Greetings Believers,

I’m sure many of you have already heard: we lost Sam Blount (trombone) yesterday.  Sam was a faithful and valuable member of our band for many years.   I should also note that we will miss Dorothy, who was “instrumental” to our band in so many ways, and also steadfast, caring friend of the band.  I’m sure she’d appreciate a note.  We can let her know she is always welcome for practice or otherwise.

As to the corona virus, the new CDC guidelines recommend suspension of all gatherings of 50 or more for  8 weeks.  Accordingly, the band leadership has determined to follow that rule-of-thumb, even though we are slightly fewer in number:   We have a few band members who are at a  higher risk of serious problems with coronavirus infection.  The nature of our gathering—blowing into instruments–causes release of droplets around each player, and droplet exposure is the usual mechanism of coronavirus spread.  

And, certainly, beyond our own health, we want to be good citizens and help flatten the curve by social distancing.  

So, according to our rehearsal schedule, eight-weeks-out falls on May 12, or ’round about.   We will not rehearse (together) before then, and please know that before resuming rehearsals, our coronavirus “team” will reconnoiter and also coordinate with Gainesville First United Methodist Church.  

Incidentally, I know that you, too, are all very grateful for GFUMC’s hospitality and amazing generosity…and even more so these days when we come to appreciate the “social capital” they are willing to risk.  

And please pray for Dr. Leigh and Dr. Smith and all others on the front line.  

As Garrison used to closeout the Almanac every day,  “Be well, do good work, and keep in touch.” 

Grateful for all of you, I am, 

Robert Cuttino, President