Greetings Everyone!

Your feedback concerning a Spring concert this year has been mixed.  Some want us to still go ahead with it, particularly with a new Congress in town.  That concert is usually Congressionally sponsored.  A larger proportion, however, favor albeit reluctantly, foregoing that Spring concert, and focusing on the November twin programs – here in DC and in London, England. 

It is a tough call.  The Spring concert has become a staple of our programs, and we have had a very warm response from the US Congress over the years.  On the other hand, I am afraid that if we press on for a spring concert, we might end up with a small turnout.  People seem to want to save their dollars for DC and perhaps also London in November.  It is a dilemma of sorts, and is probably directly related to the economy.

Overall, and after consulting with several of you, it appears that the better part of valor would be to focus on our November programs this year.  Meanwhile, we will invite Congressional leaders to sponsor that event as they did the Spring concert.  So, it would in a sense end up becoming a Congressional celebration of Veterans Day, thus further elevating its profile.  It would also make up for the Spring program.   So, in a nutshell, we are, regrettably, dropping this year’s Spring concert; and I hope to see you all in November – in DC and also in London!

Some raised the question of what would happen to Hail Britannia 2009 if the economy gets worse.  From the tone of your responses, however, it does seem that we will have more than enough travelers to the UK, so I wouldn't worry much about a cancellation.  That said, I want to assure you that if, God forbid, the trip should be scratched, all payments will be refunded.

A reminder that the Early Bird deadline for Hail Britannia 2009 reservations is just around the corner.  Your Early Bird registration must be postmarked February 17 or earlier, in order to get the discount.  I wouldn’t wait until the last minute, though! 

Personalia:

1.       Joe Car (Associate Conductor).  I am very sorry to report that Joe’s Dad passed in November 2008.  Joe writes “Unfortunately my father suffered a massive MI and could not be resuscitated.  He was 95 and in failing health.”  Our deepest condolences Joe – our thoughts and prayers are with you, Pat and the family!  Thank you for all you do for VA-NMMG.  Joe’s email is jrc47460@bluemarble.net.

2.       Helen Camper (Alto and Chorus Librarian). Helen underwent foot surgery in January.  She writes “It is still too early to know how soon I will be able to drive, much less be able to put any weight on my foot.  So I am home on the couch with pillows under my foot, catching up on my sleep and getting some reading done. “  Helen, we hope you have a speedy recovery! Thank you also for your hard work for VA-NMMG.   Helen’s email is clovemusic@aol.com.
 

3.       Lester Foster (companion and Flag Bearer).  Pat Foster (Soprano) writes about husband Lester: “Les had a laminectomy two days before Thanksgiving.  He is recovering nicely and will be able to do some things now.  His right leg was affected and still has numbness and some flopping of his foot.  But the doctor thinks he will have a good recovery. “  Thanks Pat, and our best wishes for a quick recovery Les!  Betsy Ross’ flag is calling for you!   Les and Pat’s email is lespatfoster@erols.com.

4.       Charlene LeDoux (Cello). Charlene reports that she has a new grandson.  She writes: “I have a  wonderful new grandson.  His name is James Ledoux Gow.  I have already been playing the cello for him...he seems to be responding in a positive manner!”  She adds “(My husband) Gary and I can't wait to go with the group to England.”  Congratulations Charlene, send us a photo of James! We are looking forward to having you, Gary, and others of your family with us in London.  Charlene’s email is cledoux@localnet.com. 

5.       Susan Frugoli (Tenor). Susan shares a photo of the growing Frugoli clan.  Aisling, Siobhan and Connor are children of Al (Bass) and Heather (French Horn) Frugoli –  “long lost but hopefully singing and playing with us soon” VA-NMMG members!  Greetings to all the Frugolis including also Karen Tucker, Susan’s sister.  And we say to Al, Heather, and the lovely kids – we’ll keep your chairs warm for you! Here’s the picture of Susan’s adorable grandchildren.  Susan’s email is sfrugoli@verizon.net.

Aisling, Siobhan and Connor Frugoli

Regards to all.  Victor