Because I know many of our readers are members of organizations seeking assistance with important fund-raising activities, I am very pleased to share this wonderful letter with you.

Chuck McKay wrote that he and his wife, Sue McKay, are co-owners of Back Door Dance Studio in Eddington.

Besides holding regular daily dance classes, he informed me, “our studio also sponsors a performance dance team that travels all over the state of Maine, performing a show that we call the Zoot Suit Revue.”

For all of you wondering what special and unique program you can find to help your nonprofit organization raise funds, here’s the best part of his letter.

“If we don’t have to travel too far,” McKay wrote, “we don’t generally charge a fee for this performance.”

Zoot Suit Revue has been seen at the Bangor Mall, the Bangor Civic Center, Reach Performing Arts Center in Deer Isle, at the LL Bean Arts Festival “and a number of private parties and wedding receptions,” McKay wrote.

He explained that the “nonstop, high-energy show” of 12 to 14 numbers “is approximately 45 minutes long, and includes the Charleston, a waltz routine, the jitterbug, a comedy dance, exciting swing and Lindy-hop in between; all complete with zoot suits, flapper dresses and poodle skirts.”

Members of the Zoot Suit Revue provide their own music with a stereo system and CDs.

McKay graciously informs our readers that Back Door Dance Studio offers its services to any of you planning to host a nonprofit fund-raiser for the 2002-2003 season. To discuss this wonderful opportunity with Chuck or Sue McKay, call them at 843-5638, write them at Back Door Dance Studio, 34 Lois Lane, Eddington 04428; or e-mail them at Swingtime34@aol.com.

Although it’s a last-minute invitation, Richard Johnson of Sebec wants to remind people that the Swedish Colony of Monson is sponsoring its Annual Gathering beginning at noon today at Whetstone Pond in Abbot. All people with Swedish ties who are interested in attending the event are cordially invited to do so.

If you do come, you should bring your own picnic lunch. If you wish more information, call Johnson, 564-2017, or Tootie Bennett at 876-3073.

Jill Reynolds, development officer for Eastern Maine Charities, reports that teams and sponsors are being sought for the first Tournament of Hope on Friday, Aug. 2, at Hermon Meadow Golf Club.

“All proceeds raised will benefit the Campaign of Hope for the Breast & Osteoporosis Center and CancerCare of Maine” at Eastern Maine Medical Center, she wrote.Greens fees are $65 per person or $250 for a foursome.

The registration fee includes 18 holes of golf, cart, polo shirt, barbecue and raffle prizes.

“Each day, thousands of Maine people face the challenge of living with a cancer diagnosis,” Reynolds said. “This is your opportunity to ensure the most modern cancer treatment is offered right here at home.”

To receive more information about registering for the tournament, or about tournament sponsorships, call Reynolds’ office at 973-5055.

Seeking something a little different to do next week?

You could attend an authentic English Tea Party and Silent Auction from 2 to 4 p.m. Wednesday, July 24, at Ecotat Gardens and Arboretum on the corner of Route 2 and Annis Road in Hermon.

Seating is limited for the rain or shine gala, and the $8 per person tickets are available only through advance purchase by calling Marilyn Soper, 848-2582 or Betty Hodge, after 5 p.m., at 848-5162.

It is suggested you dress for an afternoon tea, with your fanciest hat, enjoy a leisurely tour of the 56 flower beds, and visit the Mary Blethen Memorial Library.

While you are browsing, you can look over items at the silent auction table where, if you wish, you may place your bids for a spring-coil water hose, a custom-made tote bag, gift certificates and much more.

Tea will be served at canopied tables in the gardens, where you will enjoy tea sandwiches, homemade pastries, fruit breads and scones with jam, clotted cream and lemon curd.

During the event, Clay Hardy will entertain on his dulcimer and, after the tea, auction winners will be announced.

All proceeds benefit the nonprofit Ecotat Gardens and Arboretum.

The descendents of Blanche and Benjamin James will enjoy their 41st annual family reunion Sunday, July 21, at the home of Kris and Tray Chipman in St. Albans.

If you have questions, or need directions, call 474-8865.

Joni Averill, Bangor Daily News, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor 04402; 990-8288.