In memory of Dave Fitzpatrick – Monday, May 18
Dave Fitzpatrick had an idea and, while a recent heart attack took his life, his inspiration lives on.
For the better part of four years St. John Lutheran Church has provided space for the Mint City Singers to conduct Monday evening rehearsals. Dave was among the founding members of the group.
Now St. John Lutheran Church has embarked on a building program and it was Dave’s suggestion that, in appreciation for weekly use of church space, a concert might assist the Church’s funding campaign. He will not be on hand the night of Monday, May 18, but his idea and spirit will be sensed when the singing group presents a Spring Concert, dedicated to his memory.
The program is set to begin at 7:30 p.m. and open to everyone. There will be no charge for attendance, but donations will be gratefully accepted and, in memory of Dave, directed to the Church’s building fund.
St. John Lutheran Church has been home to the singing group since the very beginning when director Marcus Roll originally spearheaded its foundation. The beginning concept continues today: to bring together those who enjoy singing with no restrictive requirements. After Marcus moved away, the choir benefited from the experience of several temporary directors. Ellen Hoard has taken the reigns following her retirement as music instructor at Grand Ledge Public Schools. Under her leadership, expertise and knowledge of music resources, the singers have enjoyed the new direction in which she has taken the group. Currently, in addition to the upcoming concert, appearances are planned for Memorial Day, during the annual Mint Festival and next summer’s National Night Out.
For the past couple of years, Mint City Singers have been under the auspices of the Clinton County Arts Council, benefiting from grant support provided by Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, National Foundation for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts. Current liaison with the Clinton County Arts Council is Susan Mahoney.
New members are always welcome. There are no personal auditions and the only requirement is simply to enjoy singing in a choral setting.
Anyone interested in learning more about the group may contact Carol Malewska, 989 834-2281 cdmalewska@yahoo.com, Susan Mahoney, 989 224-4361 s2mahoney26@gmail.com or Ellen Hoard, 989 233-5775 Ellen.hoard@rpccpas.com.