Programing Update
It has been an extremely long year in waiting for all of us. I know how much we all miss being together for programming and meetings. Now that we as a community have done our part and hopefully have been vaccinated we can now look ahead at planning in-person meetings that feature amazing talent and social activities. Before I continue with that I would like to take a brief moment to discuss the dire need for member participation as we move forward in the coming years. Indeed, we are extremely hyper focused these days in diversifying our chapter, mission and programs which is so amazing but that does not happen on its own, it happens by having all members participate and engage weather in person, online submissions, or the few webinars we have been able to have over the past year.
A few weeks ago we had a virtual meeting on acoustical design by Neal Shade, this was a webinar that was requested by the board in order to bridge the gap between now and the fall when we will pick up in person programming. I was extremely disappointed in the lack of participation in the event as over the past year extreme feedback was given to have something on hand. Sadly, time and time again, inperson or not our numbers are extremely low when it comes to member participation. I encourage anyone who has an idea or any feedback to reach out to me so that your voice can be heard. So indeed, we can diversify but without member participation are we viable? With that said, I hope that as we announce over the next month the 2021/2022 program year we will see many more chapter members at these events.
Now to some good news! I am pleased to announce that our dear colleague Jeannie Klusewitz, our program committee member suggested to us that we have a gathering before the start of the season to socialize and we will do so at The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer. I thank Bert Landman who is the music director at Redeemer, the pastor and staff for hosting us on their beautiful campus. Rain or shine we will meet on July 11th from 2pm-4pm for a social. Panera bread will cater boxed lunches and we will have various beverages as well as some red and white wine. Please see the sign up information below this message where you will find information on how to register and pick the lunch of your choice. Lastly, in the next Pipe and Pedal we are excited to announce the upcoming program year – in person! I hope you all join us as we strive to keep the BAGO relevant, lively, diverse, sustainable and viable for the years to come! Again, please reach out to me with any questions or concerns thank you and stay well!
Joe Martenczuk
Sub Dean, Baltimore Chapter