Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute members of the 1939 Casino Band of Stratford, Ontario.
Band members have enriched the lives of citizens for five decades with their musical talent. These musicians originally played for community dances in the 1940s but now perform voluntarily for events throughout my riding.
The band can frequently be found performing at hospitals, nursing homes and various community events, including the Stratford Festival's annual garden party. For the past two summers the band has performed afloat on the Avon River for thousands of tourists who visit Stratford.
These men should be commended for bringing such musical delight to our community. Not only is it one of the most talented jazz bands in Ontario but it is one of the most kind spirited.
The members of the 1939 Casino Band include Jack Hayter, Jack Smith, Mervin Doerr, Robert Hayter, Bill Fowler, Walter Gladding and Andy Munroe.
I wish band members many more years of music and laughter together.