Chancel Choir Update 9/28: News
Regular rehearsal this Thursday. See you there.

After Choir
Join us for After Choir this week at Kreiger's at Big Bend and Highway 141.

Computer Malware
Every now and then one of our choir friends' computers becomes infected with malware software (virus) that takes over their email address lists. The malware sends out bogus messages or it can send out spam advertisements for products -- some a little embarrassing. You may have gotten strange messages from friends in the choir recently. I send messages to persons in the choir when I discover this problem and encourage them to clean their computer of the viruses. To protect your computer: Do not click on any attachments from people you don't know, don't open messages with no subject in the title line, or don't answer unusual messages from people you do know. Do not send passwords or other ID or account information to email requests. Most legitimate companies will not request information this way.

Registration Begins This Week For Fall Retreat
This year's fall retreat is Friday evening, Oct. 8 and Saturday, Oct. 9. This year the retreat is at the church with a catered lunch on Saturday. Kevin promises there will be a lot of singing and some guest directors. Registration will begin at rehearsal Thursday.

Chancel Choir Update 9/24: News / Cares and Concerns
We sing for worship at 10:50 a.m. Sunday. Call time is 10:20 a.m. in the Music Room. Anthem: The Heavens Are Telling.

Registration Begins Next Week For Fall Retreat
This year's fall retreat is Friday evening, Oct. 8 and Saturday, Oct. 9. This year the retreat is at the church with a catered lunch on Saturday. Kevin promises there will be a lot of singing and some guest directors. Registration will begin at rehearsal next Thursday.

Christian Business Connections
This note is from Alto June Van Klaveren about the MUMC Christian Business Connections:
Christian Business Connections, a faith-building, networking group at MUMC, will meet each Wednesday for 6 more weeks at 6:45 p.m. in room 141. Any questions, contact June Van Klaveren at 636-394-4148, june@compelcom.com. Hope to see you there!
September 29 -- Speaker: Tom Hill, Eagle Goal Coach, www.tomhillwebsite.com
Presentation: Designing the Exceptional Life -- Life's priorities and Six Keys to Success.
First you must determine, absolutely what are your life's priorities and then make a commitment to follow them faithfully. Secondly, practice the six keys to success. Tom will take attendees through the priority process and then share the six keys that can also be applied to business.

Chancel Choir Update 9/23: News / Cares and Concerns
See you at rehearsal tonight.

Join Us For After Choir
Join us after rehearsal this week for After Choir at Applebees at Barrett Stations Road and Manchester Road (east Applebee's).

Important Dates
Tuesday, Oct. 5, 7-10 p.m. -- St. Louis Symphony Chorus open rehearsal in our Sanctuary
Friday, Saturday, Oct. 8 & 9 -- Choir Retreat at the church this year
Sunday, Oct. 17 -- Music Dedication Sunday

Cares and Concerns
It's a son for Soprano Tara Sintek. Caleb Alan Sintek was born at 10 p.m. last night (9/22) and weighed in at 7 pounds, 10 oz and 21 1/2 inches. Mom, dad and Caleb are doing well.

Chancel Choir Update 9/21: News / Cares and Concerns
Regular rehearsal this week. See you Thursday evening.

Centenary Kitchen Help
The choir has committed to serve a meal at The Bridge homeless meal center at Centenary Church downtown each month on the third Wednesday. A year ago Kevin challenged all choir members to serve at least one meal at Centenary by Thanksgiving 2012, yet each month we work hard to find volunteers to help. Please remember to support this outreach and volunteer to serve a meal.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Marlene Kuhlman reports her husband, Larry, is recovering at home following surgery last week to treat a broken leg he sustained in a fall.

Chancel Choir Update 9/17: News / Cares and Concerns
We sing in worship at 10:50 a.m. this Sunday. Call time is 10:20 in the Music Room. Anthem: Bound For The Promised Land.

Zippers In Your Robes
Some of our robes are experiencing zipper trouble. Years of service and multiple dry cleanings have lead to a deterioration of some zippers. Wardrobe Director Melissa Larson is replacing these broken zippers. Some of them have been replaced with heavy gage zippers on the recommendation of a supplier. We have discovered that these zippers are too large and will also be replaced with more appropriate sized zippers. All of this work will be completed in the next few weeks. If you are experienced at the installation of zippers, talk to Melissa about helping her.

Memorials for Barb Farmer
The family of Barb Farmer is requesting any memorial gifts be given to the Music Ministry Endowment Fund at the church. You can write a check to MUMC and specify on the check it's for the Endowment Fund in memory of Barb Farmer. The fund will be used to underwrite future concerts, guest performers, among other things to be determined. Two individuals in the choir have expressed interest in purchasing an anthem each for the Chancel Choir in Barb's memory. Chancel Choir officers are exploring options for remembering Barb and will report to the choir soon.

Centenary Kitchen Help
The choir has committed to serve a meal at The Bridge homeless meal center at Centenary Church downtown each month on the third Wednesday. A year ago Kevin challenged all choir members to serve at least one meal at Centenary by Thanksgiving 2012, yet each month we work hard to find volunteers to help. Please remember to support this outreach and volunteer to serve a meal.

Return Funeral Music
Please return your copy of He Never Failed Me Yet by putting it in a designated basket. It was the piece we sang at the memorial service last Saturday. All other music should remain in your folder.

Chancel Choir Officers Discuss Issues
Chancel Choir officers met before rehearsal last night. Here is a summary of the business discussed:
-- Were told that about 30 zippers would be replaced in the robes. Upon advice of a supplier, large zippers were ordered and discovered to be unsuitable after a few were installed. All will be replaced with an appropriate sized zipper. Kevin will ask the choir for volunteers to help Melissa.
-- An incomplete treasurer's report was reviewed. Asst. Treasurer Tom Lawrence will obtain more information from the church treasurer and report accurate numbers to the officers later.
-- Decided to revive the "fellowship friend" program for new members. Section reps will be assigned as mentors for each new member.
-- Alto Kristin Pierce has agreed to serve as assistant outreach director to help Alto Charlotte Moser, outreach director.
-- Reviewed a request from Centenary UMC's food program for trays, glasses and cups. After hearing the total cost of the requested donation, officers agreed to delay a decision until an accurate treasurer's report was received. Any donation will be presented to the choir for approval.
-- President Diane Lawrence reported discussing the choir's Christmas outreach project with Circle of Concern. This year toys and gift cards will be collected for needy families. Adopting one or more families was discussed and it was agreed that individual choir members could adopt families, if the wished.
-- The choir's holiday party was discussed at length. The possibility of a dinner party at the Jazz at the Bistro was discussed. The dinner could include guest artists performing for the choir. A possible date may be the Sunday of the Martin Luther King holiday weekend in January. Kevin will continue to explore these ideas and a final announcement will be made to the choir soon.
-- Kevin will give the choir the pulpit announcements in the choir room before we process upstairs each Sunday. With announcements being made prior to our processional, the choir would miss announcements. There is too much noise in the Narthex to run the PA system loud enough for the choir to hear. Kevin said this seemed like the best solution.
-- Even with the choir's fall retreat being held at the church, there will be some cost to members. Kevin prefers to have a lunch served at the church and will have guest conductors work with the choir during the retreat.
-- Our annual fund raising concert -- a "Concert of Love" schedule for Valentine's weekend in February will have to be rescheduled. The St. Olaf Choir has been booked to perform at the church Feb. 11. Several options for the fund raiser was discussed, including late in June or in May. Officers were afraid participation in June would be a problem and were concerned about its success as a fund raiser that late in the season. Kevin will explore other options.

Cares and Concerns
Alto Fran McMillian is recovering at home from the installation of a pacemaker while she was recently hospitalized.

Chancel Choir Update 9/15: News
Regular Chancel Choir rehearsal tomorrow night. See there.

After Choir
Join us for After Choir at the Corner Pub & Grill at Big Bend and Daugherty Ferry Road right after choir.

Important Dates
Tuesday, Oct. 5, 7-10 p.m. -- St. Louis Symphony Chorus open rehearsal in our Sanctuary
Friday, Saturday, Oct. 8 & 9 -- Choir Retreat at the church this year
Sunday, Oct. 17 -- Music Dedication Sunday

Chancel Choir Update 9/10: News / Cares and Concerns
Chancel Choir will sing for the funeral service for Barb Farmer at 3 p.m. tomorrow (Saturday, 9/11) in the Sanctuary. Call time is 2:30 p.m. in the Music Room. We will wear robes and sing He Never Failed Me Yet. A visitation will be held in the Narthex starting at 2 p.m. prior to the funeral service. Barb was a member of the alto section and died unexpectedly at her home earlier this week.

Chancel Choir In The Loft on Sunday
It's back to singing for worship this Sunday. We'll sing for the 10:50 a.m. worship service. Call time is 10:20 a.m. in the Music Room. Anthem: Sing Out My Soul.

Chancel Choir Is Now On Facebook
A closed group page has been created for MUMC Chancel Choir on Facebook. The group page includes all of the features of a regular Facebook profile and will provide a place for choir members to make comments, discuss activities, and post photos and videos. It will not be a substitute for our regular email updates and will not be used to publish news. Membership in the Facebook group page is only for choir members. If you are a member of Facebook, search for MUMC Chancel Choir and click the "request invitation to join" button at the top of the group page. If you are not a member of Facebook, you'll need to create a profile to access the page. Once completed this week, I sent invitations to all of the choir members who I know are on Facebook -- about 25. If I missed you, just let me know by replying to this email update.

Need Help At Centenary on Sept. 15
The choir is responsible for preparing and serving lunch at The Bridge meal program at Centenary Church downtown on Wednesday, Sept. 15. We need four volunteers. We meet at the church at 9:30 a.m., work from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and arrive back at the church by 1:30. If you can help, contact Charlotte Moser at charlotte@tritech-pmi.com.

Choir Member Forms Christian Business Connections Group at Church
If you’ve wanted to fellowship with other Christian business owners at MUMC and gain insights into running your business at the same time, this is the group for you. Each of the eight classes is independent of the others in the series, so feel free to attend all that interest you. The group will meet on Wednesday evenings from Sept. 15 through Nov. 3 at MUMC at 6:45 in room 222. Contact June Van Klaveren, 636-394-4148 or june@compelcom.com for more information. See the complete schedule at: http://www.compelcom.com/CBC.html

September 15 Christian Business Connections class:
Speaker: Pam Vaccaro, Designs on Time, www.designsontime.com
Presentation: It was Never About Time Management Anyway: Managing Your Focus, Not Your Time
Pam will show participants how to shift their focus from time management to managing attention. She presents both big picture solutions, and practical applications to accomplish this new direction. An important component of this program for companies and service institutions is Pam's solution for dealing with the growing need for human attention in our technological revolution.

Cares and Concerns
Alto Mary Lou Adams continues to make slow, but steady progress at Town & Country Health Care in her recovery from recent surgery. Mary Lou and Jack Adams are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary today (9/10). Choir members are encouraged to send cards and notes to them at their home at 634 Shady Meadows Dr., Ballwin, MO 63011.

Alto Fran McMillian remains hospitalized at Missouri Baptist Medical Center for treatment of fluid in her lung. She returned to the hospital earlier this week.

Note from Kevin, 9/8/10:

"No matter how dark the moment, love and hope are still possible"!

As you can imagine, it's all hard to find the words - so, I guess we'll just have to sing!

Let's plan to meet at 7:30pm for rehearsal tomorrow night. Mostly for the need of being together! There will be more to share, I'm sure. The officers meeting will be postponed until September 16th.

The choir will be singing for the memorial service at 3pm on Saturday, and those details are still being finalized. We should have all the information by rehearsal time.

For now, we live on in love and hope! The love that we share as a choir family and the hope that reigns in God supreme.

Cherishing every second,
KJ

Chancel Choir Update 9/8: Funeral Services For Barb Farmer
Funeral services for Barbara Farmer will be at 3 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 11, in the Sanctuary, with a visitation at the church from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. prior to the memorial service. Memorials may be given to the Manchester United Methodist Church Music Endowment. She died unexpectedly at her home in Chesterfield on Sept. 7. Messages of sympathy may be sent to her son: Christopher Farmer, 6710 Port Orchard Dr., Columbia, MO 65203 or to her mother: Grace Nansen, 11049 Oak Spur Court, St. Louis, MO 63146. An obituary is available at www.schrader.com.

Chancel Choir Update 9/7: Death In Choir Family
It is with sadness that we report the death of Alto Barb Farmer. She died sometime during the night last night at her home in Chesterfield. Funeral services are pending. Further information about services will be provided when they are available.

Chancel Choir Update 9/7: News / Cares and Concerns
Second rehearsal of the season is this Thursday at 7:30. If you missed last week's first rehearsal, we'll see you this week. We begin singing for Sunday worship this Sunday.

After Choir
Join us after choir rehearsal at Krieger's at Big Bend and Highway 141 for refreshments and conversation at After Choir.

Important Dates
Tuesday, Oct. 5, 7-10 p.m. -- St. Louis Symphony Chorus open rehearsal in our Sanctuary
Friday, Saturday, Oct. 8 & 9 -- Choir Retreat at the church this year
Sunday, Oct. 17 -- Music Dedication Sunday

Cares and Concerns
Alto Mary Lou Adams continues to make slow, but steady progress at Town & Country Health Care in her recovery from recent surgery. Mary Lou and Jack Adams will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary this Friday, Sept. 10. Choir members are encouraged to send cards and notes to them at their home at 634 Shady Meadows Dr., Ballwin, MO 63011.

Kevin celebrated his 49th birthday on Friday, Sept. 3. Cake was served following last Thursday's rehearsal.

Chancel Choir Update 9/3: News
No Chancel Choir in the loft this Sunday. Have a safe and happy Labor Day holiday.

First Rehearsal
All the seats were filled and the Chancel Choir was ready to sing when rehearsals resumed last night. Chancel Choir President Diane Lawrence opened the session with a special thank you to all choir officers and staff. The choir sang Happy Birthday to Kevin, whose birthday is today, Sept. 3. Senior Pastor Greg Weeks, greeted the choir and led a prayer to open the choir season. Diane then told the choir there was still one event to acknowledge -- Kevin's 15th anniversary as director. Gary Ford and Joe Elstner entered the room in black robes, set up stands in front of the choir, and did a dramatic reading of Kevin's admonishments to the choir over the past several years. A choir member actually keeps a journal of all of Kevin's witty directions. Some examples:
-- When you’re singing Surely God will Save Me, would you notify your face.
-- Tenors can do it. It’s just more of a party if the girls join.
-- These rests are not because you need the air, but because you need the rhythm.
-- You all look like human Pez dispensers.
-- A clean piece of music is like a Bible with nothing written in it.
The evening ended with Kevin's birthday cake.

Chancel Choir Stats
Here are membership totals for Chancel Choir at the beginning of the season:
Soprano - 52
Alto - 48
Tenor - 16
Bass - 34
Total - 150

Important Dates
Tuesday, Oct. 5, 7-10 p.m. -- St. Louis Symphony Chorus open rehearsal in our Sanctuary
Friday, Saturday, Oct. 8 & 9 -- Choir Retreat at the church this year
Sunday, Oct. 17 -- Music Dedication Sunday

Chancel Choir Update 9/1: Important News / Cares and Concerns
It's back to work for the Chancel Choir. The first rehearsal of the season is Thursday night. Don't miss this important start of the year. Kevin will distribute all the necessary information and music for the fall. We'll see you at 7:30 sharp.

First Sunday in the Loft Sept. 12
The Chancel Choir's first Sunday in the loft for the season is Sept. 12.
Here are some important dates for fall:
Sunday, Sept. 12, 10:50 a.m. -- Resume regular worship schedule
Friday & Saturday, October 8 & 9 -- Annual Fall Retreat
Sunday, October 17 -- Music Ministry Dedication

80 Attend Back To Choir Party
It was a balmy Saturday evening when 80 Chancel Choir members and guests gathered at the home of Bonnie and Gary Halls to celebrate the end of summer and the start of fall rehearsals. Some photos from the party and a snapshot from a special summer memory appear at the bottom of this email update.

Cares and Concerns
It is with sadness we report the death yesterday morning of Al Halls, father-in-law of Soprano Bonnie Halls. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m., Friday, Sept. 10, at the by Ziegenhein Funeral Home, 4830 Lemay Ferry Road near I-270, with burial in the Jefferson Barracks National Cemetary. Family visitation will be from 4 until 8 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 9, at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Halls Family Endowment, c/o Manchester United Methodist Church.

This note from Joan Lemen: "A special regonition should be given to the Social Director Sandy Ford for arranging the Thursday night summer dinners. It was a lot of fun for all those who participated each week. These dinners only happened through Sandy's extra efforts. Thanks Sandy!"

Chancel Choir Update 8/27: News / Cares and Concerns
There will be a summer choir in the loft this Sunday. Call time is 10:20 in the Music Room. See you then.

Back To Choir Party This Saturday Night
Summer is almost over. The kids are back in school. And that means it's time to fire up the Chancel Choir for yet another season of amazing music. The Chancel Choir fall kick-off party will be at 6:00 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 28. at the new home of Bonnie and Gary Halls at 219 Meadowbrook Country Club Estates. A map is shown below. The entrance to the Meadowbrook Country Club is on Clayton Road, just east of the intersection of Clayton and Kehrs Mill Road. Go through the country club entrance and follow Meadow Brook Country Club Estates to the left. The Halls house is beyond the Club House. If you get lost, call this number and we'll talk you in: 314-265-6036. This is one of our famous potluck dinners, so bring your best dish to share. This is also a great time to invite potential new choir members to check us out. We'll see you Saturday. This will be the social event of the season. You can never tell what might happen.

Rehearsals Resume Next Week
Chancel Choir's first night for rehearsal is next Thursday, Sept. 2. Our first Sunday in the loft for the season is Sept. 12. Thanks to everyone who participated in the summer traveling dinners. Forty-one of your friends joined us at The Cheesecake Factory in Chesterfield last night for an excellent meal and fellowship. We toured to 12 local restaurants this summer with as many as 48 attending.

Cares and Concerns
Alto Fran McMillian is hospitalized at Missouri Baptist Medical Center for tests and treatment for a bladder infection. Her room number is 603.

Chancel Choir Update 8/24: News
Cheesecake Factory For Final Summer Dinner This Thursday
Don't miss this great opportunity to dine with your choir friends in a private room at the Cheesecake Factory. The Chancel Choir social director is pulling out all the stops for the final traveling summer dinner. She has talked us into the Cheesecake Factory at Chesterfield Mall. That's right, we'll have a private room at one of the best restaurants around. Join us next Thursday, Aug. 26, at 6:30 p.m. We'd like to see you even if this is the first dinner you've attended this summer. We will need a tight count on reservations, so either reply to this email or call Sandy Ford at 636-227-5749 by noon tomorrow (Wednesday). The menu reads like a book with every type of food available. And of course, there's the cheesecake.

Back To Choir Party This Saturday Night
Summer is almost over. The kids are back in school. And that means it's time to fire up the Chancel Choir for yet another season of amazing music. The Chancel Choir fall kick-off party will be at 6:00 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 28. at the new home of Bonnie and Gary Halls at 219 Meadowbrook Country Club Estates. A map is shown below. The entrance to the Meadowbrook Country Club is on Clayton Road, just east of the intersection of Clayton and Kehrs Mill Road. Go through the country club entrance and follow Meadow Brook Country Club Estates to the left. The Halls house is beyond the Club House. If you get lost, call this number and we'll talk you in: 314-265-6036. This is one of our famous potluck dinners, so bring your best dish to share. This is also a great time to invite potential new choir members to check us out. We'll see you Saturday. This will be the social event of the season. You can never tell what might happen.

Chancel Choir Update 8/23: Cares and Concerns
Alto Charlotte Moser and her husband, Gary, escaped serious injury Saturday morning (8/21) when the car they were driving was struck by another driver who ran a stop sign in the tiny village of Cheticamp on Cape Breton Island. All airbags deployed and Gary received only a small bruise on his leg. "Now we will sit patiently and wait in the last motel vacancy in the entire area to see what the insurance companies work out on Monday. They'll tell us whether we will be able to continue our trip to Newfoundland and Labrador or come home early. The Lord was definitely with us (and all our camping gear)," Charlotte reports.

Chancel Choir Update 8/20: News
Summer choir in the loft this Sunday. Join us at 10:20 a.m. in the Music Room for warm up.

Cheesecake Factory For Final Summer Dinner
The Chancel Choir social director is pulling out all the stops for the summer dining finale. She has talked us into the Cheesecake Factory at Chesterfield Mall. That's right, we'll have a private room at one of the best restaurants around. Join us next Thursday, Aug. 26, at 6:30 p.m. We'd like to see you even if this is the first dinner you've attended this summer. We will need a tight count on reservations, so either reply to this email or call Sandy Ford at 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday. There'll be plenty of choices for everyone. The menu reads like a book with every type of food available. And of course, there's the cheesecake. We'll see you next week.

Fall Kick-Off Choir Party Aug. 28
The Chancel Choir fall kick-off party will be at 6:00 p.m, Saturday, Aug. 28 at the home of Bonnie and Gary Halls in the Meadowbrook Country Club near Clayton and Keirs Mill Road. An address, directions and details on the party will be provided next week. Rehearsals will resume on Sept. 2.

Chancel Choir Update 8/17: News / Cares and Concerns
Last Call For Dinner This Thursday At Surf & Sirloin
The traveling summer dinners will make a stop at Surf & Sirloin this Thursday. Surf & Sirloin is located on Manchester Road west of I-270. If you'd like to join us, reply to this email or call Sandy Ford at 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday. Excellent food, always a favorite.

Fall Kick-Off Choir Party Aug. 28
The Chancel Choir fall kick-off party will be at 6:00 p.m, Saturday, Aug. 28 at the home of Bonnie and Gary Halls in the Meadowbrook Country Club near Clayton and Keirs Mill Road. An address, directions and details on the party will be provided. Rehearsals will resume on Sept. 2.

Chancel Choir to Participate In Welcome of International Choral Festival
Kevin announced Sunday that the Chancel Choir has been invited to participate with several St. Louis choirs, including the Ambassadors of Harmony, in a welcome concert for the American International Choral Festival to be held in St. Louis this November. More details to come. Here is information about the event from the St. Louis Convention Bureau:

"St. Louis will be the center of the choral world from November 17-21, 2010, when approximately 50 choirs and 2000 singers from nearly 20 countries are expected to participate in the American International Choral Festival (AICF), co-sponsored as a joint venture between the St. Louis Convention & Visitors Commission (CVC) and the Regional Arts Commission (RAC). Adult and children's choirs, representing communities, churches and colleges/universities will perform in concerts, parades and public events as well as compete for top honors in a variety of categories. Choirs will sing a broad spectrum of music, including traditional, gospel, jazz and barbershop.

Kevin's 15th Anniversary With Chancel Choir
Sunday was Kevin's 15th anniversary as Director of Music Ministries at Manchester. He reported for duty at his new job Aug. 15 and began directing the Chancel Choir later in the fall. His debut to the choir was at the 1995 back to choir party at the home of Sandy Wilmoth. To help you stroll down memory lane, below are four pages from the June and October 1995, Chancel Times, the choir's pre-email newsletter.

Cares and Concerns
It’s a granddaughter for Soprano Claudia Fallert. Natalie Catherine Luby was born on Aug. 10 in Columbia, Mo., weighing in at 5 lbs., 13 oz. and 19.5 inches long. The birth was an emergency c-section in Columbia instead of St. Louis where baby Natalie's parents, Astrid Fallert and Tim Luby, live. All are doing well now.

Chancel Choir Update 8/13: News / Cares and Concerns
There will be a summer choir in the loft this Sunday. Call time is 10:20 in the Music Room. See you then.

Dinner This Thursday At Surf & Sirloin
The traveling summer dinners will make a stop at Surf & Sirloin this Thursday night, Aug. 19. Surf & Sirloin is located on Manchester Road at Topping Road in Des Peres (west of I-270). If you'd like to join us, reply to this email or call Sandy Ford at 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday, Aug. 18. We really need to know if you are going to join us, so if you sign up please show up or give a call.

Fall Kick-Off Choir Party Aug. 28
The Chancel Choir fall kick-off party will be at 5:30 p.m, Saturday, Aug. 28 at the home of Bonnie and Gary Halls in the Meadowbrook Country Club near Clayton and Keirs Mill Road. An address, directions and details on the party will be provided. Rehearsals will resume on Sept. 2.

Chancel Choir Update 8/10: News / Cares and Concern
Last Call For Dinner This Week At Candicci's in Ballwin
The traveling summer dinners will make a stop at Candicci's at 110 Holloway in Ballwin this Thursday night, Aug. 12. Candicci's is located near the intersection of Holloway and Manchester Road across the street from Target. If you'd like to join us, reply to this email or call Sandy Ford at 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday, Aug. 11. We'll need an absolute count this week, so call if you'd like to join us.

Fall Kick-Off Choir Party Aug. 28
The Chancel Choir fall kick-off party will be at 5:30 p.m, Saturday, Aug. 28 at the home of Bonnie and Gary Halls in the Meadowbrook Country Club near Clayton and Keirs Mill Road. An address, directions and details on the party will be provided as soon as I can get them. Rehearsals will resume on Sept. 2.

Still Need Help At Centenary on Aug. 18
The choir is responsible for preparing and serving lunch at The Bridge meal program at Centenary Church downtown on Wednesday, Aug. 18. So far we have three volunteers: Dick Vreeland, Jan Fredstrom, and Nancy Wilson. We need one more. We meet at the church at 9:30 a.m., work from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and arrive back at the church by 1:30. If you can help, contact Dick Vreeland at 636-825-6351 or email at rlvreeland@sbcglobal.net

Cares and Concerns
Tenor Chris Kennedy is recovering at home from open blisters on his feet that resulted in an infection. He was hospitalized earlier this week. From Chris: “I am home now on oral antibiotics and will see my primary care physician and a podiatrist this week. Thanks for the prayers and emails.”

Soprano Shannon Meriwether’s father-in-law, David H. Meriwether, died Aug. 2 at the age of 70 from emphasema. Funeral services will be Friday in Monett, Mo. Shannon asks for thoughts and prayers “especially for Jason's mother, Joyce. Joyce and David had been married 45 years.”

This from Alto Carole Langley: “Would you please tell my Chancel Choir friends how much I appreciated their concern and prayers during my recent illness. The beautiful plant and cheery notes brought lots of pleasure and now I am recovering quite well. Hope to see everyone this fall. Thanks again.”

Soprano Julie Southwick is leaving the choir family. Here is a note from her: “We are excited to share that Jim has accepted a new position within Emerson in Florence, Kentucky (just outside Cincinnati). With Kindergarten starting in less than two weeks it will be a quick transition for us. We hope to have Kaitlyn enrolled in school by the first day to make the change for her easier. While we feel this will be a great move for our family in the long run, we are sad to leave many friends in St Louis.”

Alto Mary Lou Adams has been moved to Life Care Center, 3520 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis, Mo. 63103.

Chancel Choir Update 8/8: Cares and Concerns
Tenor Chris Kennedy remains hospitalized at St. John's Mercy Medical Center for treatment of open blisters on his feet. He is receiving IV antibiotics for an infection and is being treated by a wound specialist. Chris' wife, Debbie, reports that he will not be allowed to walk until the blisters are completely healed. The family asks for our thoughts and prayers.

Chancel Choir Update 8/6: Additional Care and Concern
Tenor Chris Kennedy was hospitalized during the night last night for treatment of an undiagnosed infection. His wife, Debbie, reports that Chris has an elevated white blood count and blisters on the bottom of his feet which is a serious issue due to his diabetes. He is at St. John's Mercy Medical Center in Creve Coeur.

Chancel Choir Update 8/6: News / Cares and Concerns
No summer choir in the loft this week.

Free T-Shirt For Sneaker Sunday This Week
This week is Sneaker Sunday. We've got some pretty fancy Sneaker Sunday t-shirts in the Music Room. You can have one if you promise to wear it to church this Sunday. Stop by and pick one up on your way to a pew this week. There are 14 smalls, 25 mediums and 7 larges. Stop by the Music Room and pick up one.

Dinner This Thursday At Candicci's in Ballwin
The traveling summer dinners will make a stop at Candicci's at 110 Holloway in Ballwin this Thursday night, Aug. 12. Candicci's is located near the intersection of Holloway and Manchester Road across the street from Target. If you'd like to join us, reply to this email or call Sandy Ford at 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday, Aug. 11. It's Italian food at its best.

Need Help Serving Lunch at Centenary
We need four volunteers to help serve lunch at The Bridge at Centenary United Methodist Church downtown on Wednesday, Aug. 18 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. If you can help, contact Charlotte Moser at charlotte@tritech-pmi.com. Thanks to Dixie Moll, Jacque Rocchio and Charlotte and Gary Moser for helping last Wednesday.

Important Summer Dates
Sunday, Aug. 8 -- Sneaker Sunday
Saturday, Aug. 28, 5:30 p.m. -- Summer Potluck at The Halls' Place
Thursday, Sept. 2, 7:30 p.m. -- Resume regular rehearsals
Sunday, Sept. 12, 10:50 a.m. -- Resume regular worship schedule
Friday & Saturday, October 8 & 9 -- Annual Fall Retreat
Sunday, October 17 -- Music Ministry Dedication

Cares and Concerns
Alto Margo Foster broke her left wrist in a fall Tuesday night at Stages in Kirkwood. She was attending a performance with a church group and fell while exiting the theater.

Dean Carlisle, husband of Soprano Rose Carlisle, is undergoing therapy at St. Luke's Rehabilitation Hospital in Chesterfield following surgery last week to replace his knee. Address of the hospital is: 14709 Olive Blvd. Chesterfield, MO 63017. He is expected to be there for a week or less. Rose thanks the choir for its cards, messages and prayers.

Chancel Choir Update 8/3: News / Cares and Concerns
Last Call For The Mega Buffet at Emperor's Palace This Thursday
We've got a long list of your Chancel Choir friends coming to Emperor's Palace this week. But you know, there's room for you since it's a MEGA BUFFET. Join us for it at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 5, at the Emperor's Palace in Chesterfield Valley. Reservations are required -- respond to this email or call 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday, Aug. 4. Every possible kind of food and a Chocolate Fountain.

Anniversary Cards For Eedy
This month Eedy Gustafson will celebrate 25 years as the church's music department assistant. We are planning a card shower for her. The cards are being collected by Alto Janie Walker. The church staff are recognizing her on Tuesday, Aug. 10, so the deadline for the cards is Sunday, Aug. 8. Put your cards in in box 114 in the Music Room or mail them to Eedy c/o Janie Walker at 16018 Nantucket Island, Wildwood, MO 63040. Do Not Send The Cards Directly To Eedy.

Free T-Shirt For Sneaker Sunday This Week
We've got some pretty fancy Sneaker Sunday t-shirts in the Music Room. You can have one if you promise to wear it to church this Sunday. There are 14 smalls, 25 mediums and 7 larges. Stop by the Music Room and pick up one.

Wizard of Oz on Broadway
You heard it hear first. Andrew Lloyd Webber is working on a stage production of The Wizard of Oz. Learn more about that project and about him in general in this very interesting newspaper article. Just click this link: http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/AndrewLloydWebber-article.pdf

Cares and Concerns
Alto Mary Lou Adams is improving and has been moved to a rehab facility to continue her recovery from recent surgery. Cards may be sent to Barnes Extended Care, Room 233A, 401 Corporate Park Drive, St. Louis, MO 63105.

Chancel Choir Update 7/30: News / Cares and Concerns
We're Headed to the Mega Buffet at Emperor's Palace Next Thursday
You won't believe it when you join us at the Emperor's Palace for dinner next Thursday. Food of every description and nationality on massive buffet tables. Next Thursday, July 16, 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, Aug. 5, at the Emperor's Palace in Chesterfield Valley. Reservations are required -- respond to this email or call 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday, Aug. 4.

Cares and Concerns
Dean Carlisle, husband of Soprano Rose Carlisle, is recovering from successful surgery Tuesday to replace his knee. He expects to return home either today or Saturday. Rose says, "Thanks to you and our wonderful choir family for all the good thoughts and prayers."

The Thursday dinner group had fun at California Pizza last night. Great pizza and cup cakes to celebrate John Lemen's birthday. Join us this week at Emperor's Palace.

Chancel Choir Update 7/27: News / Cares and Concerns
Last Call For Dinner at California Pizza Kitchen at Chesterfield Mall
We'll eat some fancy pizza at California Pizza Kitchen at Chesterfield Mall this Thursday, July 29, at 6:30 p.m. We absolutely must know if you are coming by noon tomorrow, Wednesday, July 28. Either respond to this email or call 636-227-5749.

Need Help Serving Lunch at Centenary
We need four volunteers to help serve lunch at The Bridge at Centenary United Methodist Church downtown on Wednesday, Aug. 18 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. If you can help, contact Charlotte Moser at charlotte@tritech-pmi.com. Thanks to Dixie Moll, Jacque Rocchio and Charlotte and Gary Moser for helping last Wednesday.

Cares and Concerns
Dean Carlisle, husband of Soprano Rose Carlisle, will undergo surgery today (7/27) at St. Luke's Hospital in Chesterfield to replace his knee. Dr. Bruce Jones, husband of Soprano Jo Ann Jones, will perform the operation. Rose asks for our prayers for a speedy recovery for Dean.

Chancel Choir Update 7/24: Cares and Concerns
Alto Mary Lou Adams remains hospitalized in at Barnes Hospital after undergoing surgery recently to repair a ruptured intestine and remove a tumor resulting from ovarian cancer. Her condition is improving. Her doctor told her this morning that she had "turned the corner." The arrival of her three grandchildren from Chicago yesterday and thoughts and prayers have contributed. The family asks that the Chancel Choir continue to pray for her recovery.

Chancel Choir Update 7/23: News / Cares and Concerns
No choir in the loft this Sunday. Come and hear the Coventry Choir women.

Next Thursday Dinner's at California Pizza Kitchen at Chesterfield Mall
We'll eat some fancy pizze at California Pizza at Chesterfield Mall next Thursday, July 29, at 6:30 p.m. We absolutely must know if you are coming by noon Wednesday, July 28. Either respond to this email or call 636-227-5749. Plan on joining us next week. We had a great time at Ginghams in Ellisville last night. Excellent food, good service and a birthday cake for Tom Lawrence. Former choir member Joan Allan and her husband, Ross, who live in Florida now are in town visiting. Many of you remember Joan. She is in the photo with me below.

Cares and Concerns
This note from Soprano Sue Lemley: "Our daughter Jennifer was diagnosed with cervix cancer and will be going through chemo and radiation for five weeks. They are waiting for her to recover a little from the surgery she had a week ago that removed a tumor the size of an egg. Now they are saying the lymph nodes are involved. We are asking for prayers for our daughter and family who live in Kansas City, Mo."

Tenor Kathy Roberts will be in Florida for the next four months to see if she would like to move there. "I'm seriously thinking about it. So I'm going down there now for four months during the "off" season to check things out and make sure I really want to move permanently. (At least until it's time for the "home".) One thing I'll be checking out are the churches and choirs. I doubt if I'll find one that isn't disappointing, which may keep me from moving."

Chancel Choir Update 7/20: Choir Member On TV
Bass Joe Elstner will present his point of view on local immigration legislation in Arizona during the I'm Just Sayin' segment on the 10 p.m. news on KSDK, channel 5, tonight (7/20).

Chancel Choir Update 7/20 News / Cares and Concerns
No Chancel Choir in the loft this Sunday.

Last Call For Dinner at Gingham's in Ellisville
Join us at Gingham's Homestyle Restaurant in Ellisville this Thursday, July 22, at 6:30 p.m. Gingham's is a place where you can get about anything you want from "blue plate" specials to sandwiches or breakfast. We've eaten there several times and have not been disappointed. Let us know if you are coming by noon tomorrow, Wednesday, July 21. Either respond to this email or call 636-227-5749. Plan on joining us next week. We've missed some of our Thursday night regulars this summer. We'll be glad to see you. Ginghams is on Manchester Road in Ellisville in the building that used to be Ponderosa.

Important Summer Dates
Sunday, Aug. 8 -- Sneaker Sunday
Saturday, Aug. 28, 5:30 p.m. -- Summer Potluck at The Halls' Place
Thursday, Sept. 2, 7:30 p.m. -- Resume regular rehearsals
Sunday, Sept. 12, 10:50 a.m. -- Resume regular worship schedule

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Carole Langley, wife of Bass Duane Langley, is recovering at Missouri Baptist Medical Center from surgery to remove an arterial blood clot in her right leg. “The doctors are trying to stabilize her blood chemistry to prevent more clots and this may take a couple of more days,” reports Duane.

Chancel Choir Update 7/16: News
Summer Choir This Week
There will be a choir in the loft this Sunday. Join us. Call time is 10:20 a.m. in the Music Room.

Next Thursday Dinner at Gingham's in Ellisville
Join us at Gingham's Homestyle Restaurant in Ellisville next Thursday, July 22, at 6:30 p.m. Gingham's is a place where you can get about anything you want from "blue plate" specials to sandwiches or breakfast. We've eaten there several times and have not been disappointed. Let us know if you are coming by noon Wednesday, July 21. Either respond to this email or call 636-227-5749. Plan on joining us next week. We've missed some of our Thursday night regulars this summer. We'll be glad to see you. Ginghams is on Manchester Road in Ellisville in the building that used to be Ponderosa.

Looking Ahead
Kevin sent out a list of important dates for the fall. If you missed his note, here's the list.
Sunday, August 8 -- Sneaker Sunday
Saturday, August 28, 5:30 p.m. -- Summer Potluck at The Halls' Place
Thursday, September 2, 7:30 p.m. -- Resume regular rehearsals
Sunday, September 12, 10:50 a.m. -- Resume regular worship schedule
Friday & Saturday, October 8 & 9 -- Annual Fall Retreat
Sunday, October 17 -- Music Ministry Dedication
Sunday, October 24 -- PipeScreams
Saturday & Sunday, December 3 & 4 -- Coventry Dinners/Concerts
Tuesday, December 7, 10:30 a.m., 2:15 & 8:00 pm -- Holiday Brass
Sunday, December 19, 7:00 p.m. -- Sing Christmas! Ring Christmas!

Chancel Choir Update 7/14: Cares and Concerns
It's a grandson for Soprano Sue and Bass Larry Woolweaver. Carter Monroe Jackson was born yesterday (7/13) in Frisco, Texas. He weighed in at 8 pounds, 13 ounces and measured 21 inches. Parents Hillary and Larry are doing well.

Chancel Choir Update 7/13: News / Cares and Concerns
Last Call For Ribs and Brisket This Thursday
The traveling summer dinner will be at Rib City in Des Peres this Thursday, July 15. We'll gather at Rib City at 6:30 p.m. We'll need your reservation by noon Wednesday, July 14. Either respond to this email or call 636-227-5749. Rib City is located at Manchester Road and old Des Peres Road behind Casa Gallardo in the old Rick’s American Café building.

Summer Choir In Loft On Sunday
There will be a choir in the loft on Sunday. Call time is 10:20 a.m. in the Music Room.

Cares and Concerns
It’s a grandson for Alto Pam and Tenor Mike Campbell. Ty Taehwan Coleman, 8 months old, was adopted July 9 by Maggie (Campbell) and Mark Coleman. Ty is from South Korea and now lives in Charlotte, N.C. Big brother Gabe Coleman (20 months) is still evaluating the new family member.

This note from Bass Doug Ross who is recovering from hip replacement:
“Thanks to the choir for the get well plant. I got home Friday afternoon. With the aid of a walker I can make my way around the living level of my home. I am feeling about as well as one could expect that has a huge incision and bone cut out and replaced. A little more than I anticipated but I am making great progress. Greg Weeks came to visit the day after surgery. At first I thought he was a church member involved in a ministry of such care. We had a great chat and his timing was perfect; that day after surgery is the worse day and he really picked me up.”

Chancel Choir Update 7/9: News / Cares and Concerns
There is no choir in the loft this Sunday. But, it's the new senior pastor's first Sunday in the pulpit so you'll want to be in a pew. Years from now you can say: "Yah, I was there back in '11 when he showed up for the first time."

Ribs For Dinner Next Thursday
The traveling summer dinner will be at Rib City in Des Peres next Thursday, July 15. We'll gather at Rib City at 6:30 p.m. We've tested ribs at Rib City and without doubt the baby back ribs are among the best I've had in a long, long time. Good eatin'. We'll need your reservation by noon Wednesday, July 14. Either respond to this email or call 636-227-5749. Rib City is located at Manchester Road and old Des Peres Road behind Casa Gallardo in the old Rick’s American Café building.

Surprise 50th Wedding Anniversary Party
Many of you remember Ross and Joan Allan. She was an alto in the choir for many years and worked in the church office. They moved to Florida several years ago and are back visiting for the next few weeks. This is their 50th wedding anniversary and there will be a surprise anniversary party for them at the church from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, July 24. If you would like to join in the celebration, RSVP by tomorrow (7/10) by calling 636-462-1331 or emailing their daughter-in-law at leslie.allan@yahoo.com

Cares and Concerns
Alto Mary Lou Adams remains in intensive care at Barnes Hospital after undergoing surgery on Wednesday to repair a reptured intestine and remove a tumor resulting from from ovarian cancer.

Tenor Tim Zink’s wife, Lori Holcomb, is recuperating at home following successful surgery yesterday to repair a ruptured disc in her back. According to Tim, “she says the next couple of weeks at home will give her a chance to catch up on some bad TV. Thanks for the prayers and well wishes.”

Bass Doug Ross is recovering at Des Peres Hospital from surgery on Tuesday to replace his hip.

Chancel Choir Update 7/6: News / Cares and Concerns
Last Call For Wildwood Grill This Thursday
Last call for dinner this week at the Wildwood Pub & Grill. We'll gather at the Wildwood Pub at 6:30 p.m. this Thursday, July 8. We'll need your reservation by noon Wednesday. Either respond to this email or call 636-227-5749. We will need an accurate total count at noon Wednesday this week and we will need you to either keep your reservation or let us know if you are not showing up. The Wildwood Pub & Grill is located off Highway 109 at the corner of New College Ave. just two stoplights south of Highway 100. (It's next to the new YMCA and the new Community College building.) Great food and lot's of fun.

Note From The Choir President
This from Chancel Choir president Diane Lawrence:
“A big thank you to all of the choir members who helped serve dinner for Vacation Bible School. Many hands did make light work. My observation was that the choir was very well represented not only cooking and serving the dinners, but also helping with other dinners and in other many other areas with the program.”

Cares and Concerns
Bass Doug Ross is undergoing surgery this morning (7/6) at Des Peres Hospital to install a new hip.

Alto May Lou Adams remains hospitalized at Barnes Hospital for treatment of complications from ovarian cancer. Cards may be sent to 634 Shady Meadows Dr., Ballwin, MO 63011.

This from Alto Debbi Brader: "Thanks so much for all your prayers. Dad had several tests and the doctor determined that the mass was not malignant. In fact, she thinks that it is just scar tissue from the underdeveloped kidney. Dad has a kidney infection, and will go on antibiotics to take care of that. He is now home and is resting comfortably. Thanks again for the prayers."

Soprano Sue and Bass Art Lemley have a new email address: adlsal@att.net

In case you missed church last Sunday, July 4, here's a look at the growth found in the Chancel. Something left over from Bible School.

Chancel Choir Update 7/2: News / Cares and Concerns
Yes, Chancel Choir sings in worship this Sunday, July 4, at the 10:50 a.m. service. Report to the Music Room at 10:20.

Traveling Summer Dinner Headed to Wildwood on Thursday
We're making a stop this week at the Wildwood Pub & Grill. That's Jeff Allee's place formerly known as The Brickhouse. We'll gather at the Wildwood Pub at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, July 8. We'll need your reservation by noon Wednesday, July 72. Either respond to this email or call 636-227-5749. The Wildwood Pub & Grill is located off Highway 109 at the corner of New College Ave. just two stoplights south of Highway 100. (It's next to the new YMCA and the new Community College building.) We'll see you there.

Summer Choir Schedule
Here's the summer choir schedule:

July 4
July 18
August 1
August 15
August 22
August 29

Cares and Concerns
Alto May Lou Adams is hospitalized at Barnes Hospital for treatment of complications from ovarian cancer. Cards may be sent to 634 Shady Meadows Dr., Ballwin, MO 63011.

Bible School Dinners
Thanks to all Chancel Choir members who helped serve meals at Vacation Bible School Tuesday and Wednesday evenings.