NEWS - At the end of the year I always appreciate whatever I have in life-good health especially. The big Stormy Weather swing dance festival (which includes New Year's Eve) has grown to four full days to end 2024. One interesting item for me is that the Royal Room where I have often played, is about to be sold. I hear music policy will not change, but I worry. My trio should be playing there again soon and I am scheduled to be part of a Jelly Roll Morton night March 19.