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A distinction with a difference
Contestants strive to do their best, competitors seek to beat others
By Gaye LaCasce, International President
You’ve all probably heard of Wikipedia, which is basically an on-line encyclopedia. But today I found Difference Wiki, which helps us “unveil nuances” and “discover distinctions”.
Why was I falling into that linguistic rabbit hole of a website? Well, as you know, I love words. And I was curious about the contrast and comparison between the definitions of contest and competition.
This is my last message to you before IC&C, and this seemed like a great topic to research. As most of you know, Harmony, Inc. deliberately and thoughtfully calls its conventions “Contests” rather than “Competitions”. That’s our culture, from the days of our founding in 1959.
Here’s why it matters – we support one another. Here’s what Wiki Difference had to say on the topic:
Contest and Competition are two terms often used interchangeably, but they have subtle differences. A Contest is a more specific term that refers to an event where individuals or teams participate to win a prize, title, or recognition. The rules, guidelines, and judging criteria are usually well-defined. On the other hand, Competition is a general term that describes the action or situation of striving against others for the same objective, such as resources, prizes, or recognition.
Stated another way, in a contest, we work to do our very best individually. Our culture is not that we are rivals, striving against each other – we want everyone to succeed! Yes, at the end of the event, there’s a winner based on points, but our culture firmly embraces the idea that everyone who crosses the stage is a winner – and everyone cheers for everyone!
On a personal note, this is the first time I’m participating at IC&C in a chorus (Bella Nova) and also in a quartet (Legacy). My other quartet, Aged to Perfection, won the gold in 2018, so it’s been a while for me! My goal is to have fun, to enjoy my time on stage with people who are important to me. Whatever happens, I’m exactly where I want to be, doing what I love in an organization that will celebrate my efforts, whatever the final score may be.
I’m proud to be part of Harmony because I respect its culture and caring. Here’s wishing you all a wonderful IC&C, and for those at home, know you’ll be missed by your Harmony family at this joyous reunion and contest.
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| The Key-Note now available |
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It's here!
Re-live the memories of Grand Rapids - the singing, the hi-jinks, the 'blend of friendship' - as we prepare to make new ones in Louisville.
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| Calling All Harmony Helpers! |
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We need:
- Three volunteers for the contest stage viewing Wednesday 4-6 p.m.
- Two volunteers to sell tickets during the Chorus Contest, 8:15 - 11 a.m. Yes, you miss some of the contest but you'd be able to see over half of the contest. Also, since there are two volunteers, you can cover for one another and see your favorite chorus perform.
Links for signup:
Stage Viewing
Ticket sellers
Or contact Volunteer Manager Ann Leinen
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| International Convention News |
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 On your marks...
By Shannon Shelton-Muller, IC&C Marketing Assistant
As you read this, we are two weeks away from experiencing the joy that being together for IC&C brings. We can't wait to see everyone and sing some tags!
YOU BE THE JUDGE!
The Audience Entertainment Choice Award allows you to be a judge and vote for the quartet that you deem the most entertaining and audience pleasing from all the quartet performances during the Quartet Semi-Finals. So, if you've ever wanted to be a judge, now's your chance.
All you have to do is:
- Pledge to be present for all eligible contestant performances
- Vote for your choice at the end of the Quartet Semi-Finals via a link to be provided
That's it! You be the judge. Who's your favorite?
RESERVE YOUR REHEARSAL ROOM NOW
There is still some space available for the Thursday Open Rehearsal Rooms. Even if you have already booked a rehearsal slot but would like another one, your chorus is now welcome to sign up for a second slot.
Here is the access to the Sign Up Sheet for booking a space. There are four rooms this year for Open Rehearsals, available in 50-minute rehearsal slots between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. Thursday, November 7. The information on the Sign Up Sheet lists the name of the room and its size in square feet. Please choose the room appropriate to your chorus size so that the larger choruses have the opportunity to book the larger rooms.
The rooms are available for booking from now until Thursday, November 7. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact iccservicesmgr@harmonyinc.org
REMEMBER TO RETURN THE INTERNATIONAL AWARDS
If your chorus or quartet is in possession of one of the following awards, THIS IS A REMINDER to return the award at IC&C.
Awards must be returned in their travel cases or bags, be in good condition, and be engraved if this is required.
Return the Award to the Hospitality Room no later than Thursday, Nov 7.*
If your chorus or quartet is not attending IC&C this year, it is still the responsibility of the award holder to make the necessary arrangements to return the award as required.
CHORUS AWARDS
The Jerry Dunlop Award
The G. Ruth Geils Award
The L.A.B.B.S Trophy
The MacIntosh Award
The Tait Trophy
Jeanne O’Connor Championship Chorus Award
QUARTET AWARDS
The Accord Award
The Findlay Plaque
The Susan C. Trenchard Award
The Audience Entertainment Award
Young At Heart Award
Harmony Future Award
*The Sandi White International Membership Award is due to be returned to the Hospitality Room by Wednesday, November 6.
If you have a question about your award, please contact iccservicesmgr@harmonyinc.org
ALMOST THERE: JUST A FEW MORE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED...
We’re getting close to Convention, but there’s still time to sign up for a volunteer job!
- Stage Viewing assistant, Wednesday 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.. Perfect if you’re going to be in Louisville Wednesday afternoon.
- Ticket Sellers for the Chorus Contest. Two shifts available, from 8:15 – 11:00 a.m., and 11:00 – 1:45 p.m. Great if you want to catch most of the chorus action. If you are not participating in the Chorus Contest, please consider filling this job.
- Pattern Escort for the Chorus Contest, 8:45 – 11:45 a.m. You’ll get to watch the second half of the contest.
If any of these roles sound like a fit, you can sign up here, or feel free to contact Anne Leinen directly.
Thank you for your help, Harmony!
A DEADLINE IS APPROACHING QUICKLY!
October 31, midnight EDT
Online Registration closes - order through your AEP registration until then (you may still purchase AEPs and tickets at the door)
LAST-MINUTE CHANGES TO DINNER TICKET OR AEP?
Check out the brand-new Self-serve AEP/Ticket transfers form.
HOW IT WORKS:
- Sellers - complete the form available on the page found in the link above to post details about the pass(es) you wish to sell. You will receive a confirmation message with instructions on how to finalize the transfer. Buyers will contact you via the email address you share in this form to arrange the transfer. Once you have agreed, click the link in your confirmation to update the transfer list.
- Buyers - check the list of Available Tickets and contact the seller who has the kind of ticket you need. You'll pay the seller directly and pick up your pass at registration when you arrive in Louisville.
If you are not a member, or if you have trouble logging into the Harmony, Inc. website to utilize this transfer service, please contact the Corporate Office for assistance.
DINING IS DIFFERENT DURING CONTESTS THIS YEAR
Remember, we DO NOT have the opportunity to offer any food concession sales during this year’s contests and there is no food and beverage (except water) allowed in the ballroom, so please plan accordingly.
Here are some options to consider: There are four onsite restaurants: Swizzle, Walker’s Exchange, Jockey Silks, and The Veranda. Click here for dining hours and menus. There are also many restaurants within walking distance. Click here to view a map and get more information.
DON'T FORGET YOUR FASCINATOR!
This year's opening event includes a Derby Hat Contest. So, if you plan to participate make sure to have your fascinator packed and ready to go! Here are the details:
- Everyone wearing a derby hat/fascinator will get a ticket when entering the ballroom.
- Then 5 tickets will be drawn out of a hat and those 5 people will come up on stage.
- We will then present each derby hat competitor and determine the winner based on audience response.
- The winner will get a certificate for a comped one-night room and tax for their stay at the Galt House!
Links for ideas on how to make your very own fascinator were included in the October 5 edition of the Hi-Note.
NEED TO MAKE A CHANGE TO YOUR HOTEL ROOM?
So you've booked your hotel room for IC&C but there's been a change in arrival date, roommates, etc. You must use the website to make any changes to your hotel reservation. YOU CANNOT CALL THE HOTEL DIRECTLY.
BOOK A SCOOTER
Looking for mobility assistance during IC&C? Booking is available for scooters.
Cost: Wednesday, November 6 - Saturday, November 9 (scooter due for drop off by 11 a.m. Sunday, November 10) is $175.
Arriving earlier than Wednesday? No problem. Scooters are available as early as Sunday, November 3. The cost for an earlier rental for the week is $206 (Sunday, November 3 or Monday, November 4).
To book: Call 502-799-5419.
Let them know you are with Harmony, Inc. for their convention at the Galt House.
Give the required time for pick up and drop off.
Payment is due at the time of booking.
All scooters will come with baskets. Still have questions? Contact Debbie, IC&C Business Services Assistant.
SERVICE ANIMALS WELCOME
If you will have a service animal at IC&C and have not done so already, please email ICC Manager Allison Thompson so that appropriate accommodations can be made. Please put ICC Service Animal Accommodation Request in the subject line.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Check out what you missed or get a quick review by using the links below:
Watch the recording
View the slides
GET YOUR PHOTO FORMS!
Photo forms are available online.
Make sure to print your copy and bring it with you to contest. Quartets will turn theirs into the photo room during the pattern. Chorus photos will be taken onstage.
Remember, you can always visit the FAQ page for details on IC&C! The FAQ sheet is kept updated throughout the contest season with everything you need to know.
Curious about the IC&C judging panel?
Generously contributing their time and talents to adjudicate the 2024 International Contests are:
ADMIN: Sue Novosad (PC), Steve Tremper
MUSIC: Rob Campbell, Jay Dougherty, Adele Merritt
PERFORMANCE: Joe Hunter, Gene Spilker, Fatima Whelen
SINGING: Rob Mance, David Mills, Nate Ogg
For more information about the individual judges, check the ICC page on the website.
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Unaccompanied Minors Chorus had such a blast making bracelets for all of their Area 6 friends, they thought it would be fun if bracelet trading was a "thing" at IC&C in November as well.
The kids invite all attendees to make bracelets to trade with the name of their quartet or chorus, or any other fun Harmony related slogan. Making the bracelets is an entertaining and creative group activity, and trading is an excellent way to connect with folks that you might not have met otherwise. There's something magical about the way members of our organization cheer for each other, and rocking bracelets with the name of your favorite groups is a great way to show support!
Too busy or not handy enough to make your own bracelets? UM will make them for your group for $1 a piece. Remember to order enough to trade with your pals, old and new! Email lindsay@tyfystudios.com to place an order. We can't wait to see everyone in Louisville!
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The 2024 IC&C pins have arrived, and they are beauties! Our wild and crazy pin crew will be selling these keepsakes in Louisville throughout the convention for $15 each. Cash, check, and Zelle payment options available! All proceeds benefit Sisters of Sound chorus. Questions? Contact annlkem@yahoo.com .
See you in Louisville!
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VICTORIA GREEN
By Kim Meechan, Philanthropy Committee Chair
HOW DID YOU DISCOVER HARMONY, INC. AND HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A MEMBER?
In 2017, I attended a Women’s Harmony Brigade event where Katie Taylor was an invited special guest. I was fairly new to barbershop, being a Sweet Adeline, and unaware of Harmony, Inc. I became Facebook friends with Katie and was introduced to this organization. I became an Associate Member in October 2018. The Facebook friendship with Katie and Northern Blend Chorus has become a personal relationship.
WHAT IS YOUR FONDEST MEMORY PERTAINING TO YOUR TIME WITH HARMONY, INC.?
I have since had many fond memories, including attending conventions and singing in Area 3, as well as in International choruses. I believe the first fond memory came in 2021 when singers could gather again. I attended a Sing on the Porch event as a guest of Northern Blend and at that time I had learned two HI common songs. I was invited to perform those songs with Northern Blend. The acceptance and friendship I felt instantly will always hold a special memory.
WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO DONATE TO HARMONY, INC.?
I believe as a member of any organization donating supports many opportunities that are offered. Support especially for younger members gives them opportunities they may not experience if funding is an obstacle.
WHAT IMPACT DO YOU HOPE TO SEE AS A RESULT OF YOUR DONATIONS?
I hope to see that investing in Harmony, Inc., and especially our youth, will carry on this art form and the joy I feel in finding Harmony, Inc. for generations to come.
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| Harmony Distinction Award |
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Harmony Distinction Award Nominations
By Taralee Lashway, Director of Membership
Do you know someone who has contributed significantly to Harmony, Inc. and/or the barbershop community at large who exemplifies the organization's values, principles, goals, and objectives? Someone who embodies the "Blend of Friendship" and is committed to making Harmony, Stronger? Consider nominating them for the 2025 Harmony Distinction Award.
Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 International Convention and Contest year. Any Harmony, Inc. Chapter and Associate Member in good standing can nominate an individual who is suitable to serve as a Harmony, Inc. ambassador as the Harmony Distinction Awardee.
To meet the criteria for this honor, the Honoree:
- Would agree to attend and receive the Harmony Distinction Award at the Membership Meeting during that year’s Opening Ceremony of the International Convention.
- Would agree to take part in publicity and media coverage surrounding the presentation of the award.
- Work with Harmony, Inc.’s Public Relations Coordinator to represent and serve as a spokesperson for the organization.
For more information, visit the Member’s Only section of the website (under Corporate Manual, Section 14.5), then fill out the nomination form HAR-058.
The deadline for nominations to be considered for the 2025 award year is January 31, 2025!
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| 2024 Delegates/Associates/Affiliates Meeting Notice |
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2024 IC&C Delegates/Associates Meeting - LAST CALL
By Debbie Parmerter, International Parliamentarian
The 2024 Delegates/Associates Meeting will be held via Zoom Sunday, November 17 at 2:00 p.m. EST.
Chapter Presidents (Delegates)
If you are unable to attend this meeting, you may select another chapter member to serve as an Alternate Delegate by completing Form HAR-029 found in the Members-only section of the Harmony, Inc. website.
Associates
You are encouraged to attend this meeting. The voting privilege of Associate members will be exercised through the vote of one Associate elected at this meeting.
REGISTRATION TO ATTEND THIS ZOOM MEETING IS REQUIRED! Complete Form HAR-029 by November 16, 2024 to receive the link to the meeting.
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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.
?
Crosswinds
Taralee Lashway (new monthly recurring donor)
Island A Cappella in memory of Brodie Craswell
Island A Cappella in memory of Bart Bourne
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| Condolences From The Membership |
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- to Evelyn Fogg, director of Surround Sound Chorus (Area 2), on the passing of her sister, Beverly Osier
- to Carol Craswell (Area 1, Island A Cappella) and her family on the recent death of her son, Brodie. We extend our sympathies and offer our prayers, love and support.
- to Patty Bourne (Area 1, Island A Cappella) and her family on the passing of her husband, Bart Bourne
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 Conventions & Contests |
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2024 NOVEMBER 6-9, GALT HOUSE, LOUISVILLE, KY
2025 NOVEMBER 5-8, HERSHEY LODGE, HERSHEY, PA
2026 NOVEMBER 11-14, GALT HOUSE, LOUISVILLE, KY
2027 NOVEMBER 10-13, NIAGARA FALLS CONVENTION CENTER, NIAGARA FALLS, ONTARIO
2028 NOVEMBER 1-4, HERSHEY LODGE, HERSHEY, PA
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As it does every year at this time, the HI Note goes on hiatus for the month of November. The next issue of the HI Note comes to your inbox December 5. What 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 November 28.
See you again, in December!
Copyright © 2024 Harmony, Inc., All rights reserved.
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