December 2002, page 5

'Tis the Season!

by Bob Swenson

I know, the title above probably leads you to think that here's more about the Christmas Season, but really, the season I want to talk to you about is the one approaching - - The Season of Love! Yes, in just a few short weeks we'll be heavily into hearts, flowers, candy, cards, and all the wonderful things that say I LOVE YOU!

The $inging Valentine$ season is soon to be upon us. This is a chance to share with others their wonderful emotions during Valentines Day. A Singing Valentine is the perfect way to express your affection toward your loved one, and we'll capitalize on the season by presenting Singing Valentines on Thursday Evening, February 13, and all day on Friday, February 14.

This year's $inging Valentine$ program will operate much like last year, but that means that we need to start preparing our songs now so that we're ready. Starting on January 2, and continuing on every Thursday evening except January 9th, we will have coaches available to help quartets that want to present singing valentines this year.

There are two songs mandatory for your quartet to be ready. You must know "The Story Of The Rose" (Heart of My Heart), and "Let Me Call You Sweetheart" with both sets of words. We want every quartet to be approved by our musical leadership before it is qualified to help present $inging Valentine$ this year. We will have that leadership available at our meeting hall between 7:00 and 7:30 on January 2, 16, 23, 29 and February 6 and 13 to help you qualify for this most important and fun opportunity.

We have identified several additional quartets that we're encouraging to give it a try, but if you don't happen to make a quartet, there are still plenty of other jobs to be done. Many have found enjoyment in being a presenter. But besides that, there are dispatchers, phone attendants, flower

crew, waiting room hosts and hostesses, substitute singers, and an almost endless list of opportunities to share in this event. Yes we need help from our ladies too!

What can you do to help out? First of all, clear your calendar for as much of the 14th as you possibly can. Some guys take the entire day as a vacation day. Secondly, come and help join the singers as they prepare each Thursday mentioned above. Next, hand out as many of the $inging Valentine$ flyers as you can everywhere you go. The flyers will be ready on January 16th.

Finally invite your "significant other" to share in the wrap-up party on Friday evening, February 14th. This party is for the entire chapter, because it will celebrate another successful $inging Valentine$ program.

We'll be releasing more information about $inging Valentine$ in the coming weeks at chapter meetings, so plan on helping us make this year's $inging Valentine$ our biggest and best yet!