OCTOBER 2020

Where there is a will there is a way. In this case, thanks to Zoom and the advanced technical skills of Heather Cromleigh and Sarah Little, Kick-off/Installation went off without a hitch. We heard uplifting speeches from Donna Kendall and Tommy Phillips. Those who had not met Sarah Little were finally able to see and hear our capable and wonderfully creative Vice President of Education and Community Engagement. Her insightful and innovative virtual programs will serve us not only this year, but also in years to come.

The 25-year pin recipients were recognized along with two 50-year members and a special tribute was given to Jan Lawrence who has served The Committees in so many different capacities. The Executive Committee was officially installed and we were also treated to the Saddleback Valley Committee’s skit, traditionally given by the Committee of the new president. 

Thanks to everyone for their contributions to the success of this year’s one of a kind event. Our leadership workshops were also very successful. Each one was well attended and we are hearing very positive feedback. Thank you to the leaders.

The Music Mobile Workshop gave us a look at the virtual Music Mobile Program, the first of the programs to be designed to accommodate different types of instruction, be it in class, on the computer or independent. The program will begin appearing in schools in late October. Even though we can’t physically be present in the classroom, our programs will still be able to do their work.

Congratulations to the winners of the Ball Drop. You can see the event on the Philharmonic Society's Committees Facebook page. Make sure you read the Overture article from the Golf Classic Team to learn the names of the winners of the Ball Drop. The team has done a wonderful job. This is only the beginning; the Golf Classic will follow in the spring. Now that the new season has begun the enthusiasm is building. 

Applications for three fall and early winter fundraisers have been submitted. Expect more news about the Music4Kids campaign soon. Make sure you check all the flyers on the “Join a Committee” page of our website for other exciting offers of beautiful pumpkins, card making, and fresh produce.

The new digital Overture with News and Updates will be published once a month giving access to current information. It will be sent to each member via email and will always be available along with other Committees information on the “Join a Committee” page on the website.

So much has changed since Covid-19 first took hold of our country back in February! We have all had to change course and adapt in so many ways, and The Committees have been exemplary in quickly adapting to virtual meetings and successful virtual fundraisers! Please accept my heartfelt admiration and gratitude. 

After more than 7 months of social-distancing, many people are now suffering from “Covid Fatigue” and making the decision to stop isolating in their homes in favor of reconnecting with friends and loved ones in person. To that end we thought it a good time to remind you that, while you may have different standards in your personal life, in your volunteer life in The Committees of the Philharmonic Society of Orange County we urge you to still adhere to the safe practices as outlined by the CDC. While inconvenient and frustrating, the following procedures need to remain in place to ensure the safety of all of our members and staff: 

• Conduct Philharmonic Society business virtually whenever possible.
• If you must meet in person, keep it outdoors, six feet apart and masked.
• If you are exchanging physical items or documents, we recommend sanitizing your hands before and after the exchange.

Thank you for your patience and perseverance. We look forward to your continued success and hope to see you in person again soon!

Tribute Fund

Donations to the Tribute Fund provide the opporutnity to honor an individual's accomplishments, mark special occasions, or memorialize members, friends, or family. Funds are used to support the Philharmonic Society's Youth Music Education Programs.

In Loving Memory:

• September 16 - October 28: Cooking Fresh From the Farm Fundraiser
• October 1 - November 20: Pumpkin Arrangement Fundraiser
• January 18: Virtual Literary Event with Lisa See