Sings Sunday For Wilson Farewell
The Chancel Choir will sing for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. worship services this Sunday, June 19. This will be the last time we sing in church during our regular program season this year. Call time is 8:30 a.m. in the music room.

Summer Thursday Night Dinners Begin This Thursday
Our annual traveling Thursday night dinners begin this week with dinner at 6:30 p.m. at Applebee's in Ballwin. Note the time change -- we will start at 6:30 p.m. Anyone is welcome, but you absolutely need to make a reservation by noon of the Wednesday before the dinner. You may either call choir social director Sandy Ford at 636-227-5749 or send an email to garyford@fordcom.net. Remember, we need to know if you are joining us by noon on Wednesday the day before the dinner. Location of the following week's dinner will be announced on Thursday night.

End of Year Party and Coronation
The annual Chancel Choir gala end of year party, installation of officers, queen coronation and Kevin's state of the choir speech will be held at the home of Bonnie and Gary Halls in Town and Country beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 25. Don't miss it.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Karen Fair is recovering at home follow surgery yesterday to treat breast cancer. It was reported at rehearsal last night that her surgeon was pleased with the outcome and she is doing well.

Chancel Choir Update 6/16: News / Cares and Concerns
We're Back
At last report, everyone who was headed to St. Louis from Glasgow, Scotland, yesterday has made it back. One group spent 8 hours in the Chicago airport waiting on a flight to St. Louis arriving home at 11:30 p.m., about 24 hours after the trip began. Other groups on other planes also made it back safely. About 20 people remain on vacation in various parts of Europe this week. A good time was had by all.

Great Britain Trip Photos
With digital cameras making photography so easy, we'll bet more than 50,000 photos were taken by choir members in Great Britain. Many will never be printed and most will never be seen by other choir members. So, here's a simple way to share your digital photos with others on the trip and in the choir. Let's use Shutterfly to post our digital photos for other to see. It is easy, simple and free. Once you've transferred your photos to your computer's hard drive, go to www.shutterfly.com and set up a free account. Follow the directions to create a photo album and then upload the best of your photos using the software provided by Shutterfly. Then hit the share button and send the album to the choir's Webmaster at garyford@fordcom.net. I will then send the link to your album to the choir. There can be as many albums from our trip on Shutterfly as we want. And others then can view them and even order prints of the photos for themselves. So, put your photos on your computer, go to Shutterfly, create an album, share it with me and I'll post the link for the choir. It's that simple, quick and will eliminate the need for stacks and stacks of photos and printed albums. If you have questions, let me know.

Rehearsal Tomorrow Night
It's back to work. There will be a Chancel Choir rehearsal tomorrow night, Thursday, June 16, at 7:30 p.m. We'll prepare for the farewell serve for Nancy and Dean Wilson to be held this Sunday. The choir sings this Sunday for both the 9 and 10:30 p.m. service.

Thursday Night Dinners Begin Next Week
The summer traveling dinners will begin next Thursday evening, June 23. Details will be provided.

Cares and Concerns
We are saddened to report the death of Charles D. Miller, husband of Soprano Maureen Miller, on June 4 in a local hospital while he was being treated for a heart condition. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m., July 2, at Forever Bellerive, 740 Mason Road.

Chancel Choir Update 6/12: Great Britain Update
Glascow, Scotland, June 12, 11:30 p.m. -- Worshippers at St. Cuthbert's Church in Edinburgh, Scotland, were treated to a concert of American religious music at their Sunday services today. The Manchester United Methodist Church Festival Choir provided worship music for the service held in the church near the base of the hill upon which Edinburgh Castle is located. About 200 people in the congregation filled the church's pews. Attendance was held down by the Edinburgh Marathon which blocked many streets in downtown Edinburgh making church attendance difficult. A choral director friend of Kevin's, who teaches music at a local school and was formerly from St. Louis, introduced the choir to the congregation. A driving cold rain greeted choir members as they left the church and made the four block walk to busses. Tuxedos, dresses and music folders were drenched in rain. Choir Choir members ran in the rain to lunch at nearby restaurants. After touring Edinburgh Castle, the choir then went to St. Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh where it presented a concert at 6 p.m. to about 100 persons. The St. Giles church provided the best sounding venue for the choir of the trip so far. Following the concert, Ted played an impromptu organ recital on the church's large pipe organ. After making the 90-mile return trip to its hotel in Glasgow, the choir ate at a hotel restaurant tonight. On Monday, the choir will tour the Scottish Highlands including Stirling Castle where it will perform a short concert in the castle's chapel at 11:30 a.m. The choir will return to St. Louis on Tuesday.

Other notes from the trip:

-- During a tour of Oxford University, organist Ted Cronbaugh couldn't resist shouting a Hogwarts greeting at the top of the staircase in one of the rooms where a Harry Potter movie was shot.

-- On the six-hour bus trip from London to Glasgow on the British Motorway (Interstate), several stops were made a rest areas that contained small convenience stores. Choir members swarmed snack counters as if they had never seen food before. Some of it was familiar and some never before seen by the American travelers. The sight of people carrying arm loads of chips (known as crisps here), candy, fruit and even cereal (imagine buying that the snack on at a Quick Trip) was amazing to watch.

-- Soprano Mary Ann Sumpter had a pleasant trip from Stratford to Glasgow, but unfortunately her luggage didn't make the trip and neither did the cloths, medication, music and personal items housed inside. Due to some miscommunications, the luggage was never loaded on the bus and spent the night in the London hotel lobby. Since it was the weekend and overnight express shipments would not be delivered, a tour company person bought an airline ticket and flew with the luggage to Edinburgh. The debate continues on who will pay for that luggage flight.

-- Yet another tour participant suffered a fall. One of the tour managers fell while walking up a cobble stone walkway at Edinburgh Castle this morning. Her injuries were minor.

-- The choir toured Holyrood, the palace used by the British Monarchy while visiting Scotland. We saw everything, including the queen's bedroom.

-- Choir members were told some shocking news at dinner in Glasgow this evening. Soprano Julie Kramer announced that she has accepted a new job in New York with MasterCard and will be moving to New York City in July. She will go to New York next week to search for an apartment in Manhattan. Julie says that our concert at the Stirling Castle Chapel on Monday will be her last performance with the Chancel Choir.

This will likely be the last update from Great Britain. Most of the choir will return to St. Louis on Tuesday, others will continue their vacations in Ireland, France and Italy. Don't forget that there will be a choir rehearsal on Thursday, June 16 and we sing for church next Sunday, June 19 at both service. And of course, there's the big end of year party on June 25. You can't miss that.

Chancel Choir Update 6/11: Great Britain News
Warrick, England, June 10, 10:30 p.m. -- Standing only a few feet from the grave of William Shakespeare, the Chancel Choir performed its third Great Britain concert this afternoon at Holy Trinity Church in Stratford Upon Avon. About 100 persons were in the audience for the concert and several hundred passed through the sanctuary while visiting Shakespeare’s grave in front of the church altar. The choir left London earlier this morning, traveling to Stratford and touring the Shakespeare birthplace before the concert. Several Americans in the audience expressed their appreciation for the concert and said they rarely hear American music performed there. The choir spent Friday night in Warrick and Stratford and will depart for Glasgow, Scotland, on Saturday morning visiting the Warrick Castle and Coventry Cathedral on the way. A concert will be performed at 11 a.m. Sunday at St. Cuthbert's Church in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Another choir member suffered a fall on Thursday. Soprano Carleen Anderson injured her knee when she tripped on a curb in London. A physician happened to be walking by and examined her knee. She suffered bruises and scrapes, but is otherwise okay.

Chancel Choir Update 6/10: Great Britain News
London, June 9, 10:40 p.m. -- Before an audience of more than 150, the Chancel Choir made its performing debut during a 40-minute concert at St. Mary Le Bow Church in London at 1:05 p.m. local time today. The choir sang in the chancel of the church designed and built by Sir Christopher Wren. A larger audience than expected heard the choir thanks to a street fair in progress in the neighborhood of the church. Members of the audience were enthusiastic and were even moved to tears (no kidding) during the performance of "Sing Me To Heaven" when a woman who looked a lot like Martha Steward and an elderly couple began weeping.

Prior to the concert, the choir stopped at St. Paul's Cathedral, a short walk from the St. Mary Le Bow Church. The cathedral was the site of Princess Dianna's wedding and serves as a Royal church for the British Monarchy. The second largest dome in the world behind St. Paul's Cathedral in Rome.

Following the concert, the choir spent most of the afternoon sightseeing and met for dinner at an Italian restaurant in Kingsington.

Tomorrow, Friday, June 10, the choir will drive to Warrick and Stratford Upon Avon where it will perform its second concert at 3 p.m. A third of the choir will stay in a hotel in Warrick while another third will be housed in Stratford due to a last minute tour company change.

With the choir's time in London drawing to a close, here are a few notes detailing some interesting events, happenings and concerns during our 96 hours in the seat of the British Empire. Future email updates from Great Britain will depend on available access to the Internet in northern England and Scotland. We have been fortunate to have computers and Internet access at the London hotel.

-- A young tenor was seen sleeping during the Evensong service at Westminster Abby on Tuesday. Could the tenor have been guilty of sleeping through services conducted by members of his family?

-- Joe McCormack, husband of Alto Maida McCormack, visited his boyhood home in the London suburbs. Seems Joe, who is the son of minister, spent time in England during his youth when the family participated in a pastoral exchange with a British church.

-- It was smiles earlier this morning when the American Embassy in London issued a temporary passport to Soprano Joy Parisien after she was the victim of a pick pocket incident. Her passport, credit cards, and a respectable amount of money were taken from a backpack she was wearing while walking from the London Eye to a subway station in a crowd of tourists.

-- Baritone Jim Belval was heard uttering the words "don't let this tux fool you" to an official at St. Paul's Cathedral after he was told that people on organized tour groups such as ours could not climb the stairs to upper floors of the building without purchasing a special ticket. The official then told Jim tour groups could not purchase such a ticket. Jim enlisted the tour manager help, but unfortunately, British resolve and some rudeness prevailed.

-- Add a photo of an authentic Victorian toilet built in 1899 to our collection of photos at the John Wesley home.

-- Chancel Choir members are becoming experts on navigating around London on the subway, known as the Tube here in England. Locals are more tolerant of the silly tourists than New Yorkers and the London subway is cleaner and more simple to use than its newer New York cousin.

-- Several celebrity sightings from the trip: Soprano Christine Vogal and some friends spotted Brook Shields and her new baby shopping for perfume at Harrads department store today. Euene McGregor was seen signing autographs from the stage door after his performance of Guys and Dolls last night by a group of choir members who had just attended a performance of Les Mis in London's West End Theater District. Tenor Gary Moser sighted actor John Goodman in the airport in St. Louis as the group was leaving on Sunday.

-- You can't eat while shopping in the exclusive Harrads department store. Soprano Sue Woolweaver learned that the hard way after purchasing some exotic cheese at one of the store's many specialty food counters and then generously giving several friends a taste. A no no, according to a sharp-tongued clerk.

-- Bass David Givens had his pants stolen from his hotel room last night. They were folded and laying in the shelf of his closet.

-- Bass Mike Latimer was turned down when he asked two guards in the Crown Jewels exhibit at the Tower of London if he could borrow one of the herald trumpets on display there that were used at Queen Elizabeth's coronation for use at our choir coronation on June 25. He explained to them our event and promised to return it "straight away." They were not impressed, he says.

-- Several choir members took a boat ride up the Thames River to Greenwich and, led by Bass Tom Lawrence, stood strattling the Prime Maridian. What effect this activity has had on the choir members remains to be seen, but they all seem to be resetting their watches every few hours now.

-- Bass Dave Divjak has qualified for as a member of the Kennsington-Baywater Ale Trail after visiting five of the eight Pubs in the communities of Kennsington and Baywater. He has a shirt to prove the success of his efforts. He was accompanied by wife Cinda on the ale trail.

-- Alto Melissa Larson fell while visiting St. Paul's cathedral. She was examined by tour physician and orthopedist Dr. Bruce Jones, husband of Soprano JoAnn Jones, and diagnosed with a sprained ankle. Melissa is now appearing at concerts in hiking boots. Ironically, she was helped by Soprano Carol Givens who was the victim of an attempted pick pocketing while she was bent over Melissa after her fall. The pick pocket left without taking anything.

-- The family of Tenor Chris Kennedy traveled all the way to London to go bowling last night. Chris, his wife and two children, visited a local bowling alley.

-- Some choir members say an added benefit from their trip to Great Britain is weight loss after discovering British food is bland and unappealing. At least, food provided by the tour company restaurant choices has been. However, some tasty meals have been found by choir members out on their own for meals.

-- The choir will board busses for the two hour journey to Stratford very early tomorrow morning.

Chancel Choir Update 6/9: News From Great Britain
The Chancel Choir will perform a concert at St. Mary Le Bow Church in London at 1:05 p.m. today (7:05 a.m. CDT). The choir sang in the Wesley Chapel yesterday before touring John Wesley's home. Following yesterday's recital, about two-thirds of the choir traveled to Oxford to tour, the remaining one third stayed in London to visit various sites including the London Eye, the theater district, Harrod's department store. Some took a cruise on the Thames River. The choir will depart for Stratford-upon-Avon on Friday morning.

Chancel Choir Update 6/8: News From Great Britain
London, June 8, 12:15 a.m. -- The Chancel Choir will make its Great Britain singing debut at Wesley's Chapel in London at 11:45 a.m. this morning. The choir was asked to perform a short recital during its tour of the historic Methodist site. The choir was to begin its performances on Thursday, but will sing for the first time on the trip by special request later today. Choir members saw Andrew Lloyd's Weber's musical Woman in White this evening and spent the day touring the Tower of London and Westminster Abby.

Chancel Choir Update 6/6: News For Great Britain
London, 3 p.m., June 6 -- Everyone has arrived here in London safe and sound.
Although considerably delayed by bad weather and one plane with faulty air conditioning, all are check into the hotel and blurry eyed. This note is being written at 3 p.m. London time -- 9 a.m. in St. Louis. Most of us have not slept since Sunday morning. We will catch up tonight. Kevin is taking a bus load to an evensong service at West Minster Abby this evening before dinner. London is cold and damp, but friendly.

Chancel Choir Update 6/4: Cares and Concerns
Alto Bonnie Halls is a grandparent again. Ellie Rose Halls was born this morning, June 4, at Missouri Baptist Medical Center. She weighed in at 6 lbs., 1 oz. and remains in neonatal intensive care due to some fluid on her lungs. Grandfather Gary Halls reports that Ellie's prognosis is good; she just needs a little help breathing for a while.

Chancel Choir Update 6/4: News / Cares and Concerns
Follow Our Progress - Final Trip Itinerary
If you are not accompanying the group on the Great Britain tour, but curious about what we're doing in the next few days, the final itinerary is posted on the Choir's web site in the Member section or may be viewed and printed by clicking on the link below:

http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Member/Notes/greatbritain%20final%20itinerary.pdf

Dinner Set June 9 For Singers Not Going to Great Britain
Alto Fran McMillian is organizing a dinner outing for those persons not making the trip to Great Britain. The dinner will be held on Thursday, June 9, at Pietro's on Highway 30 near Highway 141. If you would like to join them, contact Fran mac-fe@juno.com Fran plans on the group meeting in the Church parking lot to car pool at 6:30 p.m. Check with Fran for further details.

Upcoming Chancel Choir Schedule
Thursday, June 16, 7:30 p.m. -- Last Chancel Choir rehearsal of the year.
Sunday, June 19, 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. -- Chancel choir sings for worship, last time of the season.
Thursday, June 23, 6 p.m. -- First summer traveling dinner
Saturday, June 25, 5:30 pm. -- Season Finale Party and Coronation of the Queen, home of Alto Bonnie Halls.
August ? -- Back To Choir party, date and location to be announced.

Cares and Concerns
Alto Barb Farmer is a grandmother. Whitney Ruth Farmer was born yesterday evening, June 3, in Columbia, Mo. She weighed 7 lbs., 14 oz. and was 20 inches long. She is healthy and perfect. Mom, Christi, is doing beautifully, too.

Chancel Choir Update 5/31: Cares and Concerns
Soprano Karen Fair will undergo surgery June 16 for treatment of breast cancer diagnosed this morning. She will proceed with plans to complete the Great Britain tour with the choir before beginning treatment. "I would like to ask for continued prayers for myself and my family," Karen said this afternoon. "My doctor assures me that, medically speaking, our trip to great Britain will not affect my prognosis or treatment. Psychologically, it was up to me whether or not to schedule surgery now or after our trip. That's all I needed to know. I'll certainly be in the best of company over the new few weeks, and am looking forward to a wonderful time of fellowship and music ministry. Thank you to everyone for your prayers and phone calls. Ernie and I are very lucky to have all of you in our extended family."

Chancel Choir Update 5/30: Urgent News / Cares and Concerns
Additional Surcharge Payment for Great Britain Trip Due Immediately
In case you missed Chancel Choir rehearsal on Thursday night, you may not be aware of an additional surcharge the tour company has assessed persons participating in our Great Britain tour. Due to what the tour company attributs to "fuel costs" and "exchange rate variation" a surcharge of $150 per person is being assessed for those taking the complete tour package, and $80 per person if you arranged your own air transportation and purchased only the "ground" portion of the tour. This payment is due immediately. In fact, our tour company is playing tough with us and refuses to release our plane tickets until the entire surcharge is paid. The additional payment was announced to all Great Britain tour participants present Thursday night's Chancel Choir rehearsal. As of Monday, May 30, there were still 31 people on the tour who had not as yet made the surcharge payment. Chancel Choir Treasurer John Lemen is asking that everyone who has not made the surcharge payment bring a check with them to the tour choir rehearsal this Thursday night. Anyone with questions may call John Lemen at 636-230-5513 or email him at lemenj@earthlink.net.

Great Britain Tour Choir Rehearses Thursday Night
Only the Great Britain tour choir meets this Thursday night. The rest of the Chancel Choir has this week off.

Dinner Set June 9 For Singers Not Going to Great Britain
Alto Fran McMillian is organizing a dinner outing for those persons not making the trip to Great Britain. The dinner will be held on Thursday, June 9, at Pietro's on Highway 30 near Highway 141. If you would like to join them, contact Fran mac-fe@juno.com Fran plans on the group meeting in the Church parking lot to car pool at 6:30 p.m. Check with Fran for further details.

Cares and Concerns
It was grandson for Alto Charlotte and Baritone Richard Shelton. Tanner Joseph Rolnicki was born on May 26. Parents are Leigh and Joe Rolnicki.
Soprano Kathy Givens thanks everyone who contributed to a memorial for her father earlier this year. The new large print hymnals were dedicated at the First Presbyterian Church of Edwardsville on Sunday in memory of her father.

Chancel Choir Update 5/27: News / Cares and Concerns
The Chancel Choir will sing this Sunday, May 29, at the 10:30 a.m. worship service. Anthems: A Communion Invitation, Taste and See, Let Us Talents and Tongues. Call time is 10 a.m. in the Music Room.

Upcoming Chancel Choir Schedule
Thursday, June 2, 7:30 p.m. -- Great Britain tour choir rehearsal.
Sunday, June 5 - Chancel Choir does not sing for worship. Great Britain tour choir departs for London.
Thursday, June 9 - No choir rehearsal.
Sunday, June 12 - Chancel Choir does not sing for worship.
Tuesday, June 14 - Great Britain tour choir returns from Scotland.
Thursday, June 16, 7:30 p.m. -- Last Chancel Choir rehearsal of the year.
Sunday, June 19, 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. -- Chancel choir sings for worship, last time of the season.
Thursday, June 23, 6 p.m. -- First summer traveling dinner
Saturday, June 25, 5:30 pm. -- Season Finale Party and Coronation of the Queen, home of Alto Bonnie Halls.
August ? -- Back To Choir party, date and location to be announced.

Dinner Set June 9 For Singers Not Going to Great Britain
Alto Fran McMillian is organizing a dinner outing for those persons not making the trip to Great Britain. The dinner will be held on Thursday, June 9 at a place and time to be announced. If you would like to join them, contact Fran mac-fe@juno.com

End of Year Party/Coronation Set For June 25
Remember, the social event of the year is set for 5:30 p.m., Saturday, June 25 at the home of Alto Bonnie Halls in Town and Country. The year end party features a state-of-the-choir address by Kevin in which he reveals amazing plans for the coming year, an installation of officers for the coming year, and a session of the Court of the Chancel which conducts the annual coronation of the Chancel Choir Queen. Everyone will be asked to bring their own lawn chairs and a card table if you have one. Also, the party is a potluck which means some tasty food would be nice to bring as well. The address and further party details will be distributed in an email and postcard later next month.

Pentecost Party Brings More than $8,800 to Music Program
Through the generosity of members of the church, the Music Ministry has received gifts of music and supplies totaling $8,865 as part of the annual Pentecost Gifts project. Kevin announced that the Chancel Choir received 10 anthems, the Coventry choir received 5 anthems, and gifts were given in support many of the Music Ministry's groups and ensembles. Also, gifts of supplies totaled $2,700 were made to the Music Ministry. Many of the gift contributors were members of the Chancel Choir and Kevin expressed his appreciation. In all, the Pentecost Party project generated gifts for the church totaling more than $34,000 this year.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Karen Fair asked the choir during rehearsal Thursday night for prayers. She is facing what she described as a health concern in the next few days.
Soprano Sherry Boland is a new grandmother. Leah Peaslee was born on Saturday, May 22 in Dallas. She weighted 7 lbs., 5 oz. and measured 19 1/2 inches. Leah, sister Hanah, and parents Chris and Elizabeth are doing well.
Many of our members are traveling during this holiday weekend. Prayers for their safe journey are in order. Have a safe and happy Memorial Day.

Chancel Choir Update 5/23: Important News
Tenth Annual Choir Scholarship Awarded to Chessey Lynn
In front of a standing ovation of worshippers and Chancel Choir members, Parkway South Senior Chessey Lynn was awarded the tenth annual Chancel Choir scholarship during youth Sunday worship services yesterday.

“This was a very hard decision and is a testimony to the youth of our church,” choir vice president and scholarship committee chair Mary Dean told the congregation. She then began revealing details about the recipient, pointing out her academic achievement, church youth activities, and music program participation.

Chessey is the daughter of Nancy and George Lynn of Manchester, Mo. She plans to attend Truman State University next fall where she will major in music and put the $2,000 scholarship to good use. “Thank you so much. I dedicate this honor to my sister who I admire so much,” she said tearfully. Chessey is a member of Joyful Noise and performed in the group’s recent production of Godspell. Two numbers from the show were presented during the Sunday worship service.

The annual Chancel Choir scholarship is presented to a graduating senior each spring. The selection process begins in March with applications and ends with extensive interviews in May.

The selection committee is chaired each year by the choir’s vice president/president elect. Members of the committee this year, in addition to Dean, were: Tenor Tim Zink, Soprano Linn Willets, Youth Director Nancy Cooper and Kevin.

Also during the Sunday youth service, two scholarships were presented by the Youth Auction committee to Laura Pace and Matt Butler. Each received $2,000 awards from Youth Auction proceeds. Baritone Dave Divjak made those presentations on behalf of the Youth Auction committee.

Chancel Choir Rehearsal Resumes Thursday Night
After a week off, Chancel Choir will return to rehearsal this Thursday night. The choir will sing for worship this Sunday.

Remaining Chancel Choir Schedule For This Year
Thursday, May 26 – Regular rehearsal
Sunday, May 29 – Sing at 10:30 a.m. service
Thursday, June 2 – No Rehearsal (Great Britain tour choir rehearsal)
Thursday, June 9 – No Rehearsal
Thursday, June 16 – Last rehearsal for the season
Sunday, June 19 – Sing for both 9 a.m and 10:30 a.m. services, last Sunday in worship
Thursday, June 22 – First Summer Thursday Night Dinner
Saturday, June 25 – End of Year Party, Installation, Coronation

End of Year Party/Coronation Set For June 25
Remember, the social event of the year is set for 5:30 p.m., Saturday, June 25 at the home of Alto Bonnie Halls in Town and Country. The year end party features a state-of-the-choir address by Kevin in which he reveals amazing plans for the coming year, an installation of officers for the coming year, and a session of the Court of the Chancel which conducts the annual coronation of the Chancel Choir Queen.

Summer Thursday Night Dinners Begin on June 23
Once again, the Chancel Choir’s social director is planning culinary therapy for choir members undergoing seasonal rehearsal withdrawal during the summer. The traveling dinners will begin on Thursday, June 22. Traditionally the first dinner of the summer is held at the Applebee’s in Ballwin. Then a new restaurant is visited each Thursday night during the summer. Some interesting, new places are on the list this summer. More details will follow.

Chancel Choir Update 5/18: Change In Rehearsal Plans
This just in -- Kevin has changed the rehearsal schedule for the Chancel Choir. This Thursday night, May 19, only the Great Britain tour choir will rehearse. The entire Chancel Choir will meet for rehearsal the following Thursday, May 26. So, if you aren't going to Great Britain, enjoy this Thursday night off. The Chancel Choir will not sing this Sunday, May 22, but as many as possible are asked to join us in the pews to support our scholarship winner at the 9 a.m. service.

Chancel Choir Update 5/17: News You Can Use
Regular Rehearsal Is Set For Thursday
The Chancel Choir will rehearse end-of-year music this Thursday at 7:30 p.m.

Chancel Choir Scholarship Presented This Sunday
Recipient of the annual Chancel Choir scholarship will be announced at the 9:00 a.m. worship service this Sunday. Since it is youth Sunday, the Chancel Choir will not be in the loft. However, a section of pews will be reserved for us and as many choir members as possible are being asked to attend the 9:30 a.m. service as a show of support for the scholarship winner. Each year the choir awards a $2,000 scholarship to a graduating high school senior who has been active in the church's youth and music programs. Applications are sought in April and potential winners are interviewed by a scholarship committee headed each year by the choir's vice president. More than $20,000 has been given to deserving high school grads by the Chancel Choir during the 10 plus years of the scholarship program.

Saturday Outing to Leclede's Landing Has Been Postponed
Earlier spring social activity schedules listed a visit to the Big Bang Piano Bar on the Landing for this Saturday night. Unfortunately, the event has been postponed until later this year. The Choir's social director postponed the event due to conflicting events this weekend. She promises a trip to the Landing soon.

Theater Visit Planned This Summer
Lori Borger and the church's drama ministry are planning to attend the Stages production of Footloose on July 24 to see Ben Nordstrom, a member of our church who played Jesus in the recent Joyful Noise production of Godspell. If you are interested in joining them, talk with Lori this week. Group tickets will cost $28, a discount from the normal Stages ticket price of $48. Info on the production can been viewed at www.stagesstlouis.com/foot.cfm

New Peanut Bar Recipe
Hungry for a lavish chocolate peanut cookie creation? A new receipt for Salted Peanut Chews from Alto Sue Grant has been added to the the massive recipe collection on the Chancel Choir's Web site. Check it out.

Chancel Choir Update 5/13: News You Use / Cares and Concerns
We'll Sing This Sunday
The Chancel Choir will be in the loft for the 10:30 am. worship service this Sunday. Call time is 10 a.m. Anthem: I Believe In God (Gospel Mass).

Chancel Choir Scholarship Selection Has Been Made
The Chancel Choir Scholarship committee, chaired by choir Vice President Mary Dean, spent several hours Wednesday evening reviewing and interviewing applicants. A winner was selected and his or her identity is now a deep, dark secret to be revealed during the 9 a.m. worship service on May 22. Unfortunately, that is youth Sunday and the Chancel Choir won't be singing, but Chancel Choir officers and Kevin are asking as many choir members as possible to attend worship at 9 a.m. on May 22 as a show of support for the scholarship winner. A section of pews will be reserved for Chancel Choir members that morning.

Last Officer Meeting of The Year
Chancel Choir officers held their final meeting of the year last night. Jim Descher, outgoing president, thanks officers for their work during the year. Only routine business was discussed. Treasurer John Lemen reported the choir's activity fund balance now stands at $10,764.45.

End of Year Party Set For June 25
It's official now. Notice was received earlier this week that the end of year party set for June 25 has been sanctioned as an official session of the Court of the Chancel and the Chief Justice will be present to "attend to the duties necessary for the transition of her royal majesty the Queen of The Chancel Choir, and such other matters that may be of importance." There were two other matters listed but not identified. No one has any idea what these other matters may be. The party will again be held at the home of Gary and Bonnie Halls in Town and Country and begin in early evening. Time and further details will be provided soon.

Choir Tour Blog Is Created
A blog (Web log) for use during the Great Britain tour has been created. The blog can be used by travelers to post trip progress for the folks remaining in St. Louis. So far, we have not identified a "blogger" for the trip. If you'd like to see what this blog looks like, the link appears below:
http://mumsinger.blogspot.com/

Messenger Story Details Great Britain Tour To Church Membership
The latest edition of The Messenger, distributed by email yesterday, contains a short article written by Kevin about the Great Britain tour. It is not widely known that the choir is making the trip. In case you don't receive or read The Messenger, the article appears below. It was reported at the choir officers meeting last night that some comment has been heard remarking about the choir's ability to raise enough money to pay for the trip. Since this article does not address the fact that individuals are paying their own way, you may hear similar comments. It would be important that we make sure people know that we did not raise outside money for the trip nor use any church funds to pay for it.

Members of Chancel Choir Take Their Message Abroad
Kevin McBeth, Director of Music
In just a few weeks, members of the MUMC Chancel Choir and members of the St. Louis Metro Singers will join forces for a ten-day tour of England and Scotland. This wonderful invitation was offered by Music Celebrations International, a touring company that sponsors auditioned concerts around the world.

Our tour will begin with four days in London, and a concert at St. Mary-le-Bow Church. In addition, we will visit historic sights of London, including the Wesley Methodist Heritage sites, St. Paul's Cathedral and Westminster Abbey. The tour continues with a stop in the hometown of William Shakespeare. We are privileged to present a concert at Holy Trinity Church, where Shakespeare was baptized and buried, and at Coventry Cathedral.

Our trip concludes with a stop in Edinburgh, Scotland where we will present three concerts, as well as sing for Sunday morning worship at St. Cuthbert's Parish. One of the most memorable stops is sure to be our concert at the famed St. Giles Cathedral.

The tour begins June 5 returning June 14. The group includes 93 church members, 65 singing in the tour choir. We would appreciate everyone's prayers and good wishes. Also, please join us for our pre-tour concert on Sunday, May 22 at 7:30 p.m. in our sanctuary.

Cares and Concerns
Grandchild number seven for Soprano Sue and Bass Art Lemley arrived on Tuesday, May 10. Anthony Sean Lemley was 7 lbs., 10 oz. and is doing well after a brief visit to the Neonatal ICU. He is the son of Jeff and Lorie Lemley.

Alto Melissa Larsen asks for continued prayers as she searches for a job following recent down sizing at her former employer, Lucent Technologies.

Friday the 13th comes on Friday this month -- be careful out there.

Chancel Choir Update 5/10: News You Can Use
Cathedral Basilica Appearance Saturday Was A Winner
If you drive down Lindell Boulevard in the Central West End you may still be able to hear our anthems echoing through the huge St. Louis Cathedral Basilica. In all a total of 89 singers climbed the stairs into the rear gallery of the huge Romanesque structure also known as the New Cathedral Saturday afternoon to sing for the 5 p.m. mass. Although the Cathedral Basilica houses more than 83,000 square feet of mosaics, it only seats 1,700 people on the main floor. About 500 people were present to hear the Chancel Choir on Saturday. With a seven second echo return and a remote location floating unseen above the worship service, choir members found the experience much like singing in a huge shower stall -- it felt and sounded good. Following service, people carrying purple robes scattered throughout the Central West End landing in shops and restaurants. Choir members were still seen on the streets as late as 10 p.m. enjoying one of the nicest spring evenings so far this year. If you are curious about the Cathedral, click the link below to all kinds of interesting trivia like how much the building cost, what the mosaics depict and why there is both an old cathedral and a new cathedral, and why they are both called basilicas.
http://www.explorestlouis.com/factSheets/fact_newCath.asp?PageType=4

Rehearsal This Thursday
The Chancel Choir will rehearse this Thursday evening and sing this Sunday, May 15 at 10:30 a.m.

Fall Talent Show Planning Is Underway
It's time to start thinking about the talent show set for this October. This is the choir's big fund raising event held in alternate years with our fall fund raising concert. Bill Borger will again serve as director for the talent show. He will discuss this year's show at the beginning of rehearsal Thursday evening. While the format for the show will be similar to the production two years ago, this time the entire Chancel Choir will perform. Choir members will be asked to perform in at least one number during the evening -- either with the choir or in an individual act. And it's not too early to begin thinking about what those individual acts might be. You'll have this summer to plan and rehearse. A casting call will be held in early September.

Like to See "The Producers" at the Fox - We've Got Tickets
Soprano Karen Fair has two tickets for this Sunday's matinee performance of The Producers at the Fox. She says they are primo seats next to the center aisle in row "L". The pair of tickets can be yours for $117.50. Contact Karen at 314-313-3880. Her work number is: 314-621-0699 extension 163.

Great Britain Tour On The Internet
Chancel Choir webmaster Gary Ford is willing to set up a web blog -- that's a journal or diary posted on the Internet -- so people back home can read about what we are doing in Great Britain. However, there are two things necessary before we do that. First, is there any interest among people back here reading postings about what we are doing. The other question is whether there are any people going on the trip willing to post comments that have PDAs or Blackberrys with them that will work in Great Britain or who are willing to find a computer in a hotel or Internet cafe. If there is enough interest and willingness, a blog will be established. I'd like to hear from anyone going on the trip who would like to be our blog travel editor/contributor. Send me an email at garyford@fordcom.net.

Chancel Choir Update 5/6: Important News
Chancel Choir Sings at the Cathedral Basilica Tomorrow Afternoon - Get Your Robe
If you plan on singing with us at the Cathedral Basilica (New Cathedral) in the Central West End tomorrow afternoon and missed rehearsal last night, you need to pick up your choir robe and music from the church and take it with you to the cathedral. Here is the schedule for tomorrow afternoon:

3:30 p.m. - Persons signed up to ride the church bus meet in church parking lot
3:45 p.m. - Bus leaves church lot
4:15 p.m. - Gather in the cathedral lobby - use the main (Lindell Blvd.) entrance
4:30 p.m. - Meet with John Romeri, music director, in the upper, back gallery. (Second level, lots of steps and no elevator, wear comfortable shoes)
4:45 p.m. - Pre service music begins
5:00 pm. - Mass begins
6:15 p.m. - Mass ends

We will be singing in the upper gallery in the back of the cathedral high above the building floor. Be aware that it is at least a six flight stair climb to the gallery. There are no elevators and no rest rooms on the upper level. But it is a lot of fun to sing there. The building is spectacular and the echo is even more amazing.

Be sure to bring your stole along with your robe. There are plastic bags in the choir room for you to use. Intricate instructions about picking up your robe were reviewed last night -- too many to remember here. Just pick it up and remember to return it. I have been told that if you are very careful about how you fold it, a choir robe will fit inside a glove box in most cars. (Only kidding, please no emails or calls.)

Choir Sings For Worship This Sunday at 10:30 a.m. Service
The Chancel Choir will sing for worship this Sunday at the 10:30 a.m. service. Call time is 10 a.m. in the music room. Anthems for Mother's Day: All Glory Be to God and Amazing Grace.

Choir Officers For Next Year Are Presented and Affirmed
New officers for next year were presented to the choir last night and affirmed with a round of applause. Incoming president Mary Dean stepped to the podium in front of the choir at the conclusion of rehearsal and announced next year's leadership line up.

President -- Mary Dean
Vice President (president elect) -- Chris Kennedy
Recording Secretary -- Lois Hindrickson
Attendance Secretary -- Ann Garber
Treasurer -- Jackie Rocchio
Assistant Treasurer -- Tim Zink
Four Member Representatives -- Rose Carlisle, Judi Shepard, Josh Hayes and Doug Ross.
Operations staff members are being invited to stay in their current positions.

Before presenting the officers, Dean thanked the current officers and president Jim Descher for an outstanding year. "Choosing the right officers for next year was a difficult job," she said and thanked choir members for submitting suggestions for candidates. "I couldn't use all of the suggestions, but there are lots of years ahead of us."

In making the officer selections, Dean said she used three criteria. "First, with a group as big as ours, I wanted to see some of the new people become involved in the leadership. I also felt that we needed balance and diversity among the officers -- across singing parts, demographics, and tenure in the choir. And, of course, I wanted to make sure we found people who could help the choir have fun."

The new officers will be assume their new jobs following installation in late June.

End of Year Party, Installation and Coronation Set For June 25
The highest holiday in all of Chanceldom is scheduled this year for Saturday, June 25. The annual end of year choir party and coronation will be held again this year at the home of Gary and Bonnie Halls in Town and Country. The party traditionally is a time of recognition of the year's accomplishments and an opportunity for Kevin to give his rousing state-of-the-choir address that often hints of things brewing for the year to come. New officers will be installed and a session of the Court of the Chancel will be convened for the purpose of the Coronation of the incoming Chancel Choir Queen. This role is filled by the spouse of the Chancel Choir president. This year the baton and other instruments of the monarchy will pass from Joanne Descher to Kenny Dean. Mark June 25 on your calendars for an evening of fun and merriment. By then the Great Britain jet lag should have worn off.

Chancel Choir Update 5/4: News / Cares and Concerns
Rehearsal for The Cathedral
Tomorrow night is an important rehearsal. We'll prepare for our appearance at the Cathedral Basilica on Saturday. We'll also have some goodies after practice since it's the first rehearsal of the month.

Cares and Concerns
The grandchildren keep on arriving. Emily Madeline Huber, granddaughter of Bass Joe Elstner, was born on April 19 in Kansas City, Mo. She weighted 9 lb., 11 oz. and was 21.5 inches long. Parents Lisa and Mark Huber along with brother Paul are doing well.

Chancel Choir Update 4/29: News / Cares and Concerns
Choir Sings This Sunday Morning
The Chancel Choir will sing for the 10:30 a.m. worship service this Sunday. Call time is 10 a.m. in the music room. Anthems: All Glory Be To God, Praise His Holy Name, Praise to the Lord.

Revised Schedule For The Cathedral Basilica Appearance on May 7
3:30 p.m. - Persons signed up to ride the church bus meet in church parking lot
3:45 p.m. - Bus leaves church lot
4:15 p.m. - Gather in the cathedral lobby - use the main (Lindell Blvd.) entrance
4:30 p.m. - Meet with John Romeri, music director, in the upper, back gallery. (Second level, lots of steps and no elevator, wear comfortable shoes)
4:45 p.m. - Pre service music begins
5:00 pm. - Mass begins
6:15 p.m. - Mass ends

Choir Will Sing For Farewell Service for Dean and Nancy Wilson
As you probably have heard, both Dean and Nancy Wilson have been reassigned to small church in rural Missouri. A farewell worship service is planned on June 19 and the Chancel Choir will sing for worship that morning at both the 9:00 and 10:30 a.m. services. This will be our last time in the loft for this season. More details will be provided soon.

Great Britain Rehearsal This Sunday
The Great Britain tour choir will rehearse at 7:30 p.m. this Sunday.

Youth Auction Results
Gary Halls, husband of Alto Bonnie Halls, will direct the Chancel Choir at a worship service this fall. He purchased the opportunity at the Youth Auction last week for $600. When the bidding ended, the auction emcee decided to sell a second turn at the baton which went to Tenor Josh Hayes also for $600. The gourmet dinner offered by the choir did not bring as much money as it has in past years. The dinner was sold to Soprano Rose Carlisle and husband Dean for $400. Choir officers had decided to offer a second dinner if the bidding reached $1200, but that word apparently did not reach the auction emcee. A second dinner was sold for $400, but so far we have not been able to determine who it was that bought the second dinner. Kevin reported to the choir last night that an anonymous donation of $1000 has been added to the amount raised for the dinners. All told, the two dinners, two turns at directing the choir, and the supplemental anonymous contribution have resulted in the choir raising a total of $3000 for the church's youth program this year.

Cares and Concerns
Emmett Lee Lendermann was born in Atlanta, Ga., at 1:29 p.m. on April 28. That's important info because Emmett is the latest grandchild of Alto Diane Lawrence and Bass Tom Lawrence. Emmett was 8 lbs., 11 oz., and is the child of Nanette and Greg Lenderman.
Bass Doug Ross underwent surgery to repair a hernia last week. He was back singing with us last night.
Kelly Hall, daughter of Alto Bobby Parker, was hospitalized last week for treatment of sever headaches. She is recovering at home.

Chancel Choir Update 4/28: News / Cares and Concerns
Opportunity To Improve Your Singing
We know the cold weather has been a distraction this week, but in case you hadn't heard, today is Thursday. While the progression of the week may seem obvious by some standards of measure, it became apparent last Thursday that many Chancel Choir members may not be in touch with their calendars. Fully a third was missing from rehearsal last week. The benefits of regular rehearsal attendance may seem obvious as well, but we will point them out anyway. There is a chance you may learn music you haven't seen before. There is also a chance you may improve your ability to sing with the Chancel Choir and we all know how helpful improvement can be. There is also a chance you may obtain gossip and other knowledge from your choir family that you would have no way of learning from other sources. There is also a chance that you will please the director who appeared somewhat disappointed last week when he observed the empty chairs. At the risk of sounding obvious, rehearsal will be held tonight beginning at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday Night At The Moolah Theater and Lounge
Chancel Choir members have the opportunity to experience one of the more unusual and interesting movie theaters St. Louis has to offer. This Saturday night is our evening at the Moolah Theater and Lounge. We will meet at 6 p.m. in the theater's lounge; the movie begins at 7 p.m.. You're responsible for purchasing your own ticket either online or at the box office. Tickets are $8. The movie showing Saturday will be The Interpreter with Nicole Kidman. The Moolah Theater is located at the corner of Lindell and Vandeventer. A parking garage is available next door to the theater. If you're curious about the Moolah Theater, need directions to get there, or want to purchase tickets, check the theater's Web site:
http://www.stlouiscinema.com/moolah/
The Chancel Choir social director has deputized Christie Whitney and her husband, Dave, to serve as event hosts for the night at the Moolah. The sign up sheet will be available tonight at rehearsal.

Life After Catastrophic Computer Failure
Your Chancel Choir Web master is emerging from the dark experience of catastrophic computer failure in the form of a hard drive crash. Yes, I know the thought sends chills through the heart of even the most novice computer user. But, I am here to report that there is hope for recovery. The main reason is that I took my own advice and had the entire drive backed up on a nifty little external hard drive. But the shock of a boot up failure still resonates through me. You'd think this wouldn't be a worry if you are using a new, super computer just pulled from the Dell box in December. But I have found that worry can be justified even in the most confident of circumstances. My story began with a thunderstorm, although the failure was not weather related. When the distant rumble of thunder followed a Kent Erhardt weathercast that prediction sever thunderstorms, I decided it might be prudent to power down the mega Dell and wait for sunny weather. This is what I did before bedtime last Thursday night. On Friday morning the machine reported in sick. A corrupted file would not allow it to boot up. The dreaded black screen with a stark white warning appeared. So, I called Dell. I sprang for the super warranty with onsight technical visits. It also included toll free calling to Pakistan. I was soon visiting with a polite young woman who could barely speak English. I did manage to pull out the words "drive" "failure" "let's test". We did and it flunked. She assured me that a technician would replace the hard drive within 48 hours. It was Friday; that meant Tuesday. Fortunately, I still had my old computer up and running and email could still be accessed. But, the reality of my trouble was setting in. My hard drive back up was current through April 10. That means that everything I had done for work, clients, the choirs, students, you name it, since April 10 was lost. I began getting calls from Pakistan two or three times a day to report that the part had been shipped, the technician would call, they would help me if I needed it. But, I knew they were not going to help me transfer all of my data, reload several dozen programs, reconstitute preferences, reconfigure email, and web site hosting access. What a pain. Well, the technician arrived on Monday afternoon. Nice guy, actually American from Arnold who spoke English quite well. I didn't have to say "please repeat that" once when talking with him, as I often did with the International telephone people from Dell. He replaced the hard drive in about 30 seconds. Told me how to begin reloading Windows and was very sympathetic. But, he told me something even more disturbing than hearing "drive failure" on the phone. He said that he had been replacing drives like mine four or five times a week in St. Louis. Seems that during two weeks in October, all Dell models similar to mine were equipped with defective hard drives. He said they began failing in February. Mine drive happened to go out on April 22. One women lost all of her family photos that were stored on her computer and was not very happy to see him. Of course, Dell has known about all of this, but I got no calls from Pakistan giving me an opportunity to "preeeepare for dee wurst." Moral of this story is "you just never know." So now I back up my entire hard drive automatically every night while a snooze. I have also begun backing up everything I do at work. Even with the benefit of a back up, recovery is a lengthy process. I am now about 40 percent restored. Remembering where the program disks are, where you downloaded a piece of software, your passwords and key codes, email address books, it's all a little overwhelming. And since I teach online classes now, it's like working in a classroom with no desks and chairs. At the risk of stating the obvious, if you use your computer for any important stuff, or even unimportant stuff you'd like to keep, invest about a $100 in a USB external hard drive and prepare for that dreaded day when you have to call Pakistan and hear those dreaded words "I beeeeleave it may be yuuuur hrdt dreyev."

Cares and Concerns
Alto Paula Mraz is asking for prayers for her brother, Ross Brewer, who will have heart surgery on Monday. Paula reports that he turned 40 this week and has been on heart medicine since his early 20s. The risks of continuing medication have now surpassed the risks of surgery, so he will undergo the repair procedure and expects to make a full recovery.

Chancel Choir Update 4/23: News
Choir Sings In Church This Sunday
Chancel Choir will sing for the 10:30 a.m. service Sunday morning. Call time is 10 a.m. Anthem is Christ Is Made The Sure Foundation.

2005-2006 Choir Officer Appointment Process Begins
It's that time again. With the choir year winding down, the search is on for choir officers for next year. To streamline the process, make it easier for the incoming president to recruit new officers, and bring the choir's leadership process in line with other ministries in the church, Chancel Choir officers recently approved some changes in how choir officers are selected. Each year the incoming president (vice president from the previous year) will be responsible for recruiting and appointing officers for the following year. In late April, the vice president/president elect will begin identifying choir members interested in serving as an officer for the next year. Choir members will be asked to suggest potential officers or tell the vice president if they have an interest in being considered themselves for a post. Once the vice president has identified the officers for the following year, the list of appointees will be presented to the choir in early May. President Jim Descher told the choir during rehearsal Thursday night that incoming president Mary Dean is in the process of developing the list of officers for next year. Between now and next Thursday, choir members are asked to let her know if they are interested in being considered for an office or if they have suggestions of other choir members whom they feel would be make a good officer (check with them first to make sure they are willing). Mary will present the list of new officers to the choir during rehearsal on May 5. If you'd like to suggest a name for consideration as an officer, contact Mary at: mdean@purina.com.

Night At The Moolah Theater and Lounge Sign Up
A signup for an evening at the Moolah Theater and Lounge on Saturday, April 30, is being circulated. The movie showing that night will be The Interpreter with Nicole Kidman. We don't know the starting time or exact details yet, but you can plan on meeting at the theater in the 6 p.m. time frame. More details will be provided later. If you're curious about the Moolah Theater, take a look its Web site:
http://www.stlouiscinema.com/moolah/

Chancel Choir Will Return to the St. Louis Cathedral Basilica on May 7
The Chancel Choir will sing for mass at the St. Louis Cathedral Basilica (New Cathedral) in the Central West End on Saturday, May 7. Warmup will most likely begin there at 3:30 p.m., with mass starting at 5 p.m. Including the post-service music, we should conclude about 6:30 p.m. This appearance at the cathedral is for the entire Chancel Choir -- not just those going to Great Britain.

Chancel Choir Update 4/20: News / Cares and Concerns
It's Spring, But We're Rehearing Tomorrow Night Anyway
Yes, we know the weather is perfect -- for a picnic, a walk in the park, a drive in the country, anything but rehearsal. However. And that's a big however, we will rehearse tomorrow night and we've got plenty to do. First we're preparing for an appearance at the St. Louis Cathedral Basilica (New Cathedral) in the Central West End on Saturday, May 7. In case you haven't heard, they've got a new Pope down there, so we'll need to sound our best. Then of course, we'll be singing for worship this week and we need to prepare for that. We're sure that once you've considered these significant obligations, you'll immediately discard any plans to skip rehearsal.

Madie Concert Recordings Available Tomorrow Night
If you ordered a CD of the Music for Madie concert, you can pick it up tomorrow night.

Night At The Moolah Theater and Lounge Sign Up
A signup for an evening at the Moolah Theater and Lounge on Saturday, April 30, will be circulated tomorrow night. The movie showing that night will be The Interpreter with Nicole Kidman. We don't know the starting time or exact details yet, but you can plan on meeting at the theater in the 6 p.m. time frame. More details will be provided later. If you're curious about the Moolah Theater, take a look its Web site:
http://www.stlouiscinema.com/moolah/

Cares and Concerns
It's another grandchild for Alto Bonnie Halls. Cooper John Carson was born to daughter Jennifer Carson and her husband, John, at 2:44 p.m. Tuesday in Champaign, Ill. Cooper weighed in at 8 pounds, 11.3 ounces. Bonnie reports by cell phone that all are doing well, including big sister Zoe.

Chancel Choir Update 4/15: News
No Choir In Loft On Sunday Morning
We get Sunday off this week. The chancel choir from St. Luke's United Methodist Church in Indianapolis will provide music for the 10:30 a.m. service. We sang at their worship service during our Indy tour last summer.

Choir Officer Meeting Highlights
The Chancel Choir officers held their regular monthly meeting last night. Here are some highlights from the deliberations:
Choir Scholarship -- Deadline for applications for the choir's youth scholarship is at 3 p.m. today, April 15. A total of 15 letters were sent to graduating high school seniors inviting them to apply. The interview process to select the winner will begin soon. The scholarship procedures call or the choir's vice president to head the scholarship selection committee. This year vice president Mary Dean will be scholarship committee chair. The choir's youth scholarship will be presented during the 9:30 a.m. worship service on Youth Sunday, May 22. The choir gives a $2,000 scholarship to a graduating senior who has been active in the church's youth and music programs.
Great Britain -- A final update regarding flight information, luggage weights and other information will be provided by Kevin in the next few days. The final payment for the trip is due today, April 15.
Outreach/Fundraising/Communications -- The officers spent most of the meeting brainstorming activities to make the choir more self-sustaining and increase its visibility both inside the church and in the community. A number of these ideas will be presented to the choir for comment and approval later this spring.

Great Britain Tour Singers Will Rehearse Sunday
The Great Britain tour choir will rehearse in the music room Sunday at 7:30 p.m.

Chancel Choir Will Return to the St. Louis Cathedral Basilica on May 7
The Chancel Choir will sing for mass at the St. Louis Cathedral Basilica (New Cathedral) in the Central West End on Saturday, May 7. Warmup will most likely begin there at 3:30 p.m., with mass starting at 5 p.m. Including the post-service music, we should conclude about 6:30 p.m. This appearance at the cathedral is for the entire Chancel Choir -- not just those going to Great Britain.

Spring Choir Calendar
Saturday, April 30 -- Movie Night at the Moolah Theater
Saturday, May 7, 5 p.m. -- Sing at Cathedral Basilica (All members of the Chancel Choir)
Sunday, May 22, 7:30 p.m. -- Great Britain Tour Choir concert
Thursday, May 26, 7:30 p.m.-- Last Chancel Choir rehearsal for the season
Sunday, May 29, 10:30 a.m. -- Chancel Choir last Sunday in Worship
Thursday, June 2, 7:30 p.m. -- Great Britain Tour Choir rehearsal
Date for annual end of year party to be announced

Chancel Choir Update 4/13: News
It's Back To Work This Thursday Night
Chancel Choir rehearsal will resume tomorrow night. There's only a few weeks before we sing at the St. Louis Cathedral Basilica in the Central West End. We'll look for you at rehearsal.

Music For Madie Concert Recording
If you did not get a chance to sign up for a CD of our Music for Madie concert, a sign up sheet will be available tomorrow night at rehearsal.

Chancel Choir Will Sing at The New Cathedral on May 7
The Chancel Choir will return to the Cathedral Basilica in the Central West End to sing for Mass at 5 p.m., Saturday, May 7. We'll arrive at the Cathedral at 3:30 p.m. The Mass will conclude at about 6:30 p.m.

We're Headed to the Moolah Theater on Saturday, April 30
We'll see a movie at St. Louis' most unusual and interesting movie theater in the city on Saturday night, April 30. The former Moolah Shrine Temple at Lindell and Vandeventer has been transformed into St. Louis' biggest screen movie theater with a 500 seat auditorium, balcony seating with large sofas, a full bar and gourmet snacks. A signup sheet will be circulated next week.

Pentecost Gift Catalogs Are Available
If you didn't get a copy of the Pentecost Gift catalog on Sunday, they are still available in the music room or at the Welcome Center in the Narthex. The catalog contains a listing of items the church's ministries have indicated would be helpful to receive from church members. Guidelines for purchasing, wrapping, and tagging the gifts are in the catalog preface. This year's Pentecost Gift dedication will take place May 8 at Cross Culture, May 14 at the Chapel service, and May 15 at all three Sunday worship services. Don't forget, we get birthday cake following each service.

Pentacost Gifts and Becoming a Concert Series Patron Can Help Music Ministry
The Pentecost Gift program is an excellent way for you to help the Music Ministry continue its programming in the face of a significant budget reduction. During the past two years, the Music Ministry budget has been reduced by nearly 40 percent. The Pentecost Gift catalog contains a listing of many individual items needed by the church's choirs and ensembles. Your decision to provide one or more of these will directly assist the Music Ministry. Another excellent way to help restore music programming canceled for the 2005-2006 year due to the budget reduction is to become a Concert Series Patron. The Music for Madie program listed 26 Patrons who have contributed to our concert series. Information on becoming a Concert Series Patron is included in a folder available at the Welcome Center in the Narthex. In the next few weeks, the Music Ministry Team will meet to determine which of next year's concerts can be restored to the schedule. They will also determine if money is available to pay for instrumentalists and other costs associated with our concerts next year. Knowing the level of assistance from Concert Series Patrons would be helpful in making those decisions. The term Concert Series refers to all of the performances of the church's choirs and ensembles, as well as occasional appearances by outside groups.

Youth Auction Ticket Money Is Due
If you signed up to attend this year's Youth Auction on April 22, money for the tickets is now due to Alto Judi Shepard. She would really like to get your money on Thursday night or Sunday morning, at the latest. If you would like to attend, but haven't signed up -- fear not. There is still space for a great dinner and a pleasant evening of dinner and silent and oral auctions.

Chancel Choir Update 4/8: News
Chancel Choir Sings For 10:30 a.m. Service This Sunday
Resting on Thursday doesn't mean we get Sunday off too. No, we'll sing at the 10:30 a.m. worship service this Sunday, April 10. Call time is 10 a.m. in the music room. The anthem will be: Hallelujah, Praise the Lord from the Gospel Mass.

Here's A Thank You From JoAnn Jones Received Yesterday
"I almost forgot completely to say 'Thank you' to all the folks who brought goodies for the reception last Sunday night after the concert. The treats were excellent and a great variety, and I appreciated the help since I was in California just before the concert squeezing on my new grandbaby -- which is where I am now too. There were too many of you to mention every name, but you were wonderful to help me out with the preparation. Also a huge thank-you for my 'team' of Hospitable Helpers: Kristie Whitney, Donna (and Paul) Biolchini, Rhoda and Bud Kemper, Roxanne and Andy Miller, Sue Grant, and Carol Broyles. Also to new recruit-spouses Cinda Divjak, Ima Sailer, and Lori Holcomb. The concert was amazing, and the reception was very well received. Jo Ann"

Recordings of Sunday's Concert Will Be Available to Choir Members
The concert recording from Sunday night sounds spectacular. We're sure you'll want a CD to keep. A sign up sheet will be available both on Sunday and again next Thursday.

Chancel Choir Update 4/5: News / Cares and Concerns
We're Taking Thursday Night This Week Off
There will be no Chancel Choir rehearsal this Thursday night, April 7. This break in the action was listed in the schedule distributed at the first of the year.

Chancel Choir Sings For 10:30 a.m. Service This Sunday
Resting on Thursday doesn't mean we get Sunday off too. No, we'll sing at the 10:30 a.m. worship service this Sunday, April 10. Call time is 10 a.m. in the music room. The anthem will be: Hallelujah, Praise the Lord from the Gospel Mass.

Recordings of Sunday's Concert Will Be Available to Choir Members
The concert recording from Sunday night sounds spectacular. We're sure you'll want a CD to keep. A sign up sheet will be available both on Sunday and again next Thursday.

Spouses Appear on Local Ballots During Election Today
It appears that Chancel Choir sopranos are attempting to amass local political power to go along with their already substantial musical influence. Ray Lembke, husband of Soprano Carol Lembke, is running for alderman from the fourth ward in the hamlet of Ballwin. Mike Moll, husband of Soprano Dixie Moll, is seeking a seat on the Parkway School District Board of Education.

Choir Loft Air Quality Report
Here's an air quality report for the concert on Sunday night. The bass/alto side of the loft earned an "orange" air quality rating, while the soprano/tenor side scored a "yellow". It is unfortunate that some singers Sunday night either disregarded the request for no cologne or perfume -- or maybe they just forgot. Hopefully at the next performance or worship service both sides of the loft can be rated "green".

We're Headed to the Moolah Theater on Saturday, April 30
We'll see a movie at St. Louis' most unusual and interesting movie theater in the city on Saturday night, April 30. The former Moolah Shrine Temple at Lindell and Vandeventer has been transformed into St. Louis' biggest screen movie theater with a 500 seat auditorium, balcony seating with large sofas, a full bar and gourmet snacks. Details about the upcoming Chancel Choir social event will be coming soon.

Communion Process Brings Order to Choir Loft
Last fall Kevin outlined a procedure for taking communion in the Loft. Some of us have forgotten and as a result we looked a little ragged when returning to our seats Sunday. Here's the plan: Once the communion servers for the choir are in place and signal, the entire choir stands. The back rows begin the processional down the center stairs to their respective servers and return by the outside stairs. As each choir member returns to their seat, they immediately sit down. Sunday we had some rows standing, waiting on the row to sit together; some rows were partially seated; and some rows sat as they return. Since we can't control when a row has fully returned, it looks much better to sit quietly than stand looking for the last person to arrive.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Carleen Anderson's sister, Sharon Fernquist of Brighton, Mich., underwent a second leg amputation on Friday due to diabetes. Carleen and husband, Jim, ask for our thoughts and prayers for Sharon.

Chancel Choir Update 4/1: News / Cares and Concerns
Saturday Concert Rehearsal at 10 a.m.
The Chancel Choir will conduct a final rehearsal for our memorial concert with brass starting at 10 a.m. this Saturday morning. The choir's portion of the rehearsal should conclude shortly after 11 a.m. Call time for the concert is 7 p.m. Sunday evening. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Please, no perfume or cologne. The performance will be recorded and CDs will be available to the participants.

Tell a Friend About Our Sunday Concert
This is a perfect time to email a friend about our concert. It will be spectacular with three singing groups accompanied by an excellent brass and percussion ensemble singing gospel, memorial and classical music. Links to the concert poster are included below. Send the link in your email or download the poster and attached it.
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/madieconcert.htm
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/madieconcert.pdf

An Early Reminder - Daylight Savings Time Begins This Sunday
This Saturday night its time to set you clock ahead one hour so you won't be late on Sunday. Remember: spring forward, fall back.

We're Headed to the Moolah Theater on Saturday, April 30
We'll see a movie at St. Louis' most unusual and interesting movie theater in the city on Saturday night, April 30. The former Moolah Shrine Temple at Lindell and Vandeventer has been transformed into St. Louis' biggest screen movie theater with a 500 seat auditorium, balcony seating with large sofas, a full bar and gourmet snacks. Details about the upcoming Chancel Choir social event will be coming soon.

Cares and Concerns
Alto Melissa Larsen is now looking for work. She was downsized last week from her job at Lucent Technologies in Ballwin.
Choir social director Sandy Ford, wife of Bass Gary Ford, will undergo surgery Monday to repair an injured tendon in her left hand.
Former choir member Judi Burket is in town with her daughter, Diane, who is hospitalized at Missouri Baptist Medical Center for treatment of viral meningitis.
Soprano Sue Sturhahn reported to the choir Thursday night that the woman the choir helped by raising money to keep her car from being reposessed last year now has an excellent job, is purchasing a condo, and is attending church near her home. The choir rasied more than $1,200 to help the woman by passing an envelope during rehearsal. Sue said the woman is very grateful to the choir for helping her get back on her feet.

Chancel Choir Update 3/29: News You Can Use
It's Concert Week - Important Rehearsals Thursday and Saturday
The Music For Madie concert is set for 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 3. This Thursday night is an important rehearsal for the special concert and we need everyone there. The final rehearsal for the concert will be on Saturday from 10 a.m. until noon. A poster for the concert is available at the links below. It is posted on the choir's Web site in both jpg and html formats. Feel free to include a link in emails to your friends or download the jpg to your computer and attach it to an email so it will show in the message.
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/madieconcert.htm
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/madieconcert.pdf

Music Critic Lists Our Church as Top Spot for Holy Week Music
Manchester United Methodist Church has arrived as one of the top churches for music in the St. Louis metro area. Sarah Bryan Miller, St. Louis Post-Dispatch music critic, included our church in her list of churches noted for the quality of their Easter music. The list was published in last Thursday's paper. Here's the Post-Dispatch list:
Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis (new cathedral), 4431 Lindell
Manchester United Methodist Church, Manchester, Mo.
Christ Church Cathedral, 1210 Locust St.
Grace United Methodist Church, 6199 Waterman Blvd.
Episcopal Church of St. Michael & St. George, 6345 Wydown Blvd.
St. Peter's Episcopal Church, 110 North Warson Road
First Presbyterian Church, Kirkwood, Mo.

Holy Week Provided Outreach Opportunity for Music Ministry
With 10 worship services scheduled during Holy Week this year, the church's Music Ministry presented music from a wide range of styles for Easter this year. Here is the "box score" for Easter attendance and music. Data was provided by the church office.
Maundy Thursday - 193 (handbells)
Good Friday
Noon - 112 (Chapel Choir)
7 p.m. - 232 (Coventry Choir)
Easter Weekend
Saturday - 125 (Chapel Choir)
Sunday
7 a.m. - 108 (Joyful Noise)
8 a.m. - 377 (Coventry, brass)
9 a.m. - 1,263 (Chancel, handbells, brass)
10:30 a.m. - 1,197 (Chancel, One Voice, handbells, brass)
11:45 a.m. - 519 (Chancel, Good News Quartet, brass)
6:30 p.m. - 72
Total 2005 Easter Weekend - 3,661
Total 2004 Easter Weekend - 4,345
Total 2005 Palm Sunday - 2,055

Please, Please Leave The Cologne and Perfume Behind
Although it wasn't a bright Easter Sunday, the lack of sunshine was more than offset by bright spring fashions. Apparently it was also a time to try out that new perfume. But, for many singers the pleasant aroma can mean little or no participation after weeks of attending rehearsal and practice. Perfume and cologne was very strong in the choir loft on Easter Sunday at all of the services. Besides the usual tendency to sneeze, at least two singers were unable to reach high notes after exposure to cologne on Sunday. We won't list the names, but what we will do is ask you to respect your fellow singers and leave the cologne and perfume at home -- especially at Sunday's concert.

An Early Reminder - Daylight Savings Time Begins This Sunday
This Saturday night its time to set you clock ahead one hour so you won't be late on Sunday. Remember: spring forward, fall back.

We're Headed to the Moolah Theater on Saturday, April 30
We'll see a movie at St. Louis' most unusual and interesting movie theater in the city on Saturday night, April 30. The former Moolah Shrine Temple at Lindell and Vandeventer has been transformed into St. Louis' biggest screen movie theater with a 500 seat auditorium, balcony seating with large sofas, a full bar and gourmet snacks. Details about the upcoming Chancel Choir social event will be coming soon.

Chancel Choir Update 3/25: News / Cares and Concerns
Easter Sunday Worship Schedule -- We Sing For Two
Chancel Choir is being asked to sing for at least two worship services on Easter Sunday. According to Kevin we have 101 people signed up to sing for both the 9 and 10:30 a.m. services and about 40 signed up for 11:45 a.m. If you would be willing to help us out at 11:45 a.m. it would be appreciated. Anthems: Worthy Is The Lamb and the Hallelujah Chorus.

Joyful Noise News The Chancel Choir's Help
Next month, our youth singing ensemble Joyful Noise is presenting a full production of the musical Godspell. There will be three shows in Fellowship Hall on April 16 and 17. The shows will be limited to 300 seats each and tickets are on sale now at $5 each. The hope is all three shows will sell out. Joyful Noise is a small group of high school musicians and they are turning to us for some production help. They need two things: some volunteers to provide four to six dozen cookies for intermission refreshments. (Lori Borger says the cookies can be store-bought or homemade.) The other assistance they need is help with ushering and serving. Anyone who signs up to help with either of these two jobs can prebuy their Godspell tickets before they go on sale. A few of the ushers will be needed to stay in the Narthex during the shows to make sure things are quite and doors are left closed. These "security" volunteers will receive free tickets to see another show of their choice since they will be stationed outside. Would you like to help them? Then send a quick email to Lori at: bborger01@earthlink.net If you'd like to help, they'll need to hear from you as soon as possible.

Cares and Concerns
It's a new granddaughter for Soprano JoAnn Jones. Kathryn Dmitrievna Joukovski was born Tuesday to at a hospital in California. She was 8 lbs., 3 oz. and 20 inches long. All are doing well.

Have a safe and happy Easter.

Chancel Choir Update 3/23: News You Can Use
Chancel Choir Will Rehearse With Brass This Thursday
In case you've been out of touch for a while, the Chancel Choir will rehearse following tomorrow night's Maundy Thursday service which starts at 7 p.m. Plan on rehearsal beginning at 8 p.m. We'll practice with brass for Easter Sunday morning worship.

Easter Sunday Worship Schedule -- We Sing For Two
Chancel Choir is being asked to sing for at least two worship services on Easter Sunday. You can pick from 9, 10:30 and 11:45 a.m. services. Pick two or all three. Sign up sheets are on the counter in the music room. Anthems: Worthy Is The Lamb and the Hallelujah Chorus.

Joyful Noise News The Chancel Choir's Help
Next month, our youth singing ensemble Joyful Noise is presenting a full production of the musical Godspell. There will be three shows in Fellowship Hall on April 16 and 17. The shows will be limited to 300 seats each and tickets are on sale now at $5 each. The hope is all three shows will sell out. Joyful Noise is a small group of high school musicians and they are turning to us for some production help. They need two things: some volunteers to provide four to six dozen cookies for intermission refreshments. (Lori Borger, the show's director, says the cookies can be store-bought or homemade.) The other assistance they need is help with ushering and serving. Anyone who signs up to help with either of these two jobs can prebuy their Godspell tickets before they go on sale April 1. A few of the ushers will be needed to stay in the Narthex during the shows to make sure things are quite and doors are left closed. These "security" volunteers will receive free tickets to see another show of their choice since they will be stationed outside. Would you like to help them? Then send a quick email to Lori at: bborger01@earthlink.net If you volunteer and want to prebuy tickets, tell Lori or Julie Kramer. If you'd like to help, they'll need to hear from you as soon as possible.

Latest Great Britain Tour Itinerary Is Posted On Web Site
The latest tour itinerary was distributed last Sunday evening. If you missed or lost your copy, you can find it posted on the choir's Web site at this link:
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Member/Notes/tourpage.htm
Look for the link to Updated Tour Itinerary 3-15-05. You'll also find some other interesting stuff on the Great Britain page.
There is no Great Britain tour rehearsal this week since it's Easter.

Chancel Choir Update 3/19: Help Is Needed
Workers Needed to Help Set Up Reception For Madie Concert
As most of you know, we have a tradition of setting up a cake or cookie and punch reception in Fellowship Hall after our concerts. In past years, spouses and friends have helped set up prior to the concert. Things are complicated this year due to the church Cross Culture Worship service held in Fellowship Hall from 6:30 to 7:30 on Sunday evenings. Reception Chair Jo Ann Jones needs help setting up for the reception for the Music For Madie concert on April 3. So far, she only has one person willing to help. Set up can't begin until 7:30 as the concert starts. Jo Ann promises that helpers will only miss a few minutes of the start of the concert and perhaps the last few minutes of the applause at the end of the performance. All of the food will be on trays and in bowls. Cross Culture workers pick up all of the chairs immediately after their service. So it will involve putting the food and service items out on the tables. If your spouse or a friend is willing to help, please contact Jo Ann Jones at momjones@gmail.com.

Chancel Choir Update 3/18: News You Can Use
Choir Is In The Loft for 10:30 Service Sunday
The Chancel Choir will sing for the 10:30 a.m. service this Sunday (Palm Sunday). The anthem is My Eternal King. Call time is 10 a.m. in the music room.

Great Britain Rehearsal Sunday Night
The Great Britain touring choir will rehearse at 7:30 p.m. this Sunday, March 19, in the music room.

Late Rehearsal on Thursday Due To Maundy Thursday Service
The Chancel Choir will rehearse Thursday night beginning at 8 p.m. in the Sanctuary following the Maundy Thursday worship service. We'll rehearse Easter music with the brass.

Music For Madie Concert Poster and Rehearsal
The Music For Madie concert is set for 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 3. Dress rehearsal for the concert will be from 10 a.m. until noon on Saturday, April 2. A poster for the concert is available at the links below. It is posted on the choir's Web site in both jpg and html formats. Feel free to include a link in emails to your friends or download the jpg to your computer and attach it to an email so it will show in the message.

http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/madieconcert.htm
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/madieconcert.pdf

Chancel Choir Will Sing at The New Cathedral on May 7
The Chancel Choir will return to the Cathedral Basilica in the Central West End to sing for Mass at 5 p.m., Saturday, May 7. We'll arrive at the Cathedral at 3:30 p.m. The Mass will conclude at about 6:30 p.m.

Chancel Choir Update 3/16: News You Can Use
More National Attention For Our Church
Sunday's mega-symphony concert in our Sanctuary has created commentary in the national arts media. A series of comments can be found at Artsjournal.com. One blog authored by Drew McManus and linked to theWeb site contains observations on the concert and includes an account of Sunday's performance and interviews with many of the musicians. You should find it very interesting reading. Click on the link below:
http://www.artsjournal.com/adaptistration/

Chancel Choir Update 3/15: Death In Chancel Choir Family
We are saddened to report the death of Anna M. Vendt, mother-in-law of Alto Barb Vendt. She died March 11. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m., Wednesday, March 16, at Christ Lutheran Church of Webster Groves with burial in St. Marcus Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. today, Tuesday, March 15, at the Jay B. Smith Funeral Home, 7456 Manchester Road.

Chancel Choir Update 3/14: News You Can Use
Musicians From 14 Orchestras Perform First Ever Joint Concert In Our Sanctuary Sunday
More than 1,500 people witnessed what was billed as the first time professional musicians from many symphony orchestras joined forces to perform together during a concert in our Sanctuary Sunday afternoon. A total of 96 musicians from 14 U.S. symphonies performed works by Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich, and Elgar, under the direction of Benjamin Zander, former director of the Boston Philharmonic. The concert had been scheduled weeks ago as a fund raiser for St. Louis Symphony musicians during their labor dispute. Once the issue was settled, the concert became a thank you performance for St. Louis. It had been widely publicized in the national last week.

For those who missed the event, a photo is attached, as are news stories from the St. Louis Post Dispatch, the Associate Press and other newspapers. The concert also was covered by KSDK-TV (channel 5) and KTVI-TV (channel 2).

Performing musicians represented the following symphony and philharmonic orchestras from Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Indianapolis, Louisville, Nashville, New York, Baltimore, Cleveland, Houston, Kansas City, Milwaukee, Philadelphia and the Florida Philharmonic.

As many of you may be aware, the Sanctuary was designed as both a worship and a performance space with the idea that St. Louis artistic organizations such as the St. Louis Symphony could use it as a performance venue in West St. Louis County. The building design included allowances for acoustics and an acoustical specialist reviewed the final design plans. Sunday was the first time a full symphony orchestra has performed in the space and from the balcony it sounded like having a symphony orchestra in your living room.

Hosting a high visibility event such as Sunday's concert creates a heightened level of awareness for our church and its ministries. No doubt many hundreds of people were in our building for the first time yesterday and thousands more read or heard about us in the media.
_________________
Musicians flock to play with Symphony here
By Michele Munz
Of the Post-Dispatch
03/14/2005

Solidarity event was planned during strike

It was something never seen or heard before - musicians from 14 other symphonies playing along with the St. Louis Symphony under the internationally famed conductor of the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra, Benjamin Zander.

The special concert was planned while the St. Louis Symphony was on strike and was supposed to be a concert to benefit the striking musicians. Then the 8-week-long strike ended more than a week ago. But the 30 or so visiting musicians still wanted to come, volunteering their time and paying their way to St. Louis for the free performance. The concert was Sunday afternoon at the Manchester United Methodist Church.

Instead of a benefit, it's purpose was to thank the St. Louis community for support during the strike, for donations to the musicians' relief fund, attendance at concerts and letters written on the musicians' behalf.

But the concert turned into so much more. The music lifted the musicians up after a stressful two months and left an audience in awe.

"It was one of the most thrilling concerts I've ever played," said Franklin Cohen, the principal clarinet for the Cleveland Orchestra, where he has been for 29 years, "because of the type of event it was, and the feeling of commitment and passion between the audience and the orchestra."

Irene Breslaw, the assistant principal viola with the New York Philharmonic, also was moved by the experience.

"It's an incredible positive energy going on here," said Breslaw. "It's just a lot of love."

About 1,300 filled the church with extra chairs placed in the aisles. People started arriving 45 minutes before the concert to get good seats. And during the performance, people did not cough, whisper or fidget. When it ended, the audience leapt to its feet for several minutes of applause.

"It was fantastic to see such a rare occasion of so many different musicians coming together," said Tamie Heichelbeck, 38. She made the trip to the church from Highland, Ill., with her parents, Jan and Casper Heichelbeck. She's been coming to the Symphony with them since she was a little girl.

"We're so glad to have them back in business," she said.

Loris Clifford of Manchester said she had been attending the Symphony's concerts for decades. She called Sunday's performance "world-class."

"It's a very special thing to hear something so tremendous as this," Clifford said.

St. Louis Symphony piccolo player Jan Gippo said such a concert with musicians from different symphonies playing together had never been done before. It was an example of the solidarity among musicians throughout the country, he said. The musicians' union had been fighting for pay and benefits that would keep the quality of the Symphony.

"When an arrow pierces the heart of an artist, all artists hear it," said Gippo, chairman of the musicians' negotiating committee. "And today, we are healing that wound."

Zander, the maestro, has been the conductor in Boston since 1979 and is on the faculty at the New England Conservatory. Unlike most conductors, he shared the meaning behind each piece that was played and walked out into the audience after the finale to shake hands.

The pieces, Zander explained, were about bitter conflicts that came from the depths of the composers' souls: Coriolan Overture by Beethoven, "Romeo and Juliet" by Tchaikovsky, and Symphony No. 5 by Shostakovich. Their purpose is to show how music can lift us out of the fray.

"However desperate our struggle," Zander told the audience. "We can always find our path to triumph."

After the show, Zander said he was amazed by the musicians' passion, precision and devotion.

"They (musicians) do this because it makes a huge difference in people's lives," he said. "There is not one person in this room who left with a single doubt as to why this symphony should exist."
_________

Notice about the concert was distributed by the Associate Press and picked up in many daily newspapers including the New York Times, USA Today and the Wall Street Journal. Here is a sample:

Desert Morning News (Salt Lake City)
Musicians to thank city for support during strike

Musicians from 14 orchestras will join members of the St. Louis Symphony on Sunday for a free concert to thank the community for its support during a two-month strike. The program of Beethoven, Tchaikovsky and Shostakovich will feature more than 80 musicians directed by Benjamin Zander, conductor of the Boston Philharmonic. The concert originally was planned as a fund-raiser for the St. Louis musicians, who walked off the job Jan. 3 after rejecting a contract offer that called for pay cuts. But when they accepted a new contract that provides modest pay increases over the next 3 1/2 years, it was decided to keep the concert but make it free, said Carl Moskowitz, a spokesman for the musicians.

Zander said the symphony "is here to stay. It is your orchestra and in honor of your support in difficult times, we are giving you an experience of what great music can do for us as individuals and as a community." Musicians performing in the concert are from orchestras in Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Cleveland, Dallas, Houston, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Louisville, Milwaukee, Nashville, Tenn., and Philadelphia, along with the New York and Florida philharmonic orchestras.

International Herald Tribune
Musicians from 14 orchestras will join members of the St. Louis Symphony on Sunday for a free concert to thank the community for its support during a two-month strike. The program of Beethoven, Tchaikovsky and Shostakovich will feature more than 80 musicians directed by Benjamin Zander, conductor of the Boston Philharmonic. The concert originally was planned as a fund-raiser for the St. Louis musicians, who walked off the job Jan. 3 after rejecting a contract offer that called for pay cuts. But when they accepted a new contract, it was decided to keep the concert but make it free, a spokesman for the musicians said. Musicians performing in the concert are from orchestras in Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Cleveland, Dallas, Houston, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Louisville, Milwaukee, Philadelphia and Nashville, along with the New York and Florida philharmonic orchestras.

Musicians From 14 Orchestras To Join Symphony In Free Concert
ST. LOUIS (AP) -- Musicians from 14 other symphony orchestras in the U.S. will join Saint Louis Symphony musicians Sunday for a free concert to thank the community for its support during a two-month strike. The program is planned for 4:00 p.m. Sunday at the Manchester United Methodist Church in west St. Louis County. It will feature more than 80 musicians who will be directed by Benjamin Zander, conductor of the Boston Philharmonic.

The concert was originally planned as a benefit to help raise money to support the Saint Louis Symphony musicians, who walked off the job January 3 in a contract dispute. But when musicians voted last Tuesday to accept a new contract, it was decided to keep the concert, but make it free and make it a thank you to the community.

Chancel Choir Update 3/11/05: News / Cares and Concerns
Choir Sings at 10:30 a.m. This Sunday
We're singing the new arrangement of How Great Thou Art at the 10:30 a.m. service this Sunday. Call time is 10:00 a.m. in the music room.

"Mega Symphony" Concert Held In The Sanctuary This Sunday Afternoon
Billed as a "once in a life-time" event, professional musicians from some of the finest orchestras in America will join members of the St. Louis Symphony for a concert at 4 p.m. this Sunday in our Sanctuary. Kevin reports that as many as 120 musicians will fill the chancel and choir loft. The concert was originally scheduled as a fund raiser for the local musicians during their labor dispute with the St. Louis Symphony. With that dispute now settled, it is now being called a concert of healing and gratitude to the community. The Sanctuary will be closed until 3 p.m. to allow the musicians to rehearse. But, you'd come early to get a seat. Some have said a line at the door may form as early as 2:30 p.m. The concert has gained wide spread national publicity with mentions in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USA Today and the Associated Press Wire Service. The notice appearing in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch appears below.

St. Louis Post Dispatch, March 10, 2005
St. Louis Symphony Orchestra Musicians
4 p.m. at Manchester United Methodist Church, 129 Woods Mill Road. 636-394-7506.
People in St. Louis supported the musicians of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra during their two-month labor dispute; now conductor Benjamin Zaner and musicians from 14 other U.S. orchestras join them in a thank-you concert that features Shostakovich's Fifth Symphony and more than 80 musicians from the Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Cleveland, Dallas, Houston, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Louisville, Milwaukee, Nashville and Philadelphia symphony orchestras and the New York and Florida philharmonic orchestras. Free.

Turn At The Baton Will Be Offered At Youth Auction
Bidders at this year's annual Youth Auction will have a unique new opportunity to purchase -- a chance to direct the Chancel Choir as it sings Handel's Hallelujah Chorus during a Sunday worship service. Chancel Choir officers approved offering the opportunity at their meeting Thursday night. The "package" includes a rehearsal session with the choir, a shiny new baton, and a turn at the podium on a Sunday morning. Officers also approved offering as many as two gourmet dinners as in past years. This year, officers approved a second dinner to the runner up if the price tops $1,200.

Choir Officers Meeting Business Discussion
Routine business was top on the agenda of the Chancel Choir officers when they met Thursday night. Kevin updated officers on the status of the Great Britain trip and said arrangements were progressing smoothly. The March installment payment of $650 is now due. Assistant choir treasurer Jacque Rocchio will collect the money while treasurer John Lemen is out of town. The commissioned music for next month's memorial concert has been received from Mark Hayes. More than 125 names for memorial tributes have been received for inclusion in the concert program. Applications for the choir's annual youth scholarship competition will be sent out soon. The selection process is conducted each year by the choir's vice president. The winner will be announced on Youth Sunday later this spring. The choir's activity fund balance as of February 28 is $11,136.18. During the month, the only expenses paid by the choir were $346.59 for food and supplies for the gourmet dinner purchased by Rose and Dean Carlisle and served in February. Some of the left over supplies from that dinner were used for the dinner served last week for successful bidder Josh Hayes. Additional expense for that dinner will be about $150, according to choir president Jim Descher. The two dinners generated $2,800 in funding for the church youth program.

Cares and Concerns
Tenor Gene Stukey is recovering at home from surgery to repair his shoulder.
Tenor Don Erhardt is undergoing coronary angiography (heart catherization) this morning. His doctor detected an abnormality during an exam earlier this week

Chancel Choir Update 3/7: News You Can Use
Fifth Great Britain Trip Payment Due This Week
If you're headed to Great Britain, the fifth installment on the payment schedule is due today, March 7 in the amount of $650. The choir's assistant treasurer, Soprano Jacque Rocchio will be available to collect money on Thursday night.

It Was a Busy Weekend For The Chancel Choir
Good thing we had Sunday morning off, because it was a busy weekend for the Chancel Choir. The second of two gourmet dinners donated to the church's Youth Auction last year was served to the successful bidder, Tenor Josh Hayes, and nine of his best friends. Alto Bonnie Halls and husband Gary opened their home for the event. Newly discovered gourmet chefs Tenor Tim Zink and Baritone Jim Descher prepared pecan encrusted salmon and pork tenderloin in bourdeaulaise (most likely spelled wrong I sure) sauce, potatoes, vegetables and a chocolate raspberry cheese cake by Ernie Fair. It was a great evening for the dinner guests. The two dinners netted the church's youth auction fund a total of $2,800.

If dinner wasn't enough, more than 20 Chancel Choir members attended Movie Night in Chesterfield Valley on Saturday night, followed by dinner at Red Robbin. Due to the "spread out" nature of the movie schedules at the theater, various shifts of Chancel Choir members were at Red Robin continuously from 6:30 until 10:30.

Chancel Choir Outting To See One Of Our Own Perform April 9
From time to time, some of the more talented (or maybe its just less shy) members of our choir perform in local community theater productions. When that happens there's often a contingent of Chancel Choir members that attend to cheer them on. That's the case next month when Alto Jackie Smith performs in the Webster Theater Guild's production of "Defying Gravity" - An original musical revue to benefit the Special Education Foundation featuring music from A Chorus Line, Cabaret, Chicago, Grease, The Boy from Oz, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Wicked, and The Wiz. The show will run three performances: Friday, April 8, at 8 p.m.; Saturday, April 9, at 8 p.m.; and Sunday, April 10, at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $15. The Chancel Choir social director would like to encourage choir members to attend the Saturday night performance on April 9. There are no reserved seats and only room for 126 at each show, so we'd suggest you order your tickets now. Send a check for the total number of tickets you'd like with a stamped, self-addressed envelope to:

The Theatre Guild of Webster Groves
Attn: Defying Gravity Tickets
517 Theatre Lane
St. Louis, MO 63119
Check out the guild's Web site for more information and directions to the theater:
http://www.theaterguildwg.org/index.html

Chancel Choir Update 3/4: News You Can Use
No Chancel Choir In Loft This Week
The Chancel Choir has this Sunday off. Instead of singing, plan on attending worship this Sunday to see the Music Maker's presentation of Allan Pote's musical The Three Trees.

Movie Night In Chesterfield Valley Is This Saturday
Join us tomorrow night (Saturday, March 5) for a show at the new Galaxy Theater in Chesterfield Valley. Select an early evening, rush hour movie of your choice at the new Wehrenberg Galaxy Theater, then join us at the nearby Red Robin Restaurant after the show around 8 p.m. for food and discussion. There will be plenty of movie selections and we'll have a great time in a brand new, sparkling theater.

Great Britain Touring Choir Rehearsal on March 13
The next rehearsal for the Great Britain touring choir will be at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 13, in the music room.

Multi-Symphony Concert Still Set For March 13 in the Sanctuary
Even though the St. Louis Symphony musician's strike is over, the musicians' benefit concert scheduled for 4 p.m., Sunday, March 13, in our Sanctuary is still on. The latest word is that musicians from the Dallas and Chicago symphonies will join St. Louis Symphony musicians for the concert. As many as 120 musicians will be seated in our Chancel for the concert. It's a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see top musicians from three major symphonies perform together.

Fall Follies Producer Selects Theme For This Year's Chancel Choir Talent Show
The next edition of the biannual Fall Follies, the Chancel Choir's fund raising talent show, is set for October 29. It's not too early to begin planning your act for the show. Director Bill Borger has selected the theme of travel/vacation/transportation for the show's acts. So start thinking about a way to showcase your talent using this theme. If you have questions, Bill will be happy to visit with you.

Chancel Choir Members Can Select Two Easter Worship Services This Year
This year Chancel Choir members have a choice for Easter worship singing. The choir will provide music for three services and each Chancel Choir member is being asked to select two service at which to sing. The Easter services are at 9:00, 10:30 and 11:45 a.m. You can sing at all three if you want, but we're asking for a minimum commitment of two. The Coventry Choir is providing worship music at the 8:00 a.m. service on Easter Sunday.

2005 Chancel Choir Fall Retreat Date Is Set
This year's annual Chancel Choir retreat will be held on Oct. 7 and 8 at Mercy Center in Town and Country.

Chancel Choir Update 2/25: News / Spring Social Events
Choir Sings at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday
The Chancel Choir will sing at the 10:30 a.m. worship service this Sunday. Call time is 10 a.m. in the music room Anthem: The Last Words of David.

Spring Choir Social Events Are Announced
As you know, the Chancel Choir social director plans a monthly outing for choir members and groupies. Here's the lineup for this spring:

Saturday, March 5 -- Movie Night In Chesterfield Valley
Join us for a show at the new Galaxy Theater in Chesterfield Valley. Select an early evening, rush hour movie of your choice at the new Wehrenberg Galaxy Theater, then join us at the nearby Red Robin Restaurant after the show around 8 p.m. for food and discussion. There will be plenty of movie selections and we'll have a great time in a brand new, sparkling theater.

Saturday, April 30 -- Moolah Theater
We'll see a movie at St. Louis' most unusual and interesting movie theater. The former Moolah Shrine Temple at Lindell and Vandeventer has been transformed into St. Louis' biggest screen movie theater with a 500 seat auditorium, balcony seating with large sofas, a full bar and gourmet snacks. Details about the event will be coming soon.

Saturday, May 20 -- Dueling Piano's On The Landing
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.

Saturday, June ? -- Details will be announced, but we're planning on a meal at the Boat House in Forest Park.

This Summer -- Once again, Thursday night dinners with your favorite choir friends. We'll travel to some interesting eating spots around the area. Look for details later. And, we'll plan a special event in late summer. Last year it was minor league baseball at the River City Rascals. Who knows what this year will bring.

Chancel Choir Update 2/24: News / Cares and Concerns
First Spring Chancel Choir Social Event Is Announced
Monthy Chancel Choir social events will resume next week. Social Director Sandy Ford has several new events planned for the coming months. Details on the events will be announced in the next couple of days. Meanwhile, mark your calendar for the first outing:
Saturday, March 5 -- Movie Night In Chesterfield Valley
Join us for a show at the new Galaxy Theater in Chesterfield Valley. Select an early evening, rush hour movie of your choice at the new Wehrenberg Galaxy Theater, then join us at the nearby Red Robin Restaurant after the show around 8 p.m.for food and discussion. There will be plenty of movie selections and we'll have a great time in a brand new, sparkling theater.
Direct comments to the Chancel Choir's social director, Sandy Ford at sandyford@fordcom.net or 636-227-5749.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano June Van Klaveren has finished taping an interview for a segment about home-based businesses to air on the KMOV (channel 4) news at 5 p.m. next Tuesday, March 1. June says it will be 15 nano-seconds of fame. She operates a marketing communications business in her home.

Chancel Choir Update 2/18: News
Choir Will Sing at 10:30 a.m Worship Service Sunday
The Chancel Choir is singing for the 10:30 a.m. service this Sunday. Call time is 10 a.m. in the music room. Anthem: God So Loved the World.

University of Missouri Singers In Worship at 9 a.m.
Our church will host the University of Missouri-Columbia University Singers this Sunday. The group will provide music for the 9 a.m. worship service. Come early to hear them if you can.

Next Gourmet Dinner is March 4
The second of two gourmet dinners the choir offered for sale at the Youth Auction last year will be served on Friday, March 4 to successful bidder Tenor Josh Hayes and his guests. Alto Bonnie Halls and her husband, Gary, are hosting the evening in their home. Tim Zink and Jim Descher will again prepare the food. A signup for any additional help and singers to entertain the group will be posted next Thursday.

First Great Britain Rehearsal Is This Sunday Evening
Choir members going on the Great Britain trip are reminded that the first rehearsal for trip music will be this Sunday, Feb. 20, at 7:30 p.m. in the music room. The rehearsal will last about an hour. Kevin will also answer any questions you might have about the trip.

Chancel Choir Will Sing for Two Services on Easter Sunday
The Chancel Choir is scheduled to sing for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. worship services on Easter Sunday, March 27. The choir will not be singing at other services during Holy Week, however our Thursday night rehearsal on Maundy Thursday, March 24, will be delayed until 8 p.m. following the Maundy Thursday worship service.

Additional St. Louis Symphony Orchestra Concert Is Scheduled
In additional to a major concert at 3 p.m., Sunday, March 13, our Sanctuary will also be used for a St. Louis Symphony Chamber Concert next Sunday, Feb. 27 at 7:30 p.m. This concert is also free and open to the public. It will feature narration by radio personality Garrison Keillor.

Chancel Choir Will Sing At The St. Louis Cathedral Basilica
The Chancel Choir is scheduled to sing for Saturday evening Mass at the St. Louis Cathederal Basilica in the Central West End on Saturday, May 7. Warmup will begin there at about 3:30 p.m. with Mass starting at 5 p.m. The service should conclude about 6:30 p.m.

Fall Choir Retreat Is Set for October 7 and 8 at Mercy Center in Town & Country
Mark your calendars, this year's Chancel Choir retreat returns to the pleasant surroundings of Mercy Center, just up the road in Town and Country. Format for the retreat is still to be determined, but the center is reserved to house an overnight retreat similar to those in the past. The site was reserved two years ago.

Overwhelming Majority of Choir Members Believe Retreats Are Vital
That retreat survey you filled out a few weeks ago revealed some not-so-surprising things about the choir's feelings for the annual fall retreat. An overwhelming majority of those responding, 91 percent, rated the retreat as very important to learning new music for the coming season. A total of 61 percent felt the retreat was very important for providing an opportunity to socialize with others in the choir. The survey then asked a series of questions designed to measure the choir's preferences to types of overnight retreats based on distance and costs. Answers to these questions in most cases were evenly divided between very important and not important. One conclusion from the results is that overnight retreats are not as preferred as they were in the past when the choir was smaller. The survey asked those who prefer not to stay over night to state their reasons. Here are those results: family commitments, 23 percent; timing, 5 percent; not interesting overnight retreat, 33 percent; cost 8 percent, other, 21 percent. The complete retreat survey results are posted on the Chancel Choir Web site and may be viewed with the link below:
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Member/Notes/2005%20Retreat%20Survey%20Results.pdf

Choir Officers Consider Strategy to Address Budget Shortage & Church Outreach
Chancel Choir officers were told at their meeting Thursday night that recent cuts in the church's Music Ministry budget were going to affect Chancel Choir programming next year. Choir president Jim Descher, who is also a member of the Vision Council, reported that the Music Ministry budget had been cut significantly and it was unlikely that funding would return to the level of previous years anytime soon. "Money is tight and the church's priorities now seem to be in funding new ministries," he said. (The Music Team's budget has been cut by nearly 40 percent over the past two years and now stands at levels of the early 1990s when the program was significantly smaller. While most programming this year continued with the decreased budget, this coming year's programming will have to reflect the funding reductions. The church's Music Team will determine how the available funds will eventually be used.) As a result, he and president elect Mary Dean, presented several ideas to help the Chancel Choir be more self-supporting and expand its visibility and outreach into the church congregation. Possible ideas include fundraising projects, outreach into other church ministries, and community programming with other churches in the area. Dean said the ideas were meant to start officers thinking about other ideas which will be discussed at the next officer meeting. Ideas will then be presented to the choir for comment. Dean said that although she was disappointed with the change of direction the budget decisions have taken, she looks on this as an opportunity for the choir to try new things that will make a difference to the music program and the church. "This is a great opportunity for the chancel choir to step outside of itself," she said. The projects would allow the choir to better educate the congregation to about its mission and goals and focus the potential of the Chancel Choir on needs in our church and elsewhere in the community while having fun and fellowship. Music Ministry Team chair Gary Ford told choir officers he had been stunned during recent budget discussions by the lack of understanding and knowledge among church lay leadership about the music ministry programming. "Perhaps its because we have grown so quickly and new lay leaders have come on board. We can no longer just assume that our work is understood and appreciated, he said.

In other business, choir officers:
-- Heard a budget report from treasurer John Lemen. The choir's activities fund balance is $12,882.77.
-- Discussed final business surrounding the holiday party.
-- Discussed results of the retreat survey and noted that this year's retreat would be at Mercy Center on Oct. 7 and 8.
-- Heard Kevin report that Robert Ray had declined an invitation to write a commissioned composition for the memorial concert in April. Mark Hayes is still on board to write music for the concert, however.
-- Discussed the upcoming dinner at the Halls.
-- Noted that this year's Chancel Choir Scholarship would be presented on Youth Sunday on May 22. Scholarship applications would be distributed in the next few weeks. The Chancel Choir vice president, this year Mary Dean, manages the scholarship competition each year.
-- There will be no Chancel Choir rehearsal on April 7, the Thursday following the memorial concert.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Joyce Lang is recovering from injuries sustained in a fall on Monday afternoon. Joyce suffered a severely sprained ankle.

Chancel Choir Update 2/14: News / Cares and Concerns
Reward Issued For Missing Choir Robes
We know nylon polyester makes a dandy wind breaker, but nylon polyester in the form of a purple choir robe has very limited application outside the confines of a choir loft (unless your imagination is better than ours.) In case you haven't heard, two choir robes are missing -- one even disappeared hanger and all. On the chance these musical garments disappeared through some innocent misplacement, we are asking that you check your hall closet, car trunk, glove box, kitchen pantry, piano bench or any other location in which you might have accidentally perched a purple robe. The missing robes are numbers 60 and 105. In case you're wondering, the robes are worth about $140 each. We hope they return to their place on hanger row soon so we can avoid an unpleasant call to the Royal Music Police.

Outstanding Gourmet Dinner Served Friday Night
Word has come to us from reliable sources that the gourmet dinner served Friday night in the home of Sue and Jim Belval to the highest bidder at last year's youth auction was a culinary repast of incomparable form. We are told that Chefs Tim Zink and Jim Descher have demonstrated newfound talent in the kitchen (although Descher was a restaurant manger in an earlier life). Lucky recipients of the delightful menu were purchasers Rose and Dean Carlisle and their card club guests. Featured on the menu were Chef Zink's marinated pepper loin and a gorgonzola cheese and wine reduction sauce perfected by Chef Descher in off hours at a Ryan's Steakhouse years ago. So sumptuous were these entrees, a rumored recommendation will be made to choir officers soon calling for Zink and Descher to be named the choir's official caters providing food for all choir events including parties, picnics, retreats and officer/committee meetings. Others assisting in the kitchen with the preparation of amazing sides dishes, accompaniments, appetizers and desserts were Karen and Ernie Fair, Joy Parisien, and Sue Belval. Wait staff included Buddy Rains, Moe Parisien and Jim Belval. We are certain our inside sources have failed to report some other important contributors to the event who should also receive our thanks. About 15 singers offered renditions of Broadway show tunes and wine flowed freely until the weeee small hours of the morning. The second of the two gourmet dinners offered up at last year's youth auction will be served in early March at the home of Bonnie Halls to purchaser Josh Hayes and his selected guests.

Cares and Concerns
Jack Adams, husband of Alto Mary Lou Adams, remains hospitalized this morning in St. Luke's Hospital for testing to confirm a suspected intestinal blockage. He was admitted to the hospital with sever abdominal pain on Thursday.

Tenor Steve Nicholson reports his wife, Pam, is resting at home following a battery of diagnostic tests to rule out a heart attack. Pam was rushed to the hospital after experiencing the classic symptoms of a heart attack. Test results were negative.

The Chancel Choir Email Update wishes you a pleasant and remarkable Valentines Day.

Chancel Choir Update 2/11: News / Cares and Concerns
Chancel Choir Sings at 10:30 Worship Sunday
The Chancel Choir will sing at the 10:30 a.m. worship service this Sunday. Call time is 10 a.m. in the music room. Anthem: Seek to Serve.

Symphony Musicians Will Hold Concert In Our Sanctuary
Musicians from the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra have chosen our Sanctuary as the venue for a fund raising concert at 3 p.m., Sunday, March 13. Members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra will join the St. Louis musicians for the concert which is free and open to the public. A collection will be taken during the concert to raise money for the striking St. Louis musicians. There is a possibility that Leonard Slatkin will direct the concert at our church. A few volunteers from the Chancel Choir are needed to serve as greeters for the concert. A signup sheet will be available next Thursday.

Spring Calendar Entries
Here are some dates to enter in your calendars.
Holy Week
Maundy Thursday, March 24 -- Chancel Choir rehearsal will begin at 8 p.m. following the 7 p.m. Maundy Thursday service. Music for the service will be provided by by Vesper Bell Choir.
Music For Madie Concert
Saturday, April 2, 10 a.m. to noon -- Dress rehearsal in the Sanctuary.
Sunday, April 3, 7:30 p.m. -- Music for Madie Concert. Call time for the choir is 7 p.m.

More Great Britain Info Available
Those going on the Great Britain tour should pick up the latest trip update from the counter in the back of the music room. Kevin reports that two slots have opened up in the trip. If you are interested in joining the tour, but have not registered yet, see Kevin for details.

Cares and Concerns
Bass Jim Love is a new grandfather. Abigail Grace Love was born in San Diego, Calif., on Feb. 7. Parents are Laura and Chris Love.

Chancel Choir Update 2/2/05: News / Cares and Concerns
Rehearsal Tomorrow Night
We're counting down to our spring concert the first of April. Your attendance at rehearsal during the next few weeks is very important. We'll see you tomorrow night. And don't forget, it's the first rehearsal of the month and that means snacks afterward.

Passport Questions Revisited
The mention of passport renewal last week sparked several questions and concerns. According to the U.S. State Department's Web site (this link appears below) adult passports are valid for 10 years if you were 16 years of age or older when it was first issued and 5 years if you were 15 years of age or under when it was first issued. You may renew your passport by mail if you first received it within the past 15 years. Otherwise, you'll have to renew it in person. If you don't have a passport, you'll have to apply in person. Instructions and locations to accomplish this, along with everything you'll need to know about passports, are listed at the Web site listed blow. Check there if you have any additional questions:
http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Karen Fair is recovering at home from surgery to repair tear ducts in her eye. She had similar surgery to her other eye several months ago.
Bass Buddy Rains' mother-in-law, Virginia Serdarian, experienced several falls during the holiday season and has suffered some mini-strokes causing dementia and increased problems walking. Buddy and Hazel are in Winter Park, Florida, this week relocating Mrs. Serdarian to nursing home.

Chancel Choir Update 1/29: More News About Great Britain
Some Quick Updates on Great Britain
-- Persons interested in purchasing additional trip insurance as discussed last night and mentioned in this morning's update, should wait until Kevin returns a week from Sunday. Kevin has insurance application forms and would like to turn in the forms and money to MCI at one time.
-- Kevin will also have additional information about trip extensions and use of frequent flyer miles when her returns next week.

Chancel Choir Update 1/28: News You Can Use
Chancel Choir Sings For 10:30 a.m. Service Sunday
The Chancel Choir will be in the loft for the 10:30 a.m. worship service this Sunday, 1/30. Call time is 10 a.m. in the music room. Anthem: With A Voice of Singing.

Gourmet Singers Are Needed
If you are willing to join a small group of singers to provide entertainment for one of our gourmet dinners we sold at the Youth Auction last year, a signup will be available Sunday morning. The first of the two dinners will be the evening of Feb. 11. Singers will be needed between 8:30 and 9:00 p.m.

Christmas Concert Recordings
Recordings of the December Chancel Choir Christmas concert will be available at next Thursday's rehearsal.

Great Britain Trip Questions and Details
The Great Britain trip is nearing. Several details were discussed at rehearsal last night. If you are part of the trip, here are some important things to consider:
Passports -- You will need a valid U.S. Passport to make the trip. Passports expire after 15 years. If you have a passport, check to see if it will still be valid in June. If not, then you will need to have it renewed. If you do not have a passport, you'll need to get one. Obtaining a passport for the first time involves having a passport photo taken, obtaining a certified birth certificate, filling out forms and taking them to the post office to have them processed. Processing for both new and renewal passports takes up to six weeks. All the information you need to get this done is located on the U.S. State Department's Passport Web site. A link to that site appears below and will be added to the Chancel Choir Web site on the Great Britain page.
http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html
Trip Insurance -- The travel package we are purchasing includes trip insurance coverage up to $600. Of course, the cost of the trip is much more than that. If you do not purchase the additional trip insurance coverage available and the trip is canceled, you will only receive $600 of your money back. Additional coverage to protect the full amount of the trip is available for $78. The sooner you purchase the additional coverage, the sooner you will be covered in the event that the trip would be canceled between now and June. The next payment, due on Feb. 7, will put us over $600 invested in the trip. Information on the insurance was included in your travel information packet distributed earlier this month. You may also check with Chancel Choir President Jim Descher for more information.
Red Cards -- If you have not filled out and turned in a red trip card, you need to do that in the next few days. A list of people who have and have not turned in a trip card is laying on the counter in the music room. Check and see if you name is marked. If not, pick up a card and fill it out. Turn it in to Jim Descher in the next few days. This is a must so that trip planning can proceed.

If you have not read the booklet and other materials provided in the recent packet, take a few minutes in the next few days and read through all if it. There are several things that need to be done in the next few weeks and each traveler is responsible for getting these things done.
While Kevin is traveling, Jim Descher will serve as point person for questions. His email is: dadajim@charter.net

Chancel Choir Update 1/26: News / Cares and Concerns
It's Not American Idol, But We Got Talent Too
Once again this fall the Chancel Choir will present a talent show as a fundraiser for its activities, scholarship and community outreach projects. The show will be presented in the Sanctuary on Saturday night, Oct. 29. Bill Borger has agreed to return as director/producer and is already at work developing a concept for this year's production. Later this spring Bill will visit a choir rehearsal and report on details about the show and a schedule for casting calls and rehearsals. It's not too early to begin thinking about developing an act and performing in the event. During the last talent show two years ago, more than 20 acts were presented by members of the Chancel Choir and others in the church family.

Cares and Concerns
Chancel Choir pianist Stephanie Allee's father, Don Coleman, 69, is recovering from heart bypass surgery last week in Conway, Ark. However, on his first day back home, he fell and broke his ankle. He is now also recovering from orthopedic surgery on his leg. Stephanie says he's in good spirits despite the unfortunate turn of events. Mr. Coleman is also Bass Jeff Allee's father-in-law.

Chancel Choir Update 1/24: Cares and Concerns
Tenor Chris Kennedy reports the condition of his father-in-law, Frank Miller, has worsened. Mr. Miller is on a ventilator in the ICU at St. John's Mercy Medical Center where he has been hospitalized since Jan. 5 for pancreatitis due to a blockage in his gall bladder. He later suffered complications from surgery to remove his gall bladder. The family asks for our thoughts and prayers.

Chancel Choir Update 1/21: News You Can Use
Choir Sings at 10:30 This Sunday
The Chancel Choir will sing for the 10:30 a.m. worship service this Sunday. Call time is 10 a.m. in the music room. Anthems: All Glory Be To God and Thy Perfect Love.

Dinner and Song Events Scheduled
Those dinners offered for sale by the choir at last year's Youth Auction are now scheduled. We will need from 18 to 20 singers to proved some quality entertainment for our "dinner client" and guests after the gourmet meal. Dinners are set for Friday, Feb. 11, and Friday, March 4. On both nights, singers will gather at 8:30 p.m. and sing a short program beginning at 8:45 p.m. Check your calendar. A sign up sheet will circulate soon.

Chancel Choir Update 1/18: Cares and Concerns
Chancel Choir pianist Stephanie Allee's father, Don Coleman, 69, underwent successful heart bypass surgery this morning in Conway, Ark. Mr. Coleman, who is a church choir director in Fairfield Bay, Ark., began experiencing chest pain during the Christmas advent season and was diagnosed with blockage in two coronary arteries on Friday. He is doing well. Coincidentally, Don Allee, father of Bass Jeff Allee, and Stephanie's father-in-law, underwent similar surgery last month just prior to Christmas.

Chancel Choir Update 1/14: News You Can Use
Chancel Choir In the Loft at 10:30 a.m. Sunday
The Chancel Choir will sing for the 10:30 a.m. worship service this Sunday, Jan. 16. Call time is 10 a.m. in the music room. Anthem: He Never Failed Me Yet.

Choir Officers Meeting
Chancel Choir officers held their monthly meeting prior to rehearsal Thursday night. Here is a quick look at what was done:
Great Britain Trip -- Kevin reported on the current status of the Great Britain trip. He said the recent trip update had raised many questions which he was seeking to clarify with the tour company. Choir president Jim Descher pointed out that additional trip insurance is available. Coverage up to $600 is included with our tour package. With the total cost for the trip topping $2,000 persons making the trip would be wise to purchase the additional coverage.
Retreat Survey -- A survey to gather information on future choir retreats was reviewed and approved for distribution to the choir at rehearsal. Additional surveys for persons not attending last night will be available on Sunday and next Thursday. The survey results will be used to guide officers in selecting future retreat sites.
Choir Dinners -- The Chancel Choir offered two fancy dinners for sale at the annual Youth Auction last year. Josh Hayes and Rose Carlisle purchased the dinners. The Carlisle dinner is tentatively set for Feb. 11. Officers will form a dinner committee to handle food preparation, serving, and entertainment for the evening.
2005 Talent Show -- Bill Borger has agreed to produce and direct the second Chancel Choir talent show set for this fall. The choir produces a talent show every other year as a fundraiser for its activity and scholarship funds. A fall fundraising concert is held in the alternate years. Officers discussed possible dates for the show in October and November. Further details will be provided in the near future.
Choir Holiday Party -- Officers felt the choir's holiday party was a success and directed party chair Lois Hendrickson to reserve Jan. 7, 2006 for the next holiday party at Spazio's in Westport. After a short discussion, officers affirmed the policy of not refunding reservation money after the deadline for turning in final numbers to the caterer. Printed tickets will be used next year to simplify the reservation process. Persons discovering they can not attend will be free to sell or give their tickets to other choir members. Once the reservation deadline for catering is passed, the choir is obligated to pay for the dinners ordered.

Chancel Choir Update 1/13: Rehearsal Will Be Held Tonight
Chancel Choir rehearsal will proceed as scheduled tonight. Kevin said we may finish a little early. Roads are in pretty good shape. Use your own best judgement on deciding to join us tonight.

Chancel Choir Update 1/10/05: News / Cares and Concerns
Great Britain Tour Information Page on Web Site
For those going on the Great Britain tour in June, a tour page has been added to the Chancel Choir Web site in the Member Section. The page current contains the October and January updates sheets from Kevin and the initial flight schedule. Additional information will be added to the page as it becomes available. So if you don't remember the payment schedule, it's included in the October information sheet. A link to the tour page appears below:
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Member/Notes/tourpage.htm

Chancel Choir Folders Await Fill In Music
Hopefully after this Thursday night, music folders will be available for over-achieving Chancel Choir members to take home and use for extra practice. Librarians have been waiting for "fill-in" copies of music to arrive. This spring we will be using anthems from the church's music library purchased in previous years when the Chancel Choir was much smaller. Most of the older anthems in the library have either 80 or 100 copies available. With choir membership now standing at 160 plus, additional "fill in" copies are required when some of our favorite music from previous years is used.

Add The Music Ministry To The Growth List
As a supplement to Carl's message yesterday on the church's membership and growth goals, the Music Ministry can be added to the list of ministries that is growing and adding to the church's membership. In the years since 2000, participation in the Music Ministry has increased from 500 to more than 575 which represents more than a 15 percent increase. The ministry includes adult, youth and children's choirs as well as smaller vocal and instrumental ensembles. If you are curious about Chancel Choir, its membership has grown by more than 43 percent since 2001 when 113 singers were on the roll. Today membership in the Chancel Choir stands at 163. During our October concert, more than 150 Chancel Choir singers participated -- a record for our group. Yesterday more than 120 choir members sang in worship. Here is annual membership numbers for the choir since 2000:
2001 -- 113
2002 -- 130
2003 -- 144
2004 -- 162

Cares and Concerns
Alto Janis Wilson's mother has been hospitalized at St. Luke's Hospital. No further information is currently available.

Chancel Choir Update 1/7: News / Death In Chancel Choir Family
Choir Will Sing at 10:30 a.m. This Sunday
It's back to work for the Chancel Choir. We will sing for the 10:30 a.m. worship service on Sunday. Call time is 10 a.m. in the music room. Music: O Jesus, Joy of Loving Hearts and Jesus Took the Cup.

Reminder: Big Party Saturday Night
The Chancel Choir's annual Holiday Party is this Saturday night. The festivities begin at 7 p.m at Spazio's in Westport. If you've signed up, plan on joining us for an evening of good food, good music and fun. 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.

Lenten Devotional Articles are Sought From Choir Members
Each year the church publishes a booklet containing daily devotionals for use during Lent. The individual articles are written by church members. This year, members of Chancel Choir are being asked to contribute to the booklet. Articles should be no more than 200 words. Topic suggestions include:
-- a thought about Lent
-- an original devotional or poem
-- a special Bible verse reflecting Lent
-- a sharing of yourself and what Easter time means to you.
Deadline for the articles is Jan. 18. Submit your article either by email to sandy.bosomworth@manchesterumc.org or leave it at the reception desk in the church office. Remember to include your name. This is a wonderful way for Chancel Choir members to share more than just music with with our church family.

Death In Chancel Choir Family
It is with sadness that we report the death of Melvin C. Hewitt, father of Soprano Carleen Anderson. Mr. Hewitt died Thursday morning (1/6) in Horseheads, N.Y., at the age of 95. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 10, at Oakwood United Methodist Church in Elmira Heights, N.Y. A family visitation will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 9, at the Barber Funeral Home at 413 South Main Street in Horseheads. Mr. Hewitt was an inspector for the Department of Defense working on the Apllo Space Program when he retired in 1972. Jim and Carleen Anderson's address: 2361 Claymoor Dr., Chesterfield, Mo. 63017.

Chancel Choir Update 1/4: No More Mentors Needed
The appeal in this morning's Chancel Choir Update for confirmation mentors was so effective they have enough now and have actually started a waiting list. This year's confirmation class has 85 students signed up -- the largest class in the church's history. If you read the earlier update and were thinking about becoming a mentor, they thank you for your interest and hope you'll be willing to mentor for future classes.

Chancel Choir Update 1/4: Important News
First Rehearsal Of New Year Is Thursday Night at 7:30 p.m.
For those of you still concerned about the typo in yesterday's email update reminding you of Thursday night's rehearsal, no we have not changed the rehearsal time. We will meet in the music room, as always, at 7:30 p.m. Hope to see you there.

Big Holiday Party Is Saturday Night
The Chancel Choir's annual Holiday Party is this 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. 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.

Confirmation Mentors Are Needed
The church's confirmation for mid-high youth is beginning this weekend. Currently, there are over 85 kids signed up for confirmation, the largest class we've ever had. That means more Confirmation Mentors are needed and perhaps some of you can help. The requirements are simple:

1) Mentors are assigned a youth and given an information sheet about them;
2) you share similar information about yourself with them;
3) you support them by writing notes of encouragement during confirmation (January through May), praying for them, and occasionally leaving a candy bar in their church mailbox;
4) you demonstrate that you are one of many in the MUMC family who care about them and welcome them into membership at MUMC!

If you would be willing to serve as a confirmation mentor or would like to learn more information about the program, please contact John Guiney at john.guiney@manchesterumc.org or Merry Gnaegy at merry.gnaegy@hp.com.

Chancel Choir Update 1/3/05: New / Cares and Concerns
Rehearsals Resume This Thursday
With that brand new, blank 2005 calendar filling up with appointments, we wanted to be sure you pencil in choir rehearsal this Thursday night at 7:30 p.m. There's lots to do: Easter is only a few weeks away, we've got the big concert for Madie and the pre-Great Britain concert. We'll see you back in the music room Thursday night.

Holiday Party This Saturday
The annual Chancel Choir holiday party is this Saturday night at Spazio's in Westport. The deadline for reservations has passed, but if you're not on the list you might check with Lois Hendrickson to see if there are any cancellations.

Christmas Concert Recordings Available
There was a recording made of our Christmas concert last month. A signup sheet will be circulated Thursday night to order CDs.

Never Too Early To Cultivate Your Talent
We've already heard of two acts beginning to rehearse for this fall's Chancel Choir fundraising talent show. If you've got a hankering to debut your talent on the "big stage" this year, it's never too early to begin planning.

Cares and Concerns
Former MUMC associate pastor Victor Schroeder is recovering at home from successful coronary bypass surgery performed last Tuesday.