DECEMBER 2007

It’s hard to believe that the holiday season is upon us – and that ICC in London is already history. 

In the cold northern area of Newmarket,ON, we’ve already had several large snowfalls – I may never see my lawn again and likely will have to replace a snow shovel before too long.   However, it will make for an excellent ski season and I plan on taking advantage of it very soon. 

International Convention in London was fabulous – Area 3 was represented by 7 choruses and 7 quartets who all did an excellent job.  Of course, we are so proud of our new Harmony Queens, “Mystique” – and we know you will wear those crowns proudly as they represent an incredible effort and commitment.  Also to the members of “Fusion” – savour those 4^th place medals and be very proud of them in their first ( but definitely not last) performance at ICC. 

Not to be outdone, our Area 3 choruses did an excellent job – congratulations to A Cappella Showcase on their second place medals.  It was a personal thrill for me to be able to sing with this chorus, in addition to the Toronto Accolades.  It made for a memorable contest day personally but I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.  Your support of A Cappella Showcase, in the purchase of “To Russia with Song” buttons is much appreciated.  You’ll be hearing more about this incredibly exciting adventure throughout the coming year. 

Every chorus and quartet member who crossed the stage in London should be very proud of her efforts. 

Our thanks to the ICC Convention team and to our sisters in Area 5 for making our trip to London memorable. 

Start saving now and plan on attending ICC 2008 in the delightful city of Appleton, WI – you will not be sorry.  The convention center is fabulous and it’s right across the street from the headquarters hotel. 

I was honoured to be part of the Friday membership meeting – for the last time.  Being Area 3 representative has been a wonderful experience but now it’s time for someone else.   Please consider taking on this position – applications must be into the corporate office no later than January 27, 2008 ( they are in the December E-Note). 

At the September Council meeting, a Special Finance Committee was formed to deal with the financial issues in Area 3.  You will have received their report and recommendations from your chapter president and chapters will be asked to submit a vote shortly.  Our thanks go to the members of this committee – Michelle Buckenmeyer, Kath Morgan, Nancy Peters and Bonnie Morton, along with former treasurer Janice Eaton – for their diligence in putting together a detailed report.  Please know that these issues are temporary and are being dealt with at this writing. 

You will be receiving HELP DAY 2008 information very soon.  Judy Comeau and Bonnie Morton are working hard to put together and exciting and interesting weekend of singing on Saturday March 1.  The focus will be on lots of singing – and learning – plus the fabulous lunch that we all enjoy.  This will be the last year at the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel ( due to budget restraints) so plan on coming and spending the weekend in this wonderful place. 

You will also be receiving AC&C 2008 information very soon – the dates are May 2-4, 2008 and it takes place at Humber College, Lakeshore Campus, in Toronto.  You will love this facility – it’s all under one roof and you can park your car in the lot ( parking is free) and forget about it all weekend.  The members of Classic Blend chapter are busy putting together a great Moonglow – the theme is “Music Masquerade, the Sequel” and you will really enjoy the things they have in store.  Of course, the ACCT will be responsible for the weekend as usual – and they are working hard on it.  ACCT Co-Chair, Sue Trenchard, will undergo a double knee replacement, in December – please send her your best wishes for a speedy recovery. 

As you can see, many people contribute to smooth running of Area 3.  My special thanks go to all the coordinators who work so hard all year to make sure Area 3 is THE PLACE TO BE. 

Wishing each and every one of you all the best for the holiday season – and good health, happiness and great singing for 2008.