Once again Magennis urges the Association to adopt the graded system for competitions. Rod MacMullin of Glace Bay speaks out against this. He says that it would not be fair to expect girls to compete against boys as boys are naturally stronger players. Girls like to leaving their piping behind them at age 18 because they are thinking about marriage and a family. They can return to piping later on in life if they wish and would be welcome in a senior band. No, there is no senior band in industrial Cape Breton. Finally, President MacAllister Ellis calls for a formal motion. Magennis makes it, seconded by Scott Williams. The debate continues but the motion is passed by a slim majority. Magennis and Williams agree to draft a new set of rules and regulation s for the next meeting.

The Association agrees to jointly sponsor an indoor piping and drumming meet in Antigonish, and puts up $400.00 for this purpose. The Antigonish Highland Society will also participate.

Gwen Boutilier moves that the slow march and six-eight march be separated from the march, strathspey and reel competition. Prior to this, bands played all five pieces. The motion is carried. The slow march and six-eight march are offered as a separate event.

The new President, Mr. Charles MacDougall, hosts a dinner following the meeting. This practice was begun in 1969 and continues through these more affluent years. By November, however, concern was being expressed about the depletion of the Association's funds. No move was made to cut costs, as presentations were being prepared to request additional funding from the government.

An accusation of improper judging led to one member being dismissed from the panel and a concerted effort being made to standardize judging methods and scoring. At the request of drummer Neil McKenna, the graded system was extended to the drummers as w ell. McKenna offered to draw up lists of drummers presently on the rolls and assign grades according to past performance in competitions. Secretary adds Sprigs of Heather to list of bands. P/M Magennis advocates use of medleys for competitions in keeping with the trend followed in Scotland and in Ontario. If our bands are to compete successfully away from home, they need experience in these events. Association agrees to promote an Open Medley event for the coming season. Magennis asks the Association to consider offering trophies for Champion Supreme Bands for each grade. Gordon Sutherland asks that bands be made to full dress uniforms in competitions. No action taken.