English singer (and dear friend these past 30 years) Roy Harris will be turning 70 on June 15, 2003. Roy has graced these pages with his incredible knowledge and frequent insights under the Mudcat handle "Burl" (sorry if I've blown your cover, Roy). He recently sent me a letter, which I've pasted below in hopes that, like me, some others might be interested in organizing a 70th Year U.S. Tour for Roy. I'll work on the Washington, DC, end of things. If you're in nearby Delaware, Virginia, West Virginia, or North Carolina and would consider setting something up, maybe we can coordinate. PM me about that. Others in different parts of the U.S. may also want to think about getting together to help Roy create some 70th Year U.S. memories. His contact info. is in the body of the letter which begins below. Thanks. Kathy Westra

Roy wrote:

ROY'S 70TH YEAR PLAN

On June 15th 2003 I will be 70 years old. Naturally there will be a family party but I intend to further mark this milestone in my life by having a celebratory year . From then to June 15 2004 my aim is to fill the year with as many happy times as possible.   I have some non-musical things planned, including the honeymoon that Elaine and I didn't have 45 years ago, but I would like to include some singing too.

A few years ago I retired from full-time singing and that still holds, I'm not making a comeback, but in this special year I would like to have one more go-around the clubs and festivals. There are many old pals and friendly places that I've been missing since retirement. This would be a fine way to see them again, and maybe to see some new ones.

So, club and festival organisers, if I've ever played at your place, or even if I haven't, I'd love to come around again. I can still put a song across, and tell a tall tale or two. If you're interested please contact me at 31 Carling Court, Haig Place, Cardiff, CF5 4PH. Phone 02920 657311, or e-mail reharris@ntlworld.com      Remember the time-span, June 15th 2003 -June 15th 2004.

This may well be my last go-around so I hope to hear from lots of you. Thanks in advance.

ROY HARRIS.