Our niece Jill (Janice and Phil's daughter) leaves today to begin service as a missionary in the Korea Seoul West Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She will spend about 12 weeks in language training before heading to Korea. This is the same mission that Scott served in from 1979-1981 and Scott's brother Brent served in as well from 1982-1984. So that will be three from our family that have served in that mission. We wish Jill well and send our thoughts and prayers with her as she begins this service.
Mark finishes his Academy Project
One of Mark's desires this year was to earn an enhanced diploma by completion of the Lone Peak High School Academy Program. This required a research paper. a senior project, community service, and a presentation to a committee. Since Mark wants to go into sound recording, he decided to do a sound recording project. So he purchased a mixer that would connect to the computer, learned to use the accompanying software, and recorded 5 songs himself. They included Mark playing an electric guitar duet of "The Star Spangled Banner", singing a John Denver song to his guitar accompanient, a cello piece, and a song where Mark played the piano, cello, electric guitar, acoustic guitar and sang. Mark is one of about 30 in his graduating class to get this honor. He did a great job and is glad to have this done!
Paul Rapp Retires
Congratulations to Paul, Michelle's husband, on his retirement from his position of Chief of Police in Bountiful. He had a 26 year career in law enforcement. Thanks, Paul, for all you did. I know that Michelle said she has plenty of things for you to do now, so I don't think that it will be much of a rest!
Joyful Christmas Sounds
Tonight, our family is singing in Alpine's annual "Joyful Christmas Sounds" a community concert that has been a tradition for over 25 years. Conducted by Marvin Payne, this is the fifth year that someone from our family has participated (Sue-5 years, Scott-3 years, Mark-3 years, Brian 3 years). It's always been a treat to learn from Marvin and sing with all the incredible talent that is here. This is the first year that all of us have participated in the adult choir (sometimes they have a children's choir and Mark and Brian did that one year). Brian is also playing viola in a string quartet that is accompanying the choir on "For Unto us a Child is Born". In addition to the choir numbers, other local talent performs solo or small group numbers.
Festival of Trees 2006
Festival of Trees 2006 is underway. Monday was decorating day and Tuesday was bid night. Our tree was purchased on bid night by American Express (thanks!). Our theme this year was an old fashioned Christmas, and honoring our brother Paul (who died in the line of duty in 1995) and brother Brent (for his service in Iraq). If you are in the Utah area, be sure to go to the Festival of Trees this week (until December 2) at the SouthTowne Expo Center. Our tree is in row C.
