Please use this space, dear friends to make any comments, thoughts about this event or anything else you would like to share with fellow choir members.
So, with two performances each costing money, what are spouses and other family members traveling with choir members supposed to do - pay $30 and attend both performances, twiddle their thumbs for a couple of hours outside the building, wander around and see the lovely sights in beautiful downtown West Milwaukee, or what?
Also, what will the "reception" entail? Food/beverages? Who is choosing the menu? Will there be provisions for people with food restrictions or will it all be generic fare that they won't be able to eat even though paying for the reception with their ticket?
Thanks for letting us know your concerns about the concert. We want to make sure that all the performers know the thinking behind our decisions so this is a great opportunity to fill in the blanks, especially for those traveling a distance to be part of this show.
First, we are doing two performances because of the number of people who will be singing and the size of the auditorium. We want everyone to be able to invite family and friends so we are having two shows and have reduced the price of the matinee tickets and added children’s tickets for the matinee to encourage people to bring families.
Regarding what families of traveling choir members should do between shows, it really didn’t occur to us that this would be a problem. Since everyone performing is originally from the area we assumed that they would be able to suggest activities for their families. If you need ideas for things to do, you could contact the WA/WM Chamber of Commerce http://www.wawmchamber.com , or the Village of West Milwaukee. If you have not been to West Milwaukee for a while there has been substantial development along the old 43rd street corridor, now known as Miller Park Way, with a full array of shops, restaurants, and services. For nearby accommodations, the Best Western Woods View Inn is a full service hotel with a fine restaurant within walking distance of the school.
Regarding the reception, the intent was to allow performers, families and friends an opportunity to visit and relax after the matinee and before the evening performance. The food and refreshments will be an appropriate buffet for the event, it will be light fare. We have not settled on a specific menu yet but there should be something for everyone. It is not intended to be a substantial meal.
I hope this has addressed your concerns. I invite you to be in touch with us directly to discuss any further concerns, if you wish. - John Stalewski, Planning Committee
Instead of blasting out a comment on a blog like the one above, a call may have been a better way to ask these questions, or at least request in a more respectful way. I would agree with the last blogger, that you should re-think your decision to participate. Mr Mac certainly did not teach or guide us to act in this way. John, thanks for your kind response and clarification above. Anyone who has been invloved in organizing anything even close to this magnitude appreciates all you and the committe have done. Dan 82
Have you thought of Memorial Mac T-shirt's ? For those who can't make the date, or even those that can . Charge the cost of a seat for one, and don't even "do" kid sizes . You could even have a limited size choice's, just adult M.L.EXL.for example. Just a thought. Jean Carpentier Schallock "76
I realize this comment is late in coming, but maybe we could be flexible with the ticket prices, especially considering there are some travelling great distances with, perhaps, families. Instead of "per ticket", could we do a "family pack"? Maybe $20 first ticket, $5 each ticket thereafter. Or, children's tickets by ages: 5 and under =$0; 6-12 =$5; 13-18= $10 I understand that the ticket sales are funding a worthwhile cause, however, I don't want people being financially burdened. This should be a joyful event shared by the many who were touched by Ken (to me he is Ken) and I don't want money to be an issue. Also, if there are empty seats available during the evening show, maybe the "out of towners" could be allowed to fill them, at no charge, as long as they paid for the first show. I am just thrilled that there has been a good response and want as many people to enjoy our gathering as possible. Just some thoughts. Looking forward to seeing the group. Barb '70
To those (also anonymous) folks that have a thin skin, it seems light-hearted sarcasm and irony are lost on you, so perhaps you shouldn't be >reading< blogs... ;)
As I recall, Mac himself was pretty quick with the jibes "back in the day," so lighten up. This is not a memorial concert, it's a reunion concert.
Jane, your packing notes were very helpful, thanks! Quick question: women of a certain age will be interested in knowing if rehearsal and performance spaces are air conditioned. This information will greatly aid wardrobe choices.
Glad the packing notes were helpful! I know that the performance space -- aka the auditorium -- is air conditioned. it was a concern i had, too, given what i remember of milwaukee in august!
Rgearsal spaces are also air conditioned. But be mindful - there will be a lot of there & for rehearsals, it might be a good idea to dress cool. It has been a hot summer here. For the concert, light-weight shirts might be better - but sleeves, please.
I would like to send out a huge "Thank You" to Jan Gilgenbach for all the time & effort she put into creating the individual piano parts for those of us who are (somewhat) musically challenged, but still want to participate in this epic event. Making several rehearsals is difficult for us out-of-towners, but having the music available is a tremendous help. Thanks Jan! Jill '74
Thank YOU Jill! It was my great pleasure. I'm glad I could use what I know to help us all be as prepared as possible. We all want to be our very best. Jan
I am jewelry artist and will be having an open house and fundraiser on Thu Aug 23 from 6-9pm for the Music Fund -- 15% of sales will be donated. It will be a the home of Mary Beth Anich -- 5608 W Montana, St, Milwaukee, Wi (1 block South of Cleveland). Like me on Facebook, Jeanne M Stives Jewelry, for lots of pictures. https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Jeanne-M-Stives-Jewelry/111742372173282 There is also an ad in the program announcing the fundraiser. Get some unique artisan jewelry and support a cause near and dear to all of us!!
Regarding the "light fare, something for everyone" for the reception menu.
My wife has gluten intolerance. I'd be surprised if she's the only one that will be in attendance. Please, when deciding the menu for the reception, do not focus on bakery, pretzels, pizza, sandwiches, crackers, etc. as all of them are poison to those who can't handle gluten. My hope is that "something for everyone" is truly that.
I will be glad to help with menu ideas; feel free to ask.
I put htis remark on the Mustang site, but bears repeating here.. Thank you to everyone who attended the Alumni Choir Concert yesterday. It was a glorious concert, and all members of the choir really appreciate the support from former students/teachers and the community. It was a lot of work (both in practice and organization), but it was totally worth it, since the result was fantastic!! Ken McMonagle is still the wonderful, caring, talented man we all knew "back then"...he just has that "magic" that puts it all together. Love ya, Mac!
It is official - it will be in Tuesday's paper. Jim asked to see the video of Irish Blessing before he submitted his story. John Ash just delivered it to him. The story is apparently "mostly" written & I cannot wait to see it! If possible, I will try & put a link to the story on the blog.
I cannot begin to thank all of you who came to be a part of this event. I am moved beyond words when I think back on the love that was in that auditorium Saturday night! All of us are now bonded in a way that few people ever have the chance to be. I, for one, am so grateful for each and every one of you! And of course for the one man who is the glue that binds us all together, Mac!
Any word on whether the slide presentation that was shown during "They Way We Were" will be posted on this Blog? Never got a chance to see it and would love to! Thanks.
The jewelry open house/fundraiser is tomorrow, Thursday. I look forward to seeing you!!!! I am jewelry artist and will be having an open house and fundraiser on Thu Aug 23 from 6-9pm for the Music Fund -- 15% of sales will be donated. It will be a the home of Mary Beth Anich -- 5608 W Montana, St, Milwaukee, Wi (1 block South of Cleveland). Like me on Facebook, Jeanne M Stives Jewelry, for lots of pictures. https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Jeanne-M-Stives-Jewelry/111742372173282 There is also an ad in the program announcing the fundraiser. Get some unique artisan jewelry and support a cause near and dear to all of us!!
Barb, Sorry it has taken so long but they are finally available! We will be handing them out to everyone who ordered them on Sat., October 13 at the Park Way Pub in West Milwaukee. We will be there at 6pm and will show the DVD at 7pm. I hope you will be able to join us -- it should be lots of fun! If you cannot make it, please let us know and we will find a way to get it to you! Thanks for your patience! Kathy
Hi All... I am extremely sad to report the death of Kathy Sotak, the driving force behind the highly successful Reunion Choir. Without Kathy, the choir and its performances never would have happened. In the months we worked together on the planning committee, we became fast friends, as she did with so many people. The WeMiHi community has lost a wonderful person, with a huge, giving heart. She will be missed by all whose lives she touched. The funeral will be held on Friday, October 26th, 9:30AM till 11:00 AM at St. Florian's Church in West Milwaukee, with a mass at 11:00AM till Noon. A luncheon will follow in St. Florian's cafeteria. If any of the choir members are available, please consider honoring Kathy with your presence at her funeral services. I know I am. I hope to see you there. Cindy Kasza Long WeMiHi class of '68
Changes in the funeral for Kathy Sotak... Funeral on Friday, October 26th, 2012, from 2PM till 6 PM at Schaff funeral Home on 59th and Lincoln Ave. In West Allis. A notice will also be in the Milwaukee Journal/Sentinel. Please chek the newspaper to see if there are any further changes. Thanks... Cindy Kasza Long Class of '68
Any thoughts? We would love to hear from you!
ReplyDeleteSo, with two performances each costing money, what are spouses and other family members traveling with choir members supposed to do - pay $30 and attend both performances, twiddle their thumbs for a couple of hours outside the building, wander around and see the lovely sights in beautiful downtown West Milwaukee, or what?
ReplyDeleteAlso, what will the "reception" entail? Food/beverages? Who is choosing the menu? Will there be provisions for people with food restrictions or will it all be generic fare that they won't be able to eat even though paying for the reception with their ticket?
Thanks for letting us know your concerns about the concert. We want to make sure that all the performers know the thinking behind our decisions so this is a great opportunity to fill in the blanks, especially for those traveling a distance to be part of this show.
DeleteFirst, we are doing two performances because of the number of people who will be singing and the size of the auditorium. We want everyone to be able to invite family and friends so we are having two shows and have reduced the price of the matinee tickets and added children’s tickets for the matinee to encourage people to bring families.
Regarding what families of traveling choir members should do between shows, it really didn’t occur to us that this would be a problem. Since everyone performing is originally from the area we assumed that they would be able to suggest activities for their families. If you need ideas for things to do, you could contact the WA/WM Chamber of Commerce http://www.wawmchamber.com , or the Village of West Milwaukee. If you have not been to West Milwaukee for a while there has been substantial development along the old 43rd street corridor, now known as Miller Park Way, with a full array of shops, restaurants, and services. For nearby accommodations, the Best Western Woods View Inn is a full service hotel with a fine restaurant within walking distance of the school.
Regarding the reception, the intent was to allow performers, families and friends an opportunity to visit and relax after the matinee and before the evening performance. The food and refreshments will be an appropriate buffet for the event, it will be light fare. We have not settled on a specific menu yet but there should be something for everyone. It is not intended to be a substantial meal.
I hope this has addressed your concerns. I invite you to be in touch with us directly to discuss any further concerns, if you wish.
- John Stalewski, Planning Committee
My goodness anonymous .... Lighten up. Maybe you should think again about participating.
ReplyDeleteInstead of blasting out a comment on a blog like the one above, a call may have been a better way to ask these questions, or at least request in a more respectful way.
ReplyDeleteI would agree with the last blogger, that you should re-think your decision to participate.
Mr Mac certainly did not teach or guide us to act in this way.
John, thanks for your kind response and clarification above. Anyone who has been invloved in organizing anything even close to this magnitude appreciates all you and the committe have done. Dan 82
Have you thought of Memorial Mac T-shirt's ? For those who can't make the date, or even those that can . Charge the cost of a seat for one, and don't even "do" kid sizes . You could even have a limited size choice's, just adult M.L.EXL.for example. Just a thought.
ReplyDeleteJean Carpentier Schallock "76
I realize this comment is late in coming, but maybe we could be flexible with the ticket prices, especially considering there are some travelling great distances with, perhaps, families. Instead of "per ticket", could we do a "family pack"? Maybe $20 first ticket, $5 each ticket thereafter. Or, children's tickets by ages: 5 and under =$0; 6-12 =$5; 13-18= $10
ReplyDeleteI understand that the ticket sales are funding a worthwhile cause, however, I don't want people being financially burdened. This should be a joyful event shared by the many who were touched by Ken (to me he is Ken) and I don't want money to be an issue. Also, if there are empty seats available during the evening show, maybe the "out of towners" could be allowed to fill them, at no charge, as long as they paid for the first show. I am just thrilled that there has been a good response and want as many people to enjoy our gathering as possible. Just some thoughts. Looking forward to seeing the group.
Barb '70
Here's a tip: check out YouTube. All the songs are available for practice!
ReplyDeleteTo those (also anonymous) folks that have a thin skin, it seems light-hearted sarcasm and irony are lost on you, so perhaps you shouldn't be >reading< blogs... ;)
ReplyDeleteAs I recall, Mac himself was pretty quick with the jibes "back in the day," so lighten up. This is not a memorial concert, it's a reunion concert.
Jane, your packing notes were very helpful, thanks! Quick question: women of a certain age will be interested in knowing if rehearsal and performance spaces are air conditioned. This information will greatly aid wardrobe choices.
ReplyDeleteDear July 24 Anonymous --
ReplyDeleteGlad the packing notes were helpful! I know that the performance space -- aka the auditorium -- is air conditioned. it was a concern i had, too, given what i remember of milwaukee in august!
look forward to seeing you soon.
-j
Rgearsal spaces are also air conditioned. But be mindful - there will be a lot of there & for rehearsals, it might be a good idea to dress cool. It has been a hot summer here. For the concert, light-weight shirts might be better - but sleeves, please.
ReplyDeleteI would like to send out a huge "Thank You" to Jan Gilgenbach for all the time & effort she put into creating the individual piano parts for those of us who are (somewhat) musically challenged, but still want to participate in this epic event. Making several rehearsals is difficult for us out-of-towners, but having the music available is a tremendous help. Thanks Jan! Jill '74
ReplyDeleteThank YOU Jill! It was my great pleasure. I'm glad I could use what I know to help us all be as prepared as possible. We all want to be our very best. Jan
DeleteI am jewelry artist and will be having an open house and fundraiser on Thu Aug 23 from 6-9pm for the Music Fund -- 15% of sales will be donated. It will be a the home of Mary Beth Anich -- 5608 W Montana, St, Milwaukee, Wi (1 block South of Cleveland). Like me on Facebook, Jeanne M Stives Jewelry, for lots of pictures. https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Jeanne-M-Stives-Jewelry/111742372173282 There is also an ad in the program announcing the fundraiser. Get some unique artisan jewelry and support a cause near and dear to all of us!!
ReplyDeleteFeel free to email me with any questions you may not want to post here at jeanne@stivesjewelry.com Thanks!
DeleteHow long will the Saturday rehearsal be? I missed the first one.
ReplyDelete2-3 hours
DeleteRegarding the "light fare, something for everyone" for the reception menu.
ReplyDeleteMy wife has gluten intolerance. I'd be surprised if she's the only one that will be in attendance. Please, when deciding the menu for the reception, do not focus on bakery, pretzels, pizza, sandwiches, crackers, etc. as all of them are poison to those who can't handle gluten. My hope is that "something for everyone" is truly that.
I will be glad to help with menu ideas; feel free to ask.
do you need a drummer percussionist ? tom haines at youngfrank75wi.rr.com
ReplyDeleteyou needed to sing dude!
ReplyDeleteI put htis remark on the Mustang site, but bears repeating here..
ReplyDeleteThank you to everyone who attended the Alumni Choir Concert yesterday. It was a glorious concert, and all members of the choir really appreciate the support from former students/teachers and the community. It was a lot of work (both in practice and organization), but it was totally worth it, since the result was fantastic!! Ken McMonagle is still the wonderful, caring, talented man we all knew "back then"...he just has that "magic" that puts it all together. Love ya, Mac!
amen!
ReplyDeleteDouble "Amen!"
ReplyDeleteTHANK YOU to everyone who helped to make this happen! It was amazing!
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone know what edition of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel will have the interview and pics? I understand it wasn't in the Sunday paper...
ReplyDeleteAlthough I was interviewed and spoke to Jim at length, I didn't ask him...oops..I thought of it, but didn't ask...sorry...
ReplyDeleteI heard that at may be in Tuesday's edition.
ReplyDeleteThe reporter said he thought it would be in on Tuesday.
ReplyDeleteIt is official - it will be in Tuesday's paper. Jim asked to see the video of Irish Blessing before he submitted his story. John Ash just delivered it to him. The story is apparently "mostly" written & I cannot wait to see it! If possible, I will try & put a link to the story on the blog.
ReplyDeleteI cannot begin to thank all of you who came to be a part of this event. I am moved beyond words when I think back on the love that was in that auditorium Saturday night! All of us are now bonded in a way that few people ever have the chance to be. I, for one, am so grateful for each and every one of you! And of course for the one man who is the glue that binds us all together, Mac!
here is a link to the story: http://www.jsonline.com/news/education/alums-have-song-in-their-hearts-for-former-director-im6ibn5-166841376.html
ReplyDeleteVideo? Are there videos available?
ReplyDeleteGive it time Bro...
DeleteWe're still recovering. If the district makes the video available to us we'll see what is involved.
Kathy - what are the odds we might do something in the future?
ReplyDeleteWould consider it BUT only with the exact same planning committee! They are the BEST! Love them all!
DeleteAny word on whether the slide presentation that was shown during "They Way We Were" will be posted on this Blog? Never got a chance to see it and would love to! Thanks.
ReplyDeleteDone. See "Memories of the Show" page.
DeleteThe jewelry open house/fundraiser is tomorrow, Thursday. I look forward to seeing you!!!! I am jewelry artist and will be having an open house and fundraiser on Thu Aug 23 from 6-9pm for the Music Fund -- 15% of sales will be donated. It will be a the home of Mary Beth Anich -- 5608 W Montana, St, Milwaukee, Wi (1 block South of Cleveland). Like me on Facebook, Jeanne M Stives Jewelry, for lots of pictures. https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Jeanne-M-Stives-Jewelry/111742372173282 There is also an ad in the program announcing the fundraiser. Get some unique artisan jewelry and support a cause near and dear to all of us!!
ReplyDeleteAny news on the CD or DVD that I ordered? I handed over my name, address and $$ at the after party. :)
ReplyDeleteBarb, Sorry it has taken so long but they are finally available! We will be handing them out to everyone who ordered them on Sat., October 13 at the Park Way Pub in West Milwaukee. We will be there at 6pm and will show the DVD at 7pm. I hope you will be able to join us -- it should be lots of fun! If you cannot make it, please let us know and we will find a way to get it to you! Thanks for your patience! Kathy
ReplyDeleteHi All...
ReplyDeleteI am extremely sad to report the death of Kathy Sotak, the driving force behind the highly successful Reunion Choir. Without Kathy, the choir and its performances never would have happened. In the months we worked together on the planning committee, we became fast friends, as she did with so many people. The WeMiHi community has lost a wonderful person, with a huge, giving heart. She will be missed by all whose lives she touched.
The funeral will be held on Friday, October 26th, 9:30AM till 11:00 AM at St. Florian's Church in West Milwaukee, with a mass at 11:00AM till Noon. A luncheon will follow in St. Florian's cafeteria.
If any of the choir members are available, please consider honoring Kathy with your presence at her funeral services. I know I am. I hope to see you there.
Cindy Kasza Long
WeMiHi class of '68
Changes in the funeral for Kathy Sotak... Funeral on Friday, October 26th, 2012, from 2PM till 6 PM at Schaff funeral Home on 59th and Lincoln Ave. In West Allis. A notice will also be in the Milwaukee Journal/Sentinel. Please chek the newspaper to see if there are any further changes. Thanks...
ReplyDeleteCindy Kasza Long
Class of '68