LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the 35th Anniversary of the Ironde-
quoit Concert Band

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize that the
quality and character of life in the communities across New York State
are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those organiza-
tions and individuals that are devoted to the welfare of the community
and its citizenry; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commem-
orate the 35th Anniversary of the Irondequoit Concert Band; this auspi-
cious occasion was celebrated on Sunday, April 26, 2009, in the Spies
Conference Center at Camp Eastman on Lake Shore Boulevard, Irondequoit,
New York; and
WHEREAS, By virtue of the leadership of the Eastridge Kiwanis Club of
Irondequoit, New York, and its then president Lou Piazza, the Ironde-
quoit Concert Band met for its first rehearsal on April 23, 1974; and
WHEREAS, Under the direction of Mr. Al Piato, the 37 musicians in
attendance at this inaugural rehearsal started the tradition of bringing
concert band music to the citizens of the Town of Irondequoit, New York;
and
WHEREAS, July 4th of that year marked the premiere concert of the
group, which had increased to 55 members; a Board of Directors, consist-
ing of band members and people from the community, was formed in 1975 to
promote and govern the band; and
WHEREAS, In the spring of 1977, Mr. David Schantz, a music educator,
was appointed conductor and continued leading the group until the fall
of 1997; at that time, Mr. J. Russell Thomas, a retired music educator,
was appointed interim conductor and in January 1998, he was named the
permanent director; and
WHEREAS, Now in its 35th year of sharing the gift of music, the Iron-
dequoit Concert Band has approximately 80 members and performs 10-12
free concerts every season, September through July; and
WHEREAS, Under the able leadership of its Director and Concert Band
Leader, J. Russell Thomas, the current membership of the Irondequoit
Concert Band encompasses volunteer musicians from all walks of life;
they enjoy not only playing concert band music of all types, but also
the comradeship which has become a trademark of the group; and
WHEREAS, More than 60 founders, friends and members of the Irondequoit
Concert Band attended its 35th Anniversary celebration; three of the
original members of the band are still active: David Schantz, Judy John-
son and Peg Maina; and
WHEREAS, This auspicious occasion represents a unique opportunity for
this Legislative Body to recognize and pay tribute to the Irondequoit
Concert Band and to congratulate it on its achievements and progress;
and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when an organ-
ization of such noble aims and accomplishments is brought to our atten-
tion, it should be recognized and applauded by all the citizens of this
great Empire State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 35th Anniversary of the Irondequoit Concert Band; and be
it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to J. Russell Thomas, Director, Irondequoit Concert Band, Iron-
dequoit, New York.