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Together, we create abundance
We replenish the spirit of Harmony
By Gaye LaCasce, International President
One of my guilty pleasures is watching American football. I love the balletic moves (made by men who weigh 300+ pounds), the sound of the game, and the improbable, nearly impossible feats we witness every week. (Yes, I worry about head injuries in the sport – that’s why it’s a guilty pleasure!) I recently read an interview with Travis Kelce, star football player in his own right but well known, too, as Taylor Swift’s fiancé. Travis said that a pivotal career moment for him was when a college coach told him that he was being a “drain, rather than a fountain,” and he needed to change or be benched. (Spoiler alert – he changed!) I’ve thought a lot about that, and here’s how I see it in Harmony terms.
A fountain gives life. It refreshes, inspires, and sustains those around it. A drain, on the other hand, pulls energy away, leaving emptiness behind. In Harmony, Inc., most of us choose to be fountains, bringing encouragement, creativity, and kindness in abundance. We lift each other up with positivity, and we create spaces where every member and singer feels valued and energized.
Our volunteers embody this spirit beautifully. They pour their time, talent, and love into every rehearsal and event. And our donors do the same, offering treasure and trust that sustain our work. From organizing contests, to mentoring singers, to managing communications, to supporting Harmony’s growth, both are fountains at the heart of our organization. Their contributions ripple outward, sustaining not only our music but the friendships and connections that make Harmony so special.
But it’s also every singer on the risers, every quartet member, every voice that contributes its best - each note sung, each chord rung, each moment of shared laughter - all of these add to the abundance we create together. When we bring our whole selves to rehearsal and performance, we replenish the spirit of Harmony.
I’m not sure Travis Kelce’s coach was entirely right. We’re not always fountains or drains; we might be either, depending on the moment. The real question is, can we spend more time giving and less time taking? Can we choose to be a fountain when it really matters - when a partner, friend, family member, employee, quartet or chorus mate - needs us to be our best self?
Harmony is full of fountains, and I celebrate you all. You remind us that being a fountain is not about grand gestures alone, but about choosing the steady, joyful flow of support and artistry that keeps our organization vibrant. Together, we choose to be fountains. And because of that choice, Harmony will always be replenished - with love, with laughter, and with song.
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Thanks for the Memories
By Shannon Shelton-Muller, Convention Marketing Assistant
"Constructive in our work for Harmony, Inc.," may be the last line of our creed, but it is certainly not the last thing on any of our minds. It is an essential part of our everyday lives in service to Harmony, and for me, a huge part of my heart.
We have so many great memories of our time together in Hershey and look forward to our next adventure in Louisville, KY, November 11 - 14, 2026.
REFLECTIONS AND FUTURE PLANS
As I sit here preparing for Thanksgiving and reflecting on the things I’m thankful for, I can’t help smiling as I recall all of the wonderful moments at this year’s IC&C. From an opening celebration that embodied the sweet harmonies we are known for, to the excitement of an elevated contest line-up, and culminating in a crowning ceremony that warmed our hearts, I am left feeling all “warm and tingly” - or maybe that’s the memory of the chocolate martinis!
There are so many people who make this event happen - too many to list here. So, to anyone who played a part - no matter how big or small - we thank you! A special shout out to the Convention Team who is so passionate about creating a great event - and it shows! You inspire me and make me proud!! And to Parkside for not only entertaining us - but allowing us to use your risers and volunteering during the event.
So, what’s next? Well, after the turkey and stuffing, and a visit from the big man with the white beard, it will be time to think about 2026. If you want to get a jump start on your planning, we encourage you to visit the website. You’ll find the FAQs with pricing and lodging information, as well as the form for reserved seating.
We look forward to seeing you all in Louisville, November 11 - 14, 2026!
In Harmony,
Allison Thompson
Convention Manager
A SHOUT OUT OF THANKS TO OUR AWARDS VOLUNTEERS - YOU ARE ALL WINNERS!
Many, many thanks to the volunteers who worked backstage at the end of the Chorus Contest and Quartet Finals. You make all the difference in making sure our many awards and the medals are ready to go when they are announced. A shout out to: Marlene Snook, Melinda Bunson, Diane Fagerstrom, Joyce Desjardins, Lynn Arner, Denise Maloney, Hazel Coughlin, Maloree Daily, Jess Leigh, Angie Morton and Kary Alicea for an outstanding job! As you can see, it takes a "village". If you had fun and are in Louisville next year, don't forget to volunteer again!
Thank you to everyone, who took the time to stop by the Awards Display Table and view the many beautiful awards that are presented throughout the contest. These awards have been lovingly donated to recognize the accomplishments of our choruses and quartets and deserve their place in the sun for you to appreciate.
See you in Louisville!
Margaret Cain
IC&C Awards and Services Manager
OUR VOLUNTEERS WERE THE SWEETEST THING IN HERSHEY!
The Convention Team extends heartfelt gratitude to the eighty-two dedicated volunteers who collectively contributed over 430 hours at our Hershey convention. Your commitment and efforts behind the scenes ensured a successful experience for both contestants and audiences.
A special shout-out goes to our Super-Volunteers: Patricia Cassidy, Teri Allred, Marlene Snook, Tessa Walker-Sifuentes, John Sifuentes and Sam O’Neill. Each of these incredible volunteers went over and above volunteering at IC&C.
This was Debbie Wilson’s first year as the Volunteer Manager. She was overwhelmed with all the support in this new role and is looking forward to working with everyone next year.
We hope you all enjoyed the experience and look forward to seeing you in Louisville in 2026!
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| International Volunteer Day |
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Volunteers are the Heart of Harmony
By Katie Court, PR Coordinator
Today (December 5), marks International Volunteer Day. Today and every day, we extend our deepest thanks to all who give their time, talents, and hearts to Harmony, Inc.
Did you know that Harmony, Inc. is a predominantly volunteer-run organization? That means we rely every single day on the dedication, passion, and generosity of individuals who give their time to keep members informed, support education initiatives, ensure major events run smoothly, and handle everything in between.
This past year (September 2024–August 2025), we began collecting data on volunteer hours at the International level. Based on the hours reported, we recorded 18,600 volunteer hours contributed to Harmony, Inc.
The top 10% of volunteers each contributed between 500 and 1,500 hours. We recorded hours from an average of 75 volunteers per month - and that’s just at the International level, not including the incredible work done in Areas and Chapters. In total, our volunteers provided the equivalent labor of nearly 10 full-time employees each month. Per the Independent Sector the current hourly value of volunteer time is $34.79 USD, which means volunteer hours contributed the equivalent of $647,094! The work of our volunteers impacts us every day and helps us achieve our mission of “Empowering all women through singing, education, and friendship."
"Harmony, Inc. would not function without the dedication of members who also serve,” says Executive Director Kelly Peterson. “With only three part-time staff members, the vast majority of work - from planning conventions to organizing member enrichment activities to recruiting and training new volunteers - rests squarely on the shoulders of our amazing volunteers. They embody the spirit of constructive service expressed in our guiding principles, breathing life into the organization at every level with their passion and commitment.”
Volunteers truly are the Heart of Harmony - and we encourage you to thank a volunteer not only today, but at every rehearsal, education event, convention, and beyond.
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| Introducing the Board Assistants |
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They volunteered to serve!
Now that we have introduced our new International Board of Directors we also wanted to introduce your new and returning Board Assistants:
Associate Member Coordinator - Sandra Morris
Chorus Director Development Coordinator - Jim O'Neill
Copyright & Licensing Coordinator - Karen Cross
Editor, The Key-Note - Roxanne Powell
Editor, HI Note - Roxanne Powell
Education Coordinator - Wendy Spilker
Elections Committee Chair - Sandra Morris
Equity & Diversity Committee Chair - Emily Parsons
Facilitator Program Coordinator - Katie Rose
Graphic Designer - Lindsay Fontana
IC&C Convention Manager - Allison Thompson
International Contest & Judging Chair - Kathy Greason
Manual Chair - Nancy Weisbein
Marketing Team Manager - Teri Allred
Membership Coordinator - Liz Meeker
Music Coordinator - Gabrielle Maas
PR Coordinator - Katie Court
Quartet Development Coordinator - Michelle Dionne
Quartet Development Coordinator - Debbie Durfey
Social Media Coordinator - Anita Prather Harvell
Video Editor - Amanda Cornaglia
Volunteer Resource Coordinator - Debbie Glenn
Website Manager - Pam Beatty Ringo
Youth Programs Coordinator - Tessa Walker-Sifuentes
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| Chorus Director Roundtable |
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Announcing: Chorus Director Roundtable
By Jim O'Neill, Chorus Director Development Coordinator
A great big Hello to all!
I am honoured, and thrilled, to have been appointed as your new Harmony, Inc. Chorus Director Development Coordinator.
We would love to get your input on what we can do to provide the materials to help make your position as Chorus Director, Associate Director, Occasional Director, or Aspiring Director easier and more accessible for you.
To that end, we will be having a Chorus Director Roundtable on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, starting at 7:00 p.m. Eastern time, via ZOOM. This will be a recurring roundtable based on your input as to how often you would like to have them.
We hope to have as many of you join us and help us determine how best to help you.
Please let me know if you are able to join us and what topics you may like to see discussed, and we can set an agenda and make the link available to you.
Chorus Director Roundtable, January 21, 2026.
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SEEKING
General Facilitator
Are you passionate about making a meaningful impact and eager to gain valuable experience in facilitation and group collaboration? Join us as a General Facilitator and help guide productive conversations and planning sessions that support the mission and goals of Harmony, Inc.!
In this dynamic volunteer role, you'll collaborate with a variety of groups from Area Councils to choruses, where you will lead engaging meetings, encourage inclusive participation, and help teams move from ideas to action. You'll attend training sessions, facilitate brainstorming and planning discussions, and work closely with teams to ensure meetings are effective and outcomes are clear.
This is a great opportunity to add to your facilitation skills, connect with passionate individuals, and contribute to positive change within our organization. Interested? Reach out to Katie Rose, Facilitator Program Coordinator, at rosek@harmonyinc.org to learn more about becoming part of this inspiring team!
New Chapter Development Coordinator
Are you passionate about growing Harmony, Inc.? We’re seeking a detail-oriented, enthusiastic individual to serve as our New Chapter Development Coordinator. In this vital role, you'll support prospective chapters, manage communications, and help expand our Harmony family. Learn more and apply today by emailing the VP of Membership.
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| Highlights from the Annual Meeting |
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By Kelly Peterson, Executive Director
The minutes of the annual meeting of the International Board of Directors are approved and have been posted to the website. I wanted to take a moment to share some important highlights from the meeting held last month in Hershey, PA.
Your International Board gathered for nearly 20 hours of meetings in the days leading up to the International Convention & Contests to do the work of the organization. They discussed a wide range of topics, including several agenda items submitted by members. Of note, the following decisions were made:
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In light of our commitment to offering comprehensive member services while facing increasing overhead costs, the IBOD has approved bringing a $15 USD dues increase effective April 1, 2026, to the membership for a vote. You’ll find the Corporate Budget in the Supporting Documents, item 12.
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Following feedback and member-centered discussions, the IBOD has approved bringing proposed updates to the Harmony Creed to the membership for consideration. Details can be found in the meeting minutes, agenda item 22.
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The International Board will continue shifting operational duties to new volunteer managers and freeing up elected board members to focus on strategic development and planning. You’ll find details about the progress of this transition in the Supporting Documents, item 27.
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Harmony, Inc. will hold an Expansion Area Convention & Contests on May 15-17, 2026 (location TBD). The chorus and quartet contests held during this event will serve as qualification rounds for the 2026 International Convention & Contests in Louisville, KY. A full update of expansion activities is outlined in the meeting minutes, item 30.
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Chapters may petition the IBOD to change their official charter location. Please see agenda item 38 in the meeting minutes for background. If this is something your chapter would like to consider, please contact me at ED@harmonyinc.org.
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The Association of Harmony Queens Travel Fund guidelines have been adjusted to allow for additional types of events with the goal of making it easier for more chapters to take advantage of the fund. Details can be found on the website.
The meeting minutes and supporting documents are available now on the Harmony, Inc. website here. All of these topics and more may be addressed at one of the upcoming Town Hall sessions. As members and representatives of Harmony, I encourage you to attend one or both of these sessions - they are scheduled for Sunday, December 7, and Sunday, January 11, both at 7 p.m. EST.
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Your donations to the For Love of Harmony program enable you to identify individuals or groups to receive special recognition, while at the same time providing a monetary gift to Harmony, Inc.
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The over 60 individuals, quartets and chapters who donated at ICC 2025
A Cappella Showcase in memory of Bonnie Hartnell
Amanda Cornaglia in honor of Richard & Christina Lewellen
Denise Maloney
Julie Morgan
Victoria Green
Cynthia Knapp
Marci Saunders
Kelly Peterson in honor of Harmony, Inc. volunteers
Anonymous in honor of Bella Nova
A Cappella Showcase in memory of Annie Oxholm
Newfound Sound in memory of Margaret Maloney
Linda Brehaut
Donna Clarkson
Sharon Ehrisman
Atlanta Harmony Celebration! in memory of Larry & Anna Marie Alderson
Bella Nova in honor of Christina & Richard Lewellen
Bella Nova in honor of Legacy
Bella Nova in honor of Angel's Envy
Bella Nova in honor of The Agency
Bella Nova in honor of Roulette
Bella Nova in honor of SolFire
Emily Christman
Ginny Corradino
Kathy Greason
Linda Muise
Scenic City Chorus
HI Musicality Judges in honor of Tom Gentry
Donna McKay
Onyx
Sapphire
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- to Harmony in Motion (Area 3) on the passing of Betty Martin, a lifetime member who was one of the chapter’s founding mothers. Betty and her quartet, Musical Exchange, competed for many years with Harmony, Inc. She was an exceptional member of the chorus, serving in multiple capacities on the governing board as President and as baritone section leader. We celebrate her life: her commitment to Harmony in Motion, and her excellent energy and love of singing. Our sincerest condolences go to her loved ones, of which we include ourselves.
- to friends and family of Mek King (Area 1), former member of Citadel Chimes, ScotianAires, Seaside A Cappella, and Valley Voices
- to The Over Tones, Inc. (Area 5) on the loss of their member Linda Trouten-Radford
- Classic Blend (Area 5) is very sad to announce that one of our members passed away on November 4, 2025. Liz Perez was a valued lead with Classic Blend for many years. She always knew her music and seldom missed a rehearsal or event. We will miss her beautiful smile and lovely voice.
- Atlanta Harmony Celebration! (Area 6) wishes to express our condolences to our member, Diane Russell, on the loss of her parents, Larry & Anna Marie Alderson
- Nickel City Sound (Area 5) wishes to express condolences to the family and friends of Marcel Leach, father-in-law of NCS member Wendy Leach
- to Newfound Sound (Area 1) on the passing of former member, Margaret Maloney
- To Tracey Beatty (A Cappella Showcase, Area 5) and her family on the passing of her mother, Annie Oxholm. Our heartfelt condolences.
- To Iva Flewelling (Crystal Chords, Area 3) on the passing of her father, Howard A. Harris.
- To Linda Hartnell (A Cappella Showcase, Area 5) and family on the passing of her mother-in-law, Bonnie Hartnell. Our heartfelt condolences.
Need to post a condolence notice? Please have the information sent to the Administrative Coordinator to be recorded. Thank you. |
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| International Board of Directors Meetings |
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Annual Meeting minutes have been posted on the Harmony, Inc. website.
Upcoming 2026 meetings are scheduled:
IBOD quarterly meetings are open to the membership to observe.
Agendas are posted in advance on the Members Only website. Please contact the Corporate Office for details on how to join the virtual meetings or where to attend the live meetings.
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| International Convention & Contests |
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2026 NOVEMBER 11-14, GALT HOUSE, LOUISVILLE, KY
2027 NOVEMBER 10-13, NIAGARA FALLS CONVENTION CENTRE, NIAGARA FALLS, ON
2028 NOVEMBER 1-4, HERSHEY LODGE, HERSHEY, PA
2029 NOVEMBER 7-11, HALIFAX CONVENTION CENTRE, HALIFAX, NS
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The HI Note returns to your inbox on December 20. What else would you like to see covered in our pages? Drop a line to editor@harmonyinc.org and we'll tell the world. Next deadline is December 13.
See you again, soon!
Copyright © 2025 Harmony, Inc., All rights reserved.
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