The Observation Deck

Observers,

With respect to the 42nd chapter of Isaiah, verse 10....

For those interested or so inclined, I will be introducing a new song of faith for the glory of God, titled "By No Other Name"- composed by me, arranged by my dad, Robert Rice (former Harding teacher) and orchestrated by my good friend and long-time musical collaborator, Gary Cavano. The Lakewood United Methodist Church's outstanding men's chorus will be performing the piece.

I will be conducting this work at Lakewood United Methodist Church on April 29th, at the 10:00 am service.

All are cordially welcome to attend.

Any rumors to the effect that I will merely be shaking my hands to get back circulation from writing too many columns are unfounded :-)

Just a reminder to those interested, that the debut of my hymn will be tomorrow, Sunday, April 29th at the 10 am service at Lakewood United Methodist Church, on Summit and Detroit.

For those of you who may be unaffiliated, this is a warm open and accepting congregation.

You all are cordially welcome to attend.

And Gary (and arranger exemplar Mr. Rice) how'd it go?

It went very well, from my vantage point in the balcony. Gary looked a little like Paul Schaeffer - black shirt and shades.

Oh and the sermon was good too - Thanks Dr. Parks.

Thanks Suzanne!

You are very gracious.

For the record, the glasses were only tinted. This works well under the glare of hot lights.

I received a great many compliments.

Of course, this was a complete team effort....My melody line, lyrics, syncopation.. Dad's outstanding arrangement for four-part vocals...

Let's not forget my utterly genius orchestration friend, Gary Cavano, who can work magic with digital synthesis.

Gary and I did the Ted Strickland banjo campaign song earlier this year.

The Lakewood United Methodist Gospel Group is an utterly excellent group of singers. It was an honor to work with them, as well. They were outstanding.

So again, thanks to all who supported this effort, and a special thanks to God, who inspires us all to be our best.