SWINGIN' TERN

The Swingin' Tern Committee Report for August 6:

Things are good and exciting things are coming; December 7 will commence a spectacular month for Swingin' Tern.

First, the recent events.

The July 6 dance was on a holiday weekend. It was a hot night in a dance hall without air conditioning. The caller was unknown to most dancers. A sure money loser, even though a worthwhile dance. But, but, but. For the night, Swingin' Tern netted $75 to the good. Phenomenal for any summer night, let alone one so hot. Perry Shafran called dances appropriate for a hot night (not too much physical contact) and Dr. Twamley's Audio Snakes played at a good tempo that was not so fast as to cause overheating. We look forward to hosting them all again.

In contrast, July 20 featured two callers (Fia Feller and Steve White) popular with our dancers and a good band (Mr. Darcy Trio), and it followed a good performance two weeks earlier, but the net was negative by $196. Consistent with the quality of the performers, every dancer I heard from said it was an excellent dance.

The ST committee had a meeting this past weekend. The highlights:

1. To recognize and celebrate Nancy's contribution to and support of FP and ST, she and her husband Russ will have free admission to any and all ST dances.

2. Financially, ST is ahead more than $800 this year.

3. September 7 is the next big event--a techno contra, featuring Phase X and Dan Black. Setup is complicated; Doug Heacock will lead the volunteers who have stepped forward to get everything organized.

4. Nancy Kelner was the hit of the meeting. She explained how the FP publicity committee operates and what it does, and she also made specific suggestions for promoting some upcoming dances. The committee has often heard Nancy's name and knew some of what her committee does, and this was an ideal opportunity to hear more and meet her personally.

5. Xander Kastan has continued his successful organization of the volunteers this year. We're in good shape. We're seeking another dance manager and sound person.

6. Suzanne Patnaude has booked performers through the beginning of April, except for one March date. Next April 5 there will be a double dance (with an experienced afternoon dance) featuring The Brooklyn Swing Ensemble and Bob Isaacs, both of whom have an excellent national reputation.

7. From December 7 to January 4, Swingin' Tern will hold five dances. Suzanne has booked a series of top bands and callers throughout. It's going to be a lot of work, all fun, and we can't wait.

Leigh Walker

Swingin' Tern