During the weekend of July 28-August 1, 2006, the CSB was privileged to be the guest band for the commencement of the Old Orchard Beach Camp Meetings in Maine, U.S.A. Also present for the occasion was our own territorial commander, Commissioner M. Christine MacMillan, who spoke throughout the weekend.

Due to ongoing health concerns, Bandmaster Kevin Hayward was unable to travel with the band. In his absence, Deputy Bandmaster Steve Brown stepped into the gap and did an admirable job of providing leadership throughout the various meetings.

In addition to the usual camp meetings that took place on the Friday and Saturday nights and on Sunday, the band participated in a march of witness and open-air meeting at the pier on Sunday afternoon and presented a concert on the Monday night to an appreciative audience.

It was the CSB’s first visit to Old Orchard Beach, and for many of the members their first visit as well. In between services and when we weren’t on duty, it was great to be able to enjoy some free time on the beach with family members. We are grateful for the hospitality shown to us by our American hosts and look forward to possible return visits in the future.

To see pictures from Old Orchard Beach use the Flickr.com link to the left.
- Major Ken Smith