Issue 7 - May/June 2023

As we approach the final concert of the WRTJS spring season, we look back at some of the highlights we have experienced since the start of the season.

We have tried to provide a mix of of music genres to our members, from Trad jazz to
Swing and maybe something in- between. Also, we recognize the fact that we are
starting to see more “ Lindy Hoppers” attend our concerts, with their preference for our faster swing/jazz music. They bring much energy and enthusiasm to our concerts and we encourage them to attend whenever they can. Our objective is always to please most of our members most of the time with the bands and music we schedule each week, hopefully we consistently meet this objective.

This spring we welcomed back the Crescent City Shakers after a three year hiatus, our Big Bang Jazz Band event was a tremendous success and the Josh Roberts Hot Five concert resulted in our second highest attendance of 80. Also, the White Rock Rhythm Kings provided the backing to showcase a number of talented musicians both new and old.

As of May 27, we have realized monetary donations to the club of $830. These
donations really help our bottom line financially and we would be remiss in not
mentioning the following members for their generosity. Our thanks go to Susan Teather, Rick and Annette Whitaker, Dorin Sherriff, and Carol Jensen. I was happy to contribute by sponsoring the U.S. contingent of the Crescent City Shakers with travel expenses to perform at our club.

Our attendance numbers to date, which are critical to the financial success of our club varied from a low of 20 to high of 123 ( the Big Bang Jazz Band). The average
attendance is around 50 , we need to increase our attendance by an additional 25-30 (members, non-members and drop-ins ) to remain financially viable. Any assistance our members can provide by increasing their attendance and by encouraging new members, would be greatly appreciated.

Our last remaining scheduled band features Jason Winikoff’s Hot Five. Let us go out of our spring season with a ‘Big Bang” by maximizing our attendance for this concert.

Our fall season commences on Sept. 24/23 and features one of our all time favourite
Trad. Bands, the Crescent City Shakers. Gerry Green tells me that he may have a
surprise guest performing with the band at this concert. Let us start off the fall season with a great attendance to show your support for your club.

Finally, I and your board wish everybody a great summer and look forward to seeing you at our future concerts.

“Laissez les bon temps rouler”

Bill Maddox- President