June 2010

DiAnn Pierce
     The society offers condolences to alto DiAnn Pierce.  DiAnn's brother, Verne Kjellsen, died on June 26.  Memorial donations may be made to Nugen's Ranch, 3701 Palmer-Wasilla Highway, Wasilla, Alaska 99654.

Florence Long
     On June 13th, OS Alto Florence Long is participating in Walk Now for Autism Speaks to help find a cure for autism. Autism is the second most common developmental disorder in the United States affecting 1 in every 90 children born today. Despite some promising discoveries, the cause of autism is unknown and a cure does not exist. Every 20 minutes another child is diagnosed with autism. Not only must ways be found to improve the quality of life for children and adults with autism, but we must also find a cure, and soon.
     Florence will be walking in honor of two young friends with autism: Danson and Tre (she has joined Tre's team.) You can sponsor Florence by donating to Walk Now for Autism Speaks and/or by joining her on Tre's team, OneTwoTRE, using this link. Donations can also be mailed to Autism Speaks using the donation form located on Tre's page.
     Donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Autism Speaks 501 (C)(3) Tax Id #: 20-2329938.
     Matching gift program: Many companies provide their employees with matching gifts. Please consult your employer on its matching gift guidelines and attach matching gift forms accordingly.
     Follow This Link to visit Tre's personal web page and to sponsor Florence in her efforts to support Autism Speaks.

Brian Percival and David Goldblatt
     The Gingerbread Players of St. Luke's Church present:
          The School Board and Distaff Four - An afternoon of traditional Barbershop Quartet
          Sunday, June 6, 2010, 3:00 pm
          Suggested donation $12 (Students and Seniors $10)
          St. Luke's Church, 85 Greenway South, Forest Hills, NY
          For reservations and information:
               call 718-268-7772 or visit www.gingerbreadplayers.org
     OS tenor Brian Percival and OS bass David Goldblatt will be performing!

Fredi Strasser
     There are two beautifully preserved, walled medieval towns in Bavaria, Rothenburg and the smaller Dinkelsbuehl. The latter re-instituted (in the summer) the medieval custom of having a nightwatchman, in costume, go on his hourly rounds through the streets, announcing the hour singing a semi-religous verse and making sure all is well in town.
     Fredi Strasser (bass) convinced the Mayor of Dinkelsbuehl to let him do the part one evening, so on Sunday night, June 27th, Fredi will take over the role of the nightwatchman of Dinkelsbuehl. This is something he wanted to do ever since he saw this part in the Meistersinger as a kid. Anyone roaming around Europe at that time is welcome to come - it's a neat place to visit.