To the Editor:

Last Saturday night, at the Great Newtown Reunion, "Panacea" absolutely rocked our world. Every single one of the rock group's members was superb, and the song choices brought tears to our eyes. "Panacea" was back again, and 40 years magically melted away ... we were young, deliriously happy and carefree once more. We knew every single word to every single song, and we let the world know it with a cacophony of off-key yet joyous and enthusiastic singing to the music of our beloved "Panacea."

We were awestruck by being able to see and hear the one and only Bruce Tibbits, of  "Uncalled For," and "Clejj." Corky Ballard was as talented and adorable as ever, Jon Dodson's enthusiasm and experience was contagious, and we were, once again, struck by Ricky Kuhn's stunning vocals. Gosh, were they always this good?!  And then there was our angel, the inconceivably beautiful and swan-like Leslie (Ballard) da Silva, the talent of whom held the various pieces together like glue. Oh God, listen to her flute, listen to her sing!  Is all of this a dream?!

In the cold light of dawn, it certainly felt like a dream, yet we knew it was not. We really did hear "Panacea" perform, right before our very eyes and the world stood still and life was good.  Bruce, Corky, Jon, Ricky ... and Leslie. Thank you for your talent, thank you for your magic that enveloped all of us in a dream and made us feel young again. The Reunion was, as they predicted, historic and important. Woe for those who weren't there. It was a night to remember, a night that will forever be in our hearts and souls.

We love you, "Panacea."

Your friend,

Gay Engelberger

53 Hundred Acres Road, Newtown                    July 31, 2013