It is with great sadness that I pass along the news of Leon Chapman's death this past Friday. For those that did not know Leon or would like to know more about him, check out the 1998 Greenville News article on him at http://www.harvestmoonfolk.org/Leon.htm Leon owned River Falls Lodge and he, along with dedicated individuals within the Harvest Moon Folk Society, helped create a truly magical dance hall. We owe him huge gratitude for this. Leon had a huge heart and gave a lot - he truly loved the dance community. He was also kind of 'quirky' in a way that we all grew to accept and love. He was truly one of a kind! His wish has been to make sure River Falls Lodge will remain a dance hall. His heir, Scott McCall, will become the new owner of River falls. I have spoken at length to Scott and he wants all in the dance community to know that he will fully honor Leon's wishes.This coming Friday, March 30, there will be a catered dinner and memorial service for Leon Chapman, at River Falls Lodge, starting at 6:30 pm. The tentative schedule is dinner 6:30-7:30, Memorial service 7:30- 8:30, followed by an Advance Dance (not recommended for beginners) with the Great Bear Trio with Beth Molaro calling. It is quite fitting that on the night we have the memorial service to celebrate Leon's life, that we also have an incredible band and caller playing for our dance - that will further inspire us in our honoring of Leon. To Leon, it was all about the dance. If you listen carefully while dancing you might hear that famous whistle of Leon's that he would often 'share' with us at the high moment of the dance, piercing joyfully through the sounds of music and dancers. Thanks so much for your support! Come help us celebrate the life of Leon Chapman this Friday!

David White
representing the Board of the Harvest Moon Folk Society harvestmoonfolk. org