Chancel Choir Update 9/28: News You Can Use
It'll be a busy weekend, but we can handle it -- we're the biggest choir in the state, remember.

In The Loft This Sunday
Chancel Choir sings for both the 9 and 10:30 services this Sunday. Call time is 8:30 a.m. in the Music Room. If you have to pick, please show up at 10:30. Anthems: Here I Am and We Are Called.

Retreat Tonight and Tomorrow
The festivities start tonight with snacks and vintage videos of us through the years at 6 p.m. in Old Fellowship Hall. Rehearsal begins at 7 p.m. and runs until 9 p.m. Then on Saturday, we headed to the Touhill for a day of singing on the big stage. Tomorrow arrive at 9 a.m. in Lot K at the Touhill Center and park at the north end of the lot. Go around to the back of the building and enter through the Metro Stage Door. There will be guides in the lot to assist you. Lunch break will be at nearby restaurants and we'll wrap up at 4:30 p.m. There's some walking, so dress casual. Get lost? Kevin's cell number is 314-402-4214. Need a map, here's the link:
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Retreat%20Form%2007.pdf

We Dare You To Show Your Talent
The choir needs you. All of you music majors, former performers, hams and extroverts, we need you to participate in the Fall Follies Original Amateur Hour. A preview "audition" will be held at 6 p.m. Sunday in the Music Room. You don't need to have an act perfected by Sunday. Just stop by and tell us what you plan to do. We have a Broadway class accompanist available to play for you and we'll also have a band. This is our one big fund raiser and we need choir members to help us. Please consider performing with your choir family.

Chancel Choir Update 9/26: Cares and Concerns
Our thoughts and prayers are with Rev. Debby Peebles and her family. Her husband, Jim, was seriously injured in a car accident early this morning in north St. Louis County. He underwent surgery today at Barnes Hospital to treat multiple injuries and remains in very serious condition.

Chancel Choir Update 9/25: Important News
Rehearsal Thursday
Yes, even though we'll be together this weekend singing our little hearts out, there will be a rehearsal on Thursday night. You'll be there.

Retreat, Retreat This Weekend
One of the most enjoyable events of the choir season. Meet new friends, see the Touhill, discover new music for the fall and holidays. This weekend at our annual fall retreat. We'll start at 7 p.m. Friday in the Fellowship Hall. Wear a groupie t-shirt that expresses your personality. We'll sing, snack and see old videos of our concerts. Then Saturday, arrive at 9 a.m. in Lot K at the Touhill Center and park at the north end of the lot. Go around to the back of the building and enter through the Metro Stage Door. There will be guides in the lot to assist you. Lunch break will be at nearby restaurants and we'll wrap up at 4:30 p.m. A new and impro ved map and parking directions are attached to this email. There's some walking, so dress casual. Get lost? Kevin's cell number is 314-402-4214. If you haven't turned in a retreat form, we'll need to hear from you by Thursday night. Here's the link:
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Retreat%20Form%2007.pdf

You Won't Believe The Fall Follies
We've got a show. And it will be spectacular. Kevin and I were amazed by the talent we saw Sunday night. This year will surpass any of our other talent shows. Many of you like to brag about your college music careers, your many and varied artistic talents, and your days as a performer in a former life. Bragging is easy, now its time to let us see it -- and help your choir with its fund raising. (We don't ask for much, but we're asking now.) We've got one more preview session at 6 p.m. Sunday. Justin has agreed to be the show pianist and accompany any act. He can play anything in any key. We've got a show band. We've got a concept. We've got comedy. And the choir will be there anyway. So, there's no reason not to participate. The Fall Follies will be presented on Saturday, Oct. 27.

Kennedy Center Tour Deposits Are Due Now
The first DC trip deposit of $100 per person is due now. Make checks payable to MUMC and give them either to Bass Tom Lawrence, Chancel Choir treasurer, or to Alto Katheryn Cox, assistant treasurer. Your deposit must be accompanied by a tour form which is available in the Music Room or at the link below. Persons may still join the tour through Nov. 15.
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/DC%20Tour%20Form%2007.pdf

Chancel Choir Update 9/21: News / Cares and Concerns
In The Loft Sunday
We're open for business in the loft at both services this Sunday. Call time is 8:30 a.m. in the Music Room. Anthems: Come With Singing and In This Very Room. Remember, although we are providing music for both services, our primary Sunday singing time is 10:30 a.m. If you can't sing at both, please sing at 10:30 a.m. We'd like as many of the choir as possible to sing on Sunday. Participation last week was 62 at 9:00 and 69 at 10:30. (We are the largest Methodist Church choir in the state with 160+ members.)

Perfume and Cologne Alert
Three people asked me last Sunday (make it four counting me) to remind the choir not to wear perfume or cologne when they sing in the loft. Many of us are either allergic (you've heard me sneeze . . .) or have vocal problems in the presence of fragrances in both the men's and women's section. Last Sunday was particularly bad with clouds of fragrance floating above the choir on both sides. So, please, please, please (let me repeat: please, please, please) leave the perfume and cologne off when you join your choir family for singing.

Retreat Registration Forms Due
Fall retreat registration forms, plus a check for $20 made out the MUMC, are due on or before Sept. 27. Forms are available in the Music Room or at the link below. All members of the choir, including those who aren't attending the retreat, need to complete a form. The retreat will be at the Touhill Performing Arts Center at UMSL on Saturday from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. and in Fellowship Hall on Friday, Sept. 28, from 6 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. Friday night will be "groupie" night. All singers are asked to wear a t-shirt from a group or organization they are interested in. Be thinking about that this week.
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Retreat%20Form%2007.pdf

Fall Follies Talent Preview Sunday Evening
You've been thinking about it. Now's your chance to show it. Bring that talent to the first of two Fall Follies Preview sessions at 6 p.m. Sunday in the Music Room. Not an audition, but a time to show us what you plan to do for this year's Fall Follies on Oct. 27. If you're act isn't ready, just come and talk us through it. A second Preview will be held at 6 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 30. (Your act will be reviewed by Kevin, the show director, and show producer Gary Ford.)

Kennedy Center Tour Deposits Are Due Now
The first DC trip deposit of $100 per person is due now. Make checks payable to MUMC and give them either to Bass Tom Lawrence, Chancel Choir treasurer, or to Alto Katheryn Cox, assistant treasurer. Your deposit must be accompanied by a tour form which is available in the Music Room or at the link below. Persons may still join the tour through Nov. 15.
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/DC%20Tour%20Form%2007.pdf

Mark Your Calendar
Music Mission Sunday will be Oct. 14. We'll divide into four choirs and sing at three additional churches that morning as we did last year.

Cares and Concerns
Alto Lin Brinkmann is recovering at home after being hospitalized this week for treatment of an infection resulting from what is believed to have been a spider bite.

Chancel Choir Update 9/19: Cares and Concerns
A New Knee, Not A Hip
It was a new right knee for Alto Sue Grant yesterday at St. Luke's Hospital in Chesterfield. She is doing well and will begin rehab today. This from husband Ron: "Thanks for your kind words of encouragement, prayers and support through this and other things in our life that we needed to get us through."

We'll Say Goodbye
This note from Tenor Dar and Soprano Carol Novak:
"Dar and Carol Novak have decided to return to their home church here in the St. Louis area after much thought. They were members there for 26 years before moving to the Philadelphia area for 14 years. They have enjoyed being members of Manchester Methodist and the Chancel Choir. They will always have warm memories of Manchester and the Chancel Choir and look forward to returning for concerts. We will be at the start of rehearsal on Thursday to say goodbye."

Chancel Choir Update 9/18: Important News / Cares and Concerns
Rehearsal Thursday
We'll see you at rehearsal this week. Same time. Same place.

Fall Follies Talent Preview Sunday Evening
You've been thinking about it. Now's your chance to show it. Bring that talent to the first of two Fall Follies Preview sessions at 6 p.m. Sunday in the Music Room. Not an audition, but a time to show us what you plan to do for this year's Fall Follies on Oct. 27. A second Preview will be held at 6 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 30.

Kennedy Center Tour Deposits Are Due This Week
If you're going to Washington with us next Memorial Day, the first deposit of $100 per person is due this Thursday, Sept. 20. Make checks payable to MUMC and give them either to Bass Tom Lawrence, Chancel Choir treasurer, or to Alto Katheryn Cox, assistant treasurer. Your deposit must be accompanied by a tour form which is available in the Music Room or at the link below. Just click the link below for a PDF file of the form or paste the link in your browser. All information about costs, payment schedules, performance schedules, air transportation, ground transportation, non-singing participants, rehearsals, and everything else is included in an information packet available in the Music Room. Persons may still join the tour through Nov. 15.
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/DC%20Tour%20Form%2007.pdf

Fall Chancel Choir Retreat Registration Forms Due Sept. 27
Fall retreat registration forms, plus a check for $20 made out the MUMC, are due on or before Sept. 27. Forms are available in the Music Room or at the link below. All members of the choir, including those who aren't attending the retreat, need to complete a form. The retreat will be at the Touhill Performing Arts Center at UMSL. We'll meet in Fellowship Hall on Friday, Sept. 28, from 6 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. for rehearsal and a presentation of video clips from our concerts through the years. On Saturday, Sept. 29, we will meet at the Touhill Center at 9 a.m. for a building tour and rehearsals all day. Lunch will be on your own at nearby restaurants. All choir members, whether attending the retreat or not, must turn in a form.
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Retreat%20Form%2007.pdf

Choir For Hire Sings At Surprise Party
When Chancel Choir members showed up Saturday to deliver the Choir For Hire at the home of Soprano Rose and Dean Carlisle's Innsbrook home, we learned it was a surprise party -- for us. The Carlisles purchased the Choir For Hire at the Youth Auction along with a barbecue dinner offered by the Methodist Men. Instead of singing for guests at a barbecue lunch, the choir became the guests. About 40 choir members who had signed up to participate and spouses were present. We did do some singing, but spent most of the time enjoying the food and the lake.

Cares and Concerns
Alto Sue Grant is undergoing hip replacement surgery today.

Chancel Choir Update 9/14: News / Cares and Concerns
Sunday Morning
We're singing in the loft at both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services this Sunday. Call time is 8:30 a.m. in the Music Room. Anthems: Come With Singing and All Creatures of Our God and King. Sunday. Participation last week: 66 at 9 a.m. and 77 at 10:30. The congregation would love to see you singing with us.

Fall Chancel Choir Retreat Registration Forms Due Sept. 27
We're headed to the Touhill Performing Arts Center at UMSL for our retreat this fall. It's going to be an amazing experience. Kevin distributed an information sheet and registration forms at rehearsal last night. You'll need to pick up a copy of both if you were absent last night. Here's the bottom line: We'll meet in our church's Fellowship Hall on Friday, Sept. 28, from 6 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. for rehearsal and a presentation of video clips from our concerts through the years. On Saturday, Sept. 29, we will meet at the Touhill Center at 9 a.m. for a building tour and rehearsals all day. Lunch will be on your own at nearby restaurants. Cost for renting the Touhill is $20 per retreat participant. A registration form and your $20 are due on or before Thursday, Sept. 27. All members of the choir, including those who aren't attending the retreat, need to complete a form and turn it in.

Kennedy Center Trip Deposit Due Next Thursday
Kevin distributed information about the Washington, D.C. trip last night. If you weren't there and are planning making the tour with us, you'll need to pick up an information packet this Sunday. The first deposit of $100 per person is due next Thursday, Sept. 20. Make checks payable to MUMC and give them to either Bass Tom Lawrence, chancel choir treasurer, or to Alto Katheryn Cox, assistant treasurer. All information about costs, payment schedules, performance schedules, air transportation, ground transportation, non-singing participants, rehearsals, and everything else is included in the information packet.

Cares and Concerns
It's a boy for Soprano Katie Molitor. Joseph Lawrence Molitor arrived at 9:30 a.m., Thursday (9/13), at Missouri Baptist Medical Center weighing in at 8 pounds. He was 22 inches long. Grandparents Soprano Joy Parisien and Bass Moe Parisien, along with everyone else in the family, are doing well.

Chancel Choir Update 9/12: Death in Choir Family / Cares and Concerns
It is with sadness we report the death of Alto Kay Sherrill's mother, Jennie Rea. She died during the night on Sept. 10 at St. Luke's Hospital in Chesterfield. Services will be Friday (9/14) in Tulsa, Okla. Kay's home address is: 711 Penny Court, Ballwin, MO 63011.

Cares and Concerns
Alto Fran McMillian reports the death of her cousin, Bill Ashby, on Sept. 8 in Springfield, Mo.
Tenor Joe Kingsbury asks for our thoughts and prayers for his father, Guy, who lost his job due to a corporate buy-out after more than 20 years on the job. Joe reports this is a difficulty financial situation for his family since his sister started college this fall.
This from Soprano Joy and Bass Moe Parisien: "We wish to extend to the Chancel Choir family our appreciation for the cards, sentiments and the plant given to Joy following her mother's death on Aug. 24. It is at times like these when we really stop and reflect on the genuine cares and concerns shared with our fellow choir members. We are family, and we truly value each and every one of you at this time of loss."

Chancel Choir Update 9/11: News / Cares and Concerns
Rehearsal Thursday Night
Don't miss rehearsal Thursday. Same time. Same place.

Kennedy Center Trip Info
Information about the Chancel Choir's tour to Washington, D.C., next Memorial Day will be available at rehearsal this week. The information packets will include detailed information on the trip schedule, transportation options, and costs.

You're Invited to a Wedding
Tenor David Schenck will be married at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 29, right after the conclusion of the Chancel Choir retreat. Everyone in the choir is invited to attend the wedding in the Sanctuary and the reception to follow in Fellowship Hall. A sign up sheet is available in the Music Room. Soprano Becky Schenck, mother of the groom, says an RSVP by Sept. 16 would be great.

Who Are Those People?
Look around you. We have 12 new singers this fall. Click on the link below to see photos of them. Biographical information about them will be added to the New Member page as soon as they complete their online survey. Here's the link:
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Member/Directory/New%20Members%20-%202007-2008.htm

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Sue Belval reports that her mother has returned home after being hospitalized with chest pain over the weekend at St. Joseph Hospital in Kirkwood.

Soprano Shannon Meriwether thanks everyone for the prayers for her grandmother, Billie Blives who is recovering from injuries sustained in accident.

Soprano Beth Morey thanks the choir "for the beautiful mums and cards, thoughts and prayers, after my mother's death last month. The choir is such a caring group, and I thank everyone for helping me deal with her loss."

We are saddened to report the recent death of Alto Joyce Humphrey's uncle.

Chancel Choir Update 9/7: News / Cares and Concerns
Chancel Choir Sings Sunday For Both Services
The Chancel Choir is open for business for both Sunday worship services each week. Warm up is 8:30 a.m. in the Music Room. Anthems: Three Festival Calls to Praise and Peace Like A River.

Fall Follies Talent Preview Sessions Scheduled
It's time to think about your contribution to this year's Fall Follies. The show this year will be a combination Chancel Choir concert and old-time "amateur hour" radio talent show. Persons or groups with talent acts are asked to attend one of two "preview" sessions at 6 p.m. on either Sunday, Sept. 23 or 30. You will have an opportunity to present your act and be scheduled in the show. The Fall Follies is the Chancel Choir's primary fund raiser and is presented every other year.

Music Management
As you know, a new system of music management is being used this year. Since each member signed a form acknowledging that they have copies of all of the music and will turn it all in at the end of the semester, you asked not to borrow other singers' music for any reason this year.

Choir For Hire at Innsbrook Sept. 15
There are still a few spots left on the Choir For Hire appearance at Innsbrook on Saturday, Sept. 15. Check the sign up in the Music Room or talk with Kevin.

Remember
You are a member of the largest United Methodist Church choir in the state of Missouri (and possibly Kansas, Iowa and Arkansas, too.)

Chancel Choir Update 9/5: News
Rehearsal Tomorrow Night
It's fall. No more holidays for a while. But, there's always Thursday night. See you at rehearsal at 7:30 in the Music Room.

Watch A Knee Replacement
Ever wonder what happens when they replace a knee joint? Orthopedic surgeon Bruce Jones, husband of Soprano Jo Ann Jones, demonstrates during a television documentary featuring several physicians from St. Luke's Hospital. The show first aired last Thursday night, but you'll get another chance to record it at 5:30 a.m., Sunday, Sept. 16, on KMOV-TV (channel 4) so set your VCR or TiVo.

Sign Up For Kennedy Center Trip
If you're on the fence about joining us on the tour to Washington, D.C., next Memorial Day weekend, there's still time to sign up. Initial deposits will be due Sept. 13 and there's still room for more on the trip.

Cares and Concerns
This note was received from Ron Grant, husband of Soprano Sue Grant.
"Sue wanted me to send this e-mail on Scott's family and her behalf, thanking each of you for the kind words, cards, thoughts and prayers expressed to them, during his illness, the wake and funeral. It's been a difficult time, but the support of so many friends, neighbors and relatives was very comforting to us. Lu Ann and the children are making good progress in their adjustment to their new day to day living, although it's not been easy. Your continued thoughts and prayers for them would be most welcome. As Sue approaches knee replacement surgery on September 18, we continue to ask for your prayers and support."

Chancel Choir Update 8/31: News
Back To Work This Sunday
It was a great first rehearsal last night. A total of 113 singers (78 women and 35 men) were present and we had a dozen or so new faces to welcome. The choir will sing for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. worship services this Sunday, Sept. 2. Call time is 8:30 a.m. in the Music Room. It would sure be good if we could fill the loft both services on our first Sunday back. Anthems: Sing Out My Soul and Holy, Holy, Holy. Sunday is Pastor Carl Schenck's 10th anniversary in our pulpit.

You're Invited to a Wedding
Tenor David Schenck will be married at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 29, right after the conclusion of the Chancel Choir retreat. Everyone in the choir is invited to attend the wedding at our church and the reception to follow in Fellowship Hall. A sign up sheet is available in the Music Room Soprano Becky Schenck, mother of the groom, says an RSVP by Sept. 15 would be great.

John Johnson Says Farewell
Thursday night's rehearsal was a time of welcome and goodbye. Tenor John Johnson, the choir's senior member at age 86, arrived early to rehearsal last night to tell everyone goodbye. Johnson says he is going to attend his previous church and sing in a smaller, 20-voice choir. "I don't feel like my health will allow me to keep up with this group any longer. I can't walk very well," he said. Johnson has been a faithful member of our choir for 16 years.

Pick Up Your Calendar
We know there are several of you who did not get a Chancel Choir wall calendar last June. Please pick up your copy in the Music Room.It lists all of the choirs major events for this season and every member's birthday. Donations have already covered the production costs.

DC Trip Deposit
The first $100 deposit for the Washington, D.C., Kennedy Center trip over Memorial Day weekend next year is due on Thursday, Sept. 13. It is still not too late to sign up to participate in the trip.

Greek Food On Monday
Every Labor Day is a time to eat amazing Greek food at the Greek Orthodox Church at Kingshighway and Forest Park Parkway in the Central West End. We go every year and we'd like to invite any of you to join us. The choir's social director and I will be eating Greek food at the church at 11:30 a.m. on Monday. You will find us at one of the round tables under a tree in front of the church facing Forest Park Parkway between the BJC parking garage (across the street from Jewish Hospital where you can park) and the entrance for the food. You can't miss us. If you'd like to join us for this spontaneous choir outing, we'll be there.

Chancel Choir Updated 8/30: Note From The Choir President
The note below is from Chance Choir president Tim Zink:
"Calling all Chancel Choir Heroes!! Heroes you say? Darn right you are. When you come to rehearsal on any Thursday night you are a hero to me, to Kevin, to the other Choir members to the Church and to God. I know you will want to grab a seat, but I am going to ask you for something more. Come in, check in with the current officers, and then do something different . . . spread out and greet one another, especially people that you don't know; greet people that you know by face but don't really know; welcome everyone back who hasn't been with us for awhile; and say a prayer for all of us as we reconstitute our ministry for the 2007/2008 Season. God is watching and listening. Let us give him something to smile about. I can't wait to see all of you!"

Chancel Choir Update 8/29: News You Can Use
First Rehearsal of the Season on Thursday
It's back to work. After a quick summer, the Chancel Choir will begin its new singing season tomorrow night with the first rehearsal of the year at 7:30 p.m. in the Music Room. This promises to be an exciting and busy choir year. You won't want to miss the first rehearsal. Kevin reports several new members will be attending and some "old" members will be returning. We'll see you tomorrow night. I'd get there early to get a chair.

Documentary Features One of Our Own
Dr. Bruce Jones, husband of Soprano Jo Ann Jones and the Chancel Choir's preferred orthopedist, will be featured in a documentary film airing at 6:30 p.m. tomorrow night (8/30) on KMOV-TV Channel 4. The film, entitled Open Hearts: A Mission of Love follows a medical mission last year to Cajamarca, Peru. Jo Ann reports the movie is "really good" and features Bruce in some dramatic scenes. You can watch just before you leave for choir practice or record it on TiVo or your VCR.

Chancel Choir Update 8/24: News / Death in Choir Family
Big Back-To-Choir Party Set For Saturday, Aug. 25
The choir's big season kickoff party is set for 5:30 p.m., this Saturday, Aug. 25, at the home of Sandy Wilmoth, 710 Chancellor Heights Dr. in Manchester. The party is a potluck so bring your best cooking and a lawn chair. To find the party: go north on Henry Road from Manchester Road to the top of the hill until you reach Chancellor Heights Dr. (it's the 7th street to the right -- you'll see it at the end of a long wooden fence), turn right (east) into the Westridge Manor Estates sub-division and follow the street around to the left. Sandy's house is the older home in the new subdivision. Parking is allowed only on one side of the street so watch the signs. The police give tickets. If you get lost, call 636-227-3144 and we'll talk you in.

Organist Auditions Open to Chancel Choir Members
Chancel Choir members are invited to sit in on auditions for the church's new organist Sunday evening. Kevin asks that we sit in the balcony. Candidate No. 1 will audition from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Candidate No. 2 from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Please enter only at the start time and remain for the entire hour so the candidate will not be distracted. Candidates will be judged on organ and piano playing, sight reading, accompaniment and conducting, as well as working with a soloist.

Cares and Concerns
We are saddened to report the death of Francis Abbot, mother of Soprano Joy Parisien, last night at the age of 92. Arrangements for a memorial service in her native Maine are pending. Mrs. Abbot is the mother-in-law of Bass Maurice Parisien and the grandmother of Soprano Katie Molitor. The Parisien's home address: 1210 Berquist Court, Manchester, MO 63011.

We are saddened to report the death of Virginia Serdarian, mother-in-law of Bass Buddy Rains, on Thursday (8/23) in Winter Park, Fla., at the age of 91. A celebration of her life will take place latter this fall in Springfield, Mass. Buddy and Hazel's home address: 1035 Wilson Farm Court, Chesterfield, MO 63005.

Soprano Shannon Meriwether asks for prayers for Billie Blives, her grandmother, who fell down a fight of stairs and suffered massive head injuries. She is hospitalized at St. John's Medical Center.

Chancel Choir Update 8/21: News
Big Back-To-Choir Party Set For Saturday, Aug. 25
The choir's big season kickoff party is set for 5:30 p.m., this Saturday, Aug. 25, at the home of Sandy Wilmoth, 710 Chancellor Heights Dr. in Manchester. If you've been talking to a friend about joining choir, this is the night to make your move. Invite them to the party to get acquainted. The party is a potluck so bring your best cooking and a lawn chair. To find the party: go north on Henry Road from Manchester Road to the top of the hill until you reach Chancellor Heights Dr. (it's the 7th street to the right -- you'll see it at the end of a long wooden fence), turn right (east) into the Westridge Manor Estates sub-division and follow the street round to the left. Sandy's house is the older home in the new subdivision. Parking is allowed only on one side of the street so watch the signs. The police do give tickets. If you get lost, call 636-227-3144 and we'll talk you in.

We're Headed Back to the Mega Buffet For The Final Summer Dinner
For the last dinner of the summer, this Thursday, Aug. 23, the traveling dinner will hit the mega buffet again -- the Emperor's Palace in Chesterfield Valley. Join us at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, August 23 at the Emperor's Palace in Chesterfield Valley next to the Spaghetti Factory. Reservations are required -- respond to this email or call 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday (tomorrow).

Remaining Summer Schedule
Saturday, Aug. 25 -- Back to choir kick off party, 5:30 p.m. at the home of Sandy Wilmoth
Thursday, Aug. 30 -- First rehearsal of the season, 7:30 p.m. in the Music Room
Sunday, Sept. 3 -- First Sunday in the loft, we sing for both 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Chancel Choir Update 8/19: Cares and Concerns
Alto Joyce Humphrey was hospitalized early this morning (8/19) after experiencing chest pains during the annual Coventry Choir retreat yesterday held on the campus of Maryville University. She is undergoing tests and evaluation at the St. John's Mercy Medical Center Heart Hospital.

Alto Lois Hendrickson is recovering from a dislocated right shoulder she sustained after tripping over a chair in her classroom on the first day of school last week. After a quick ambulance ride, she was placed in a sling and is now doing everything with her left hand or having her students retrieve things for her.

It's a great-grandaughter for Alto Fran McMillian. Madison Rae Fritch was born Aug. 16 in Indianapolis, Ind., to Matt and Shannon Fritch.

Chancel Choir Update 8/17: News / Cares and Concerns
We're Headed Back to the Mega Buffet For The Final Summer Dinner
For the last dinner of the summer, next Thursday, Aug. 23, the traveling dinner will hit the mega buffet again -- the Emperor's Palace in Chesterfield Valley. It sounds exclusively Chinese, but there's much more. Seven full buffets including Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese food, a Mongolian wok for custom stir fry, plus a full American buffet the size of the Home Town buffet. Add in a shrimp and crab bar, full dessert table, and a chocolate fountain and you've got a full stomach. Join us for it at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, August 23 at the Emperor's Palace in Chesterfield Valley next to the Spaghetti Factory. Reservations are required -- respond to this email or call 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday, Aug. 22.

Cares and Concerns
We are saddened to report the death of Marjorie Berthold Beyer, mother of Soprano Beth Morey. She died Tuesday (8/14) after a lengthy illness at the age of 93. Visitation will be from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. today (Friday, 8/17) at Bopp Chapel, 10610 Manchester Road in Kirkwood. Burial will be at Oak Hill Cemetery (Big Bend and I-44) at 10 a.m. Saturday (8/18) with a memorial service following at 11 a.m. at Kirkwood United Methodist Church, where she was a long-time member. Beth's address: 1104 Dauphine Lane, Manchester, MO 63011.

Soprano Sue Woolweaver is recovering from surgery earlier this week to remove a ganglion cyst from her wrist.

Chancel Choir Update 8/14: Important News
Thursday Dinner Location Is Changed; Last Call For Reservations
Dinner this Thursday night is moving to the Home Town Buffet on Manchester Road east of Highway 141 (behind Starbucks). Unfortunately, when our Social Director checked with Duffy's Sunday to confirm our reservation, the restaurant demanded a $400 minimum food purchase to seat us as a group. While a group of 40 might average a $10 order per person, our smaller group might not and we would be faced with making up the minimum. This is unacceptable and she told Duffy's we would not be back. So the Social Director is moving the event to the Home Town Buffet this week. It is simpler to engineer a move there on short notice. So, if you'd like to join us, respond to this email or call 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday (8/15).

Chancel Times Is In The Mail
The August "Back To Choir" edition of the Chancel Times is in the mail. Look for a plain white 6 by 9 envelope today or tomorrow. This edition of the newsletter includes information about all of our many events, concerts and projects this fall. If that isn't enough, you'll also see two pages of photos from our Cincinnati trip and some very interesting stories about what your choir friends did on their vacations. One person had an encounter with Hillary Clinton. To find out who, grab that newsletter and start reading.

Chancel Choir Update 8/10: News
Dinner at Duffy's Next Thursday
The Chancel Choir Summer Dinner tour makes its next stop at Mike Duffy's located on Clayton Road and Highway 141 (in front of the Schnuck's) at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug 16. It's always fun at Duffy's. If you'd like to join us, respond to this email or call 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday (8/15).

Big Back-To-Choir Party Set For Saturday, Aug. 25
The choir's big season kickoff party is set for 5:30 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 25, at the home of Sandy Wilmoth, 710 Chancellor Heights Dr. in Manchester. If you've been talking to a friend about joining choir, this is the night to make your move. Invite them to the party to get acquainted. The party is a potluck so bring your best cooking. To find the party: go north on Henry Road from Manchester Road until you reach Chancellor Heights Dr. (it's the 7th street to the right -- you'll see it at the end of a long wooden fence), turn right (east) and follow the street round to the left. If you get lost, call 636-227-3144 and we'll talk you in.

Chancel Choir Update 8/8: Death In Choir Family
It is with sadness that we report the death of Scott Swing, 47, son of Soprano Sue Grant. He died Tuesday (8/7) from pancreatic cancer and leaves three children. Funeral services are pending in Aurora, Ill. The Grants address is: 861 Woodside Trails Dr., Ballwin, MO 63021.

Chancel Choir Update 8/7: News
Join Summer Dinner This Week at Madison's
The Chancel Choir Summer Dinner tour makes its next stop at Madison's located at Manchester and Baxter roads (formerly S&P Oyster Bar) at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug 9. Last call for reservations. Respond to this email or call 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday (tomorrow).

Big Back-To-Choir Party Set For Saturday, Aug. 25
The choir's big season kickoff party is set for 5:30 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 25, at the home of Sandy Wilmoth, 710 Chancellor Heights Dr. in Manchester. If you've been talking to a friend about joining choir, this is the night to make your move. Invite them to the party to get acquainted. The party is a potluck so bring your best cooking. To find the party: go north on Henry Road from Manchester Road until you reach Chancellor Heights Dr. (it's the 7th street to the right -- you'll see it at the end of a long wooden fence), turn right (east) and follow the street round to the left. If you get lost, call 636-227-3144 and we'll talk you in.

Remaining Summer Schedule
Saturday, Aug. 25 -- Back to choir kick off party, 5:30 p.m. at the home of Sandy Wilmoth
Thursday, Aug. 30 -- First rehearsal of the season
Sunday, Sept. 3 -- First Sunday in the loft, we sing for both 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
All of these dates, plus birthdays, concerts, trips, and other special stuff are listed on the official Chancel Choir Wall Calendar. Your copy is waiting in the Music Room.

Chancel Choir Update 8/3: News / Cares and Concerns
Chancel Choir Sings In The Loft This Sunday
Dust off the vocal chords and join us in the loft this Sunday to sing spirituals for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. worship services. Our participation in the two previous summer Sunday ensembles was very light and Kevin is hoping that won't be true this week. Join us this Sunday, Aug. 5. Just show up in the Music Room 30 minutes before the service for a short rehearsal. We'll be singing: Over My Head and Down By The Riverside. And pick up your copy of the Chancel Choir wall calendar while you're there Sunday.

Join Summer Dinner Next Week at Madison's
The Chancel Choir Summer Dinner tour makes its next stop at Madison's located at Manchester and Baxter roads (formerly S&P Oyster Bar) at 6:30 p.m. next Thursday, Aug 9. Respond to this email or call 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday.

Washington Trip Fashion Alert
Alto Diane Lawrence, the Chancel Choir's fashion consultant, reports that Kohl's now has tuxedo "separates" available in its men's department at very reasonable cost. You can buy coats, pants and shirts separately. For instance, a shirt, complete with tie and accessories, is only $29. So men, if you need a new tux or just one piece, this could be a deal for you. In addition to our trip, the choir also performs in concert black on occasion, and you never know when a good waiter's job might open up.

Cares and Concerns
It is with sadness that we report the death of Alto Bobbie Parker's mother, Frances Owens, on Wednesday (8/1). She had been a resident of Lutheran Family Services on Laclede Station Road for several years. Funeral services will be at 11:30 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 4, at the Schrader Funeral Home in Ballwin with burial in the Manchester United Methodist Church cemetery. Visitation will precede the funeral from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Owens was the grand mother of former Chancel Choir member Kelly Hall.

Tenor Gene Stukey's sister-in-law has been diagnosed with a tumor in her heart, lungs and possibly bones. She is right now undergoing surgery to put stints in her heart. The family asks for thoughts and prayers. She is Carol Stukey's youngest sister, age 58.

Chancel Choir Update 7/31: News / Cares and Concerns
Last Call For Classic Italian Cooking
This Thursday the summer dinner tour will make another stop in Kirkwood at Amici's Italian Restaurant at the corner of Kirkwood Road and Jefferson. The food there is excellent. Join us at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 2 at Amici's. Reply to this email or call 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday, Aug. 1, if you want to attend.

Chancel Choir Sings In The Loft This Sunday
Dust off the vocal chords and join us in the loft this Sunday to sing spirituals for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. worship services. Our participation in the two previous summer Sunday ensembles was very light. But Kevin is hoping that won't be true this week. Join us this Sunday, Aug. 5. Just show up in the Music Room 30 minutes before the service for a short rehearsal. We'll be singing: Over My Head and Down By The Riverside. And pick up your copy of the Chancel Choir wall calendar while you're there Sunday.

Last Call For What I Did During My Summer
Work has begun on the fall edition of the Chancel Times printed choir newsletter. Have you done something fun, interesting or unusual this summer? Have you gone to an interesting place on vacation? Something silly or interesting happen to you? Do you have a photo? I'd like to hear from you. Send me a paragraph or two describing what happened, when and where to garyford@fordcom.net If you have a photo, attach it too. This is the last call for summer stories.

Cares and Concerns
We are saddened to report that Soprano Elizabeth Donovan will be moving to Seattle in August due to her husband's job. "It has been such a gift to participate in Chancel Choir and I will really miss it. MUMC is where I grew up -- it was like coming home again." Elizabeth is the daughter of Alto Charlotte and Baritone Gary Moser.

Chancel Choir Update 7/27: News
Classic Italian Cooking Is On The Menu For Next Thursday
The summer dinner tour will make another stop in Kirkwood next Thursday at Amici's Italian Restaurant at the corner of Kirkwood Road and Jefferson. The food there excellent. Join us at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 2 at Amici's. Reply to this email or call 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday, Aug. 1, if you want to join us. Last night 33 of your choir friends dined on sumptuous Greek and American food at Athena's in Ellisville. The restaurant has only been open seven weeks and is owned by two veteran St. Louis restaurateurs. It could be your favorite eating out destination.

Remaining Summer Schedule
Sunday, Aug. 5 -- Chancel Choir singers spirituals for worship. Music: Over My Head and Down By The Riverside
Saturday, Aug. 25 -- Back to choir kick off party. Time and location to be determined.
Thursday, Aug. 30 -- First rehearsal of the season
All of these dates, plus birthdays, concerts, trips, and other special stuff are listed on the official Chancel Choir Wall Calendar. Your copy is waiting in the Music Room.

Chancel Choir Update 7/24: News
We're Headed to Athena's Greek Restaurant Thursday
The traveling summer dinners will make a stop Thursday at Athena's Greek Restaurant in Ellisville. This is a new restaurant on Manchester Road in the building formerly housing Kreiger's and Ponderosa. The social director dined there tonight and says the food is better than Spiro's. Join us at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, July 26 at Athena's Greek Restaurant, 15662 Manchester Road in Ellisville. Last call for reservations, please respond to this email or call 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday.

What I Did During My Summer
Work has begun on the fall kick edition of the Chancel Times printed choir newsletter. Have you done something fun, interesting or unusual this summer? Have you gone to an interesting place on vacation? Something silly or interesting happen to you? Do you have a photo? I'd like to hear from you. Send me a paragraph or two describing what happened, when and where to garyford@fordcom.net And attach a photo or two. I'll need to hear from you by the end of the week.

Chancel Choir Sings in Worship on Aug. 5
The Chancel Choir will sing spirituals in church on Sunday, Aug. 5. Mark your calendar to participate. A total of 22 men sang last Sunday.

Chancel Choir Update 7/20: News About Sunday
Men Sing For Worship This Sunday
It's the guys' turn this week to provide special summer music in the loft. Chancel Choir men will take the loft this Sunday for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. worship services. Just show up 30 minutes before the worship service in which you wish to sing for a quick warmup in the Music Room. Singing friends and family are welcome too. The anthems this week are: Grace and God of Our Fathers.

Join Us For Greek Food Next Week
The traveling summer dinners will make a stop next Thursday at Athena's Greek Restaurant in Ellisville. This is a new restaurant on Manchester Road in the building formerly housing Ponderosa. The food (both Greek and American) is excellent. Join us at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, July 26 at Athena's Greek Restaurant, 15662 Manchester Road in Ellisville. To get on our reservation list, please respond to this email or call 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday, July 25.

What I Did During My Summer
Work has begun on the fall kick edition of the Chancel Times printed choir newsletter. Have you done something fun, interesting or unusual this summer? Have you gone to an interesting place on vacation? Something silly or interesting happen to you? Do you have a photo? I'd like to hear from you. Send me a paragraph or two describing what happened, when and where to garyford@fordcom.net And attach a photo or two. I'll need to hear from you by the end of next week.

Chancel Choir Update 7/17: News / Cares and Concerns
Men's Chorus Sings For Worship This Sunday
It's the guys' turn this week to provide special summer music in the loft. A chorus of men will take the loft this Sunday for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. worship services. The women could only muster 33 when they sang earlier this summer -- can the men do better? Just show up 30 minutes before the worship service in which you wish to sing for a quick warmup in the Music Room. Singing friends and family are welcome. The anthems this week are: Grace and God of Our Fathers.

Last Call for the Mega Buffet at Emperor's Palace
We'll need your reservation now if you are joining us at the Emperor's Palace for dinner this Thursday. We're headed back to one of our favorites for another dose of copious calories. This Thursday, July 19, the traveling dinner will hit the mega buffet Emperor's Palace in Chesterfield Valley. Join us at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, July 19 at the Emperor's Palace in Chesterfield Valley next to the Spaghetti Factory. Reply to this email or call 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday, July 18, if you want to join us.

Cares and Concerns
This from Tenor Steve Nicholson: "After a seven month break from chemo, Pam’s ovarian cancer has returned and she started chemo again Monday. She feels strong and healthy and hopes this series will not be a harsh as her last series. She will have a treatment once every three weeks for six cycles and then be reevaluated. Please keep our family in your prayers. Thank you."

Chancel Choir Update 7/13: News
We're Headed Back to the Mega Buffet at Emperor's Palace
You won't believe it when you join us at the Emperor's Palace for dinner next Thursday. Food of every description and nationality on massive buffet tables. We're headed back to one of our favorites for another dose of copious calories. Next Thursday, July 19, the traveling dinner will hit the mega buffet again -- the Emperor's Palace in Chesterfield Valley. It sounds exclusively Chinese, but there's much more. Seven full buffets including Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese food, a Mongolian wok for custom stir fry, plus a full American buffet the size of the Home Town buffet. Add in a shrimp and crab bar, full dessert table, and a chocolate fountain and you've got a full stomach. Join us for it at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, July 19 at the Emperor's Palace in Chesterfield Valley next to the Spaghetti Factory. Reservations are required -- respond to this email or call 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday, July 18.

Remaining Summer Schedule
Sunday, July 22 -- Men's Chorus sings for worship. Music: Grace and God of Our Fathers
Sunday, Aug. 5 -- Chancel Choir singers spirituals for worship. Music: Over My Head and Down By The Riverside
Saturday, Aug. 25 -- Back to choir kick off party. Time and location to be determined.
Thursday, Aug. 30 -- First rehearsal of the season
All of these dates, plus birthdays, concerts, trips, and other special stuff are listed on the official Chancel Choir Wall Calendar. Your copy is waiting in the Music Room.

Be careful out there -- Friday the 13th is on Friday this month.

Chancel Choir Update 7/10: Cares and Concerns
It's a new grandaughter for Soprano Sue and Baritone Larry Woolweaver. Hayden Nicholle Gray arrived at 7:29 a.m. today (7/10) in Dallas. She weighed in at 6 pounds, 7 ounces and was 18 1/2 inches long. Parents, Heather and Cole Gray, and the rest of the family are doing well.

Chancel Choir Update 7/10: News / Cares and Concerns
We're Headed To C.J. Muggs For Dinner This Thursday
Last call for this week's dinner at C.J. Mugg's in Webster Groves. Join us at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, July 12, at C.J. Mugg's located at Lockwood and Gore avenues in downtown Webster Groves. We'll need to know you're coming. Respond to this email or call 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday.

Cares and Concerns
We are saddened to report the death of Janice Benton. She died Saturday (7/7), after a long illness. Visitation will be Thursday (7/12) from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Schrader Funeral Home in Ballwin. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m., Friday (7/13), in the MUMC Chapel.

Your Chancel Choir Email Updates
Increasing efforts by your email providers to limit spam is making it a little more difficult for legitimate organizations like the Chancel Choir to communicate with their members. Recently I have heard from a few choir members that our email updates are being blocked by their (ISP) Internet Service Providers or their email providers because they think the messages are coming from a server that generates spam. Although this is not true, the blocking has occurred anyway. As a counter measure and a backup, last week I established another email distribution list on different server. Going forward, I will continue to use our original server and only send Chancel Choir Updates with the back up server when necessary. Some of you have found that messages from the new server are not being recognized by your email account spam filters and you may need to "white list" the new server address. Chancel Choir Email Updates are sent to you regularly on Tuesdays and Fridays and other times as needed. If you notice that you are not receiving these messages on a regular basis, check your spam filter inbox. If you are continuing to receive your email updates without a problem, don't worry about any of this.

Chancel Choir Update 6/9: Death in Choir Family
We are saddened to report the death of Janice Benton. She died Saturday (7/7), after a long illness. Visitation will be Thursday (7/12) from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Schrader Funeral Home in Ballwin. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m., Friday (7/13), in the MUMC Chapel.

Chancel Choir Update 7/3: News
Last Call For The Hometown Buffet Thursday
What better way to follow a holiday than a banquet with your friends? With the holiday on Wednesday, we'll needed a little scheduling flexibility next week and that means a trip the the Hometown Buffet on Manchester Road east of Highway 141 behind Starbuck's. Hometown has added a number of new regular menu items including barbecue ribs, steak, salmon and pot roast. We hope you'll join us at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, July 5. Please reply to this email or call 636-227-5749. We always want a count by noon on Wednesday, but if you don't receive this notice until July 5, give us a call anyway.

Have a safe and happy holiday.

Chancel Choir Update 7/6: News
We're Headed To C.J. Muggs Next Week
We're returning to a favorite from last year. Next week the caravan of calories makes a stop at C.J. Mugg's in Webster Groves. Join us at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, July 12, at C.J. Mugg's located at Lockwood and Gore avenues in downtown Webster Groves. We'll need to know you're coming. Respond to this email or call 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday.

Volunteers Are Needed This Summer For Choir's Outreach at Centenary
Even though it's summer and our minds are on vacations and relaxing, we still need volunteers for the Chancel Choir's commitment to work in the Centenary kitchen on the third Wednesday of each month. Program coordinator Alto Barb Farmer needs a few people to help on July 18 and Aug. 15. Please email her at bfarmmo@sbcglobal.net if you have a few hours on either date to give to feeding the homeless.

Summer Music in Worship
Chancel Choir men will provide music in worship on July 22.