Item in _Billboard_

[ed@das.llnl.gov (Edward Suranyi)]

The new issue of _Billboard_ has the following item:

     Ken Townsend, director of EMI's Abbey Road Studios in London,
celebrated 40 years in the studio business last month with a surprise
party organized by his co-workers.
     DJ Alan Freeman hosted a "This Is Your Life"-styly show with
guest appearances and video messages from the likes of Kate Bush,
Cliff Richard, the Shadows, Nigel Kennedy, and Herbie Flowers.
     During the '60s, Townsend worked with Beatles producer George
Martin and helped create some of the sound effects the Fab Four
required.
     He is currently director of EMI's recording facilities and retains
an active role within the APRS, of which he was formerly chairman.

Anybody know what APRS stands for?

Ed
ed@das.llnl.gov