President’s Letter
The inaugural concert of the Charles Washington Chamber Music Society on Sunday, February 25, was thrilling. We are indebted to Gary Stewart for organizing the event and for bringing such a group of extraordinary musicians to Happy Retreat. It was so successful we are making plans for future concerts.
Rachel Niswander, our AmeriCorps member, completed her year of service with us on March 19. Over the past twelve months, she helped promote our many events on social media, created an inventory of all of the books, furniture and other items which have been donated to us using the MusArch software program. She prompted us to develop a volunteer management policy and a donations policy, both of which she contributed research to. She helped plan our festivals as well as helping out at the festivals themselves. She was a daily presence in the office at Happy Retreat and welcomed visitors and tours to the house. We wish her the best of success as she pursues her career. We hope to welcome another AmeriCorps member in August.
On Saturday, May 12, we will convene the meeting of the Grand Idea Task Force at Happy Retreat. This will be a gathering of representatives of historical, arts, music and other cultural groups to work out a shared use plan for Happy Retreat. We are delighted that Nancy Tinker, Senior Field Officer for the National Trust for Historic Preservation, will be here to facilitate the event.
Walter Washington
President