After Bill Livingstone's retirement, several members also retired or moved on to other projects, leaving the band in a difficult spot to fill a roster. Through the Fall, we worked very hard to recruit new members in the pipe and drum corps. This was hard work, but proved successful, as we were able to take on a number of young, developing players. The main goal of the Fall was to keep the band alive.

The second goal was to develop the young players (and lasting players) to maintain the standard of play and excellence the 78thFH are known for world-wide. Through weekly practices and oftentimes, two practices a week, the band entered the summer (competition season) ready to go. We won our first contest out, which was a tremendous success considering the "young" age of the band. After that we garnered 2nd and 3rd place finishes through the summer.

In early August, the band made its annual trip to Scotland to compete at the World championships, where we were required to qualify to enter the grade 1 final. Unfortunately, we were just one 1 point away from making that final (a very small amount in our pipe band world). Regardless the trip was a success as about 40% of the band on the competition field had competed at the Worlds before - a very stressful, but major achievement for them and the band.

Many in the pipe band community predicted the band would fold after Bill's departure (the loss of a legend), but I'm happy to report to you and the regiment that we are very much alive and involved.

Moving forward this year, we are looking to begin production on what I believe is the band's 9th album, as well as a small series of concerts. Additionally, we will be out and about in the community running workshops on piping and drumming. Those involved in the band are excited by our potential and for our future of continuing traditions. We have a dedicated group that travel from places as far as Ottawa, New York, Edmonton, and Texas to practice and perform with the band; with this determination and commitment, I think this will be one of our best years yet.