Helen Daley

Our souls are still reverberating and singing with joy from the recent Arizona Classic Jazz Festival (ACJF), but we are now getting ready for a wonderful Christmas program on Sunday, Dec. 3, from 1 to 4 p.m., at the Crowne Plaza Phoenix-Chandler Golf Resort, One San Marcos Place, Chandler. This may well be the best Christmas program you will attend all month. Dan Reed, a much in-demand trumpet player and leader of Dan Reed’s Dixieland Hotshots, says it will be a Christmas party you will not forget.

This Christmas party will be filled with danceable Christmas tunes, many of them with a jazzy twist. Dan will be introducing some new (to us) players, but all professionals. Dan’s slogan of “Keeping It Fun” will be evident to all in attendance.

The Dec. 3 jazz party will begin with the annual membership meeting for ACJS, and it starts at 12:45 p.m.

This is the time of year when we want to spread cheer to those less fortunate. If you are planning to attend on Dec. 3, it would be very much appreciated if you would bring an unwrapped gift, along with wrapping paper, for a child. All donations will be given to the Salvation Army for distribution. Cash donations are also accepted.

The Arizona Classic Jazz Society presents monthly jazz parties and one festival every year. Cost for the jazz parties is $15 for ACJS members and $20 for non-members (become a new member on Dec. 3 and get in free that day; membership for a full 12 months is $35 per couple, $25 single). There are two dance floors in the San Tan Room and a choice of table or theater seating. For more information, go to www.azclassicjazz.org or call 480-620-3941.