Monthly Quiz | Recently Departed Members
FOR: The Nassau Mid-Island Chapter
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Barbershop Harmony Society
“LOVE NOTES” GET BARBERSHOP QUARTET TREATMENT
IN PERSONALLY DELIVERED SINGING VALENTINES
WESTBURY, LONG ISLAND, NY - Candy may be dandy along with traditional Valentines cards, but, says the Nassau Mid-Island Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society, the impact of love songs personally delivered, is extremely hard to beat. “The singing of four-part harmony by Chapter members on behalf of the romantically inclined.” asserts Joel Fairman, this year’s Valentines chairman for the organization, “has annually become the ‘perfect pitch’ in expressing special affection, eliciting blushes, appreciative laughter and sometimes an emotional tear or two from recipients.”
Over the course of three days (February 12th, 13th and Valentine’s Day -- Tuesday the 14th), members of the Nassau Mid-Island Chapter will be fanning out into communities of Nassau County and Western Suffolk to sing two love songs in homes, work places, schools and elsewhere; as well as to deliver silk roses and written messages on behalf of those who wish to surprise and delight someone with this novel approach. .
Performed in perfect harmony
by a talented foursome
dressed in tuxedos and
bright red bow ties, the
singing Valentines
are offered at a cost of $50
per prearranged
presentation, with the
barbershop quartets arriving
unannounced at predetermined
locations. Requests for the
"Hear and Now" Valentines --
an annual fund-raiser by the
nonprofit chapter -- are
currently being accepted for
the three days on a
schedule-available basis
between the hours of 9 am
and 9 pm each day. For
further information and
arrangements for such a
presentation call
516-521-9534.
The local Nassau Mid-Island
Chapter of Barbershop
Harmony Society (largest
such Chapter on Long
Island), is part of a
national organization
numbering approximately
25,000 members, and is one
of over 800 chapters in the
US and Canada with
affiliated organizations
around the globe. Under the
direction of Maurice Debar,
its Long Island Harmonizers
chorus rehearses Tuesday
evenings at Winthrop Hall,
Church of the Advent, 555
Advent Street, in Westbury
at 8 pm, and welcomes new
members throughout the year.
The organization's website
is at
longislandharmonizers.org
FOR: Long Island Harmonizers Chorus
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Nassau Mid-Island Chapter - Barbershop Harmony Society
Contact: Bob Heim
E-Mail: heimbob@aol.com
IN NBC'S 10-WEEK SERIES, "THE SING-OFF"
Westbury, NY -- After 10 weeks of fierce competition in front of judges Ben Folds, Sara Bareilles and Shawn Stockman, along with Nick Lachey, host of NBC TV's popular all-vocal singing competition series, “The Sing-Off,” a field of 16 talented groups was narrowed down to just three – collegians, Dartmouth Aires; Pentatonix and Urban Method. After the tallying of millions of votes cast by Americans in the final voting, Dartmouth Aires achieved a prestigious second place (with Pentatonix the winner).
Dartmouth Aires, with its 15 members, includes an energetic and talented Danny Freeman, who spent time prior to his college entrance a few years ago as a regular guest enjoying barbershop with our Long Island Harmonizers chorus, singing alongside his dad, Steve. “Thousands of singers across America auditioned for this show,” Lachey said. “Week after week, Pentatonix and the Aires rose above the rest.”
“The Sing-Off” averaged 4.67 million viewers a week. (We were behind you, Danny, every step of the way.)
FOR: Long Island Harmonizers Chorus
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Nassau Mid-Island
Chapter - Barbershop Harmony
Society
CONTACT: Bob Heim, V.P.
Public Relations
E-Mail:
heimbob@aol.com
Rudy Eckhardt
1936 - 2011
CHAPTER SADDENED BY THE PASSING OF RUDY ECKHARDT
WESTBURY, NY -- The Nassau Mid-Island Chapter sadly reports the passing of Rudy Eckhardt who, until a recent illness forced him to take time off from attending rehearsals, sang in the lead section of the Long Island Harmonizers chorus. Eckhardt, an active member of the Marian Male Chorus in Seaford for 26 years, was encouraged by longtime friend and fellow singer Ray Shotter, to join him as a Nassau Mid-Islander when that Chorus disbanded in January 2009. In 20011, Rudy was elected as a Chapter Board Member At Large, and he also served administratively on the Uniform Committee. He also was on the Script Committee for the Chapter's 2012 Annual Show.
Until his retirement in 2001, Rudy was a full time college psychology professor and later became part of the teaching staff at Nassau Community College. Born in South Jamaica, Queens, he was raised on Long Island in Floral Park and Central Islip, attending Bishop Loughlin High School, Iona College (BA), and Fordham University (MA) with a PhD in Psychology. Most recently Rudy was a resident of Williston Park where he lived with his wife, Carolyn, and his three daughters -- Eileen, Lorraine, and Christine.
"Rudy loved harmonizing," recalls Ray Shotter, a friend for some 60 years, "and as a basketball star at Iona College always regretted not having enough time in a busy schedule for glee club participation. He felt fortunate to sing as much as he did, later in life."
Long Island Harmonizers chorus members were honored to sing at Rudy's wake held at Weigand Brothers Funeral Home in Williston Park.
The Nassau Mid-Island Chapter offers its sincerest condolences to the Eckhardt family, loved ones and friends. He will be surely missed.
FOR: Long Island Harmonizers Chorus
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Nassau Mid-Island
Chapter - Barbershop Harmony
Society
CONTACT: Bob Heim
E-Mail:
heimbob@aol.com
ELECTS OFFICERS AND BOARD FOR 2012
Westbury, NY -- Jon Ayers has been named president of the Nassau Mid-Island Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society following election procedures to select the organization's board members for 2012. The newly constituted board assumes its decision-making responsibilities on January 1st following official installation ceremonies.
Ayers joined the Nassau Mid-Island Chapter in 2010 and has been a barbershopper for 40 years, first with the Huntington North Shore chapter of the society and through its transformations leading to its present Twin Shores Chorus BHS affiliation. During that time he served in key organizational posts that included President of the organization two different times. Before joining the Nassau Mid-Islander Chapter, Ayers was a member of the Big Apple Chorus in Manhattan where he also held the post of President. Last year, Ayers was Treasurer of the Long Island Harmonizers group.
Reelected to other key positions were Ken Wunsch, Secretary; John Brolly, Vice President - Chapter Development; and Wayne Lazar, Vice President - Programming. Hal Verity, 2011 President becomes the organization's newly-elected Vice President - Music, while Steve Stojowski has been elected as Treasurer, a Board position he also held in 2010 before becoming a Trustee last year. Bob Heim moves to the post of Trustee while still retaining his role as Chapter webmaster. Elected as a new Trustee on the Board is Ray Shotter, who will also join Steve Brausa, Bob Miraglia and Charles Muscanera holding those responsibilities. George Seelinger has been appointed to fill the Trustee term of the late Rudy Eckhardt that runs through 2012. The Chapter's Counselor is Steve Marrin.
The Nassau Mid-Island Chapter is the largest chorus of its kind on Long Island and part of the Barbershop Harmony Society numbering approximately 25,000 members in the U.S. and Canada alone. It is one of over 800 chapters in North America, with affiliated organizations around the world. The singing group, which offers its 63rd Annual Show as part of scheduled performances in 2012, is under the direction of Maurice Debar and rehearses 8 p.m. Tuesday evenings at Winthrop Hall, Church of the Advent, 555 Advent Street, in Westbury, Long Island. It extends a welcome to new members throughout the year.
FOR: Long Island Harmonizers Chorus
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Nassau Mid-Island
Chapter - Barbershop Harmony
Society
CONTACT: Bob Heim, V.P.
Public Relations
E-Mail:
heimbob@aol.com
CHAPTER MOURNS THE PASSING OF PETER J. KENNY
WESTBURY, NY -- Peter J. Kenny, a much valued member of the Barbershop Harmony Society's Nassau Mid-Island Chapter for seven years, passed away on October 3, the organization sadly reports. Kenny became associated with the Chapter in 2004 and not only sang in the lead and baritone sections of its chorus (The Long Island Harmonizers) over the course of seven years, but provided administrative strengths as well, serving as Vice President, Chapter Development in 2006 and again in 2007. Last year, the Plandome, LI resident became the baritone for a newly-formed Chapter barbershop quartet called "All In A-Chord," winning enthusiastic applause for its efforts.
Kenny's civic support in the local community included his being Design Review Board Chairman for the Village of Plandome. His two-year term was to have expired in April of next year. Before retirement as an prominent corporate attorney, he was a partner at Willkie, Farr & Gallagher, a New York law firm. Born in Glen Cove and raised in Sea Cliff and Glen Head, Peter attended St. Boniface Elementary School, St. Mary's High School, St. John's University and St. John's Law School.
Peter's love of music was influenced by the creative talents of his parents (and still continue with other family members who relish performing as singers, dancers, concert goers etc.). Peter's father whose entertainment associations traced back to vaudeville days, was a member of SPEBSQSA and was part of a male chorus in Sea Cliff, LI called "The Balladeers."
Members of the The Long Island Harmonizers chorus were honored to sing at the Fairchild Funeral Home in Manhasset in paying tribute to Peter who will be sorely missed.
Our deepest condolences are sent to his wife, Patricia, his entire family , relatives and loved ones.
All In A-Chord in performance at the Nassau Mid-Island
Chapter's 61st Annual Show (Peter Kenny is at right).
FOR: Long Island Harmonizers Chorus
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Nassau Mid-Island
Chapter - Barbershop Harmony
Society
CONTACT: Bob Heim, V.P.
Public Relations
E-Mail:
heimbob@aol.com
BARBERSHOP HARMONY CHAPTER SETS SIGHTS ON NEW MEMBERS
WESTBURY, NY -- The Nassau Mid-Island Chapter of The Barbershop Harmony Society (also known as the Long Island Harmonizers chorus) is currently using a musical question to encourage men, young and old, to join its roster and enjoy the fun of barbershop-style singing.
"What's missing here?" asks the new campaign that shows a scale with the exception of one of the notes. "If you said 'mi,'" it states, "we invite you to experience the pleasures of four-part harmony with the largest Barbershop Harmony Society Chapter on Long Island. The Harmony Society boasts some 30,000 members in the U.S. and Canada with affiliates around the globe.
The membership campaign is being supported by the placement of flyers in prominent community locations, special material on the Chapter's website as well as additional publicity. Weekly practice time by the all-male a cappella group continues to be on Tuesday evenings at Winthrop Hall, Church of the Advent, 555 Advent Street, in Westbury from 8 until 10:30 pm, as the chorus focuses its attention on new music added as part of its 2011 and 2012 repertoire.
FOR: Long Island Harmonizers
Chorus
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Nassau Mid-Island
Chapter - Barbershop Harmony
Society
CONTACT: Bob Heim - VP
Marketing and Public
Relations
E-Mail:
heimbob@aol.com
WESTBURY, NY -- Joe Butler, a twenty-year member of the Barbershop Harmony Society and member of the Nassau Mid-Island Chapter, sadly passed away in March following declining health. Butler, who divided his time in recent years between homes in East Meadow, NY and Tarpon Springs, FL, continued to attend Long Island Harmonizers chorus rehearsals into this year. A Senior Legacy Member of the Society, he was part of the chorus' bass section, and came to the Long Island Harmonizers after singing with The Queensmen Chorus -- the Barbershop Harmony Society's chapter located in Jamaica, NY.
During his successful professional career, Joe distinguished himself in the broadcasting industry.
The Nassau Mid-Island Chapter offers its sincerest condolences to his wife Peggy, family, relatives and friends.
Joe and Peg Butler pictured at an
informal
L.I. Harmonizers function.
FOR: Long Island Harmonizers
Chorus
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Nassau Mid-Island
Chapter - Barbershop Harmony
Society
CONTACT: Bob Heim - VP
Marketing and Public
Relations
E-Mail:
heimbob@aol.com
GEORGE PAVLICIN PASSES AWAY
WESTBURY, NY -- Members of the Nassau Mid-Island Chapter who have been with the organization for some time are mourning the passing of George Pavlicin who died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Viera, FL in late November. Still listed on the Chapter's membership roster after more than 40 years, George, a World War II veteran who retired from the United States Marine Corps after 21 years of active duty (from 1942-1963), will be buried in Arlington Cemetery. The Pavlicins moved from their home in Westbury to Greenport, LI in 1993, and, after wintering in Florida for more than 20 years, made it their year-round home shortly thereafter.
Sincerest condolences are offered to his wife Mary, his family, relatives and friends.
FOR: Long Island Harmonizers
Chorus
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Nassau Mid-Island
Chapter - Barbershop Harmony
Society
CONTACT: Bob Heim
E-Mail:
heimbob@aol.com
WESTBURY, NY -- The Nassau Mid-Island Chapter sadly reports that Tom McCormick, one of the organization's former presidents, passed away on November 17th following a long illness. Tom, who sang tenor during his active time with the chorus, was elected as president of the organization in 1991 and selected again for that post in 1992. As part of the "Rainbows End" quartet, he performed with current member Gene Kammerer (lead), and then-members Bob Durso (bari) and Ed Manz (bass). When he was no longer able to sing with the chorus, Tom continued to keep his membership active, and he and his wife, Dolores were often on hand to offer encouragement at many of the Chapter's performances and social gatherings.
During his professional career, Tom worked for the New York Telephone Company and later was a private investigator.
Noted Gene Kammerer: "Tom was a great friend. When we had our quartet practices at my house, there would inevitably be discussions on just about everything, usually leading to Manz, McCormick and Durso fiercely arguing about how they felt. I seemed to always be the mediator. My granddaughter Stephanie was around five years of age then and used sit on a stool listening to us sing. Now she's 21. Seems like the older one gets, the faster the years go by."
Observed Chapter member Bill Ruth: "Tom had a wealth of intellectual and creative curiosity. He read everything about his medical problems to such a degree that I claimed he was the author of ''Gray's Anatomy.' He would try his hand at building anything, and would do so with perfection. May he now rest in peace."
The Nassau Mid-Island Chapter extends its sincerest condolences to his wife Dolores, family, relatives and friends.
FOR: Long Island Harmonizers
Chorus
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Nassau Mid-Island
Chapter - Barbershop Harmony
Society
CONTACT: Bob Heim - V.P.
Marketing and Public
Relations
E-Mail:
heimbob@aol.com
|
WESTBURY, NY -- Bart Peluso, a much beloved and greatly respected member of the Barbershop Harmony Society's Nassau Mid-Island Chapter, passed away on November 5th following a lengthy hospitalization and complications stemming from required surgery. Bart, a barbershopper for 12 years, joined the Nassau Mid-Island Chapter to sing in its lead section after first singing with the Society's Queensmen Chorus located in Jamaica, NY. |
President
of the Nassau Mid-Island
Chapter in 2004 and again in
2005, Peluso's leadership
abilities, his dedication
and skillful conduct
involving Board affairs
significantly helped to
break new ground for the
growing organization. During
his tenure, as one example,
the Chapter changed its
chorus name to Long Island
Harmonizers to better market
itself. For his overall
efforts, Peluso was named "Barbershopper
of the Year" for 2005, for
which he received a standing
ovation by the membership.
Bart continued to serve on
the organization's Board as
past-president and most
recently as a Board Member
at Large, providing wisdom
and sound judgements. He
sang with two Chapter
quartets -- Enchant Men and
later, You Four-A-Ya.
Bart's early love for vocal music started with his choir participation at New York's Cathedral High School, and grew during a long and distinguished administrative career in the field of education. He rose to become Superintendent of Schools in the borough of Brooklyn before owning and operating "Travel With Joy" -- a successful travel agency still serving the community in Bellmore, LI.
In reflecting on Bart's association with the Long Island Harmonizers chorus, George Seelinger, current President and close friend, stated: "It is impossible to overstate Bart’s contributions to our chapter. Our chorus and our governing board will sorely miss his wisdom, his humor, his friendship and his strong, accurate voice."
Observed the organization's Musical Director, Maurice Debar: "Bart's passing is a big blow to our chapter. His fortitude in face of his adversity was an inspiration. He was my mentor too, as I often called to get his opinion on how I handled a situation. He was kind but firm in stating his opinions. I will miss him as a person and extraordinary friend."
Sincere condolences are offered to his always supportive family -- his wife Joy, brothers William and Edmund, daughter Gemma, son Jerry, grandchildren Krissy, Gregory and Ally as well as all other loved ones. Bart will be sorely missed.
FOR: Long Island Harmonizers Chorus
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Nassau Mid-Island
Chapter - Barbershop Harmony
Society
CONTACT: Bob Heim - V.P.
Marketing and Public
Relations
E-Mail:
heimbob@aol.com
BEGUN BY NASSAU MID-ISLAND CHAPTER
Westbury, NY -- The Nassau Mid-Island Chapter of the international Barbershop Harmony Society has launched a special program aimed at educating the general public and attracting new members through library exhibit facilities throughout Nassau County. First to take advantage of the program dubbed "Barbershop Behind the Glass," was Wantagh's Public Library that offered the exhibit during the months of October and November, 2010. Additional locations are being arranged for the new year (and will be indicated on our "Upcoming Events" website page).
Some 40 illustrations and text cover a wide range of barbershop-related subjects including the birth of the Society that now numbers approximately 25,000 members in the U.S. and Canada, notables that have sung barbershop (Frank Sinatra, former President Harry Truman and New York's former Mayor LaGuardia, among them), the use of barbershop in TV animation (The Simpsons, Family Guy, and The Muppets to cite just three), the invention of the pitch pipe (a basic barbershop "tool"), and much more. Library books on the subject matter and sampling of barbershop sheet music in four-part harmony are also on display.
"In our over 60 years in serving the Nassau community, our fine chorus and quartets have had a long and gratifying history of performing in the County's fine libraries," noted John Brolly, Vice President - Chapter Development for the 67 member organization. "It makes perfect sense that such focal points for education and learning continue to play such an major role in achieving awareness and widened attention for this special art form and the preservation of it. The use of exhibit space in our libraries further cements this strong association and spirit of cooperation."
"Barbershop Behind the Glass" is intended as an easily moveable exhibit, and other libraries wishing to consider it in their planning are invited to contact the Chapter. The display was created by the organization's V.P. Public Relations, Bob Heim.
The non-profit Nassau Mid-Island Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society is the biggest chorus of its kind on Long Island and welcomes new members throughout the year. The a cappella all-male singing group is under the direction of Maurice Debar and rehearses Tuesday evenings starting at 8 p.m. at Winthrop Hall, Church of the Advent, 555 Advent Street, in Westbury, Long Island.
THE "EYES" HAVE IT -- Elaine Yarris of the Wantagh Library, added her personal vote of approval when she inspected this newly-created exhibit bearing on the Barbershop Harmony Society, its growth, and the elements that make the musical art form so fascinating. The traveling exhibit program called "Barbershop Behind the Glass" launched by the Nassau Mid-Island Chapter, is intended to educate and entertain as well as attract new members to the Society. The Wantagh library was the first to schedule the special presentation for viewing.
FOR: Long Island Harmonizers Chorus
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Nassau Mid-Island
Chapter - Barbershop Harmony
Society
CONTACT: Bob Heim
E-Mail:
heimbob@aol.com
LOCAL BARBERSHOP SOCIETY
CHAPTER
ELECTS OFFICERS AND BOARD
FOR 2011
Westbury, NY -- Harold Verity has been named president of the Nassau Mid-Island Chapter of the international Barbershop Harmony Society following election procedures to select the organization's board members for 2011. The newly constituted board assumes its decision-making responsibilities on January 1 following official installation ceremonies.
Verity has been with the Nassau Mid-Island Chapter since 1996, and was honored as the Chapter's "Barbershopper of the Year" in 1998 among many meritorious awards that have included a "Beyond the Baton" award for significant non-singing contributions to the Chapter. He is Show Chairman for the 61st Annual Show to be offered on May 14-15, Tenor Section leader, serves on the current Music Committee and sings with the AfterGloWorms barbershop quartet.
Reelected to other key posts were Eugene Kammerer, as Vice President - Music and Presentation; Ken Wunsch, Secretary; John Brolly, Vice President - Chapter Development and Bob Heim - Vice President Marketing and Public Relations. Wayne Lazar, who joined the Board in 2010 as a long-term trustee, has been elected as the organization's new Vice President - Programming, and the newly elected Treasurer will be Chapter member Jon Ayers. George Seelinger remains on the Board as its immediate past president. Bob Heim will continue to serve as the Chapter's webmaster.
In the composition of the Board for 2011, former Treasurer Steve Stojowski moves to a three-year trustee position along with new Board member Rudy Eckhardt, while Charles Muscarnera has been appointed to fill Lazar's unexpired term. They join trustees Robert Miraglia, Will McCoy, and Steve Brausa in that role. The Chapter's Counselor is Steve Marrin.
The Nassau Mid-Island Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society is the largest chorus of its kind on Long Island and part of a national organization numbering approximately 25,000 members in the U.S. and Canada alone. It is one of over 800 chapters in North America, and there are affiliated organizations around the world. Known as the Long Island Harmonizers chorus, the singing group is under the direction of Maurice Debar and rehearses 8 p.m. Tuesday evenings at Winthrop Hall, Church of the Advent, 555 Advent Street, in Westbury, Long Island. It extends a welcome to new members throughout the year.
FOR: Long
Island
Harmonizers Chorus
The Nassau Mid-Island
Chapter - Barbershop
Harmony Society
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Bob Heim -
V.P. Public
Relations
E-Mail:
heimbob@aol.com
NEW "OFFICIAL" PHOTO UNVEILED BY
LONG ISLAND HARMONIZERS CHORUS
WESTBURY, NY -- The Nassau Mid-Island Chapter of the international Barbershop Harmony Society, continuing to welcome new faces (and those who love to sing) has replaced its "official" group photo with one that reflects its significant growth in remaining the largest such Chapter on Long Island.
In the newly released photo taken late this summer along with pictures of the organization's barbershop quartets, 46 members were shown along with Musical Director Maurice Debar. As of this writing, the roster of The Long Island Harmonizers chorus numbers 67. The Chapter has launched a fall-period "Stick Around" membership drive (see separate story) expected to expand its membership even further.
The updated photo will appear on the Nassau Mid-Island website, used in connection with promotional literature, offered along with press release material, and enlarged to poster size for chorus sing outs, among its many applications.
"We have been fortunate to strengthen both musically and in numbers since our last 'official' photograph shot some five or six years ago" noted George Seelinger, Chapter president for 2010. "The most recent photo, showing a good many of our new members, reflects a significant roster growth as well as a notable surge in interest."
The Long Island Harmonizers invites those interested, to attend any of its Tuesday night rehearsals beginning 8 pm and concluding at 10:30 pm at Winthrop Hall, Church of the Advent (555 Advent Street, one block south of Jericho Turnpike and one block East of Post Avenue), and if accepted for membership, to join the nonprofit all-male a cappella chorus. Dedicated to preserving the art of barbershop-style singing, the Barbershop Harmony Society chapter has been providing vocal entertainment to Long Islanders for over 60 years.
For more information about the organization, explore the Chapter's website or call 516-938-4272 with any questions.
For the full sized poster version of our new photo, kindly click here. (PDF)
FOR: Long Island
Harmonizers Chorus
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Nassau Mid-Island
Chapter - Barbershop
Harmony Society
CONTACT: Bob Heim
E-Mail:
heimbob@aol.com
WESTBURY
, NY -- The Nassau Mid-Island Chapter is sad to report the passing of Sam Glicksman in September after declining health. A much beloved member for some 16 years, he will be sorely missed.
Barbershopper of the Year for 2008, Sam , who also served on the organization's Board of Directors, was accurately and fondly described in the Chapter's program for its 59th Annual Show, as a member that exhibited "a blend of gentleness and humility, but always a paladin and guardian of what barbershopping was meant to be." In paying tribute to Sam, including his contributions in strengthening the Nassau Mid-Island Chapter over the years, it was also observed that, though he never sought the limelight and, in fact, was reticent to the point of trying to remain in the shadows, try as he might he could not hide himself. "When he was needed," it was noted. "the word 'no' was never in his vocabulary."
Sam, a lead in the Long Island Harmonizers chorus, was a teacher and supervisor in the New York City school system for 34 years. He was a staunch and personally active contributor to a program under the aegis of the Transplant Department at Long Island's Stony Brook Medical Center that used money garnered from salvageable aluminum can pop-tops collected by Sam, to help send indigent youngsters with kidney diseases to summer camp for two to three weeks.
"From my first experience with the chorus," declared George Seelinger, current president of the Nassau Mid-Island Chapter, "Sam stood out as one of those key members whose dedication makes any organization work. Even when overtaken with illness, his continued support and unshakable good humor was an inspiration to us all. We'll miss his ready smile and sage advice." Noted musical director Maurice Debar: "Though Sam was a quiet man, his heartfelt emotions were always clearly expressed. When he smiled, his face lit up like a kid seeing his first carnival."
Sincere condolences are offered to his wife Elaine, the family and their loved ones.
The monies reaped from the salvageable metal helps send indigent youngsters with kidney diseases to summer camp for two to three weeks. Sam, who enlisted the support of Long Island Harmonizers chorus in his efforts, began collecting pop-tops in his childhood, and made it his life's work.
FOR: Long Island
Harmonizers Chorus
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Nassau Mid-Island
Chapter - Barbershop
Harmony Society
CONTACT: Bob Heim
E-Mail:
heimbob@aol.com
WESTBURY, NY -- With the passing of both Herbert I. Oshrain and David Grimes in July, the Nassau Mid-Island Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society, has sadly lost two more barbershoppers that helped form the organization's roster over the years and contributed to its growth.
Dr. Oshrain, a retired periodontist and professor at Columbia University Dental School as well as a decorated WWII Captain in the US Army, placed barbershop singing and a love of piano high on his list of personal pleasures, and sang with the Long Island Harmonizers for many years. He will be remembered not only as a chorus and quartet performer but as a member of the Chapter's much beloved "Three Tenors" that graced the stage at Annual Shows.
At Dr. Oshrain's memorial service attended by several chapter members, spiritual leader Rabbi Jay Rosenbaum who referred to him as "an officer and gentleman" also acknowledged his passion for barbershop singing -- a musical love passed on to his granddaughters who spoke of it as well.
David Grimes was a librarian at the Flushing Branch of Queens Borough Public Library where he ran the Job Information Center, assisting people from all walks of life in composing resumes, interview skills, job hunting and small business formation. He sang with the Nassau Mid-Island Chapter for a brief time after moving from Tennessee where he was in a Chapter there, joining the Long Island barbershoppers at the urging of member Bob Miraglia who heard him singing in church. He was also recognized for his contributions to the Chapter during his funeral service at which chorus members were honored to sing.
Sincere condolences are offered to both of their families and friends.
Herb Oshrain (center) performs as one of the Nassau Mid-Island
Chapter's "Three Tenors" at its 58th Annual Show in 2008
FOR: Long Island
Harmonizers
Chorus
IMMEDIATE
RELEASE
The Nassau
Mid-Island
Chapter -
Barbershop
Harmony Society
CONTACT: Bob
Heim
E-Mail:
heimbob@aol.com
WESTBURY, NY -- The Nassau Mid-Island Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society has been saddened by the loss of its longest active member, Stanley Squires, who passed away on June 21. Squires, a member of the Long Island organization for 48 years, sang with the group until health concerns, hospitalization and rehabilitation decisions in Maine forced him to miss rehearsals in late May. He was 88.
Much beloved, he was a dependable staple in the Chapter's bass section, proud to be associated with the art form he loved so very much and unwavering in his longtime passion for it. In mid-May he was pictured holding a Souvenir Special Events Program handed out in connection with "New York State Barbershop Quartet Day, " held July 18, 1964, at the New York World's Fair...an event at which he proudly performed (see website photo gallery page).
In reflecting about Stan's character and significant contributions to the chapter for close to half a century, Maurice Debar, its musical director for more than a decade, declared: "If anyone deserved the title 'gentleman barbershopper' it was Stan. He set an example of kindness, devotion and the love of music. He is already deeply missed."
Other sentiments on behalf of the Chapter included those expressed George Seelinger, Nassau Mid-Island Chapter President, who observed: "From the moment I met him, Stanley impressed me as a perfect gentleman and a real class act. His talent and demeanor exemplified the very best of what we are about. We are made poorer by his loss but forever enriched by having known him. He will be sorely missed."
Sincere condolences are offered to his family.
FOR: Long Island Harmonizers
Chorus
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Nassau Mid-Island
Chapter - Barbershop Harmony
Society
CONTACT: Bob Heim
E-Mail:
heimbob@aol.com
GILMARTIN HONORED WITH
'BEYOND THE BATON' AWARD
WESTBURY, NY -- Dan Gilmartin, web designer of the Nassau Mid-Island Chapter's Barbershop Harmony Society site at http://www.longislandharmonizers.org / has been named as the fifth recipient of the organization's "Beyond the Baton" award "in recognition of his mastery in website design and great contributions creatively focusing attention on the Chapter and its activities." The special award is presented for especially noteworthy "non singing" activities impacting on the operational elements of the chapter, its development and growth.
"This is the first time that we have gone outside our own membership to honor deserving individuals," noted George Seelinger, president. "Dan has distinguished himself by using supplied text and photos to make our website not only informative but outstandingly attractive. We are pleased to have him on our team."
Web Designs by Dan Gilmartin is a Long Island-based company that specializes in providing assistance to small businesses, that include municipal government agencies, international fire chiefs associations, fire departments, police and PBA websites, sports groups, and non-profit organizations among more than forty clients.
The a cappella nonprofit Long Island Harmonizers, led by its talented musical director, Maurice Debar, has been serving the Nassau community with its singing for over 60 years. Its chapter webmaster is member Bob Heim.
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FOR:
Long
Island
Harmonizers
Chorus
The
Nassau
Mid-Island
Chapter
-
Barbershop
Harmony
Society
LOCAL BARBERSHOP HARMONY CHAPTER LOOKS TO (WELL, OF COURSE) BARBERSHOPS IN SCHEDULING LIVE 'CUT TIME' PERFORMANCES TO GENERATE INTEREST
WESTBURY, NY -- They were gathering places where the love of four-part unaccompanied singing became all the rage in the early 1900s. Four or more men with one of them more likely than not holding tools of his trade -- a comb and long, extremely sharp scissors. Or maybe a lather-filled mug. A place where "sharp" often referred to music as well as use of a straight razor. It was the barbershop -- years before a society would be formed (in 1938) that today boasts approximately 25,000 members in the U.S. and Canada alone (including some 1,500 registered quartets), with additional barbershoppers in affiliate organizations overseas.
That is very the reason why the Nassau Mid-Island Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society (largest on Long Island) has established a program that has its members returning to those places where that special art form gained momentum to offer a bit of serenading under a "Barbershop For Barbershops" program launched in 2009. Informal performances lasting about ten minutes, will be provided to barbershop patrons and others on hand to listen -- by foursomes from the Long Island Harmonizers chorus -- all aimed at producing awareness in this kind of music, and interest in joining the organization that has been serving the local community in song for more than 60 years.
"We are looking forward in underscoring the historical connection between the barbershop and the joys of barbershop singing," says John Brolly, vice president-chapter development for the Long Island Harmonizers chorus. "Under this special program, the barber pole will once again act as a beacon in attracting those who enjoy such music."
For more information about the Nassau Mid-Island Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society continue to check its website at www.longislandharmonizers.org or call 516-938-4272.
(SEE EVENT LISTING ON UPCOMING EVENTS PAGE) |
FOR: Long Island Harmonizers
Chorus
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Nassau Mid-Island
Chapter - Barbershop Harmony
Society
CONTACT: Bob Heim
E-Mail:
heimbob@aol.com
VERITY HONORED WITH 'BEYOND
THE BATON' AWARD
WESTBURY, NY -- Hal
Verity, a member of the
Nassau Mid-Island Chapter of
Barbershop Harmony Society's
Nassau Mid-Island Chapter
for more than a decade, one
of its section leaders, as
well as the tenor in the
chapter's AfterGloWorms and
Lighthouse quartets, has
been honored for his
non-singing contributions as
well with the organization's
special "Beyond the Baton"
award. Verity, the fourth
recipient of the award since
its inception, was
recognized for continuing
"get ready" efforts that
include staging and sound
system setups at chorus
performances during the
year.
"We have a good many 'unsung
heroes' in our chapter that
regularly perform
non-singing duties to make
the organization run as
smoothly as it does," noted
George Seelinger, president.
"Hal is one of those who can
always be counted on to
assist."
The a cappella nonprofit
Long Island Harmonizers, led
by its talented musical
director, Maurice Debar, has
been serving the Nassau
community with its singing
for over 60 years.
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The Nassau Mid-Island Chapter wishes to salute Steve Stojowski, named the organization's "Barbershopper of the Year" for 2011 during Installation Night ceremonies held in mid January. As Assistant Conductor of The Long Island Harmonizers chorus, a Trustee on the Chapter's Board as well as bass section leader, Steve unhesitatingly gave of his musical talents along with considerable administrative abilities over the 12 months. We congratulate Steve as the most recent recipient of this prestigious award. |
