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16th August 2010: Lyme Band Featured in National Magazine

What is the connection between Meryl Streep and Lyme Regis Town Band? Many locals may recall her role in the filming of 'The French Lieutenant's Woman' in 1981. Following the film's award-winning success, the band was reformed after a lapse of some thirty years through a generous donation from the film makers, (see 'About Us' page).

This question was asked in the latest edition of 'Brass Band World' by its editor, international composer and conductor Philip Harper. Philip is no stranger to Lyme Regis, having directed three workshops for the band over the last two years. Following his last visit in March, he was keen to promote Lyme Band as a 'grass roots feature' in the national magazine.

In his article, Philip describes the band as 'working at the heart of the local community' and as having no shortage of unique characters within its ranks. He pays tribute to its Musical Director, John Powell, whose email address 'Be a Clown' reveals 'his endearing eccentricity, but is not representative of his core values as a serious and ambitious, but realistic musician.'

The band's contribution to the local community is not forgotten and mention is made of its full diary of local civic, charity and seasonal events. Its unique Tuesday evening concerts of 'Music by the Sea' throughout July and August are praised, showing the kind of commitment perhaps unknown to those further removed from brass band roots.

Philip concludes 'spending a day with Lyme Regis Town Band is always a real joy. Of course, many members of the band aspire to emulate the A-listers, but banding life for them is of a very typical hardworking, but enjoyable grass-roots nature, firmly embedded in the local community.'

A fine tribute indeed from a world-class professional, which should add to the pride for the band already felt by the people of Lyme Regis.

6th July 2010: Summer Season Begins

On a beautiful summer's evening, Marine Parade was again the perfect setting for the start of the band's 2010 series of Tuesday evening concerts 'Music by the Sea'. Playing to an appreciative audience under Musical Director John Powell, the many weeks of practice and preparation came to fruition.

As ever, the band played a varied programme to suit all tastes. The audience were given their moment in the limelight and both adults and children invited to participate in the lively piece 'El Taco Roco'. There was a warm welcome back for former player and Woodroffe Headteacher Kerrigan Redman, on holiday in Lyme Regis.

These concerts continue throughout July and August, with additional concerts on some Sunday afternoons, starting at 2.30. Full details can be found on the Diary page. A highlight of this season's concerts will undoubtedly come on 24th August, when the Wantage Silver Band once again joins Lyme Regis for a joint concert. As in 2008, Wantage will be holidaying locally and playing at other venues during the week. This is a concert not to be missed.

The band is delighted to announce that the Mayor of Lyme Regis has accepted an invitation to become its President. The post has not been filled for several years and at the recent AGM, the proposal was made by the band's Musical Director. Band Secretary Gilly Warr commented, 'this is great news for the band and further strengthens our links with the town itself.'

24th April 2010: St George's Concert Success

An alien visiting the end of our concert for St George's Day would have found the hall rocking to the sound of Elgar. The combined sounds of the band, organ and enthusiastic audience waving their flags of St George produced an unforgettable musical and visual spectacle which would have left the alien totally bemused. It was, of course, 'Land of Hope and Glory' and the culmination of a unique evening of entertainment.

This was a 'first' for us and the sizeable audience, which included the Mayor of Lyme, more than played its part throughout the evening. From the opening fanfare and national anthem to the final strains of Elgar, the band demonstrated its many talents through a varied programme which also included several excellent solos. The well-known 'Post Horn Gallop' was expertly played by our principal cornet Peter Hurdwell, although his appearance was in doubt until two days before the concert, having been stranded in Algeria. There was a dramatic and amusing moment when, unable to get a sound from his instrument, he emptied it of volcanic dust!

During the evening, a framed certificate conferring Life Membership of the band was presented to Ian North by the Musical Director. Ian was a founder member of the band when it was reformed in 1981 and recently suffered a serious illness. In thanking Ian for his many years of service, John Powell commented that the band was delighted that Ian continued to support the band at its many engagements.

Community singing by the audience featured well-known 'songs which won the wars', accompanied on the keyboard by Roger Grose. As impressively as they sang, it turned out to be a mere rehearsal for the grand finale. With all flags waving and lungs and vocal chords strained to their limits, no-one in the audience doubted that an encore would be needed and they were not disappointed.

John Powell thanked compere Richard Horobin and all who helped in any way, declaring himself well pleased with the evening's entertainment. When the audience were asked if they would like a similar concert on St George's Day next year, there was and loud and enthusiastic 'yes!' Perhaps this event will become as much an annual local institution as 'The Last Night of the Proms'.

RICHARD HOROBIN TO COMPERE ST GEORGE'S DAY CONCERT

Local journalist Richard Horobin is changing roles for a night and will compere the band's St George's Day concert on Saturday 24th April at the Woodmead Halls.

Richard was a regular visitor to Lyme Regis for several years before retiring to the town three years ago. He started his career on local weekly newspapers and regional dailies before joining the BBC at Pebble Mill in Birmingham. Richard produced the nightly news programme 'Midlands Today' before moving to Southampton on promotion to become Editor of 'BBC South'. After 25 years with the BBC Richard joined Hampshire Constabulary as head of the force's Media Services Department.

He is active in Lyme Regis as Press Officer for the RNLI lifeboat and also handles publicity for the Save the Three Cups as a Hotel group. "As for acting as compere for the superb Lyme Regis Town Band, I suppose there's a first time for everything!" said Richard.

"I have my niece Val Mahoney to thank for this honour. She has been a leading light with the band for many years and only recently stood down as Chairman. The St George's Day concert promises to be a rousing, patriotic affair and I know the band has been working very hard to make the evening a huge success."

The band is delighted that Richard has agreed to compere this concert. Hopefully, the people of Lyme Regis and beyond will support this new venture. It should be a great evening's entertainment with a strong flavour of the flag-waving Last Night of the Proms!

A reminder that tickets for the concert are still available from Uplyme Post Office, Lyme Regis TIC, Primary Colours in Lyme Regis, any band member or by telephoning 01297 442719.

BAND WELCOMES BACK INTERNATIONAL CONDUCTOR

The band took another positive step forward last week with the third workshop led by top-flight conductor Philip Harper. Philip has been hailed by Brass Band World as “unquestionably one of British brass banding’s brightest young talents”. He has won many admirers for his exciting and innovative approach and has written for orchestra, wind and brass bands.

In June, Philip will take up the role of Principal Conductor with the Leyland Band, currently ranked 6th in the world. Last year, he became Editor of the highly-regarded Brass Band World magazine and he also works as an adjudicator at home and abroad. As a conductor, Philip has a reputation for dynamism and flair, as well as real attention to detail. After his latest workshop, all band members would undoubtedly agree.

Throughout the day, the members, augmented by guests from other local bands, were given a master-class on many different techniques of brass playing. The effect was immediate and by the end of the workshop, the sound was barely recognisable from earlier in the day.

Musical Director John Powell, in thanking Philip for his invaluable contribution, hoped that everything learned would be put into effect during the coming season. As one band member commented, ‘I didn’t realise there was so much detail to take out of a piece of music – it’s certainly helped me a lot!’

‘Music for St George’s Day’ is the band’s next concert at the Woodmead Halls on 24th April and several of the pieces to be performed in that programme featured in Philip’s workshop. They included the march ‘Standard of St George’ by Kenneth Alford, perhaps better known as the composer of ‘Coloney Bogey’.

Tickets for this concert are now on sale from Uplyme Post Office, Lyme Regis TIC, Primary Colours in Lyme Regis, any band member or by telephoning 01297 442719. Don’t miss it!

3rd March 2010: Band members were recently saddened to learn of the death of their first Musical Director, Joe O’Donnell. Joe took up the post in 1981 when the band was reformed. He successfully held the post until 1985, when he was succeeded by the late Pat Perry.

Having played under Joe O’Donnell, Eric Hodder and John Case are still key members of the band, Eric playing the double bass and John currently the band’s librarian. Both remember Joe with affection. They commented ‘one of his favourite sayings was “it’ll be alright on the night” and it always was!’ St Michael’s Church in Lyme was full to overflowing for Joe’s funeral service, a clear testament to his popularity. The band played before the service and accompanied the singing of the hymns.

Sadly, this was the second loss to the band this year, following the sudden death of regular collector Ted Colley in January. Ted, together with his wife Shirley, started collecting for the band at their summer concerts in Lyme in 1981 and at that time, their daughter Tina played clarinet.

Theirs is a truly remarkable record of service and the band is extremely grateful for their loyalty over almost thirty years, during which they must have collected thousands of pounds for band funds. Ted will be very greatly missed.

Already, the band is planning ahead for the summer. The concerts on Marine Parade are always its principal source of income. Last summer’s concerts proved that two collectors on each level made a considerable difference to its income. However, it does mean that a rota of supporters needs to be drawn up, who are willing to make a regular commitment to collecting for the band. Details of engagements for 2010 can be found on the band’s website.

If you would enjoy being in a breathtakingly beautiful environment, meeting people and being royally entertained, could you help us? We would love to hear from you. Please contact our Chairman Jan Long on 07785 303800.

In the meantime, the band are practising hard for their St George’s Day Concert on 24th April at the Woodmead Halls. This is a new undertaking, so be sure to join us for a patriotic flag-waving celebration of English music – tickets available from Uplyme Post Office, Lyme Regis TIC, Primary Colours or by telephoning 01297 442719 (evenings).

24th December 2009: Following a busy period of engagements at residential homes and in the locality, the band entertained last minute shoppers in Broad Street on Christmas Eve, having accompanied the Rotary Carols on the previous evening around the tree. For a full flavour, have a look at our 2009 Christmas on the Photo Gallery page.

12th December 2009: The band’s Annual Christmas Concert (sponsored by AJ Wakely) was very well supported. There was something for everyone and the band's varied programme included two solos – the ever-popular 'O Holy Night' played by John Warr on euphonium and the Michael Jackson hit 'She's out of my Life' from Jan Long on soprano cornet.

The concert also featured annual awards to members of the band. Stuart Broom once again presented the Gordon Broom Memorial Shield, this year to Val Mahoney, who stepped down in May after a hard-working and successful period as band Chairman. Musical Director John Powell presented percussionist Angie Taylor with the 'Most Improved Player' award and John Warr received the 'Bandmaster's Award' for his excellent attendance and support.

Roy Wootton as compere capably ensured the evening moved smoothly forward, also providing vocal solos and amusing anecdotes. The large audience too were kept busy with the singing of well-loved carols, accompanied by the band.

The band is grateful to all who supported this concert in any way. Concert proceeds plus new sponsorship will help the band to develop its activities and continue to provide live local music.

2nd December 2009: Christmas has already begun with our appearance at the switching on of Colyton's Christmas lights. Unfortunately, the event was marred by poor weather, but the band still managed to play in the rain, crouched under a burger van next to the snow machine! (See Photo Gallery). This was followed on the 9th by our usual visit to Allsaints for their lovely village Christmas concert – always a sellout and a great evening.

8th November 2009: The start of November is always a busy time for Lyme Town Band. Remembrance time began with the Lyme Regis British Legion Festival of Remembrance, which took place at the Woodmead Halls. As well as accompanying the traditional hymns, the band contributed several pieces and played for the singing of the traditional 'Land of Hope and Glory'.

On Remembrance Sunday itself, two band members provided the Last Post and Reveille at local churches. Band Chairman Jan Long played at Chard, while Des Moore, 17 and a student at The Woodroffe School, contributed to the service at Uplyme church.

Lyme Regis Parish Church was the venue on Remembrance Sunday, where the band provided accompaniment for the hymns at the annual Remembrance service which was very well attended. Under Musical Director John Powell, the band concluded the service with the march 'Punchinello' and Jan Long again playing the Last Post and Reveille.

23rd October 2009: New opportunities for sponsoring the band have been announced. The Committee hope that this will be a source of assured income to enable the band to meet its high running costs. Individuals and businesses can become sponsors with many benefits available for both. Full details can be found on our new Sponsor Us! page.

22nd September 2009: We are delighted to announce that Philip Harper is to return to Lyme Regis to direct his third workshop for us. The band have thoroughly enjoyed his previous visits and there is no doubt that his influence has been felt. Philip will be with us on Saturday 27th March 2010. In the meantime, the Musical Director, John Powell, is keen to recruit one trombone and two bass players. If you are interested in joining this friendly group of players, please contact him on 07899 008985. You will be made very welcome!

6th September 2009: The band's summer season of concerts on Marine Parade, Lyme Regis ended today. Although the summer weather has not been too much in evidence, the good news is that collections increased from last year. Running a band like ours is a great expense and we are delighted that our audiences have shown their clear appreciation of the band's music-making in a way which will enable us to move forward with confidence. Have a look at our latest pictures in the Photo Gallery (Music by the Sea 2), courtesy of band supporter Ann Courtney. Ann captured our performance of Tom Jones' 'It's not Unusual' but with a very unusual ending! Next Sunday, 13th September, the band will be accompanying the Colyton Carnival Week 'Songs of Praise' in the grounds of St Andrew's church at 2.30 p.m.

27th July 2009: The band's 2009 summer season is well underway, despite the indifferent weather. The first concert took place on Tuesday 7th July and what the crowd lacked in numbers was compensated by their generosity and appreciation. On the following Sunday afternoon the first concert for the Town Council took place in improved conditions. The same could not be said for the weather at the start of Lifeboat week, Sunday 19th. Just prior to the RNLI's 'Songs of Praise' the heavens opened and the congregation had to take cover into the shelters. However, this in no way diminished their enthusiasm and lusty singing! We hope for better weather during Carnival Week, our busiest period of the year.

19th May 2009: The Annual General Meeting saw the retirement of Val Mahoney as Chairman after four years dedicated work on behalf of the band. She was succeeded by Vice Chairman Jan Long, who thanked Val for her untiring work. Joe Turner was elected Vice Chairman and Gerald Dixon and Val Mahoney to the Committee. The remainder of the officers and Committee were re-elected.

17th May 2009: The Band began its 2009 season by playing for the 'Blessing of the Boats' service at the Lyme Regis Lifeboat station. There was a very good turnout and the band’s playing was much appreciated. The engagement was a first for three members who have joined us since the new year. Megan, Gerald and David are pictured amongst the lifeboat equipment!

5th May 2009: Congratulations to Megan, one of our cornet players, who has passed the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music theory exam Grade 3 with distinction. Megan is taught by her dad Gerald, who plays trombone for the band. Our picture shows Megan being presented with her certificate by band Chairman Val Mahoney. Well done Megan!

28th March 2009: After Philip's first Workshop last October, Band Chairman Val Mahoney wrote on our website, 'I can't wait until Philip comes back to take our band again.' On Saturday, her waiting ended with Philip's return. Her verdict was that the day was even better than the first. We were joined by several friends from other bands and a formidable sound was produced for our first piece, Goff Richards' well-loved march 'Barnard Castle'. Two of Philip Harper's hallmarks are his excellent communication and his attention to detail and they were again obvious from the start. The difference between our first and last attempts at this march was truly amazing!
After an excellent lunch provided again by Gilly Warr, our Band Secretary, Philip turned his attention to our learning group. Apart from his technical input, Philip gave valuable encouragement and support. Then it was back to the full band and some testing sight-reading. The day ended with an arrangement of the Tom Jones hit 'It's not Unusual'. What was perhaps, unusual, was the amazing progress the players had made during the day, a fact that Philip commented on. Thanks are due to Philip for his inspirational tuition, to Val for organising the day and to Gilly for providing superb refreshments throughout. Once again, we enjoyed a day of hard but richly rewarding work, a further demonstration of the band's determination to move forward in its music-making.'

24th February 2009: Vacancy Update: We are currently looking for two bass players for the E flat and B flat instruments. If you are interested in joining us, please contact either the Band Secretary or the Musical Director.

Into 2009! A busy 2009 beckons for the band (see diary page). After much consideration by members and committee, one or two regular commitments have been put on hold so that weekends in the peak summer period are a little less demanding for everyone.

We are delighted that Philip Harper is returning to us in March to conduct another workshop, after the successful day he led last October which undoubtedly benefited everyone.

There are currently vacancies for a front row cornet, 2nds baritone and trombone. Interested? Full details on the Join Us page.

We were recently delighted to welcome two new members - Gerald Dixon to the trombone section and his daughter Megan on 3rd cornet.

2009, here we come!

Christmas 2008: The band were involved in a number of engagements in Lyme Regis in the week leading up to Christmas. Entertaining the residents in several care homes is always an important part of their programme and this year was no exception, visiting five in all. Bringing the sound of Christmas to local residents' doors took up two evenings and the ever-popular Rotary carols around the town tree was, as always, an enjoyable event, much appreciated by the people of Lyme. This year was notably warmer than some past years! Christmas Eve always begins with carols in Broad Street, (see picture gallery). By the time we reach the Pilot Boat at midday, our Christmases really begin. After a two week break, we shall be back in practice for the 2009 season.

13th December 2008: The Band’s Annual Christmas Concert took place on Saturday 13th December (visit the gallery for more images) at the Woodmead Halls and was greatly enjoyed by a large and appreciative audience.

Band Chairman Val Mahoney writes:
‘Thank you to everyone for making our Annual Christmas Concert such a success. It was lovely to have Jim Sweetland compere the evening – what a lot of amusing tales he had to tell!

The band played brilliantly, so thank you all. A special mention goes to our gentlemen from the euphonium section who played the excellent duet ‘The Entertainer’. James Prior was a star with his solo ‘Little Donkey’ and his very enthusiastic leading of the clapping for ‘Chihuahua’.

A first for the Christmas concert was the faultless harmonica playing of John Gudge. John is a very talented entertainer who has performed with the world-famous Larry Adler.

On a personal note, I was totally surprised to be awarded the Musical Director’s Award. It is such an honour and I would like to thank John Powell from the bottom of my heart. John, of course, had worked extremely hard preparing for this concert. His devotion is relentless and I know everyone in the band is very grateful to him.

Although we are very busy playing carols right up to Christmas Eve, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all current members and supporters a very Happy Christmas and Healthy New Year.

We return to the Woodmead Halls on Tuesday 6th January at 8pm and on Thursday 8th, 7.30 at St Michael’s School, when new members will be very welcome.’

18th November 2008: Lyme Regis Radio coverage of the Ian North Benefit Concert is now available on this site: part 1, part 2 and audio: audio.

16th October 2008 Vacancy update. We currently have vacancies in the trombone and baritone sections for experienced players. We have also begun classes for beginners. Interested? Full details on the Join Us page.

27th September 2008 Huge success of Benefit Concert. There was a large turnout at the Woodmead Halls on Saturday 27th September to enjoy a benefit concert organised by the band for Ian and Lesley North. Ian has been a band member for over 20 years but unfortunately suffered a serious stroke shortly before Christmas last year.

With Musical Director John Powell as compere, the band played excerpts from their summer programmes including soloists Jan Long and John Warr. A special appearance of Joe the Bear dancing to ‘The Teddy Bears’ Picnic’ - another feature of our summer programme - brought the house down. The audience were also treated to the lovely singing voice of Roy Wotton who was accompanied by the band in a rendition of Elvis Presley’s hit ‘Can’t help falling love’. Chairman Val Mahoney was overwhelmed by the positive comments afterwards, with many saying it was the best performance ever heard from the band.

Financially, the evening was a huge success and we raised £932.29 which has since been increased to £1000 by a generous member of the audience.

Val commented: ‘I was so honoured and proud to be Chairman of Lyme Regis Town Band last Saturday evening. I would like to thank John Powell for all his hard work and also the Woodmead Halls Committee, the band and anyone who helped in any way. It was good to raise so much, but more importantly I felt that the success of the whole evening demonstrated to Ian and Lesley that both the band and the audience from the local community really do care. Finally, I would like to say how wonderful it is to see Ian making such a good recovery. We all wish him continued progress in the future.’

4th October 2008 Workshop with Philip Harper - a day to remember. Chairman Val Mahoney writes:

Yesterday was another highlight of my playing career. For many years I have attended band contests and before joining Lyme Regis Town Band I have taken part in a few. As a member of the audience, there is one Musical Director who has always inspired me – Philip Harper – and yesterday I had the honour as chairman o our band, to meet Philip in person and introduce him to the band. Philip had kindly agreed to come to Lyme Regis and lead us in a day’s workshop.

What an excellent day it was! I am sure all those present learnt a great deal – I know I did. Philip’s personality and approach quickly put everyone at ease and we soon realised we were working with a very talented musician and a good teacher. I have to admit I didn’t know what to expect beforehand as this was my first brass band workshop, but I can’t wait until Philip comes back to take our band again!

I would like to thank Gilly Warr for laying on the most marvellous buffet and for keeping us supplied with refreshment throughout the day.

So thank you, Philip Harper for the most amazing day!

13th September 2008 Bournemouth visit breaks new ground. Lyme Band broke new ground on 13th September when they played a very successful invitation concert in Bournemouth. Members and their families made a day of it, travelling by coach in the morning and returning in the evening. The mid-afternoon concert was well supported and appreciated by the crowds enjoying not only the music but the fine 'Indian Summer' weather.

2nd September 2008 'Music by the Sea' ends. On Tuesday 2nd September, the band played their last 'Music By the Sea' concert. The music was chosen by the Musical Director, John Powell, from the programmes played during the summer. Despite the cold and darkness, there was again an appreciative audience, bringing to an end a very successful summer.

26th August 2008 Wantage Silver Band, joint concert: Lyme Regis were joined on Tuesday 26th August by the Wantage (Oxfordshire) Silver Band, on holiday for the week in Charmouth. Both bands played alternate pieces and the crowd were well entertained with a wide variety of pieces throughout the evening. Joe the Bear made his now customary appearance; our picture shows him stepping it our with Wantage's Musical Director. Following his cameo appearance, Wantage played, appropriately, 'The Bear Necessities'!

7th August 2008 JOE THE BEAR: A regular visitor to our 'Music by the Sea' concerts is Joe the Bear. Joe entertains the crowds during the playing of 'The Teddy Bears' Picnic' and no-one can escape his giant clutches! His identity can now be revealed - none other than bass player Joe Turner. The band is very grateful to Rikey Austin of Alice's Bear Shop, Lyme Regis, for the loan of the costume.

21st July 2008 TEDDY BEARS' PICNIC: In providing entertainment for the holidaymakers during the band’s ‘Music by the Sea’ series this summer, a new feature has been added which involves children joining in a teddy bears’ picnic.
They are invited to join the band’s mascot and his friends for a tea party while the band plays – no surprise – the ‘Teddy Bears’ Picnic’. Our picture shows the bears patiently waiting for tea!

10th July 2008 VACANCIES: At present we have specific vacancies for the following players: trombones (2), second baritone and principal cornet. If you are interested in joining, we would be glad to hear from you whatever your standard or experience. You will be made most welcome and given every support in our friendly group. Please contact our Musical Director, John Powell on 07899 008985.

MUSIC BY THE SEA: Tuesday 1st July saw the opening concert in the band's weekly series which runs throughout July and August. Again, the weather was not kind, although the rain held off until the latter stages. Our MD for the evening was Jim Sweetland, ably standing in for John Powell. Jim managed to link the pieces well and keep the evening moving, despite the lack of a PA System!

21st June 2008 BAND ENTERTAIN AT GARDEN FESTIVAL: Despite the poor weather, the band lifted the spirits of those attending the Axminster Festival on Saturday 21st June. Though numbers were small, they provided a varied programme for their first public concert of the season. Our picture shows at least one little girl who enjoyed participating with us for 'Amarillo' along with our percussionist Angie.

11th June 2008 CONDUCTOR/COMPOSER TO LEAD AUTUMN WORKSHOP: The band is delighted to announce that its first Masterclass/Workshop in the autumn will be led by Philip Harper, described by ‘Brass Band World Magazine’ as “unquestionably one of British brass banding’s brightest young talents. Philip is currently conductor of the Polysteel Band and has led them to many successes. He is also a prolific composer and arranger, having had works premiered by the Black Dyke Band and the National Youth Brass Band. He will be working with us on Saturday 4th October – a significant event which I greatly anticipated by the band.

8th June 2008 TRIBUTE TO PETER: Members of the band were saddened to hear in May of the unexpected death of Peter Woodford, a trombonist and member of the Committee for many years. At his funeral service on 19th May, the band paid its personal tribute to Peter in music, performing several pieces before and after the service and accompanying the hymns. It was entirely appropriate that one of Peter’s grandsons joined the trombone section for the service, whilst another grandson played a moving clarinet solo. Peter was also the band’s Website Manager and as a result of his hard work, made many contacts for the band. We are pleased to report that this new website incorporates many of Peter’s original texts.

8th June 2008 JIM STEPS IN: On Sunday 8th June, the band was present in Lyme Regis Parish Church to play for the annual Mayor’s Service. The service took the form of Sung Eucharist and the Mayor, Councillor Sally Holman read the Epistle. However, the band was almost without a conductor, as our MD John Powell telephoned Chairman Val Mahoney early on the Sunday morning to tell her he would be unable to conduct because of illness. A dawn SOS call to retired Life Member Jim Sweetland saved the situation and order was restored. Many thanks, Jim!