Chancel Choir Update 9/30: News
Chancel Choir Sings at 10:30 a.m. Sunday
The Chancel Choir will be in the loft for the 10:30 a.m. worship
service this Sunday, Oct. 2. Call time is 10 a.m. in the music room. Anthems:
Christ Is The Rock (men's chorus), My Jesus I Love Thee,
Shepherd Me and O Lux Beatissima.
We Need Your
Help For Fall Follies
Sign up sheets are available in the music room to volunteer to help with
the Fall Follies, the choir's only fund raiser for the year. We need ushers,
persons to take tickets the night of the concert, some help with the stage
crew and some folks to assist with the reception after the show. Please
stop by on Sunday and volunteer to help us out.
New York Trip
Invitation Received
Another opportunity to sing at Carnegie Hall is being offered to Chancel
Choir members in 2006. Members of the Chancel Choir who would like to
join a festival choir singing at Carnegie Hall in November 2006 can pick
up trip information in the music room. The trip will run from Nov. 9 through
Nov. 13. A massed choir of St. Louis choral groups will sing spirituals
arranged by John Rutter.
Chancel Choir
Update 9/29: Cares and Concerns
Funeral services for Ethel Hall, mother of Soprano Dixie
Moll, will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Oct. 3, at the Schrader Funeral
Home in Ballwin with burial immediately following at Salem United Methodist
Church in Ballwin. A visitation will be held from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday,
Oct. 2, at the funeral home.
Dellus Kime, uncle
of Soprano Donna Biochini, died Tuesday evening of an
aneurysm in Poplar Bluff, Mo. Donna would appreciate your thoughts and
prayers for her family.
Recital
Soprano Caludia Fallert and Sylvia Stoll will present a vocal
recital at 3 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 16, in the church's Chapel. They will
perform songs of faith and French, German and Italian art songs.
Chancel Choir
Update 9/28: Death In Choir Family
We are saddened to report the death of Soprano Dixie Moll's
mother this morning (9/28). She had been in hospice care at Delmar Gardens
on the Green. Funeral arrangements are pending at Schrader Funeral Home
in Ballwin and will be reported as soon as they are available. Our thoughts
and prayers are with Dixie and her family during the difficult time.
Chancel Choir Update 9/28: Cares and Concerns
Soprano Robin Greeley reports that her mother, Beverly
Cowen, was injured in a serious automobile accident on Monday in Knoxville,
Tenn. She has been hospitalized with a compound ankle fracture and other
multiple injuries. Beverly is also the grandmother of Soprano
Carolyn Cowen Nissen. The family asks for our thoughts and prayers.
September 26, 2005
Greetings One and All,
O What A Night!
That's been the best way to describe what we encountered last night! To
say the evening was a HUGE success is just the beginning. There's so much
to report, not all of it will be in print, so you'll just have to show
up for rehearsal on Thursday. There are, however, a few things to mention:
YOUR SINGING...was
spectacular! Several of my close choir director friends ask me if I was
nervous about singing in front of some many great musicians. I was not.
I was excited to be a part of the evening, and I knew in my heart that
if you sang with the kind of care and understanding I know you can muster,
we'd be just fine. You did it. Robert Ray sends his heartfelt thanks,
and was so excited to hear you. He was VERY impressed and sends his regards.
Now that he's not directing a church choir, he "promises" to
come back on Sunday morning to hear you.
THE CROWD...I'm not
sure how we did it, but the concert ran rather smoothly. Thanks so much
to all of you, and especially our ushers! They did a fantastic job. According
to the "official" count, we set a record. Our attendance was
1553. That's larger than any service or concert we've hosted to date.
WOW! The reception was a great way to end the night, and I was able to
visit with a lot of our guests. Thanks to the hospitality crew for a job
well done!
OUR EFFORT...The audience
was generous in their praise of the choirs and equally generous in their
giving. We raised $20,565 last night! When Kimberly told me that today,
I was speechless. I'll say it again...in all areas, last night's concert
was a HUGE success. I'm so proud of our church, our music program and
our community.
You were wonderful...I
can't wait to be together again!
Until the next,
KJ
Chancel Choir
Update 9/26: Correction
It Was A Test -- Really
>From time to time, it is important to test the effectiveness of the
Chancel Choir's communications systems. The update earlier this morning
contained such as test. Yes, last night we sang Robert Ray's He Never
Failed Me Yet, not the equally impressive Ain't Got Time To Die. One could
assume that I made a mistake. However, I am pleased to report that our
communications systems are in place and working and many of you caught
the "test" and pointed out the error. Here are a couple of early
responses:
"Hi Gary. Quick note: We sang He never failed me yet -- not Ain't
got time to die. (or was I at a different concert?) HA!"
"I don't
remember singing "Ain't got time to die." Maybe I was dozing."
Thanks to everyone
for making this test of our communications systems successful. We now
return you to our regular programming.
Chancel Choir
Update 9/26: News / Cares and Concerns
What a Show - What a Show
If you weren't able to join us last night for the Sing St. Louis mega
choral concert you missed some amazing singing. The Chancel Choir began
the program with 130 singers and lots of good music. The building was
packed with an estimated audience of 1,500. As a surprise, composer Robert
Ray arrived in time to her the Chancel Choir perform his composition Ain't
Got Time To Die. Besides our choir, Kevin's St. Louis Metro Singers did
an outstanding job as well. But, the most amazing performance of the evening
belonged to the Ambassadors of Harmony who take acapella singing to a
different level in both barber shop, gospel and classical styles. This
is the second "mega" concert held at our church this year. An
orchestral concert featuring musicians from 11 cities was held in March
and gained national attention. Concerts like these bring much positive
attention to both our church and our music program. As host Harry Hamm
said following the Chancel Choir performance, "Maybe I'm attending
the wrong church."
Talent Show
Signups This Thursday
If you'd like to help with the Chancel Choir's Fall Follies talent show,
and we hope you will, sign up sheets will be available at rehearsal Thursday
night. We'll need some help with ushering, ticket sales and management,
after-show reception, and backstage production. The Fall Follies is the
choir's major fund raiser and will be presented on Saturday, Oct. 29.
The Chancel Choir also will perform during the show. Director Bill Borger
reports some outstanding acts this year.
Cares and
Concerns
As far as we know, Chancel Choir families escaped serious consequences
from Hurricane Rita.
Alto Madia McCormack reports: "My older brother,
JB, and his family and their kids all "hunkered down" in Houston,
as did Joe's nephew, Sandy and family, as did my second cousin, Marian
Gibbins and husband. All report they came through the anticipated "ordeal"
with grateful hearts for little or no damage and electricity and other
utilities still up and running. Praise God for some good reports."
Soprano Dixie
Moll reports that her mother continues to be very critically
ill and has been returned to Delmar Gardens on the Green where she is
now in hospice care. Dixie asks for our thoughts and prayers during this
difficult time.
Chancel Choir
Update 9/24: Cares and Concerns
Many
Chancel Choir members have relatives and friends in Texas and Louisiana
in the path of Hurricane Rita. As Kevin mentioned at rehearsal Thursday
night, his family evacuated from Houston to Dallas on Thursday, but his
niece, Chrissy, remained on Galveston Island where she works as a police
officer. If anyone has news regarding their relatives in the storm's path,
please pass the information along and we will share it with the choir.
Meanwhile, our prayers are with those in the path of the storm as it makes
landfall.
Chancel Choir Update 9/23: News / Cares and Concerns
It's Ladies Only In The Loft This Sunday
The Chancel Choir Women's Chorus will sing for worship this Sunday
at both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services. Call time for the women is
8:30 a.m. in the music room. Anthem: Jubilate Fanfare. Men are
back to work the next week.
St. Louis
Sings - Mega Concert Sunday Night
The Chancel Choir will be the first of seven choral groups performing
in the St. Louis Sings benefit choral concert this Sunday evening in the
Sanctuary. Channel Choir should report to the music room at 7 p.m. We'll
wear robes. This will be a "sell out" so tell your relatives
and friends to arrive early. All Chancel Choir "family units"
are asked to provide two dozen cookies for the reception following the
concert. Leave the cookies in the kitchen in Fellowship Hall on your way
to the music room Sunday night. Choir members are being asked to park
in the lot east of the Chapel. Once we've finished with our part of the
performance, we can sit in the balcony for the remainder of the concert.
This will be a night to remember.
Music Ministry
Outreach to Centenary United Methodist Church
Our outreach to the Centenary United Methodist Church in downtown St.
Louis begins this week when the Good News Quartet provides music for the
church's main worship service Sunday morning. In coming weeks other music
groups from Manchester, including the Chancel Choir, will provide music
for the church, which is one of the oldest in St. Louis.
Calling Kevin?
Here's His New Direct Dial Number
A few weeks ago, the church installed a new telephone system that allows
you to dial various extensions directly from outside. But, you need to
know the extension numbers to enjoy this new benefit. Here are important
numbers for the music ministry -- add them to your speed dial.
Kevin -- 636-200-4712
Eedy -- 636-200-4702
Ted -- 636-200-4728
Cares and
Concerns
Betty Miller, mother of Tenor Andy Miller, is hospitalized
in a Chicago hospital undergoing treatment for heart problems. She had
angioplasty last week, but complications prevented repair of the blockage
in one artery. She is expected to return home this week and angioplasty
will be attempted again in the near future.
Joe Elstner's
Band Plays Saturday
The Decades will be layin' down some classic rock, Motown and blues Saturday
night, Sept. 24, at its "home field," Here's Johnny's in O'Fallon,
Mo., right between I-70 and Highway 40. From 40, take the Winghaven exit
and go about 3 miles on Bryan Road -- it'll be on your left, just north
of Mexico Road in a small strip mall called Gilman Plaza. From I-70, take
Bryan Road south a half mile...the place is on your right. Decades will
be playing from 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Bass Joe Elstner
plays keyboard and sings with the band.
Chancel Choir
Update 9/20: News / Cares and Concerns
Parking May Be Tight Tomorrow Night
The
City of Manchester's tax increment financing commission is holding a public
hearing at our church tomorrow night beginning at 7 p.m. This meeting
may attract a large attendance since the city council voted Monday to
allow eminent domain to be used to condemn private property for commercial
development. Taking private property for commercial use has sparked considerable
controversy across the country since a Supreme Court decision earlier
this year affirmed the expanded use of eminent domain. This is a hot topic
in Manchester right now because a new shopping development called Manchester
Heights is planned where the current Saturn dealership is located. If
the crowd is large and parking is tight, remember there is a lot on the
east side of the Chapel.
Help Needed
With Talent Show
Signup sheets will be available next week for Talent Show workers. We'll
need ushers, production staff helpers and ticket managers. If you aren't
performing, we could use your assistance -- or sign up your spouse for
a job.
Mega Choral
Concert This Sunday To Benefit Hurricane Victims
The Internationally renowned men's barbershop chorus, The Ambassadors
of Harmony from St. Charles, Mo., has been added to the line up of choral
groups performing at a benefit concert in our Sanctuary on Sunday evening,
Sept. 25, to raise money for Hurricane Katrina victims. The Chancel Choir
will participate in the event. Each will present a 15-minute segment of
music. Charles Brennon, KMOX radio personality, has been asked to emcee
the concert. Admission to the concert is free, but an offering will be
taken to benefit the American Red Cross. Groups slated to perform include:
American Chamber Chorale
St. Louis Archdiocesan Choir
Bach Society of St. Louis
MUMC Chancel Choir
St. Louis Chamber Chorus
St. Louis Metro Singers
Ambassadors of Harmony
Cares and Concerns
Alto Dixie Moll reports that her mother has been hospitalized
with pneumonia. Her mother has been living at Delmar Gardens on the Green
for the past 3 1/2 years. Please keep Dixie and her family in your thoughts
and prayers.
Chancel C
hoir Update: Additional Information
Soprano Dawn Bishop's mother's
name is Gertrude Osborn. Funeral arrangements
and other details are included in the previous email update sent earlier
this
afternoon.
Chancel Choir Update 9/17: Death In Chancel Choir Family
We are saddened to report the death of Soprano Dawn Bishop's
mother. Details
appear in the note from Dawn below.
Hello Everyone,
Thank you so much for all of your thoughts and prayers for my mom, my
family, and me! I really appreciate all of you very much.
My mom passed away last night around 7:30pm after being off of the respirator
for 8 hours. She was peaceful and we know without a doubt that she is
with God in Heaven.
The funeral arrangements are as follows:
Visitation on Monday 9/19 from 4 to 8pm
Service on Tuesday 9/20 at 9:30am
Both the visitation and the service will be held at the Heiligtag-Lang-Fendler
Funeral Home in Arnold, MO on Jeffco near Hwy 141.
Your continued thoughts and prayers are greatly appreciated during this
difficult time.
My best to all of you,
Dawn Bishop
Chancel Choir Update 9/16: News / Cares and Concerns
No Chancel Choir On Sunday
Chancel Choir has the Sunday off this week. No choir in the loft.
Officers Hold
First Session of New Year
The 2005-2006 Chancel Choir officers held their first meeting of the year
Thursday night prior to rehearsal. Here is what they did:
-- Discussed scheduling for the gourmet dinners purchased at the Youth
Auction. One dinner will be offered in November and the other will be
served sometime in the spring, at the request of the purchasers.
-- Discussed logistics for the annual retreat next month. It was agreed
that the new format adopted last year which featured more singing and
less down time would be followed again this year.
-- Discussed the upcoming Christmas concert and ways to promote attendance.
-- Heard a report on the upcoming Talent Show. Tickets will be distributed
to choir members to sell in the next couple of weeks. All choir members
will be asked to sell eight tickets to the event which is the choir's
major fund raiser for the year. Signup sheets will be available soon for
help to produce the concert.
-- Treasurer Jacque Rocchio reported the current balance in the choir
activity account was $6,421.85 as of July 31, 2005. After all expenses
for the Great Britain trip were paid, it was reported there was an apparent
shortage of $3,710.21. A careful audit of receipts and expenses will be
conducted to determine where the error occurred.
-- Kevin reported that the church has "adopted" Centenary United
Methodist Church in downtown St. Louis as an outreach project. Various
ministries in our church will be working with Centenary to revitalize
it attendance. The music program will be providing concerts and worship
music in the near future. Members of the Good News Quartet will sing for
worship at the church on Sept. 25.
Great Britain
CDs Will Be Available Soon
The CD set of the Great Britain tour concerts and the pre-trip concert
will be finished in the near future. Choir members who ordered the recording
have been inquiring about its projected completion date. The second disk
of the two-disk set will be completed as soon as Kevin has selected the
best tracks for each tour piece from the various location concert recordings.
Cares and
Concerns
Mildred Bitting, mother of Soprano Barb Barrett, suffered
a broken hip in a fall Wednesday night. She underwent successful hip replacement
surgery at Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo, Mich., on Thursday.
Virginia Ford, mother
of Bass Gary Ford, will undergo hip replacement surgery
on Friday at St. Joseph's Health Center in Kansas City, Mo. She broke
her hip in a fall on Thursday morning while walking into her doctor's
office.
Chancel Choir
Update 9/13: News / Cares and Concerns
Auditions This Weekend Uncover More Than 15 Talent Show Acts
They were lined up at the door Sunday afternoon waiting to audition for
the second edition of the MUMC Fall Follies Talent Show to be presented
Oct. 29. Follies Director Bill Borger said he was encouraged by the talent
he saw and says this year's show will be "as good or better than
the show two years ago."
The presentations
ran the gamut from individual vocal and instrumental solos to dramatic
presentations and scenes from television shows. When
Alto Maida McCormack put out an appeal for an accordion
earlier this month, she received offers to loan her four instruments ranging
from a small concertina to a large, full-sized model. You may have thought
she planned to use the accordion as a humorous prop -- not so. Turns out
Maida is an accordion virtuoso who as a young girl, traveled to shows,
churches, county fairs and community events playing the accordion. After
slipping the instrument's straps around her shoulders, she told Bill Borger
the accordion can perform many different music styles and proceeded to
play a half dozen songs from memory.
Bass
Buddy Rains performed a stand up comedy routine featuring some
home-spun Southern humor similar to that performed by Andy Griffith. He
opened his audition with a detailed explanation of how he used to enjoy
comedy as a young boy growing up in Alabama. Several persons sang vocal
solos as proposed talent show acts.
In additional
to individuals acts, at least two groups presented vocal and dance numbers
for the show director to review. One group performed a humerous rendition
of a classical number. The casting call was held so Borger could see what
people had prepared and help him put together a show concept. Over the
next several weeks, individual acts will rehearse both alone and with
Borger to focus their performances.
In addition
to acts, Chancel Choir members will be asked to help out with production
of the show including ticket sales, ushering, production assistance and
publicity. Look for sign up sheets soon. And, don't forget, the choir
will display some of its talent as well by singing a number or two during
the show.
Fall
Retreat Registration Is Due This Week
It's back to Mercy Center for the Chancel Choir's annual Fall Retreat
Oct. 7 and 8. Registration forms were distributed during rehearsal last
Thursday night and are due with payment no later than Sept. 18. Cost of
the retreat is $29 for those not staying overnight and includes lunch.
Overnight guests will pay $63 for a double occupancy room and $75 for
a single room. Registration forms are available in the music room.
Ambassadors
of Harmony Added To Benefit Concert On Sept. 25
The Internationally renowned men's barbershop chorus, The Ambassadors
of Harmony from St. Charles, Mo., has been added to the line up of choral
groups performing at a benefit concert in our Sanctuary on Sunday evening,
Sept. 25, to raise money for Hurricane Katrina victims. The Chancel Choir
will participate in the event. Each will present a 15-minute segment of
music. Charles Brennon, KMOX radio personality, has been asked to emcee
the concert. Admission to the concert is free, but an offering will be
taken to benefit the American Red Cross. Groups slated to perform include:
American Chamber Chorale
St. Louis Archdiocesan Choir
Bach Society of St. Louis
MUMC Chancel Choir
St. Louis Chamber Chorus
St. Louis Metro Singers
Ambassadors of Harmony
Cares
and Concerns
Soprano Bertha Erhardt is recovering from laproscopic
surgery to remove her gallbladder on Monday at Missouri Baptist Medical
Center. She expects to be released from the hospital on Tuesday. Husband
Don says thanks to our choir family for the thoughts, prayers, and calls
of concern.
News
From Other Church Organizations
On Sunday, Sept. 25 at 4:30 p.m., the church's youth are hosting a "Multi-Generation
Game Night". If you are in the 60-plus age group, you are invited
to attend. Come join the youth of our church for an afternoon of card
games and board games, snacks, and fellowship. Experience first hand what
a neat group of young people our church is helping to raise and develop
in Christian spirit. We'll be playing Tripoli, Texas Hold-em, Uno, Gin,
Monopoly, Sorry, and lots of other games, but the real purpose of this
event is for the "senior" members of our church to get to know
our youth better, and for them to have a chance to interface and get to
know you. The games begin at 4:30 p.m. and last until 6:30 p.m.
Chancel Choir
Update 9/10: Buddie's Sister Is Okay
Bass Buddy Rains reports that his sister, Vicki Rains, who was
missing in New Orleans is okay in a shelter in Massachusetts. Buddy received
a call from her today and says she is doing well. "Friday I got a
call from a friend saying he saw my sister on WWL-TV in New Orleans as
she was being evacuated and loaded into a boat. Today she called me and
is doing well . . . just very tired. She was evacuated to Camp Edwards
in Bourne, Mass., on Cape Cod. Please thank everyone for their thoughts
and prayers. The Chancel Choir family is the best." Buddy had not
heard from his sister since she left a voice mail message on his phone
the Sunday before Hurricane Katrina made landfall. In the message, she
indicated she had decided to ride out the storm in her New Orleans home
near the French Quarter.
Chancel Choir Update 9/9: News / Cares and Concerns
Choir's Will Sing Two Services This Sunday
The choir will begin its Sunday morning singing season this Sunday, Sept.
11. We will sing for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services. Anthems
will be: Jubilate & Benedictus, Sing Out My Soul and Be Thou My Vision.
Call time is 8:30 a.m. in the music room.
Fall Follies
Casting Call This Weekend
Got those acts ready for the Fall Follies? Show us what you've got at
our open casting calls this weekend: Saturday, Sept. 10 from 11 a.m. to
noon and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., and on Sunday, Sept. 11, from 1 to 3 p.m. in
the choir room. For more information, contact show director Bill Borger
at 636-256-1755 or email him at premierepartnership@earthlink.net. The
Follies is set for Saturday night, Oct. 29 and is the primary fund raiser
for the Chancel Choir this year.
St. Louis
Chorus and Choir Benefit Concert For Hurricane Victims Set in Our Church
Sept. 25
A benefit concert featuring major choirs and choruses from the St. Louis
area will perform a benefit concert in our Sanctuary on Sunday evening,
Sept. 25 to raise money for Hurricane Katrina victims. The Chancel Choir
will participate in the event. So far seven singing groups have been invited
to participate. Each will present a 15-minute segment of music. Charles
Brennon, KMOX radio personality, has been asked to emcee the concert.
Admission to the concert is free, but an offering will be taken to benefit
the American Red Cross. Groups invited to participate include:
American Chamber Chorale
St. Louis Archdiocesan Choir
Bach Society of St. Louis
In Unison Chorus
MUMC Chancel Choir
St. Louis Chamber Chorus
St. Louis Metro Singers
Fall Retreat
Registration Is Due September 18
It's back to Mercy Center for the Chancel Choir's annual Fall Retreat
Oct. 7 and 8. Registration forms were distributed during rehearsal last
night and are due with payment no later than Sept. 18. Kevin reported
last night that this year's retreat will be "streamlined" mainly
because Mercy Center is unable to serve meals to more than 100 persons
at a time. That means there will be no Friday or Saturday evening dinners
this year. However, there will be plenty of snacks and other food to share.
Lunch on Saturday will be served in shifts to accommodate the group. There
will be rooms for 40 persons to stay overnight at Mercy Center. As you
recall, sleeping rooms there are very comfortable. The retreat will get
started with arrival and check between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct.
7. Rehearsal is set from 7 until 9:30 p.m. with a "slumber party"
beginning at 10 a.m. Kevin says at least two movies will be shown. Breakfast
will be served to those staying overnight at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Oct.
8 and a full day of singing and activities will follow at 9 a.m. much
as at past retreats. Cost of the retreat is $29 for those not staying
overnight and includes lunch. Overnight guests will pay $63 for a double
occupancy room and $75 for a single room. Registration forms are available
in the music room and are due on Sept. 18 along with your payment. Come
join the fun at the retreat. It is an opportunity to make new friends,
learn more about the choir and learn the music we'll be singing in the
weeks ahead. See you there.
Cares and
Concerns
Bass Buddy Rains reports that his sister, Vicki Rains,
remains missing in New Orleans. Buddy says he has not heard from his sister
since she left a voice mail message on his phone the Sunday before Hurricane
Katina made landfall. In the message, she indicated she had decided to
ride out the storm. Buddy says his sister lives in a house about two blocks
from the French Quarter in an area that suffered only minor flooding and
damage. He believes it is unusual that she has not contacted him by now
and fears for her safety. Calls to the Red Cross and other agencies have
not been helpful.
Soprano Bertha
Erhardt will undergo surgery to remove her gall bladder on Monday,
Sept. 12, at Missouri Baptist Medical Center. Bertha has been dealing
with symptoms from a gall stone the past several weeks and suffered another
attack on Thursday.
Hurricane
Katrina Relief -- Since last Wednesday, more than $50,000 has
been contributed by our church to the United Methodist Committee on Relief
(UMCOR) for Hurricane Katrina victims. For more complete report on the
church's activities and to learn more about immediate needs and things
you can do to help, click on the link below:
http://view.exacttarget.com/?ffcd16-fe9015787663037875-fe301770726c0575751672-ff3213737466
Chancel Choir
Update 9/8: News / Cares and Concerns
Another Rehearsal Set For Thursday
Yes, we're going to rehearse again at 7:30 p.m. Thursday in the music
room. It's the second Chancel Choir rehearsal of the new season. If you
missed last week, you'll for sure want to be there this Thursday night.
Choir's First
Sunday Singing Is Sept. 11
The choir will begin its Sunday morning singing season a week from this
Sunday on Sept. 11. The choir will sing for both the 9 and 10:30 a.m.
services. Anthems will be: Jubilate & Benedictus, Sing Out My Soul
and Be Thou My Vision.
Fall Follies
Casting Call Is Next Week
Got those acts ready for the Fall Follies? Show us what you've got at
our open casting calls: Saturday, Sept. 10 from 11 a.m. to noon and 1
p.m. to 3 p.m., and on Sunday, Sept. 11, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the choir
room. For more information, contact show director Bill Borger at 636-256-1755
or email him at premierepartnership@earthlink.net. The Follies is set
for Saturday night, Oct. 29. You'll hear more very soon.
Four Accordions
Offered to Maida
The power of communications. No less than four accordions have been offered
to Alto Maida McCormack for use in her Fall Follies act. After last Friday's
email update, Maida received four messages about available accordions
ranging from tiny to 12-base to 120 base (whatever that means).
Cares and
Concerns
The following information about local efforts on behalf of Hurricane Katrina
victims has been received by the church office.
> Catholic
Charities Family Adoption Program
Catholic Charities is coordinating housing for families who are arriving
from Louisiana.
Persons who have a house or apartment are asked to contact Catholic Charities
at a special number: 314-802-0700.
If you wish to Adopt-A-Family (other than providing housing) you may also
contact Catholic Charities. This will work something like the Adopt-A-Family
works during the Christmas season. It might entail purchasing clothing,
diapers, formula, household items, toys for the children, etc.
> Former
St. Louis Country Correctional Facility In Chesterfield Valley
Volunteers at the Chesterfield Police Department Office of Emergency Management
report that the St. Louis Correctional Facility in Chesterfield Valley
(also known as Gumbo Flats) is now being called the St. Louis County Regional
Assistance Center. There will be an orientation to train volunteers to
assist hurricane victims who are being placed there. The date, time and
location of that training will be forwarded to me as soon as it is scheduled
and I will keep you informed.
There is an urgent need for the following items which are to be dropped
off after 10 a.m. on Wednesday, 9/8 at the St. Louis County Regional Assistance
Center located at 18119 Chesterfield Airport Road in Chesterfield Valley.
Diapers (any kind)
Formula (any kind)
Crayons
Markers
Coloring books
Toilet tissue
Facial tissue
Paper towels
Baby wipes
Liquid and bar soap
Hand Sanitizer
Bottled Water
Deodorant
Combs & brushes
Phone cards
Gas cards
> Missouri
Conference Hurricane Relief Information
Go the the following link to learn more about the activities of the church's
Missouri Conference on behalf of hurricane victims.
http://www.moumethodist.org/newsbody.asp?id=262
Chancel
Choir Update 9/2: News
Rehearsals Resume For 52nd Chancel Choir Season
With a lot of smiles and happy faces, the Chancel Choir returned to the
music room for rehearsal Thursday night. A total of 124 singers were present
for the rehearsal. Along with the regulars, 12 new members signed in to
join the choir this year.
Chancel Choir President Mary Dean welcomed the choir back to
work for the new season. She promised that the year would be full of great
singing and new experiences. Mary challenged the choir to remember "why
we are here" and asked them to do their part in bringing new people
to the church and to Jesus Christ. She also said the choir officers would
be looking at new ways for the Chancel Choir to become involved in the
community this year. As part of the opening, a top 10 list was presented
-- The Top 10 Reasons I'm Glad to Be Back in Choir. Various choir members
jumped to their feet for each of the items on the list.
A large birthday cake
was rolled into the choir room in recognition of Kevin's 44th birthday
on Saturday. The choir sang happy birthday.
Later in the evening,
Ted Cronbaugh presented Tenor Don Erhardt a framed recognition
certificate to mark his 20th year as an associate organist at the church.
Ted reported that Don had also received a pair of organist's shoes at
a dinner earlier this summer for the church organists.
Rev.
Debby Peebles stopped by during rehearsal to welcome the choir back to
work. "I see you in the balcony every week during the summer. It
will be nice for you to sit back up in the chancel."
Choir Asst. Treasurer Tim Zink welcomed new members as
they arrived and introduced them to the choir. Persons sitting next to
the new members were called on to tell the choir about the new members.
Following rehearsal,
birthday cake and snacks made by Soprano JoAnn Jones
were served. If you couldn't make it this week, we'll be happy to see
you next Thursday. And if you know of anyone interested in joining the
choir, now's the time to ask them to attend next week's rehearsal. Better
yet, pick them up and bring them with you next week.
Choir's First
Sunday Singing Is Sept. 11
The choir will begin its Sunday morning singing season a week from this
Sunday on Sept. 11. The choir will sing for both the 9 and 10:30 a.m.
services. Anthems will be: Jubilate & Benedictus, Sing
Out My Soul and Be Thou My Vision.
Retreat Registration
Will Begin Next Thursday
The annual Chancel Choir retreat is set for Oct. 7 and 8 this year at
Mercy Center in Town and Country (or Frontenac or Creve Coeur, depending
on which city map you have). Details on the retreat and registration information
will be available at next Thursday's rehearsal, Sept. 8.
Smile, It's
Picture Day at Chancel Choir Rehearsal
The Chancel Choir needs a new "family photo." So, we're asking
everyone to be present for our rehearsal on Oct. 13 when we will zip up
the purple and go up to the loft for a photo session.
Fall Follies
Casting Call Is Next Week
Got those acts ready for the Fall Follies? Show us what you've got at
our open casting calls: Saturday, Sept. 10 from 11 a.m. to noon and 1
p.m. to 3 p.m., and on Sunday, Sept. 11, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the choir
room. For more information, contact show director Bill Borger at 636-256-1755
or email him at premierepartnership@earthlink.net. The Follies is set
for Saturday night, Oct. 29. You'll hear more very soon.
Maida Needs
An Accordion
Yes, you read this correctly. Alto Maida McCormack needs
an accordion (preferably 120 bass) for use in her act for the Fall Follies.
If anyone in the choir has such a musical device or knows where she can
borrow one for use from now through the end of October, please give her
a call at 636-230-9913 or email at joemaida@swbell.net.
Chancel Choir
Update 8/31: First Rehearsal Is Thursday Night / Other News
It's Back to Choir On Thursday
It's that time again. Dust off your vocal cords and get ready
to start for Chancel Choir's 52nd season. Our first rehearsal of the season
is this Thursday night, Sept. 1, at 7:30 p.m. We've got a busy fall ahead,
so plan on joining us for the first rehearsal. If you know of someone
who has always wanted to sing in the choir, bring them with you Thursday
evening.
Choir Returns
To The Loft On Sunday Sept. 11 For Two Services
The Chancel Choir will sing for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. worship
services this Sunday, Sept. 11. It will be our first Sunday back in the
choir loft for this season.
Fall Follies
Casting Call Is Next Week
Got those acts ready for the Fall Follies? Show us what you've got at
our open casting calls: Saturday, Sept. 10 from 11 a.m to noon and 1 p.m.
to 3 p.m., and on Sunday, Sept. 11, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the choir room.
For more information, contact show director Bill Borger at 636-256-1755
or email him at premierepartnership@earthlink.net. The Follies is set
for Saturday night, Oct. 29. You'll hear more very soon.
Coventry Choir
25th Reunion Celebration This Weekend
The Coventry Choir is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a reunion
this weekend. So far, 13 former members of Coventry Choir will be joining
current members with a dinner at Spiro's on Friday night, rehearsals on
Saturday followed by a potluck. Coventry Choir joined by its visiting
former members will provide music for worship on Sunday.
Cares and
Concerns
With conditionings worsening in New Orleans, yet another choir member
reports family in harm's way. Bass Buddy Rains says his
sister lives in New Orleans just east of the French Quarter on Burgundy.
"Her message early Sunday afternoon said she had boarded up and was
staying there. I've not spoken to her but hope she changed her mind and
left. Please keep her and her cats in your prayers."
Chancel Choir
Update 8/29: Additional Hurricane Concerns
Bass Andy Belval reports Soprano Marci Belval
"has a large contingent of relatives that are in the New Orleans/Baton
Rouge area. The New Orleans folks got out yesterday, but the Baton Rouge
clan is hunkering down. Any and all prayers that can be sent their way
would be wonderful."
Chancel Choir Update 8/29: Cares and Concerns - Hurricane
We received this note from Soprano Beth Neuhalfen
late on Sunday (8/28) regarding her family in the New Orleans:
"My son-in-law's family all live in New Orleans, as well as one of
my best friend's daughter, son-in-law and little grandson. All had left
New Orleans by 2 p.m. today, driving either northward (toward Jackson,
Miss.) for friend's children and my son-in-law's family was headed to
Dallas and his mom is headed to Jefferson City. All have been told to
be prepared to not be able to get back into the area of their homes and
business for two weeks. My son-in-law's brother is a doctor and was scheduled
to be on call this weekend, but a single doc with no family in the area
willing swapped call with Bob so that he could leave with his wife and
two children and assorted "critters". Please keep all in your
prayers. My brother, sister-in-law and nephew and his family live about
90 miles west in Lafayette, La. I spoke to them about 8 p.m. and they
are still watching and waiting. Right now they have been told to expect
tropical storm winds. They are all together at my brother's house and
are packed to leave if it shifts further west."
Chancel Choir Update 8/28: Cares and Concerns
Rev. Julian Moorman, father of Soprano Mary Dean,
is recovering in a Raleigh, N.C., hospital from surgery Friday to treat
a broken hip he suffered in a fall in his apartment on Thursday night.
As far as we know,
Chancel Choir members have no relatives or loved ones in the path of Hurricane
Katrina as it prepares to strike New Orleans and the Mississippi Gulf
coast. If you know of relatives who are or will be effected by the storm,
please reply to this email and keep us posted as the storm progresses.
Chancel Choir
Update 8/25: Funeral Arrangements
Funeral services for Elizabeth Kneemiller will be at 11 a.m.,
Friday, Aug. 26 at Paul Funeral Home in St. Charles. A visitation will
be held at the funeral home today, Aug. 25, from 4 to 8 p.m. She is the
mother of Bass David Givens and mother-in-law of Soprano
Kathy Givens. Mrs. Kneemiller died Tuesday afternoon (8/23) at
St. Luke's Hospital in Chesterfield where she had been hospitalized in
intensive care suffering from a chronic lung condition. If you wish to
contact the Givens family, the address is: 912 Oak Terrace Court, Fenton,
MO 63026-7014. Phone: 636-861-7391. Our thoughts and prayers are with
the Givens family during the difficult time.
Chancel Choir Update 8/24: Death In Chancel Choir Family
It is with great sadness that we report the death of Betty Kneemiller,
mother of Bass David Givens and mother-in-law of Soprano
Kathy Givens. She died Tuesday afternoon (8/23) at St. Luke's
Hospital in Chesterfield where she had been hospitalized in intensive
care suffering from a chronic lung condition. Funeral services will be
Friday morning at the Paul Funeral Home in St. Charles. A visitation will
be held on Thursday afternoon. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Givens
family during the difficult time.
Chancel Choir Update 8/21: News You Can Use
Fall Kick Off Party Sets Record Attendance
What a night. Our Fall Kick Off Party had something for everyone,
drama, emotion, music, fellowship and excellent food. According to an
unofficial count, a record 115 and 120 persons attended the party held
this year at the home of Soprano JoAnn Jones and her
husband, Bruce, in Town and Country. In past years, the fall kick off
party attendance has ranged from 60 to 80 persons. No doubt the special
singing recognition for Kevin contributed to the high attendance. A total
of 63 choir members participated in singing of the commissioned music
dedicated to Kevin.
Kevin offered a welcome
to choir members at the beginning of the evening. He read a personal letter
to the choir from John Rutter which he had received in the mail earlier
in the week. Rutter congratulated the choir on the planned performance
of his music on Dec. 18 as recognition for the British composer's 60th
birthday. Kevin said he had been trading email messages with Rutter for
some time when the composer volunteered to write a letter for use in our
concert program. Fran McMillian, the choir's director of recognition,
read the list of August birthdays and anniversaries.
Immediately following
dinner, Kevin was ushered to the back patio by Choir President
Mary Dean. Singers had already assembled on a hill behind the
house facing the patio. Mary told Kevin the choir had been working on
a way to show its appreciation to him for his 10 years as its director.
Kevin was introduced to the choir as its new director at a similar fall
kick off party 10 years earlier. Past President Jim Desher
explained to Kevin that a piece of music by composer Howard Helvey had
been written and dedicated to him on behalf of the choir. Choir
Vice President Chris Kennedy presented Kevin with a framed letter
from Helvey and a framed copy of the music. Mike Latimer then stepped
forward and conducted the choir in a performance of the piece while Kevin
sat listening. Following the performance, Kevin made some brief emotional
remarks to the choir and greeted choir members.
Several potential
new choir members were spotted in the crowd. It is safe to say that some
new faces will be present at the first rehearsal on Sept. 1. Soprano
Maryann Brinkley told friends attending the party that she is
moving to a new home in the country near Hannibal, Mo., and will be leaving
the choir this fall. Special thanks goes out to JoAnn and Bruce Jones
for opening their home to the choir for its fall party this year. Photos
of the party have been posted in an album and may be viewed at the link
listed below:
http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8AZMWbhs3aNmIK
We're Headed
Back to the Emperor's Palace This Thursday and We Need Your Reservation
If you are planning to join us for the last dinner of the summer this
week at the Emperor's Palace in Chesterfield, we need your reservation.
This Thursday, Aug. 28, 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 25 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. 24. Again, we are in the upper, private dining
room. There are only 50 seats available for Thursday night. Reserve your
place now.
Chancel Choir
Update 8/20: Cares and Concerns
Bass David Givens' mother, Betty Kneemiller, is hospitalized
in intensive care and listed in critical condition at St. Luke's Hospital
in Chesterfield suffering from a chronic lung condition. She has been
in and out of the hospital with pneumonia throughout the last year and
is currently on life support and heavily sedated. Dave and Soprano
Kathy Givens request our through and prayers.
Chancel Choir Update 8/19: Important News / Cares and Concerns
By Popular Request: We're Headed Back to the Mega Buffet For The Final
Summer Dinner
They couldn't believe it when we first stopped at the Emperor's Palace
for dinner in July. Food of every description and nationality on massive
buffet tables. For the last dinner of the summer, we're headed back for
another dose of copious calories. Next Thursday, Aug. 28, 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 25 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. 24. Again, we are in the upper, private dining
room. There are only 50 seats available for Thursday night. Reserve your
place now.
Fall Kick
Off Party Is This Saturday
Dust off the lawn chair and fire up the oven. The annual back to choir
fall Kick Off party is this Saturday starting at 5:30 p.m. at the home
of JoAnn and Bruce Jones, 13536 Royal Glen Dr. 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 Jones' home, take
Mason Road north from Manchester Road or south from Clayton Road. Look
for Kings Glen Dr. which is the second street south of Clayton Road. Turn
west and follow it around to Royal Glen Dr. and look for 13536. If you
get lost, call 314-469-1511 and we'll talk you in. For a map, click this
link:
http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=13536+Royal+Glen+Drive&csz=St.+Louis%2C+MO&country=us&new=1&name=&qty=
Cares and
Concerns
Alto Debbi Brader asks the choir for its thoughts and
prayers for her family. We received the following note from her yesterday
(8/18). It is reprinted below:
Please keep our family
in your prayers. My dad's sister passed away on Tuesday. The funeral is
tomorrow in Jackson, Mo. She had been ill a long time and my dad is really
having a difficult time with her death because they were so close. They
were the closest in age, and had a special bond.
The visitation is today.
I am waiting for Bruce to get home from work so we can go to Jackson, Mo.
for the visitation. My mother just called, and told me that my cousin's
daughter's husband was killed on his way home for the funeral. So ... Mandy
(my cousin's daughter) has lost her grandmother and her husband in a matter
of a couple of days. Mandy's husband was in the military and just got back
from Iraq last month. He spent two weeks at home with his family last month
and got to see (for the first time) his 3 month old son. He just returned
to the base last week, when his grand-mother-in-law passed away (my aunt).
He was on his way home for my aunt's funeral when he was killed. We are
not even sure of any of the details, only that he somehow died.
Just keep us all in your prayers.
Debbi Chancel
Choir Update 8/16: Very Important News
Thursday Night Dinner Relocated To Surf & Sirloin
The traveling summer Thursday night dinner this week has been
moved to Surf & Sirloin at 13090 Manchester Road. Unfortunately, P.F.
Chang's in Chesterfield was unable to accommodate us this year. Surf &
Sirloin is located on Manchester Road just west of the Olive Garden. As
usual, we will meet there at 6:30 p.m. this Thursday. Last call for reservations.
If you'd like to join us, please reply to this email or call Sandy Ford
at 636-227-5749 by noon on Wednesday. Because our dinner groups have been
averaging over 40 people this year, some special considerations are necessary.
Some weeks the number of seats are limited and a waiting list is established.
If you sign up for a dinner reservation and are unable to attend, please
notify us in advance.
Fall Kick
Off Party Is This Saturday
Dust off the lawn chair and fire up the oven. The annual back to choir
fall Kick Off party is this Saturday starting at 5:30 p.m. at the home
of JoAnn and Bruce Jones, 13536 Royal Glen Dr. 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 Jones' home, take Mason Road north
from Manchester Road or south from Clayton Road. Look for Kings Glen Dr.
which is the second street south of Clayton Road. Turn west and follow
it around to Royal Glen Dr. and look for 13536. If you get lost, call
314-469-1511 and we'll talk you in. For a map, click this link:
http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=13536+Royal+Glen+Drive&csz=St.+Louis%2C+MO&country=us&new=1&name=&qty=
Fall Follies
Talent Show Casting Call Is Sept. 10 and 11
If you've always wanted to sing, dance or entertain your church friends.
Now's your chance. The bi-annual MUMC Fall Follies talent and variety
show is set for Saturday, Oct. 29. This year's theme features travel:
"Around the World in a Daze." Get those acts together and be
ready for the open casting calls in the music room on Saturday, Sept.
10, from 11 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., and on Sunday, Sept. 11,
from 1 to 3 p.m. For more information, contact Bill Borger, the show's
director, at 636-256-1755 or at premierepartnership@earthlink.net. Any
member or friend of the congregation college age or older is eligible
to participate. The Fall Follies is the choir's one big fund raiser for
the year.
Cares and
Concerns
As far as we know, choir members suffered no injuries or catastrophic
damage in Saturday's sever storms. Many choir members were still without
power on Tuesday night. Some reported telephone and Internet service outages
as well. The biggest problem was downed trees blocking subdivision streets,
falling in yards, and damaging roofs.
Patrick Henry Corley
was born to Rev. Erik and Mary Corley on Aug. 10.
Chancel Choir
Update 8/10: News
Missing Robe Is Returned To Choir Room
Chancel Choir Robe No. 60, missing for more than 10 months, has
been returned. The robe was found by music ministry assistant Eedy Gustafson
on Monday morning laying folded on a counter in the music room. It apparently
had been returned anonymously. No note of explanation was found. Robe
No. 60 was noticeably wrinkled, but appeared to be in good health given
its ordeal. Eedy immediately reported her discovery to Melissa Larson,
choir wardrobe director, who rushed the robe to a nearby dry cleaning
facility for observation and cleaning. Robe No. 60 was last seen during
the choir's concert in October. The missing robe generated much comment
among the choir and even sparked a garment hunt during the winter. After
a short rest, Robe No. 60 will be returned to normal duty.
Chancel Choir Update 8/9: News / Cares and Concerns
Last Call For Thursday Dinner At Lazy River Grill
There are four seats left for this week's summer traveling dinner
at the Lazy River Grill. Due to the size of the dining room, space is
limited to 44 diners this week. The last four seats will go, on a first
requested basis. The Lazy River Grill is in the strip mall behind the
Sonic Drive-In at Big Bend and Sulphur Spring roads. Dinner begins at
6:30 p.m. this Thursday night, Aug. 11. Please call Sandy Ford at 636-227-5749
by noon, Wednesday, Aug. 10. Here is a link for a map to the restaurant:
http://lazyyellow.com/images/location.htm
Cares and
Concerns
Alto Carol Shaffer's great nephew, Ty Quick, 19, was
killed in a single car accident near his home in New Haven, Mo. on Saturday
night. Ty was Carol's sister's grandson. Ty was a student at St. Louis
Community College at Meramec. The Shaffers ask for your thoughts and prayers
for Bill and Evelyn Quick and their son Bryan's family.
Chancel Choir
Update 8/05: News / Cares and Concerns
Dinner Thursday At The Lazy River Grill
The summer traveling Thursday night dinner will stop at the Lazy
River Grill on Big Bend at Sulphur Spring roads at 6:30 p.m., next Thursday,
Aug. 11. If you'd like to join us, please reply to this email or call
Sandy Ford at 636-227-5749 by noon, Wednesday, Aug. 10. Here is a link
for a map to the restaurant:
http://lazyyellow.com/images/location.htm
Chancel Times
Is In Your Mailbox
The latest edition of the Chancel Choir's newsletter, the Chancel Times,
should have arrived in your mailbox by now. Look for a plain white 6x9
envelope. You'll find some very interesting and informative reading inside.
You'll also note there is one typo and one grammar error included for
educational purposes.
Cares and
Concerns
Soprano Jo Ann Jones is asking for thoughts and prayers
for her cousin who had a mastectomy yesterday and was told she could expect
to live only about a year. Jo Ann says her name is Carolyn, she is 55
years old and lives in a small rural town in western Missouri. Her husband
suffered a heart attack about a year ago.
Chancel Choir Update 8/2: News
Last Call For Dinner Thursday At Big Bear Grill
The traveling summer dinners will make a stop at the Big Bear
Grill in Wildwood this Thursday night, Aug. 4. If you'd like to join us,
reply to this email or call Sandy Ford at 636-227-5749 by noon tomorrow,
Wednesday, Aug. 3. The Big Bear Grill is at 16524 Manchester Road in front
of the Schnuck's Store in the same building with St. Louis Bread Company.
The food is excellent there. Here a link to a map:
http://bigbeargrill.com/location.htm
Ted Is Named
Organist For the St. Louis Archdiocesan Choir
Congratulations are in order for Ted Cronbaugh, our organist and accompanist.
Ted has been named organist for the Archdiocesan Choir at the St. Louis
Cathedral Basilica. He will accompany the choir for special Mass services
at the Cathedral Basilica through out the year and will be a part of two
of the Cathedral concerts in December and April. Ted will be working with
John Romeri, choir director at the Cathedral. This does not affect Ted's
duties with our church or the Chancel Choir.
Now You Can
Dial Kevin Direct
The 21st century has arrived at the church office. The phone system was
recently upgraded with direct in-dial numbers and now you can call your
favorite staff member directly. Of course, the main church number is still
working and the main church phone is answered every day between 10 a.m.
and 2 p.m. by our own Alto Kristie Whitney, church receptionist. But,
if you want to bypass Kristie's friendly voice or rather not be asked
to "press one" by the auto answer system, here are the direct
dial numbers for the music staff. You may want to add them to your speed
dial.
Kevin McBeth -- 636-200-4732
Ted Cronbaugh-- 636-200-4728
Eedy Gustafson-- 636-200-4702
Lori Borger-- 636-200-4716
Dana Self -- 636-200-4726
Sherri Boland -- 636-200-4733
Chancel Choir
Update 7/26: Cares and Concerns
Alto Bonnie Halls remains hospitalized at St. Louis University
Hospital recovering from hip replacement surgery earlier today (Tuesday,
7/26). Bonnie says she has a congenital joint defect which has caused
her increased pain over the past few years. A new arthoscopic technique
was used to perform her hip replacement which should speed recovery time.
She expects to be released from the hospital on Thursday.
Last Call
For Dinner Thursday Night At The Olive Garden
If you want to dine with the group at the Olive Garden on Manchester Road
in Des Peres at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, we need to hear from you by noon
tomorrow (Wednesday, July 27). Either reply to this email or call Sandy
Ford at 636-227-5749.
Chancel Choir
Update 7/21: News / Cares and Concerns
Location of August 20 Back To Choir Party Changed
Due to a scheduling conflict, the location of the annual Back-To-Choir
party next month has been changed. Soprano Jo Ann Jones
and husband Bruce have agreed to host the party at their home at 13536
Royal Glen Drive on Saturday, Aug. 20, beginning at 5:30 p.m. The format
for the party will remain the same. It's a potluck. It's also an opportunity
to invite friends and acquaintances interested in joining the choir to
attend and check us out. Detailed directions and further information about
the party will be provided closer to the event.
Joe Elstner's
Rock Band Appearance Is Rescheduled
If you were headed to Here's Johnny's in O'Fallon, Mo., on Saturday night,
July 30, to hear Decades, Baritone Joe Elstner's rock
band, don't pack the car just yet. Joe reports that a scheduling conflict
has resulted in his band having to cancel its appearance on July 30. According
to Joe, the band will be back at Here's Johnny's on Saturday, Aug. 27,
for sure.
You've Been
Busy This Summer
Our appeal for "gossip" for the next edition of The Chancel
Times has produced some interesting information. You'll have some
fun reading about the choir member who chased a thief through an airport,
another who was seen riding a Harley-Davidson in Texas, a couple of celebrity
sightings, and some interesting vacations. But, we're sure there is more.
If you know of some interesting, unusual, or humorous experiences during
the summer, please let us know. Contrary to the description in our earlier
appeal, we aren't looking for anything that would actually embarrass anyone,
just some interesting experiences to share. If you've got some, please
reply to this email.
Cares and
Concerns
Add another grandchild to the list for Alto Diane and
Bass Tom Lawrence. Elliot Lawrence Frank arrived on Thursday,
July 20, in Lafayette, Colo. He weighed in at 8 pounds, 12 ounces, was
21 inches long, and is the son of Melanie Lawrence and Kevin Frank. All
are doing well.
Chancel Choir
Update 7/18: News / Cares and Concerns
Thursday Night Dinner Stops At Bandana's This Week
The traveling summer choir dinner makes a stop at Bandana's Barbecue
in Manchester at 6:30 p.m., this Thursday, July 21. That's the Bandana's
on the north side of Manchester Road near Wiedman Road. As always, if
you would like to join us, reply to this email or call Sandy Ford at 636-227-5749
by noon Wednesday.
Chancel Times
Is Seeking Some Good Gossip
The editor is burning the midnight oil putting together an issue of The
Chancel Times. There's lots to talk about, but we always need to
know the good stuff -- gossip about our choir friends. Did you do anything
interesting our unusual this summer? Have an unusual, funny or embarrassing
experience? Do you know about someone else in the choir that had an unusual,
funny or embarrassing experience? 'Tis the season to share. Let The
Chancel Times editor know by replying to this email in the next few
days.
Fall Follies
Is Just A Few Months Away
If you haven't put any thought into your act for this year's edition of
the Fall Follies, time's a wastin'. This year's talent show, the major
fund raiser for the choir this year, will be presented on Saturday, Oct.
29. A "casting call" to review and approve proposed acts for
the show will be held in September. Show director Bill Borger is already
at work on a theme, concept and structure for the show. This year, the
entire choir will perform at least two numbers during the show. All choir
members will be expected to perform on stage at least once during the
evening -- either with the choir or in a special act. So, that means its
time to put some serious thought into your participation. The last Fall
Follies in 2003 was a major success. The Follies is presented by the choir
every other year.
Cars and Concerns
It's another grandchild for Baritone Frederiksen. Andrew Christopher Lambert
was born on July 8 to daughter Ginger. No work on location or vital stats.
But, we are assuming all is well with the new arrival.
Chancel Choir
Update 7/11: News / Cares and Concerns
We're Headed to the Mega Buffet on Thursday
Thursday, July 14, the traveling dinner will hit the mega buffet
-- 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 14 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.
Alto Barb
Vendt's son and former Chancel Choir Scholarship winner, Daniel
Vendt, has been notified that one of his films will be shown at the Tivoli
Theater as part of the Fourth Annual St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase. The
film, entitled "Paper Due Monday" will be screened at 9:15 p.m.
on Tuesday, July 19. Daniel wrote, directed, shot and edited the film,
and also wrote, directed and recorded the music for the film.
The Decades, Baritone
Joe Elstner's rock band, will perform at Here's Johnny's in O'Fallon,
Mo., from 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 30. Joe plays keyboards
and sings with the band which has been performing in St. Louis for more
than 15 years. Joe says Here's Johnny's has great food and a lot of room
to dance. It's located in a strip mall called Gilman Plaza. Take Highway
40/64 west to the Wing Haven exit and go north on Bryan Road for three
miles. The Decades plays at Here's Johnny's the last Saturday of every
month.
Cares and
Concerns
Alto Dawn Bishop is asking for thoughts and prayers for her mother,
Gertrude Osborn, who has been diagnosed with congestive heart failure.
Family members believe she will be unable to return home to live on her
own.
Chancel Choir
Update 7/9: Cares and Concerns
Today we just have "cares". Here is some interesting
information about choir members and their families:
Joanne Descher
To Be Interviewed on American Justice Television Show
The national spotlight turns on one of our own tonight on the A&E
cable television channel. Joanne Descher, wife of Baritone Jim
Descher, will be interviewed on A&E's American Justice television
show regarding a capital murder case now on appeal. Joanne, an attorney
and partner in a Clayton law firm, is serving as court appointed counsel
for the defendant in the appeal. The case, known as the Chain of Rocks
Bridge murder, drew national attention 10 years ago when it was tried
in the local courts. The defendant in the case was found guilty and received
the death penalty. The case is now on appeal. The show is reviewing the
case and taped an interview with Joanne. The show will air at 10 p.m.
tonight, Saturday, July 9, on the A&E cable channel.
Laura Ferree
and Son Jake Are Stars Once Again
Those talented Ferree's are back on stage this summer in two local community
theater productions. Jake Ferree, son of Alto Laura Ferree
is performing in a local production of the musical Peter Pan. The show
is presented at the Marquette High School Theater on the following dates:
At 7 p.m. on July 8, 9, 14, 15, and 16. At 2 p.m. on July 10 and 17. Tickets
are $12 and $14 in advance and $14 and $16 at the door. Call 636-207-2541
to order tickets. Laura has a major role in the production of the musical
Chicago produced by the same theater company. Chicago also will be presented
at Marquette High School at 8 p.m. on July 29 and 30 and Aug. 4, 5, and
6. It will be presented at 2 p.m. on July 31 and Aug. 7. Tickets are $14
in advance and $16 at the door. Call 636-207-2541 to order tickets.
Chancel Choir
Update 7/8: Dinner Thursday Night / News
We're Headed to the Mega Buffet
You may think you've been to the largest buffet restaurant in
St. Louis. But unless you've dined at the place we're headed Thursday
night, you only think you have. Next Thursday, July 14, it's the mega
buffet -- the Emperor's Palace in Chesterfield. 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. It is an experience. Join us for it at 6:30 p.m.,
Thursday, July 14 at the Emperor's Palace in Chesterfield Valley next
to the Spaghetti Factory. We'll need to know you're coming. Respond to
this email or call 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday.
All Chancel
Choir Email Updates Are Archived
Miss some news in a Chancel Choir email update? Can't remember when something
happened? Traveling and wonder what's happening back home? All of the
Chancel Choir email updates are archived on the choir Web site in the
member section. They are cataloged by date and you can scroll through
them all.
Chancel Choir
Update 7/7: News / Cares and Concerns
Help Needed With Church's Fall Stewardship Devotional Guide
Tenor Josh Hayes says there are several slots open in the devotional
guide published each fall for use during the stewardship campaign and
he wonders if members of the Chancel Choir would be willing to help. He's
looking for you to write a brief story between 200 and 300 words about
a stewardship related topics such as prayers, presence, gifts, service,
and commitment. Here's some questions to get you started: Why did you
join MUMC? What attracted you to this place? What draws people to a faith
community? In what ways do you give away your time in God’s name?
In what ways do you share your God-given talents with others? Are you
a person who tithes? What are some gifts you experience each day? Have
you responded to the call to be in service to others for God’s sake?
The essay would need to be completed by July 16 and can be emailed to
Josh at josh@moosylvania.com. If you are interested, but would like more
information send Josh a note.
More Photos
of Great Britain Added Every Day
Check out the Great Britain trip photo albums on the Chancel Choir Web
site. A new collection of photos is added every day or two. Click on this
link to see the albums: http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Member/Notes/tourpage.htm
You can also reach the albums from the main page on the Choir's Web site.
We'd like to add your photos. It's easy. If you've got digital photos
and would like to put them in an online album to share with other choir
members, send me a note and I'll tell you how.
Cares and
Concerns
Soprano Margo Foster remains in St. John's Mercy Medical Center
Skilled Nursing Center where she is recovering from hip replacement surgery.
Chancel Choir
Update 7/6: Cares and Concerns
From Soprano Karen Fair:
Please pass along to our choir family the following good news. We returned
from a doctor's visit today (Tuesday, 7/5) with the pathology from my
last surgery. There was no cancer in the left breast, all margins were
clear on the right breast, the additional 10 lymph nodes removed from
the right arm all showed no cancer. Thanks to everyone for their continued
prayers. We feel especially blessed in every step of this process by God's
grace and the powerful uplifting of our choir family's prayers. Now we
can both concentrate on my healing from this surgery, and on the chemo
as soon as possible.
Love,
Karen and Ernie
Chancel Choir Update 7/5: Thursday Dinner
Last Call For Dinner Thursday
Here's a chance to beat the early late-summer doldrums -- join your choir
friends for dinner Thursday evening. This week's dinner stop will be at
the Home Town Buffet in Manchester (formerly Country Buffet). The name
isn't the only thing that has changed at this place -- the food now is
very, very good. There's steak and salmon every night. We'll meet at 6:30
p.m., Thursday, July 7, at the Home Town Buffet on Manchester Road east
of Highway 141 in the strip mall behind Starbucks. While this is a buffet,
with a group as big as ours we'll still need to know numbers. If you want
to join us, let us know by noon on Wednesday, July 6. Either reply to
this email or call 636-227-5749. We'll be making a stop in Chesterfield
Valley the following week on July 14.
Chancel Choir Update 7/2: Thursday Dinner / Cares and Concerns
Thursday Night Dinner at Home Town Buffet
Join us this Thursday night when the summer traveling dinner
makes a stop at the Home Town Buffet in Manchester (formerly Country Buffet).
The name isn't the only thing that has changed at this place -- the food
now is very, very good. There's steak and salmon every night. We'll meet
at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, July 7, at the Home Town Buffet on Manchester
Road east of Highway 141 in the strip mall behind Starbucks. While this
is a buffet, with a group as big as ours we'll still need to know numbers,
so you must make a reservation by noon on Wednesday, July 6, by either
replying to the email or calling 636-227-5749. We'll be making a stop
in Chesterfield Valley the following week on July 14.
Fireworks
At The Church
Every year more than 500 folks gather in the church parking lot on Fourth
of July night to view the Manchester fireworks display. It's a perfect
location to see the fireworks and visit with your choir and church friends.
There is a refreshment stand with beverages available. So, if the fireworks
at the arch don't excite you, bring a lawn chair to the church and see
some old-fashioned, down home fireworks with your friends at Manchester.
Cares and
Concerns
Ray Lembke, husband of Soprano Carol Lembke, is recovering
from knee surgery earlier this week.
Chancel Choir
Update 7/1: News / Cares and Concerns
Choir Sings For Two Services This Sunday, July 3
The choir will provide music for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. worship
services this Sunday, July 3. Call time is 8:30 a.m. We will wear robes.
Cares and
Concerns
Soprano Christine Vogel is asking for prayers for her
father, John Stanard, who underwent surgery Tuesday to treat bladder cancer.
He will undergo additional treatment once a week for the next six weeks.
Have a safe and happy
Fourth of July.
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