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• Funding Brainstorming--We are doing this as a backup. Ultimately, our position is that the university through the Music Dept. should be funding the SLs director position as it does the other ensembles. If you have a funding idea, send it to Marty Egna ( m.egna@worldnet.att.net ). You don't have to have all the details worked out. And it's okay if you don't think it's viable. Just toss it in the ring. Maybe your idea will help someone else think of one that'll work.
• Singing Lions Funding History from Pete, 5/1/99 (Pete's discussion continued at Expenses & Income, the next listed item)
• SLs Expenses & Income from Pete, 5/10/99 (funding discussion continued)
• Pete spoke with College of Arts & Architecture, asst dean; Pete also says School of Music owns all SLs equipment and more
• Who pays for the other ensemble directors? 5/25/99, Pete and Marty discuss source of salaries for other School of Music ensembles.
• Dr. Green admits he was incorrect, 6/9/99, Pete spoke with Dr. Green, who acknowledged that, while the SLs entire "operational budget" was not the responsibility of the School of Music, the director's salary had been. Read recap of conversation by Pete in email to Marty.
• American Choral Directors Association members meet with Green, 8/11/99
• Post Fundraising email and letters start here merged for ease of understanding from August 16, 1999, onward, 8/16/99
• Green Reneges on his promise to keep the SLs in the School of Music if we raised $5000, 8/18/99
• Pete's update following the first day of classes, 8/25/99
• Winter Break Update: 1999-2000 Season & Group Status from Yac, 12/22/99
• Marty's Reponse to Yac, 1/24/00.

Martin Egna 04/28/99 10:00 AM

Martin Egna 04/28/99 11:14 AM

Martin Egna 04/28/99 06:07 PM

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Martin Egna 04/29/99 03:17 PM

Jeff,

I had planned to call you last night but I'm so swamped that I didn't get a chance. I'd like to take you up on your offer to help. I can handle posting copies of letters to Dr. Green as they arrive while I'm working on my own letters (a letter to the editor of the Penn Stater, one to PS Alumni Assn President, one to Green, and one to Spanier). But I'm at my limit of what I can handle. I need a computer savvy person such as yourself to coordinate some email connected SL alumni volunteers who can help you do some research. I can explain more easily on the phone. Are you available tonight to talk? I'll call when I get home.

The documents you'll need are the two below and the one I sent you yesterday. (alumnilist.doc)

Maillist.doc is the friends of the SLs list Pete sent me today. SL email addresses.doc is the running list of email addresses I gathered last weekend and since the campaign started.

I must get back to work. Hopefully we'll hook up by phone tonight or the next few days.

Marty

[I am posting this at the SLs web site so we all can see what's going on. But please don't contact Jeff yet. Give us some time to talk. If he has the time to do what I need, he will either contact alumni directly for volunteers and/or I will post a notice at the alumni web site that Jeff needs X number of volunteers to do xyz.]

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• Pete will send Marty info this weekend about how the other school of music ensembles are funded
• Jeff Rezer and Tom Musumeci working on getting phone numbers for the SL alumni we have yet to contact about the campaign
• Jeff looking for volunteers to help call alumni to spread the word about the campaign (see home page for info)

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• Laura spoke with Pete on Friday
• Pete's part-time position as SLs director was originally somehow funded through the Waring Collection or Fred Waring's America program.
• Several years ago, the collection moved under the auspices of the university library, which paid Pete's entire salary (Pete is also the coordinator of the Waring Collection)
• The Music Department was apparently obligated to reimburse the library the portion of Pete's salary corresponding to the time he spent working with the SLs.
• Pete, Dr. Green, the library, and we only recently learned that the Music Department was not meeting it's apparent obligation to reimburse the library for Pete's time.
• The library, understandably, will not continue to fund the part time salary of a SLs director.
• Pete had provided two possible candidates for the position to Dr. Green (I believe they are local high school choir directors)

• Laura and Marty discussed the implications of Dr. Green's response to her initial email.
• Doesn't sound like he's been looking outside the local area for a successor to Pete
• We must figure out arguments to get the Music Department genuinely interested in continuing the SLs
• Marty thinks the Music Depart search should not be limited to the local area. There must be well qualified music educators in the US who would be willing to move to State College to lead a well established, Big Ten, show choir.
• Laura suspects that the Music Department's reluctance to conduct a broader search is because the position is part time.
• Marty thinks the Music Department needs to work with potential candidates to find the right combination of part time positions in the music department to fully fund a person 's full time salary. This of course will narrow the field of candidates depending on the positions, if any, available in the department and the qualifications and experience of candidates.
• Laura thinks Dr. Green won't commit the resources for a broader search unless we motivate him to want the SLs to continue.

• Laura and Marty discussed ideas for reply to Dr. Green's response to her initial email to him
• We identified arguments we thought appropriate for Dr. Green and other arguments that might be more appropriate for President Spanier.
• Laura will work on getting the support of Austin, TX, group that hosted SLs show during 1999 spring tour.
• Laura will also try to contact Bryce Jordan to enlist his support. Dr. Jordan lives in TX; He was a strong supporter of SLs when he was university president, he has a music background (professor of music? a flautist I believe) Laura worked with him during several years following her graduation from PSU when she worked for the Penn State Development Department.
• Marty working on letters to Green, Spanier, Ryan (Alumni assn. pres.), and Penn Stater

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-----Original Message-----

From: Peter Kiefer [mailto:ptk@psulias.psu.edu]

Sent: Saturday, May 01, 1999 8:03 AM

To: m.egna@worldnet.att.net

Subject: Status of SLs

Marty:

Here's the story: The Singing Lions are a fully acredited course of the School of Music - Music 85 - for one credit, as ALL vocal and instrumental ensembles are.

When I took over the Singing Lions in 1985, although it was a credit course, it was under the auspice of Associated Student Activities as were Glee Club, Blue Band, Jazz Ensemble, Concert Choir, etc. We did receive our funding from ASA. Since they were a credit course, ASA, after an apparently long campaign, got the School of Music to "take back" financial responsibility of the ensembles. This was done at a rate of two or three ensembles a year. Glee Club was first, Singing Lions and Jazz Ensemble were second. At that time the School of Music promised us $1000 in financial support plus the expenses of our Spring Show. I assume similar support was given to the other ensembles. (Marching Blue Band remained with ASA for a couple years until the Athletic Department took financial responsibility).

We, as did other ensembles, have maintained a "relationship" with ASA primarily because we use them as a "bank account" for our miscellaneous monies. Most expenses go through the School but things like t-shirts, jackets, photos, parties, etc go through ASA.

From the beginning we had to provide the additional financial means through performance fees and outside donations, hence the creation of "Friends of the Singing Lions" and more recently corporate sponsorships. Many of the other ensembles do the same.

When the expenses of doing Spring Shows rose considerably (our first show in Schwaab cost $300, the last one $1800) in the space of 5-6 years, the School of Music said they could no longer handle that so we were allowed to charge for tickets. They still gave us $1000 (and hopefully still do).

I hope that answers some questions. Laura had sent me Dr. Green's response and I told her it was a bit incorrect but then he really hasn't seemed to grasp the details of our operation. In all fairness he is brand new and so is his staff assistant, no past history at all.

Now, as to my status. When I came to PSU with the Waring Archives I was under Media & Learning Service Div. My then Boss, Marlowe Froke, arranged a deal with the School of Music for me to take over the Singing Lions (then known as the Pop Choir) as an adjunct instructor. In return, the School of Music would reimburse Media & Learning Resources for my time. I never knew, or cared, what the amount was, or what the amount of time commitment was.

When Froke retired, his division was re-organized and I and the Waring Archives ended up under WPSX-TV which was part of Continuing Education. I assumed the reimbursement deal went on. A few years later, the University Libraries took over the Waring Archives. At that time I went to the staff assistant of the Director of the School of Music (both now retired) and told her that effective that month my reimburse check should go to the Libraries. She did not bat an eye, merely said "OK!" So I continued to assume the reimbursement deal was continuing. Therefore I continued to have no conscience problems when I went on tour and spent lots of time on SL things.

It wasn't until I announced my retirement that Dr. Green, out of ignorance of the previous deal, called the Libraries and asked if they would "continue to fund the Singing Lions position. Well that came as a total surprise to them. They called me in and I explained the reimbursement deal. The Financial Office (also relatively new) checked back and found absolutely no record of any payment from the School of Music for my services (with the exception of a one week workshop I had done one summer and payments from Continuing Ed for my involvement in the Fred Waring Elderhostels each summer).

Therefore, for the past four years or more, the School of Music has been getting my services (and they were considerable) for NOTHING! At first it was funny but then the more I thought of it the more angry I got, especially when I think of how WE have to scrape and beg to make our operating expenses and they were getting me FREE!

This has been practically a book but that is the story, Marty. Please feel free to use it wherever or whenever you think it necessary, it is the facts. I do believe I need to re-acquaint Dr. Green with the facts. He seems to have trouble understanding the situation even though I have explained it several times.

The bottom line is of course, the whole College of Art & Architecture does have serious financial problems running their programs. It makes it all the more important that this "Grand Destiny" One Billion dollar fund campaign send a few million to the College of A & A, especially to the School of Music most specifically to the Singing Lions (and the Opera Workshop which really struggles just like us).

Whew! Thanks so much for your work and support Marty & Margee. I am so touched by everybody's concern and finding out the impact I have had on so many people's lives. Now before I start tearing-up again, I'll sign off.

[Read Pete's next installment on these topics at Expenses & Income]

Love, Pete
Peter T. Kiefer, Coordinator
Fred Waring's America
The Pennsylvania State University
Special Services Building
1127 Fox Hill Road
University Park, PA 16803-1824
(814)863-2911
Email: ptk@psulias.psu.edu

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Martin Egna 05/03/99 09:31 AM

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Martin Egna 05/06/99 04:41 PM

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Hi again.

Assuming the endowment idea may be out of reach, did anyone consider just getting enough money to pay one year's salary (possibly with PSU matching the contributions we gather), with the stipulation that the music dept. would get the position into the budget for the next year?

Another idea--Corporate sponsorship, but not SBS.  How about Pepsi or Coke, etc?  Maybe they would fund the director's position if the group would hang a banner with their name on it at shows, print it in newsletters, mention it a few times, or even sing for a commercial? How many people pass SBS on football Saturdays, attend shows, etc?   I'm sure someone at PSU has info on how to contact big companies about stuff like this, almost everything is underwritten these days if not by a soda company, how about computers, or capezio (character shoes), etc.....

Did you already toss these options around?  If so, sorry to move steadily backwards!  If not and you like any of the ideas, what can I do to help make it happen?

still thinking....  Courtney

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Martin Egna 05/07/99 10:24 AM

To: t.j.hall@worldnet.att.net

cc: lliburdi@us.ibm.com, ptk@psulias.psu.edu, rly108@psu.edu, mlwolff@fb.com

Subject: SLs Funding: Keep brainstorming

Courtney,

Keep brainstorming. I'm posting all your ideas (sometime this AM). Hopefully other alumni will visit the discussion and contribute ideas too.

I'm still waiting for some numbers from Pete so we know what kind of money we're talking about. Just assuming some numbers for the sake of roughing things out for now.--And I'm just pulling numbers out of thin air here so no one rely on these, please (and I dearly hope I'm overestimating):

Say $8K to $15K a year for a young, hungry, part time director.

When I was a SL, we mostly covered immediate operating expenses with fees we charged groups for hiring us. But we always had to scrounge for equipment maintenance and replacement, costumes, props, music. So, say about another $5K a year.

To fund the group at $20K a year

-without touching principal
-allowing for a conservative estimate of inflation at 4% (current conditions will not last forever)
-providing a cushion of principal to weather market fluctuations

I'm guessing it would require about a $200K endowment fund. (does anyone with more experience in such things have another estimate?)

And I'm sure I'm missing some expenses. For instance, would the university make a SLs fund bear the director's employee benefits (typically 25-30% over a person's salary)? What about pay raises?

I am really out of my depth here folks.

Marty

From: [Courtney] Tim Hall [mailto:t.j.hall@worldnet.att.net]
Sent: Saturday, May 08, 1999 8:36 PM
To: marty egna
Subject: blue band contacts

Hi again.

I found the Blue Band web sight and sent a message to Dr. Bundy [attached below], the director asking for help. He is a friend of my brothers, so I hope that the fact that I mentioned my brother's name in the subject box will help us get his attention. I'll let you know if I get a response from him or someone on his staff about their fund raising efforts.

Done for tonight....Courtney

PS: Is anyone else checking the web? Maybe you should send out a group reminder to check out the new stuff. Surely we're not the only two people thinking about this stuff. CH

From: Timothy Hall [mailto:t.j.hall@worldnet.att.net]
Sent: Saturday, May 08, 1999 8:56 PM
To: blueband@psu.edu; m.egna@worldnet.att.net; t.j.hall@worldnet.att.net
Subject: Greg Graham sent me! Please read!

Dear Dr. Bundy and Staff,

I am Courtney (Graham) Hall, Greg's sister (thus, Bep's sister-in-law). I am writing at his suggestion because a PSU music group is in danger of disappearing. The Singing Lions lost their director, Pete Kiefer, to retirement this year, and we recently found out that the group's funding disappeared several years ago and Pete was unwittingly directing the group for free! It's a long story. Now the group needs to find funding for this part time director's position and get it in place before Fall Semester 1999!

Greg recently told me that when he was in the Blue Band the band needed new uniforms, so it started an ad campaign which did incredibly well. The Singing Lions don't have the visibility, nor the alumni numbers of the Blue Band, but I was hoping that by learning what you did for your campaign I might be able to help the Campaign for the Singing Lions get off the ground.

I would be so thankful if Dr. Bundy, or anyone on your staff who remembers that fund raising effort, could respond to this email by giving me a general outline of what the Blue Band campaign did, who it targeted, and how long it took to see results. The Singing Lions have a long way to go, and we're urgently seeking ideas. Please take a few moments to give me any insights you may have on how to proceed. We alumni want desperately to see the Singing Lions alive in the year 2000!

Also, assuming we'll be successful in keeping the group alive, the Music Department is seeking applicants to fill this part time Director's position. Do you know of any musicians who may be interested? Please forward their names to Dr. Green at rgreen@psu.edu and to Pete Kiefer atptk@psulias.psu.edu.

Thank you so much for any help you can provide!

Sincerely, Courtney (Graham) Hall, Singing Lion Alumnus 1986-1990

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From: JJLUT@aol.com [mailto:JJLUT@aol.com]
Sent: Saturday, May 08, 1999 9:22 PM
To: m.egna@worldnet.att.net
Subject: Budgeting for the Singing Lions

Marty,

Do we have any concrete budgets from the past couple of years to use as an actual guideline to begin breaking down what would be required to run the

group per year? I know that this would not include Pete's salary, but it would be a really good jumping off point. If no one has volunteered, I would

be more than willing to come up with some budget proposals for the next season to try to get a better read on what we're looking at. Also, if we were to have one big push this year from the list of alumni that we are putting together, say $100 per person, and that's conservative, we could conceivably generate a good amount for expenses for the next season. I know that this is only a temporary fix, as we're not corporate sponsors, but what the heck. Also, no luck unfortunately in the student services arena other than the fact that most of those offices are aware of the group's impact, and are now aware of the plight of the group as well. We'll continue to do what each of us can.

John [Lutton (SL 85-86)]

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From: Martin Egna [mailto:m.egna@worldnet.att.net]
Sent: Monday, May 10, 1999 12:09 AM
To: JJLUT@aol.com
Subject: RE: Budgeting for the Singing Lions

John,

I sent Pete a message asking for the info you seek. When I get his answer, I will post it on our web site. No alumni have really dealt with budgeting because we don't know yet what kind of money we're talking about, where the money will come from, nor how it's used.

I've been posting campaign communication at our web site. Check it out for some info from Pete on how the group had been funded in the past and why it's in a quandary now. There's also some emails about brainstorming for funds.

Ultimately, if the School of music doesn't come through with funding for the director position, you're correct that someone will have to present some sort of budget proposal to someone, whether it be the Music department or donors. I would think, if it gets the point that the alumni have to take a leading role in budgeting, we would need to work with several others (I'm thinking Pete, Yac (the current SLs president), a music department rep, and an alumni rep who has budgeting/accounting experience).

If the music dept does hire a director, I would think he or she would deal with the budgeting in consultation with Pete and the Music dept, and SL alumni would have little involvement at the budgeting end.

If I find myself in a position to provide names of alumni who would volunteer to help with budgeting, financing, and such, I will be sure to pass along your name.

That's the extent of info I can provide. But do take a look at Pete's SL funding history email. It explains a lot.

Go to the Campaign section on the home page and click on Behind the Scenes.

Marty Egna

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From: Peter Kiefer <ptk@psulias.psu.edu> on 05/10/99 09:45 AM EDT
To: m.egna@worldnet.att.net@SMTP@cchntmsd
cc:
Subject: SL's

Marty:

Sorry I was out of town for the long weekend so just catching up with the email traffic. First, your are dead-on on every point about the idea of soliciting alumni ala the Blue Band. They are so much bigger, older, and better known.

The donors to the SL's are alumni, family and friends of members, local audience members and occasionally an alum that was at one of our performances for their club.

The average amount we have raised each year is about $2000. (This year was around $8000 only because of major donations from [two SLs alumni and matching funds from the employer of one]. Average number of donors is about 50. Add to this our three corporate sponsors; SBS Store for $1500 plus perks, PS Alumni Association for $1500 and Penn State Hospitality Services for $500. The rest comes from performance fees. Our average expense for music, choreographers, costumes, equipment and publicity usually runs $6000-$8000.

As far as my "salary" I have no idea what the original deal was for. I used to assume it was quarter time which should be somewhere around $8000. I doubt very much if that was near that amount, WHEN IT WAS PAID!

Let us not lose sight of the fact it is the RESPONSIBILTY of the School of Music to fund the position. Singing Lions is a credit-bearing course (Music 85) for which they receive some tuition money. They have been getting me FREE for the past 5 years or so. And over the years I taught 15 students on Independent Study over and above my duties as Singing Lions Director for which the School of Music received tuition monies!

As far as major (national-type)corporate sponsors are concerned, that must go through the Office of Development before you even approach them (at least technically). I always wanted to approach COKE as a sponsor since the University is owned by a 14 million grant from Pepsi for exclusive rights on campus. Of course I'm sure that would have been immediate dismissal!

By the way advertising rates in the Penn Stater magazine are close to $1000 for a 1/3rd page. "Does the group have a money left"....not a dime, in fact I am worried that we might go into the red this year because of the Texas tour (even with Laura's and Troy's donations)!

I trust this answers a lot of your questions. Let me know if you have more. Keep the pressure on!

Pete

Peter T. Kiefer, Coordinator
Fred Waring's America
The Pennsylvania State University
Special Services Building
1127 Fox Hill Road
University Park, PA 16803-1824
(814)863-2911
Email: ptk@psulias.psu.edu

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Martin Egna 05/11/99 02:17 PM

Yac,

I must agree with Courtney on this. Making the SLs a student run organization would be a step back. Pete said at the reunion that he was there to shovel coal to keep the train moving and the students did most of it. Well, Pete was being way too modest. You probably won't realize how much he taught you and how much he did until you have a few years of hindsight.

The group needs a paid director--a teacher--and the School of Music is responsible for providing the funds to pay Pete's successor's salary. The School of Music pays for the salaries of the directors of other department ensembles. The mere fact that some accounting glitch helped the department avoid paying a director's salary does not obviate the department's financial responsibility for hiring and paying for a successor. The department simply must meet its obligation. And we shall see that it does.

Take a look at Pete's two emails discussing funding and expenses posted at the web site at Behind the Scenes. He recently reminded me that SLs, as a credit course, brings funding from the university to the Music department--funding that the department has allocated somewhere within its bowels over the years. Some money is there. The obligation is there. We must just keep after the administration so they recognize their resources and responsibilities.

The Thespians, like the Blue Band (see Courtney's emails at our site), has a much wider audience, alumni base, and much longer history. We could not expect to achieve Thespian funding levels simply because we converted to a student organization. We were largely a student organization in the early days of our history. It was much more difficult to operate.

Lastly on this subject, assuming the group could actually maintain a 40 show year if it were student run, you probably would have difficulty getting the university to sanction class absences for a "club."

Okay. What else did you ask? For Expenses and Income see Pete's two emails at the site.

Courtney asked about progress higher up in the Penn State administration. (I spoke to Courtney by phone but will recap here). I am still planning on writing the President of the alumni association and Spanier and to get some administration political advice. However, we're still learning more about the SLs operation everyday and I keep revising my letters. Alumni, supporters, and current SLs must all send letters of support to Drs. Green and Spanier. I am using the information we are developing from responses we get from them, from the info we get from Pete, and from letters I'm reading from all of you. I want to be able to present a cogent argument from the perspective of the alumni as a group. I promise, no one be left in the dark. I have been posting everything as fast as I can.

The campaign, as I see it, has evolved to several simultaneous efforts

• Garnering support from SLs Alumni and friends and getting them to send letters to PSU. (Status: underway)
• Enlisting support from the alumni association (Status: underway at the chapter level)
• Convincing the administration (1) that the School of Music is obligated to fund the SLs like other ensembles, (2) that its obligated to find a successor to Pete, and (3) that it's in the university's best interest to continue the SLs. (Status: preliminarily underway)
• While, in the background, we brainstorm for funding ideas as a contingency plan (we should not confuse this part of the campaign with the parts above)

Keep thinking of ideas,

Marty

PS Courtney just forwarded a response to some questions she recently sent Dr. Green. Please wait until later this afternoon and I will post at the web site in the letters section.

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From: Peter Kiefer <ptk@psulias.psu.edu> on 05/11/99 03:02 PM EDT
To: m.egna@worldnet.att.net@SMTP@cchntmsd
cc:
Subject: Mail

Martin Egna 05/12/99 12:09 PM

Yac,

I do think it's a good idea to contact these people for support. However, I don't think it is a good idea to ask for money from them for several reasons.

• I'm sure many of these groups paid at least something for the SLs to perform for them.
• Because we don't know what the university will ultimately fund, we cannot honestly say what SLs needs the money for.
• It will be difficult enough to get these people to write letters let alone part with money.
• Letters of support that are genuine and heartfelt will be more beneficial to the group in the long run.
• Many of the groups are really not in a position to donate money (campuses, senior citizen centers, high schools) and we would be wasting our time and energy.
• Alumni clubs have a hard enough time maintaining their scholarship funds. Their written support is more valuable to the SLs in the long run.
• The few groups that might be in a position and willing to donate something, would be more approachable if we knew definitely what the group needs and present them with a well thought out long range plan, which is further along in the campaign than we are right now.

Going through the SLs records you mentioned is a great idea. But be careful not to duplicate efforts.

• Pete identified what alumni clubs SLs performed for over the last 14 years but he did not have what years the performances were nor did he provide what clubs had the SLs back more than once (Perhaps Monika can determine that extra info as she reviews the records and then send that info to me to post and forward to the alumni club contact team.)
• I posted at the web site the club performance and club contact info that Pete provided.
• Tim & Courtney Hall and Laura Liburdi are the team working to contact these clubs for letters of support.

This would be a good area for you to spearhead, no one has done anything here yet

• Thanks for handling contacting Joe Paterno, Norm Brown (general mgr, Student Book Store (corporate SLs sponsor)), and Jim Purdum (general manager of Hospitality Services at Penn State)
• It's a great idea to ask Monika to identify the people SLs performed for.
• Please get this info to me so I can post it at the web site--You never know who SLs alumni, family, or friends know--they might be able to exert some influence to garner support.
• Please ask Monika to identify the
• group performed for
• any contact info
• the date of the performance
• whether the group paid for the performance (if info available)
• and the type of group (high school, nursing home, campus, civic group, etc.)
• she need not worry about contact info for the alumni clubs, but, as I said above, she can use the list I have posted at the site to see if she can add dates and multiple performance info for the clubs

If you can coordinate the current SLs to contact these groups to send letters of support (I would think Green and Spanier would be the good recipients) that would be a big help. This is a lot of work. So if you have limited help, you should prioritize.

Obviously the most recently performed for groups and the groups with multiple performances would be the most receptive to your plea.

I would think the most productive area for getting letters of support would be the schools that SLs did workshops for. You should be able to get a music teacher or high school show choir director to give a first hand testimonial about having the SLs work with their students. But you're under a time crunch here. High schools will be breaking for the summer shortly. You should call the most recent high school workshop contacts to try to enlist their support before summer break (perhaps their show choir members can also sign the letter). See if you can get the teacher's email address so you can follow up with Green and Spanier's contact info. (the email address might also aid us in the future of the campaign.)

Any groups you don't have enough volunteers to contact, let me know. I will try to find alumni volunteers to help.

As for your comment about the School of Music's chances of taking the SLs equipment, I share your passion and territoriality. And I'm sure you were talking figuratively--recognizing today's climate of violence at high schools and campuses and knowing that I'm posting this stuff at our site.

Marty Egna

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Martin Egna 05/25/99 05:30 PM

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• Concert Choir, Douglas Miller, full-time faculty
• Chamber Singers, Douglas Miller, full-time faculty
• University Choir, Anthony Leach, full-time faculty
• Glee Club, Bruce Trinkley, full-time faculty
• *Essence of Joy, (no listing)
• Oriana Singers, Lynn E. Drafall, full-time faculty
• **Women's Chorale, Robert Drafall (does not appear to be music faculty, who is he, Lynn Drafall's husband?) who pays him?)
• *The Penn State Opera Theatre (no listing)

• Philharmonic Orchestra, Pu-Qi Jiang, full-time faculty
• *Symphonic Wind Ensemble (no listing)
• *Symphonic Band (no listing)
• *Concert Band (no listing)
• *Campus Band (no listing)
• Marching Blue Band, Richard Bundy, full-time faculty
• Jazz Bands, Dan Yoder, full-time faculty
• Percussion Ensembles, Dan Armstrong, full-time faculty
• *Brass Ensembles (no listing)
• Early Music Ensemble, Eric McKee, full-time faculty
• **Flute Ensembles, Eleanor Duncan Armstrong (bio sounds like part time music faculty at PSU)
• *Penn State Double Reed Ensemble (no listing)
• Instrumental Chamber Ensembles, Pu-Qi Jiang, full-time faculty

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From: Peter Kiefer <ptk@psulias.psu.edu> on 06/09/99 03:19 PM EDT
To: m.egna@worldnet.att.net@SMTP@cchntmsd
cc:
Subject: Talk with Dr. Green

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From: Peter Kiefer <ptk@psulias.psu.edu> on 07/08/99 09:22 AM

To: m.egna@worldnet.att.net@SMTP@cchntmsd

cc:

Subject: Draft

Hi Marty:

I will attache the draft letter again and see if it works, if not I can Fax it. Do you have a fax number I can use? I'll also fax a copy of Dr. Green's letter to the CDT.

Green is out of town until next week, I understand. Last week the newly formed (by him) Faculty Advisory Committee met and I undertsand discussed the situation since nothing seems to be happening. I haven't heard any results of their discussion but it is comforting that somebody in the School is concerned.

I am definitely still here and willing to do what I can. Whenever I see anyone in the School the situation comes up. I just don't understand this "lack of funding". They just hired a part-time instructor to help the Percussion Dept. head?????

I do have a lunch date next wednesday with Anne Riley, an old friend and outgoing president of the Alumni Association but still a member of the Board of Trustees. I have been trying to do that much sooned but her and my schedules never meshed until now. Will let you know.

Has anyone thought of contacting Mimi Coppersmith Fredman. She has been a Friend of the Singing Lions for several years?

Well gotta run and try to keep up with my workload which is becoming unbelievable. Unfortunately it just reinforces the wisdom of my decision to give up the SL's.

Thanks so much for all the work you guys are doing. I'm touched and definitely we'll stay in touch. By the way Donna Parsons Knott is here this week doing the Elderhostel for me and says hello. She is watching the tape from the Spring Show.

Pete

From: Yacyshyn, Robert [mailto:RYacyshyn@WilmingtonTrust.com]
Sent: Tuesday, July 20, 1999 2:01 PM
To: 'm.egna@worldnet.att.net'
Subject: sl's

Well Marty I have much news.

In the past week I have turned up the heat so to speak and I htink we might be ok. Joe Paterno wrote me a letter telling me that he said some things on our behalf. I thought that was really cool. Also, Norm Brown of SBS is currently seeing what extra money he can come up with. Monika, Mauri, and I sent out about 180 letters to every alumni chapter in America, some people we did shows for this year, and some friends. One problem, should have asked them for $$$$$. Since I thought we were talking about 40,000 I didn't ask. This number is confidential but we only really need 5000 per year. Now I spoke with green and he said that if we could raise 5000 we probably could go on this year. This is cool. But we are looking for something more permanent, around 125,000. So this is where we are now. All those letters are in the mail, Norm is thinking, and Joe Pa said some stuff. Green was very cordial on the phone so I think things will work out. We just need the $$$$. Let me know what you think-Yac

Martin Egna 07/20/99 02:35 PM

To: RYacyshyn@WilmingtonTrust.com

cc:

Subject: Re: sl's

Glad to hear from you.

The news sounds very encouraging. Nice work.

Here are some thoughts and questions that popped in my head while reading your note:

I think you were correct not to ask alumni clubs for money. You probably would not have received much and would not have gotten as much support for fear they may be obligating the clubs to sending money.

As for the $5000 per year figure, that couldn't possibly include the director's, salary does it? I would have thought the salary alone for a part time director would be around $6000 or 7000.

You said that Green said that if you could raise $5000, SLs could continue during 1999-2000. Did Green find a director or at least an interim director for 1999-2000? Is $5000 the total amount needed for next year or is the School of Music kicking some in too?

The $125,000 you mentioned, did you figure that amount in discussions with Green? And, if so, did Green acknowledge that it is a number that could sustain the SLs in the long run and that the School would oversee the funding?

I'd probably have more questions or thoughts, but I'm at work and could only read your letter quickly.

Marty

----------------------------

Marty Egna

m.egna@worldnet.att.net

 *******************************************************

From: Peter Kiefer <ptk@psulias.psu.edu> on 07/22/99 02:39 PM

To: m.egna@worldnet.att.net@SMTP@cchntmsd

cc:

Subject: Keep Singing Lions Singing

Marty:

Thanks for the email. I talked to Green yesterday also. He mentioned that he had a "nice" conversation with Yac. I hate to say this but I keep getting less impressed with Green all the time. Others in the School are beginning to feel the same. From other peoplke I keep hearing that when he talks to other people the jist is that "the SL"s were never really part of the School of Music's responsibility! Will that never die?! The latest I heard is thet Asst. Dean Don Leslie quoted that to someone. IT IS WRONG! I intend to drop in on Dean Leslie (I have known him for years, not well but we cross paths frequently)to be sure he understands the situation.

As for the payscale: Originally the School reimbursed my department (the first one) $2341.60 (I have no idea how they arrived at that figure) and I think that was what it was when they stopped (??). I know that Bob Drafall was paid $3100 to conduct the Women's Chorale the past three years. Since the SL's is more time consuming than Women's Chorale I had said to Green "$4000-$5000 for the position figuring in a little inflation and more effort so that's where he got that figure. Honestly that amounts to "pocket change" in the scheme of things at Penn State!

Right now I would say have checks made payable to Penn State Singing Lions and send them to me @ School fo Music, 233 Music Building, University Park, PA 16802. That way I can make sure they get credited to the right place (and I can keep an eye on what's going on). The memo line is good, in case the SL's dont' happen we can either return the money or see that it goes to the right place.

Where did the $125,000 come from? An endowment like that could set up the SL's for life! I have said that one donation of $65,000/yr (which is what one luxury box in Beaver Stadium will cost for one year/six games!) could support the singing lions for three or four years!!!

Incidentally my meeting with Anne Riley, former PSU Alumni Assoc president and current member of the trustees was beneficial in that she now knows the straight facts not the story that Spanier and Green were telling. She said she can not on her part get involved but now can take part in discussions with knowledge should the opportunity arise. We discuss the support situation from PSAA and I told her and she agreed I would not like to see the SL's entirely supported by the A.A. That is too risky. I saw two other collegiate show choirs that were in that situation go gone because the support suddenly disappeared. But we agreed it was worth supporting. They have kicked in $1500 each of the past three years in support. Anne did promise support in any way that she felt she was able. . . .

. . . My friend aslo suggested that we should perdue Daan Carter, Director of Theatre School and see if there could be a home for the SL's. It seems to be a good match and I'm not sure Green has talked to him. I also plan to drop in, hopefully find him in and chat. As a worse-case scenerio we could set it up as a student activity and negotiate w/the School on the equipment, library, etc. It would be, in my opinion, a WORST case. That has a lot of other disadvantages, and would require good financial support from somewhere other than ASA.

Well the reason I retired is that I am loaded with work here and I am so I'd better get back to it. However I AM vitally interested in the survival of "MY GROUP" so don't hesitate to ask for my help.

Love to you both.

Pete
Peter T. Kiefer, Coordinator
Fred Waring's America
The Pennsylvania State University
Special Services Building
1127 Fox Hill Road
University Park, PA 16803-1824
(814)863-2911
Email: ptk@psulias.psu.edu

*************************************************

*************************************************

**********************************************************

**********************************************************

To: m.egna@worldnet.att.netcc:

Subject: Great prospects!

I am busy reaching out to my relatives who have supported SL in the past.

I also want to make you aware that I will pledge $[ ] to the fund... with a hope to increase it to $[ ].

I want you to be able to count on that money. The check is in the mail as soon as I free up the funds.

Great work -- I'll be in touch.

Jeff Rezer

********************************************************

Martin Egna 08/11/99 11:22 AM

Jeff,

In all the hubbub, I don't remember ever thanking you for your donation and help with the campaign. Pete and Yac are scrambling around and won't have time to send thank you notes for a while. So I wanted to make sure it was said. Back to work (campaign and, of course, paid job).

Marty

*********************************************************

From: "Yacyshyn, Robert" <RYacyshyn@WilmingtonTrust.com> on 08/09/99 02:36 PM

To:   m.egna@worldnet.att.net@SMTP@cchntmsd

cc:

Subject:  1 WEEK

WE HAVE 1 WEEK TO RAISE THE OTHER 2500.  THE DECISION WILL BE MADE NEXT MONDAY OR TUESDAY.  WILL TALK TO PETE TONIGHT.  I AM SORRY TO SAY BUT...PLEASE PRESSURE ALUMNI!

THANKS-YAC

**********************************************************

From: Martin_Egna@cch.com [ mailto:Martin_Egna@cch.com]

Sent: Monday, August 09, 1999 3:45 PM

To: RYacyshyn@WilmingtonTrust.com

Subject: Re: 1 WEEK

Yac,

Did you get this deadline from Green?

Marty

************************************************

To: Martin Egna@Computax

Subject: RE: 1 WEEK

YUP. HE SAID AFTER NEXT MONDAY "WE NEED TO FISH...OR CUT BAIT"

********************************************************

Martin Egna 08/09/99 02:59 PM

Yac,

I will start calling and emailing alumni tonight. As I thought, Green's protestations of "I'm doing everything I can" were a way to stall until he could let the group die. If he really were trying to save the group, he would have given the current group members more than a week to figure something out.

Please email me (m.egna@worldnet.att.net) your home number in case I need to speak with you directly tonight.

Thanks,

Marty

*************************************************

To: m.egna@worldnet.att.net
cc:
Subject: SL Funding

**************************************************************

Martin Egna 08/11/99 09:47 AM

To: ptk@psulias.psu.edu
cc: RYacyshyn@WilmingtonTrust.com, laura.liburdi@garden.com

Subject: Meeting with Green: Pete & former PA Show Choir committee chairs

Pete,

The meeting with Green is wonderful news--particularly because it includes SL outsiders not as easily dismissed as us. A long term suggestion might be to add a jazz vocal program to enhance Penn State's jazz curriculum and select a professor qualified and willing to direct the SLs. That would solve the insider/outsider, full time/part time dilemma and give SLs a School of Music "insider" status.

Let me know how the meeting goes so I can keep everyone informed. Also please let me know if you are able to figure out the tuition angle you mentioned.

More letters and donations coming in. I will post on alumni web site as quick as I can.

Marty

-----------------------------------------------------

Martin Egna, PSU '91, SLs 1987-90
m.egna@worldnet.att.net
(my worldnet address automatically sends copies to my work email address, egnam@cch.com)

w (847) 267-2259
h (847) 699-2594
fax (630) 604-4857

314 Alles Street
Des Plaines, IL 60016

Singing Lions alumni web site
https://members.tripod.com/singinglions

*******************************************************

ACDA-- American Choral Directors Association of which Pete has been an active member for 27 years.

Donna Knott is a former Waring Blendor, US CHORUS conductor, a grad assistant for Pete with the SL's, is a teacher and was a director of a community show choir with Randy Yoder from York who, with Donna, was the Penna. Co-Chairman for Jazz & Show Choirs within ACDA.

The third person was Erika McKee, a choral director from Hanover PA, has a strong show choir program, has hosted the SL's three times in an all day workshop and evening show affair and is current Show Choir Chair for ACDA.

SCDA--PA State Choral Directors Association?

-----------------------------------

From: Peter Kiefer <ptk@psulias.psu.edu> on 08/12/99 07:29 AM

To: m.egna@worldnet.att.net@SMTP@cchntmsd

Subject: SL's

Marty:

. . . Yesterday the three ACDA people spent 40 minutes talking to Dr. Green and they felt it was very worthwhile. They approaced it from an educators view that the genre of Show Choirs is very important in music eductaion. They told Green of other colleges that have show choirs, some that have a show choir course! Gave him names and numbers. They mentioned that it was the School of Music's own Doug Miller who brought Show Choirs into the activities of the Penna. ACDA chapter. The group felt that it was a very worthwhile session. They now are contacting the college people that know who have show choirs to contact Green in support. I am trying to reach the national ACDA Show Choir chairman to ask her to write/call in support.

. . . They gave Green several names of directors of collegiate show choirs, a college that has a Show Choir Course! and they are planning to call these people to tell them about the situation and ask them to call Green if he doesn't call them. Tomorrow I will contact a couple I know that they didn't know off and ask them to send letters of support especially for the educational value of such a program.

. . . I talked to the Associate Dean of A&A yesterday and found that funding to colleges and departments is not related to the number of courses or enrollments. In fact he said that the method of allocating funds is a complete mystery. In the future he said, it may indeed become related to the number of courses, enrollment and the fact that it takes more time, facilties, equipment to educate a music student than a history major. Dean Leslie added that the fund raising for this year would only be a way to contine the group for another year and that would enable the College to arrange for funding next year.

I then ran into Dr. Green and we discussed the situation and I don't think he agreed with Dean Leslie's statement of funding will be arranged next year. However I really don't think he understands [the whole picture]. I think he is over his head right now, I suspect he has had some non-singing lions advice from one or two voice faculty members (our old nemesis) and coming from Northwestern, which is completly classically orientented, I don't think he understands the importance of jazz/pop/show music in music education.

So I will look for the checks to arrive and will see that they get to the right place, in the right way at the right time. The ACDA conference is over today so tomorrow I will be in my office most of the day. Give me an update also of who and how much is contributed so Monday we can go to Green with the results.

God bless you guys for all your efforts!!!!

Pete

Peter T. Kiefer, Coordinator
Fred Waring's America
The Pennsylvania State University
Special Services Building
1127 Fox Hill Road
University Park, PA 16803-1824
(814)863-2911
Email: ptk@psulias.psu.edu

******************************************************

To: m.egna@worldnet.att.net@SMTP@cchntmsd

Subject: Saving the Singing Lions

Dear Marty,

We just received Jeff's letter tonight and we did e-mail him back. Tomorrow I will be sending to Pete our contribution of $[ ]. We are Amanda Marko's parents and we live not to far from you in Vernon Hills. Our phone # is 847-816-7252. We will be leaving for PA for a short visit with family before taking Amanda back on the 21st. John and I are very willing to work on fundraising activities for the singing Lions...John as promised overnight hotel rooms throughout the country that might be used for an auction...if that is what you have in mind. Let us know how we can help...this group is not only special to Amanda but it what was made Penn State so wonderful and "homelike for Amanda. I am having problems with our e-mail and will send my letters that I wrote to Green via "snail-mail."

Talk to you soon

Marsha Marko

*****************************************************

Martin Egna 08/11/99 09:12 AM

To: MarkoJr@aol.com

cc: ptk@psulias.psu.edu, RYacyshyn@WilmingtonTrust.com

Subject: Re: Saving the Singing Lions (SL parents Marsha & John Marko)

Dear Mr. & Ms. Marko,

Thank you so very much for your kind support. Because Amanda is currently a Singing Lion, I know you are aware of how important the group is to students and education at Penn State. I am more keenly aware of how much the Singing Lions influenced me as I get older and look back on my experiences.

Thank you also for your idea of the auction and the offer of hotel rooms as auction items. With school starting so soon, our immediate goal is to ensure the group's survival in the coming year. Then the current Singing Lions have to focus on auditions and adjusting to a new director. I anticipate that, in October, we (alumni, friends, current Singing Lions, and Parents) will begin discussing strategies to ensure the continued existence of the Singing Lions. I will make sure your auction suggestion is included in strategy discussions. I hope you will consider offering more ideas and advice during the discussions.

Please keep an eye on the Singing Lions alumni web site for updates on our fundraising progress and announcements about further Save the Singing Lions discussions.

https://members.tripod.com/singinglions

Sincerely,

Marty

--------------------------------------------------------

Martin Egna, PSU '91, SLs 1987-90
m.egna@worldnet.att.net
(my worldnet address automatically sends copies to my work email address, egnam@cch.com)

w (847) 267-2259
h (847) 699-2594
fax (630) 604-4857

Singing Lions alumni web site
https://members.tripod.com/singinglions

314 Alles Street
Des Plaines, IL 60016

**********************************************

To: m.egna@worldnet.att.net@SMTP@cchntmsd
cc:

Subject: Donation to the SL's

Marty- Dave and I will send a donation of $[ ] to the Singing Lions for the fundraising effort to save the group. I am encouraged that we only need $2,500 more, and hopefully the alumni and friends can make up for the difference!

Also, Dave will call his parents tonight to update them on the "situation". They do not have email, so they are rather out of the loop. I believe they may want to donate, but I cannot guarantee it of course. If they express the desire, we will try to find out the amount and email you ourselves. Dave and I are leaving for my med school retreat tomorrow and will return Saturday. If they do not tell us an amount this evening, we will not be able to let you know.

Love to both of you,
Sue Macadam

***************************************************

Martin Egna 08/11/99 11:06 AM

To: jsgarman@welch.jhu.edu

cc: RYacyshyn@WilmingtonTrust.com, ptk@psulias.psu.edu

Subject: Re: Donation to the SL's (Dave & Sue (Moghadam) Garman)

Dear Dave & Sue,

I hope the retreat went well. Sue must be very excited about starting med school. Thanks for the donation. It's a tight deadline but we hopefully will be able to pull it off. Keep an eye on the web site for fundraising and campaign status. Thanks also for talking with Gwee Mom & Dad about the SLs situation.

Talk soon,

Marty

(I hope you're settling in nicely to your new home--do we have your new address and phone?)
----------------------------------------
Martin Egna, PSU '91, SLs 1987-90
m.egna@worldnet.att.net
(my worldnet address automatically sends copies to my work email address, egnam@cch.com)

w (847) 267-2259
h (847) 699-2594
fax (630) 604-4857

314 Alles Street
Des Plaines, IL 60016

Singing Lions alumni web site
https://members.tripod.com/singinglions

 ****************************************************************

To: m.egna@worldnet.att.net

Subject: 1999-2000 operating expenses

Marty,

Just dropping you a line to let you know that I will be sending a check for $[ ] out in the morning. I know it's not a lot, but we should be there by Friday of this week. If we're running short by the end of the week, please let me know if I can do more. And in case you haven't heard it lately, Great job keeping all of this going throughout the summer!!!!!!!!!!

John

***********************************************

Martin Egna 08/11/99 09:29 AM

To: JJLUT@aol.com

cc: ptk@psulias.psu.edu, RYacyshyn@WilmingtonTrust.com

Subject: Re: 1999-2000 operating expenses (SL alumnus John Lutton)

Dear John,

Thank you so very much for your support. With school starting so soon, our immediate goal is to ensure the group's survival in the coming year. Then the current Singing Lions have to focus on auditions and adjusting to a new director. I anticipate that, in October, we (alumni, friends, current Singing Lions, and parents) will begin discussing strategies to ensure the continued existence of the Singing Lions.

Please keep an eye on the Singing Lions alumni web site for updates on our fundraising progress and announcements about further Save the Singing Lions discussions.

https://members.tripod.com/singinglions

Sincerely,

Marty

--------------------------------------------------------------
Martin Egna, PSU '91, SLs 1987-90
m.egna@worldnet.att.net
(my worldnet address automatically sends copies to my work email address, egnam@cch.com)

w (847) 267-2259
h (847) 699-2594
fax (630) 604-4857

314 Alles Street
Des Plaines, IL 60016

Singing Lions alumni web site
https://members.tripod.com/singinglions

***********************************************

To: Martin Egna@Computax

Subject: Re: SLs update soon

Marty,

Hope you're doing well. I'm still working on email addresses and spreading the word.

In the meantime, however, my company would like to send in a donation of $500 to the Singing Lions fund. Where do I send the check?

Tom M.

Thomas A. Musumeci
Principal
Investment Advisors & Consultants, Inc.
***********************************************

To: Martin Egna@Computax

Never mind, Marty, I looked at the website. I sent $500 from my company and $[ ] from me, Fedex to Pete.

Tom

Thomas A. Musumeci
Principal
Investment Advisors & Consultants, Inc.

***************************************************

Martin Egna 08/11/99 03:04 PM

To: tmusumeci@monmouth.com, toemas@home.com
cc: RYacyshyn@WilmingtonTrust.com, ptk@psulias.psu.edu

Subject: SLs donations (SL alumnus Tom Musumeci & Investment Advisors & Consultants, Inc.)

Tom,

Thanks very much for your donation and the one from your company, Investment Advisors & Consultants, Inc. I'm sure Yac, current SLs president, will catch up with thank yous once he gets things under control, so, until then, please let me say thank you for Pete, the current SLs, and alumni. Between this last minute deadline deal, auditions, new director, blah, blah, blah, both Yac and Pete have got their hands full.

Thanks also for helping out scrounging around for alumni contact info. It's a big help.

Marty

*************************************************

To: Martin Egna@Computax

Subject: Other SL stuff...

It's becoming remarkably clear (as if I didn't know it already) how much Pete and the Singing Lions meant to everyone associated with him and our beloved organization.

On other fronts: I've been spending a little time each night (while Tiffany makes dinner) creating a Singing Lions database on my laptop to track all kinds of things from donations to contact info and other data. I hope that I can finish it in the near future and pass along to you.

I plan to be able to allow us to synchronize multiple copies of the database with my "server copy" so we can stay current -- it's a new feature that I have been working on for some clients of mine and, quite honestly, it kicks @#$! [minor expletive removed by the editor for the safety and sensibilities of our SLs friends and family visiting the web site--SLs, as most most of those in show business, can be a bit bawdy].

I'll be in touch as soon as I complete it (maybe in a month, but hopefully sooner).. this will be a great way for us to stay "synched" !

JEFF

*********************************************************

Hi, Marty

I just got off the phone with my uncle, Leon Eshelman, from Hegins, PA. Uncle Leon has paid for the sl's to go to Hegins and perform many times, ever since I was in the group. I told him about the situation and he said he'd have his business send $[ ]. On top of that he said if the group doesn't come up with the rest by the Monday deadline, he'll loan it to them, no interest, so long as the group pays him back when they can. He said perhaps they could go to Hegins and do a show and he would take an offering to pay himself back or something. He'd be happy to work out details later, but he's a pretty laid back guy- so if the group can promise to either keep raising money until they can pay him back or set a date to go to Hegins, he'll be happy.

Why do this for the sl's? Well, my uncle was a huge fan of Fred Waring and even paid for fred and the Pennsylvanians to do a show in the Hegins Park in the late 1970's! When he saw the sl's he said it was great and brought him back to the glory days of Fred et al. He has been a "friend of the SL's" ever since I was in the group. Also, he hates the snobbery of the Music Elite and thinks it would be great to beat Dr. Green at his own game by allowing the sl's to come up with the money Green probably thinks is impossible for them to find. Basically, I guess he has the $ and isn't afraid to put it where his mouth is when he said "Tear down old main, get rid of shwab auditorium, but KEEP THE SINGING LIONS!!!!!!!"

Call me at 828 236 9449 to talk about this asap. Leon just needs to know what he is to send. I'll call and let his office know. (He'll be on vacation for the next two weeks, but the folks in his office , all family, are privy to all this and can send the check).

Hope other $ has come in also, but it's nice to know we have a cushion.

Call us!

Courtney

*************************************************

From: Lisarod14@aol.com [mailto:Lisarod14@aol.com]
Sent: Saturday, August 14, 1999 5:42 PM
To: m.egna@worldnet.att.net

Subject: SL Donation

Hey Egnas,

A check from me and my family for $[ ] should be in the mail either today or early Monday morning. Thanks for your perseverance and dedication to the Singing Lions. The current members are surely greatful for alumni like you.

Thanks again,

Lisa Rodriguez
Current SL member

P.S. Keep me posted!

*****************************************************

Subject: Funding

Hi gang:

I received a check yesterday from Faith Drewry for $[ ], bless her heart. Shes struggling in NYC, recent grad, just had to buy a new car!!! Hope the checks come in soon so I can show them to Green. Was at the School last night and had an interesting conversation with three faculty/staff members [concerning Green's job performance and attitude]. We may not be out of the woods yet.

Talked to the former staff assistant and she said that my position was always considered a standing position and was automatically budgeted and paid. The question is, paid to where? She told me where she kept the files, am going to follow-up on this.

Will stay in touch, gotta run. Remember WHY I had to quit the SL's?

Pete
Peter T. Kiefer, Coordinator
Fred Waring's America
The Pennsylvania State University
Special Services Building
1127 Fox Hill Road
University Park, PA 16803-1824
(814)863-2911

Email: ptk@psulias.psu.edu

**********************************************************

To: Peter Kiefer <ptk@psulias.psu.edu>@SMTP@cchntmsd

cc: m.egna@worldnet.att.net@SMTP@cchntmsd, Rob Yacyshyn <rly108@psu.edu>@SMTP@cchntmsd, Jeff Rezer <jeff@rezer.com>@SMTP@cchntmsd

Subject: Pledge to save the Singing Lions

Pete,

Bob & I would like to pledge $[ ] to the Friends of the Singing Lions campaign.  IBM will provide a 100% match to this gift, making it $[ ]. In addition, I expect they may also give a 50% match in IBM equipment to the University General Equipment Fund as they did with my gift last year (I'll check into that).

Bob's on the road until Thursday, and you'll need the original matching form in order to get IBM to match.  So expect a check and the necessary paperwork by Saturday or Monday.  If you need it sooner, please give me a call and I'll Fed-EX the forms to Bob & have him Fed-EX them to you.

Thanks, Laura

____________________________________

Laura (Sikes) Liburdi ('91)

To: m.egna@worldnet.att.net@SMTP@cchntmsd

Subject: Donation committment

Hi, Marty, In honor of Pete Kiefer's work and dedication over the years in leading and building the Singing Lions, Sheri and I will pledge to match all donations made between now and Monday morning as you work to achieve the $5000 goal. Please let me know Sunday night or Monday morning (California time) how you're doing and what our donation needs to be.

GOOD LUCK!!

Howard and Sheri Neff (Pete's our brother-in-law)

From: Robert L. Yacyshyn [mailto:rly108@psu.edu]

Sent: Monday, August 16, 1999 6:33 PM

To: Martin Egna; Angel; Ben Campbell; Christopher Dilts; Dave Heffner; Derek Mehn; Gianina Arturo; Greg Stuber; Heather Snow; Holly Milne; Jason Drapeau; Jason Shoaf; Jim Testa; Katie Palmer; Lisa Rodriguez; Monika Schimek; Monika Winkel; Shannon Darby; Stephen Virostek; Tia Carey

Subject: Monday...

Hello Singing Lions-It's Yac. Sorry, I lied about the last message being the last one. Anyway, for people just checking in...we did raise the money needed for the director's expense thanks to generous friends and alumni. Green had said that if we raised the money, we would be able to keep the group. I called Dr. Green this morning and let him know we had the money, so now he has to find a director. Be a part is 7:00 at the big sign at the BJC and I am assuming auditions will be monday the 23rd because all of the other ensembles have their auditions then. I will keep pressuring Green about the director, I think it will all work out though. Lisa suggested doing some publicity work, let people know we are still around and such. This would be in addition to letting people know about auditions if we were slow to get started. Keep in touch, check your email often and I will try to give as much info as I can. See you later-Yac

*************************************************

From: Martin_Egna@cch.com [mailto:Martin_Egna@cch.com]
Sent: Tuesday, August 17, 1999 6:17 PM
To: laura.liburdi@garden.com; toemas@home.com; jeff@rezer.com; Lisarod14@aol.com; t.j.hall@worldnet.att.net; JJLUT@aol.com; MarkoJr@aol.com; dgarman@bankofmaryland.com; jsgarman@welchlink.welch.jhu.edu; mlwolff@fb.com; hneff@ix.netcom.com; fdrewry@brownwoodlaw.com
Cc: ptk@psulias.psu.edu; rly108@psu.edu
Subject: Singing Lions update to donors

By U.S. Mail To:

Leon, Gary, & Pam Eshelman, Twin Valley Farmer's Exchange
Norm Brown, The Student Book Store

Dear Singing Lions, Friends, and Family,

If you have not yet heard, I am very pleased to announce we have saved the 1999-2000 season of the Penn State Singing Lions. The businesses and individuals below responded quickly and generously to meet a very tight deadline imposed by Dr. Green, director, Penn State School of Music.

*The Student Book Store, State College, PA, Norm Brown (long-time SL corporate sponsor)
*Investment Advisors & Consultants, Inc., Tom Musumeci (SL almnus), principal
*Twin Valley Farmer's Exchange, Hegins, PA, Leon, Gary, & Pam Eshelman (Mr. Leon Eshelman is a long-time SL friend and uncle of former SL Courtney (Graham) Hall)
*Faith Drewery (SL 93-98)
*Sue (Moghadam) (SL 86-90) & Dave Garman (SL 87-91)
*Courtney (Graham) (SL 86-90) & Tim Hall (SL 87-90)
*Laura (Sikes) (SL 87-91) & Bob Liburdi
*John Lutton (SL 85-86)
*Marsha & John Marko (current SL family)
*Tom Musumeci (SL 91-95)
*Howard & Sheri Neff (Pete Kiefer's brother-in-law)
*Jeff Rezer (SL 87-91)
*Lisa Rodriguez (current SL) and Family
*Margee Wolff (SL 86-90) & Marty Egna (SL 87-90)

Singing Lions President Robert Yacyshyn is keeping pressure on Dr. Green to hire Pete Kiefer's successor this week, in time for auditions this coming Monday and a performance before many thousands of Penn State freshman next week in the Bryce Jordan Center.

Although we have succeeded in reaching our short-term goal of saving the coming season, the Campaign to Save the Singing Lions must continue to ensure the long-term survival and health of the group. We must keep the pressure on the Penn State administration, the School of Music, and Dr. Green. We must write letters and send email. We must make phone calls. We must spread the word. The School of Music must acknowledge its financial obligation to the Singing Lions.

We will succeed.

Please keep an eye on the Singing Lions alumni web site for updates on the campaign. And remember, because the site contains private campaign email, please keep the address in the Singing Lions family.

Thank you and congratulations to you all,

Most sincerely,

Martin Egna, SL 87-90
----------------------------------------
Martin Egna, PSU '91, SL 1987-90
m.egna@worldnet.att.net

w (847) 267-2259
h (847) 699-2594
fax (630) 604-4857

314 Alles Street
Des Plaines, IL 60016

Singing Lions alumni web site
https://members.tripod.com/singinglions

*********************************************

From: MarkoJr@aol.com on 08/18/99 07:48 AM

To: Martin Egna@Computax

Subject: Re: Singing Lions update to donors

Amanda is so VERY happy as we are that this season Singing Lions are saved. We are more than willing to help in future projects to keep this wonderful choir going. Please let us know how we can help. PS we also live in the Chicago area. work # 847-291-5714 John, #847-234-4300 ext 333 Marsha, and home 847-816-7252.

Thanks again.

John, Marsha and Amanda (SL)

***********************************************

From: Martin_Egna@cch.com [mailto:Martin_Egna@cch.com]

Sent: Wednesday, August 18, 1999 10:14 AM

To: MarkoJr@aol.com

Subject: Singing Lions offer of assistance

Dear John, Marsha, and Amanda:

Thank you for your offer of assistance. Assuming Dr. Green hires a director this week, I expect our short-term SL efforts will be complete. As for our long-term efforts, Pete Kiefer and Robert Yacyshyn are largely spearheading the initial push. Hopefully, they will be able to gather support and more information in the Penn State and college show choir communities to help the campaign focus its strategy to secure the group's future. Be assured, I will

call on everyone who can help us sing loudly, "Save the Singing Lions!"

. . .

I am very happy for Amanda and the current group of SL. I know they have a lot of good work ahead of them.

Sincerely,

Marty

----------------------------------------

Martin Egna, PSU '91, SLs 1987-90

***************************************************

From: Robert Yacyshyn

Date: 8/18/99

To: Richard Green

Dr. Green,

Hi! This is Robert Yacyshyn and I thought I would send you my email address because you might not be able to reach me by phone. If you could send me an email giving me an update on how the director searchis going that would be great. This address is my email up at school too. I check it often so please respond as soon as you can.

Thank you-Robert

***********************************************************

 Green reneges on his promise

Date: Wed, 18 Aug 1999 14:41:48 -0500

From: rgreen@psu.edu

Subject: Re: Singing Lions

X-Sender: rdg4@mail.psu.edu (Unverified)

To: rly108@psu.edu

Cc: ptk@psulias.psu.edu

Original-recipient: rfc822;ptk@psulias.psu.edu

Dear Robert,

Thanks for your recent phone call. I congratulate you on having raised the funds in support of the Singing Lions. It is clear that there is a great deal of enthusiasm and support for the group among our alumni.

My position on the situation is as follows. I am eager to assist in the identification of a director for the group and to permit the Singing Lions to continue its access to the School of Music. As you know, however, I do not have sufficient resources to devote to the support of the ensemble.

Consequently, after reflecting on our options, I have concluded that the appropriate course of action is for the Singing Lions to apply for recognition as a registered student organization of the university and not to continue under the auspices of this School. It is my recommendation that you contact Sharon Mortensen, Assoc. Dir. at the HUB, to inquire how this might best be accomplished. I will also assist you in the establishment of a gift account so that the office of Student Affairs can gather the funds that have been pledged.

I realize that this course of action will require time for implementation and may result in the postponement of plans for this fall. In the long run, however, it will most certainly result in a permanent, rather than a temporary solution to our dilemma. I am also fully aware that this is probably not the solution you had hoped to achieve, for which I am regretful.

I will, of course, be happy to discuss this decision with you personally and will also inform both Pete Keifer and all of the numerous alumni who have written to me and to President Spanier.

All best regards,

R. Green

____________________________

Richard D. Green, Director
School of Music
233 Music Building
The Pennsylvania State University
University Park, PA 16802-1901
Phone: (814) 863-4421
Fax: (814) 865-7140
http://www.music.psu.edu/

********************************************

From: Peter Kiefer [mailto:ptk@psulias.psu.edu]

Sent: Thursday, August 19, 1999 7:17 AM

To: rly108@psu.edu; jeff@rezer.com; laura.liburdi@garden.com; m.egna@worldnet.att.net

Subject: Update

I guess you have heard the news that Dr. Green informed Yac and I yesterday that he thought it would be best for the SL's to operate as a student group under ASA. Of course that stinks. I have taken a few steps to inquiry about setting up that process, since we are already registered with an account that is no problems, there are others concerning procedures. The person responsible is on vacation until Monday, so I sent her an email stateing briefly the situation and asking for an appointment with Yac and me as soon as possible.

Now, today I plan to go and talk to Green (probably to no avail) about the fact we are a credit course (which would prohibit us operating under ASA) and did he/is he going to Faculty Senate to change that status. There are also questions about the Fred Waring Scholarship which aids the SL's, the schools legal involvment in our cd's and songbooks, anything else I can think of.

I will notify Doug Miller and the rest of the faculty about our being "kicked-out" of the School and plan to talk to Assoc. Dean Don Leslie about the situation. I'm not sure Green can summarily dismiss a credit course, especially one week before classes start.

I'll keep you all informed.

Another point I realized after talking to an ASA person. The $1000 in our ASA account; it is very doubtful they would allow that to be transfered to the School of Music to pay a salary. It is one of our assests but we can't count that toward funding a director.

. . .

Pete

Peter T. Kiefer, Coordinator
Fred Waring's America
The Pennsylvania State University
Special Services Building
1127 Fox Hill Road
University Park, PA 16803-1824
(814)863-2911
Email: ptk@psulias.psu.edu

******************************************************

From: Martin_Egna@cch.com [mailto:Martin_Egna@cch.com]

Sent: Thursday, August 19, 1999 12:03 PM

To: gspanier@psu.edu

Cc: rgreen@psu.edu; nhp1@psu.edu; dwl1@psu.edu; dryan@psu.edu; axr28@psu.edu; ptk@psulias.psu.edu; rly108@psu.edu; mlwolff@fb.com; laura.liburdi@garden.com; jeff@rezer.com; t.j.hall@worldnet.att.net; toemas@home.com; Lisarod14@aol.com; JJLUT@aol.com; MarkoJr@aol.com; dgarman@bankofmaryland.com; jsgarman@welchlink.welch.jhu.edu; mlwolff@fb.com; hneff@ix.netcom.com; fdrewry@brownwoodlaw.com; hgoodrid@centredaily.com; asr136@psu.edu; TimSwift@psu.edu; jeh7@psu.edu; rym4@psu.edu; wbt1@psu.edu; ddm8@psu.edu; atl105@psu.edu; led5@psu.edu; mdy3@psu.edu; pqj1@psu.edu; orb1@psu.edu; dxa5@psu.edu; ejm5@psu.edu; eda1@psu.edu

Subject: Donation

August 19, 1999

FROM:
Martin R. Egna, Esq.
314 Alles Street
Des Plaines, Illinois 60016

TO:
Dr. Graham Spanier, President
Penn State University
201 Old Main
University Park, Pennsylvania 16802
delivery by email: gspanier@psu.edu

cc: listed below

Dear President Spanier,

My wife & I recently sent a $500 donation to the School of Music, and I coordinated the successful effort to raise $5000 in one week from alumni and friends of the Penn State Singing Lions to save the group as a School of Music ensemble for the coming school year. Dr. Richard Green, on August 16, 1999, had threatened to cancel this seventeen-year old Penn State music ensemble unless that amount was raised in one week.

I regret having to write you directly. I would think a university matter as relatively minor as the future of a music ensemble could be adequately addressed by the School of Music and the College of Arts and Architecture.

The alumni just learned that Dr. Green wants to demote the Singing Lions from a School of Music ensemble to a student activity group (please see Dr. Green's email to Singing Lions President Robert Yacyshyn, attached below), threatening the ensemble's status as a credit course and branding this jazz and swing choir as an unwelcome part of the Penn State music community. Such a change in status also places additional funding for the group in jeopardy.

What I ask of you, President Spanier, is simply to please encourage the College of Arts & Architecture and the School of Music to freeze the situation where it is now and to not consider removing the group from the school until a Penn State choral music educator can evaluate the educational value of the ensemble by gathering information from music educator associations and other universities with similar programs. The exclusive bottom-line approach to this problem thus far is very disturbing at an institution such as Penn State.

Our ultimate goal is only to maintain what all the other music ensembles have: a home in the School of Music, a director paid for by the school, and status as a credit course. The school also typically contributes a modest sum to the operating budgets of all the ensembles. In the past, the school has contributed $1000 per year to the Singing Lions, which we want the school to continue. As in the past, the Singing Lions will make up the difference between university funding and operating expenses with its revenue generating performances and by seeking support from sponsors, alumni, and friends.

Penn State has taken tuition from students registering for the Singing Lions for many years. The School of Music has recently reaffirmed its commitment to the Women's Chorale by hiring a new part-time director. We don't think it's too much to ask the school to seriously evaluate the educational benefits of a show choir at Penn State before dismissing it out of hand.

Sincerely,

Martin R. Egna, Esq.
Lifetime Member, Penn State Alumni Association
1999 Recent Alumnus of the Year award recipient
Board Member, Greater Chicago Chapter of the Penn State Alumni Association
Penn State Class of 1991
Singing Lions President, 1989-90
Singing Lions member, 1987-90
314 Alles Street
Des Plaines, Illinois 60016
Day (847) 267-2259
Eve (847) 699-2594
Fax (630) 604-4857
m.egna@worldnet.att.net

cc: Media

Harold Goodridge, News Reporter, Centre Daily Times
Jim Mackinnon, City Editor, Centre Daily Times
Andrea Robinson, Campus Chief, The Daily Collegian
Tim Swift, News Editor, The Daily Collegian

cc: Penn State

Richard Green, Director, Penn State School of Music
Neil Porterfield, Dean, College of Arts & Architecture
Donald Leslie, Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies, College of Arts & Architecture
Robert Motherbaugh, Director of Development, College of Arts & Architecture
Joyce Hoffman, Director of Alumni Relations and Special Events, College of Arts & Architecture
Joseph V. Paterno, Professor of Physical Education (by hand delivery)

cc: Penn State music ensemble directors

Bruce Trinkley
D. Douglas Miller
Anthony Leach
Lynn E. Drafall
Dan Yoder
Pu-Qi Jiang
O. Richard Bundy
Dan C. Armstrong
Eric McKee
Eleanor Duncan Armstrong

cc: Penn State Alumni Association

Diane Ryan, Executive Director, Penn State Alumni Association
Anne Riley, Penn State Alumni Association

cc: Penn State Singing Lions

Robert Yacyshyn, President
Peter Kiefer, Retiring Director
 

cc: Donors--Individuals and companies who made donations to the School of Music on behalf of the Singing Lions to keep the group in the School of Music during 1999-2000:

Norm Brown, Manager, The Student Book Store, State College, PA, (by fax)
Tom Musumeci, Principal, Investment Advisors & Consultants, Inc.,
Leon, Gary, and Pam Eshelman, Principals, Twin Valley Farmer's Exchange, Hegins, PA (by fax)
Faith Drewery
Sue (Moghadam) & Dave Garman
Courtney (Graham) & Tim Hall
Laura (Sikes) & Bob Liburdi
John Lutton
Marsha & John Marko
Howard & Sheri Neff
Jeff Rezer
Lisa Rodriguez and family
Margaret Wolff

***********************************************

From: rgreen@psu.edu on 08/19/99 01:43 PM

To: Martin Egna@Computax

cc:

Subject: Re: Donation

Dear Mr. Egna,

Thanks for sending me a copy of your message to President Spanier. I do appreciate your concern. I would state only that, contrary to your statement below, the School of Music has not contributed financial support to the Singing Lions but has gladly provided clerical logistical assistance (rehearsal space, etc.), and will continue to do so as needed. Please be assured that the action regarding the Singing Lions was taken after serious consideration of all aspects of the issue, including the paramount concern

for the education of our students.

Best regards,

Richard D. Green, Director

School of Music

************************************************

From: Martin_Egna@cch.com [mailto:Martin_Egna@cch.com]

Sent: Thursday, August 19, 1999 1:01 PM

To: rgreen@psu.edu

Subject: Re: Donation

Dear Dr. Green,

I beg to differ with you sir. The fact that the School of Music did not continue to reimburse Mr. Kiefer's full-time department for his Singing Lions time as it had agreed to do years ago due to the school's poor accounting or record keeping does not obviate the school's financial responsibility to the group. I most certainly have personal knowledge from my time as president of the group in 1989-90 of the School of Music providing funds to the Singing Lions general operating account in addition to providing clerical support.

Sincerely,

Martin Egna

*******************************************************

From: Graham Spanier <gspanier@psu.edu> on 08/19/99 03:12 PM

To: Martin Egna@Computax

cc: rgreen@psu.edu@SMTP@cchntmsd, nhp1@psu.edu@SMTP@cchntmsd

Subject: Re: Donation

Thanks for writing about your concerns. This decision is entirely within the purview of Dr. Green, and I would have no basis for being unsupportive of his decision. I see he has suggested some options and I am sure that he would wish to be helpful in following through with these.

****************************************************

From: Peter Kiefer [mailto:ptk@psulias.psu.edu]

Sent: Thursday, August 19, 1999 3:35 PM

To: rly108@psu.edu; jeff@rezer.com; laura.liburdi@garden.com;

m.egna@worldnet.att.net

Subject: Update

Date: Thu, 19 Aug 1999 16:32:00 -0400

To: SL Alumni

From: Peter Kiefer <ptk@psulias.psu.edu>

Subject: Update

Its now 4:20 and I have just returned from campus. I missed Green. He left (I guess right after responding to Marty) to take his daughter back to college . . . He won't be back until Monday!!!!

I chatted with Dean Don Leslie. He has not been in the loop on what's happening so I brought him up to date. He asked a lot of questions about the operation of the group and said he was extremely enlightened. It was not what he had heard! He told me about how all university units have to give back 2% of their budgets this year ( a couple of years ago they had to give back 10%!) Its a long story. He feels that it is a decision solely on Green's part that he is sacrificing the SL's for that purpose. The $5000 we raised would only be a temporary solution and he doesn't want to to make a permanent committment on the Singing Lions. Don suggested that I do go and talk to Dean Porterfield. He wasn't in when I walked down to the office but his Sec said he would be in all day torrow. I'll try to get him first thing in Morning.

I talked to Lynn Drafall (Green had copied evrryone his letter to Yac and me or his letter to alumni & friends , not sure which. Anyhow the choral ensembles are having their auditions Sunday afternoon, all day Monday and most of the days the rest of the week. She suggested that since Green had said we have access to the School and alll facilities we (you)should go ahead and hold auditions, at least Monday (she really didn't think there would be much activity on Sunday)and go from there.

So tomorrow I hope Yac and I and maybe Monika can get together and plan the auditions. We Will Survive!

Pete

Peter T. Kiefer, Coordinator
Fred Waring's America
The Pennsylvania State University
Special Services Building
1127 Fox Hill Road
University Park, PA 16803-1824
(814)863-2911
Email: ptk@psulias.psu.edu

***********************************************************

From: Martin_Egna@cch.com [mailto:Martin_Egna@cch.com]

Sent: Thursday, August 19, 1999 3:44 PM

To: ptk@psulias.psu.edu

Cc: rly108@psu.edu; laura.liburdi@garden.com; jeff@rezer.com;

t.j.hall@worldnet.att.net

Subject: response from spanier

Pete,

Spanier replied as I had thought he would. It looks like our only hope is you contacting Lyle Merriman (Green's predecessor for those who don't know) to verify your version of funding history and getting the dean's office on our side, which will be politically very difficult with a new dean coming in. I've spent my day's worth of energy on this, guys. I need to step back to get perspective.

Yac, I will still send you an idea of what you can say at Be a Part from the Start. Probably tomorrow.

Marty

********************************************************

From: JJLUT@aol.com on 08/19/99 04:14 PM

To: Martin Egna@Computax

cc:

Subject: GRIM NEWS INDEED

Marty,

I have some serious concerns about Dr. Green's suggestion that the Singing Lions apply for status as a registered student organization. After years of running many such organizations, I can tell you that this path will not be an easy one. As you are probably aware, the University's fiscal year begins in July. As such, all budgets are submitted to the University Park Allocation Committee, formerly Student Organization Budget Committee, early during the spring semester for approval. UPAC has a finite budget itself that it must distribute to hundreds of organizations, and the competition for that money is fierce. During my years in the HUB, not once had I ever heard of an organization being granted funding at this late date.

Funding aside, we all know the arguments for why the Singing Lions MUST remain a fully credited class at the University. First and foremost, I highly doubt that anyone realizes the scope of what Pete does each and every year. The thought of the students trying to handle that in addition to their roles within the group would undoubtedly result in very few of them graduating. As for missing classes, a "club" is a lot less of a reason to do so than a credited School of Music ensemble is. I know that you know all of this, but hey, I'm just venting.

I left a message for Rich Davis at the HUB today. He is one of the few people that I still have contact with in Student Services. I believe that he will be a good person to talk to regarding what the group would have to do if they have no recourse and must be reduced to the status of a student organization only. In the meantime, let's keep up the pressure as much as possible. I will forward you copies of any email that I send to Green, as well as keep you posted on my dealings with Rich Davis.

Keeping the Faith!

John [Lutton, SL alumnus]

**************************************************

From: JJLUT@aol.com on 08/20/99 09:17 AM

To: Martin Egna@Computax

cc:

Subject: Singing Lions Student Org Status

Marty,

I just finished speaking with Rich Davis in Student Services. He filled me in on a couple of things. Fortunately, since the SL still keep their accounts with ASA, they are still a fully registered student organization. If the group should fall out of School of Music auspices, and returns to student organization status only, then they would have to write up a new mission, as the current mission speaks of the School of Music.

As for funding, Rich believes that it would be possible for the group to apply at this point, though it's a departure from the norm. He and I also tossed about some more ideas for funding and fund raising. One possible idea we had is for some type of benefit concert by some well known Broadway or jazz personality. He let me know that Macrina Martin isn't doing programming for the university anymore, but that Lori Fenton has been advising the University Concert Committee, and that she is a part of his staff. I still have some contacts with Greater Talent Network in Manhattan as well, so I will look into the feasibility of this idea.

Anyway, that's my update for now. I'll keep you posted on any new developments. Now get out there and enjoy the upcoming weekend.

John

********************************************************

From: Tim Hall <t.j.hall@worldnet.att.net> on 08/19/99 02:03 PM

To: Marty Egna <m.egna@worldnet.att.net>@SMTP@cchntmsd

cc:

Subject:

Marty,

Saw your emails.  I'm disgusted.  I imagined he'd pull something like this, but hoped he was a more decent person.

I've emailed campaign posters to Pete and Yac to hang all over the Music building and campus.  Maybe they could even get some published in the collegian. Sent Pete an envelope of stickers with support slogans, etc. on them.  Didn't want to tie up your computer, but if you want samples of any of them I'll be happy to email them your way.

What's next?  Wish I were on campus.

Courtney

*******************************************************

From: Tom Musumeci <toemas@home.com> on 08/19/99 12:45 PM

To: Martin Egna@Computax

cc:

Subject: Re: Donation

Hello Marty,

This is unbelievable. Alumni of the Singing Lions rallied together, raising the required amount of money and then some. Now Dr. Green wants to send our group down a notch to a registered student organization? That would put the Singing Lions -- a group which has for years spread Penn

State goodwill throughout the country, raised the spirits of innumerable clubs and nursing homes, and entertained thousands of football fans, alumni and parents -- on par with the Chess Club or the Monty Python Club??? (no offense to those groups, but the differences in school benefits and exposure levels are obvious.)

What a slap in the face to all of us who have spent hours, days, weeks and months practicing and training.

Thank you for composing this excellent letter to Dr. Spanier. I think that you have expressed our sentiments perfectly.

Tom Musumeci

****************************************************

From: Jayaram Srinivasan [mailto:jayaram1@psu.edu]

Sent: Friday, August 20, 1999 7:43 AM

To: jrezer@sprynet.com; m.egna@worldnet.att.net; rly108@psu.edu

Subject: SL course

Marty, Yac, and Jeff,

Just out of curiosity, I checked the status of the Singing Lions course, Music 85, and it is officially offered as a course for the Fall Semester. Also, 31 out of 40 of the spots have already been taken. That means that there is a strong interest from new students who have signed up for Singing Lions this semester.

I just thought this may be of some use if you did not already know. I am not sure how courses can be cancelled, but I would imagine that it is a tedious process. I am curious to how Dr. Green would handle that and the students that have already signed up for the course.

Jayaram Srinivasan

Visit My RECENTLY UPDATED Homepage

_____ Better than EVER!

http://www.personal.psu.edu/jxs514/

*********************************************************

From: Martin_Egna@cch.com [mailto:Martin_Egna@cch.com]

Sent: Friday, August 20, 1999 5:05 PM

To: Jayaram Srinivasan

Cc: jrezer@sprynet.com; m.egna@worldnet.att.net; rly108@psu.edu

Subject: Re: SL course

Jayaram,

I'm very sad to say that Penn State administrators are probably not the least bit interested in the popularity of the SL as a course. It sounds like all departments are under pressure to cut back expenditure and, since the SL have no professor in the school of music championing its cause or willing to take responsibility for the group, it's a very easy target to reach to improve the School of Music's bottom line. Is it prejudice against vocal jazz/popular music? That's probably a good part of it.

We have been blessed and cursed with Pete. Blessed because SL would not be here today or as successful as it has been without him. Cursed because of the outsider status the group has maintained due to Pete not being faculty--School

of Music faculty in particular.

I wish I could paint a better picture of administators at Penn State but they focus on the bottom line rather than the educational value of a program. All the more reason why you should cherish your time with teachers like Pete--teachers who care to invest themselves--their souls--into education.

Don't worry, we'll figure something out.

Marty

********************************************************

From: kspencer@inter-axxess.com [mailto:kspencer@inter-axxess.com]

Sent: Friday, August 20, 1999 8:57 AM

To: m.egna@worldnet.att.net

Subject: Thank you

Marty-

I wanted to say thank you for taking the time and pains to express your concern for the Lions. Believe it or not, this is the first I've hear of anything happening to this degree. I didn't even know about the fund raiser. I must not be on the alumni info list. If you have any pull, would you please include me so that I can stay informed? Thank you.

I read the correspondence between you and Penn State (shame to have to represent it as "Us" and "Them") and I think it's absolutely terrible for the school to just brush the group aside and demote them in the way that they're proposing. I see that Dr. Green's response to your letter to President Spanier is dated 8/19. Your response to that must be after, but if there's anything that can be done at this late date to assist, please keep me in the loop. Once again, Marty, I appreciate your efforts. You've spoken well for the Lions. I hope that it ends up not being in vain.

All the best to you and Margee. Stay in touch when you can.

Keith

**********************************************************

From: Martin_Egna@cch.com [mailto:Martin_Egna@cch.com]

Sent: Friday, August 20, 1999 9:27 AM

To: kspencer@inter-axxess.com

Cc: jeff@rezer.com; mlwolff@fb.com

Subject: SLs

Good to hear from you Keith.

Sorry, you weren't in the loop. We must have had a bad email address for you earlier on. I saw you emailed Jeff, the keeper of the email addresses as well as all the other SLs contact info, so you should be in the loop now. I'm not sure yet what the alumni will be able to do to help the current members. It does look like they will be student-activityerized and they will have a very difficult time maintaining the group as it had been. We may have to help them deal with a new vision in the face of reduced resources if it comes to that.

You can see just about everything that's been going on at the SL alumni web site. We typically have not forwarded the campaign email, but I've been busy at work and the campaign and did not have a chance to convert the messages to post them at the web site. Also, the last round of email was such a significant status change. I will catch up today or this evening (certainly by this weekend) on the web site.

Margee's in San Diego until tonight. I'll tell her you said hello.

Marty

**************************************************

From: Tim Hall [mailto:t.j.hall@worldnet.att.net]
Sent: Monday, August 23, 1999 12:37 PM
To: Pete Kiefer
Cc: Marty Egna
Subject: long term survival...

Pete,

I sent you a packet of fliers the "kids" may want to copy and distribute around campus, along with stickers you or they can plant on people. On the envelope I wrote an idea about long term funding of the SL's. Would it be possible for Virginia Waring or the Waring Organization to endow the group or even to support it in a substantial way from year to year? It could be a great way to keep the Fred Waring legacy alive. The group could possibly use the Waring Library as a foundation and perhaps learn from the likes of Donna Knott and Brian Breed, etc. how to do the music right. It would benefit the SL's in countless ways, and it would be true to your heritage as well. It would be great to see popular music performed the way Fred Waring would have liked it. Maybe you could help construct a proposal the group could present to Virginia or perhaps you'd like to take on the challenge. Does it sound possible? Seems it would be a great mix. Minimal effort on the Waring Org.'s part and it would keep all that beautiful music and history from rotting away.

What do you think?

Courtney

***********************************************

To: rly108@psu.edu@SMTP@cchntmsd, jeff@rezer.com@SMTP@cchntmsd, laura.liburdi@garden.com@SMTP@cchntmsd, m.egna@worldnet.att.net@SMTP@cchntmsd

Subject: Update

Hi group: I think it has been awhile since I have communicated with you all and I don't know if Yac has kept you informed. Classes have started and there is so much going on here. But here is a quick resume.

I met with the Asst Dean Don Leslie and upon his reccomd. with the Dean, Neil Porterfield. I found that both were not aware of a lot of the facts about the Singing Lions operation. Dean Porterfield was impresses by the fact that Lynn Drafall, Doug Miller, Bruce Trinkley and Tony Leach [(School of Music faculty)] all supported the program and had been talking to Green almost from the day I announced my retirement. Porterfield feels there are some other avenues to investigate for funds. I hope he keeps on that, I will check in with him from time to time.

Needless to say just about anybody I talk to in the School of Music, College of A&A and other college people feel it is so bizzare, incredible, etc, etc that the program was cut from the School. We must keep the pressure up. I hope to go talk to Diane Ryan, PSAA next week.

Spanier has just washed his hands of the situation. . . . Green, well [editor's note: please see campaign email for descriptions of Green's actions)]

We have Dup Dup [(a.k.a. Matt Doebler, former SL accompianist)] as music director, Darci Holleran, musEd student is staying on as asst. We met today with the Associated Student Activities people and things are getting set there. I have to meet with the university development people to make sure the money we raised is properly credited.

. . .I will be the group's official "advisor" so I can sign off on things and guide them.(Am I nuts???). New officers are Monika Schimek, Pres; Mauri Buetzow, Veep; Amanda Marko, Sec; and Yac is Treasurer/Busness Manager (and will not perform).

So we all are hanging in there. I have contacted several college groups around the country asking them to write in support and will contine to do so through other sources.

That's all for now, gotta run. (Marty you can post this (maybe with some editing) so everytbody knows what's happening.

Pete

Peter T. Kiefer, Coordinator
Fred Waring's America
The Pennsylvania State University
Special Services Building
1127 Fox Hill Road
University Park, PA 16803-1824
(814)863-2911
Email: ptk@psulias.psu.edu

Martin Egna 08/26/99 02:59 PM

I hope the attached article is an example of poor reporter fact checking and not how the School of Music will be treating the Singing Lions now that it has kicked the group out of the school. I would think the reporter got her information from the School of Music office rather than contacting each choir. If the school provided the information, how come the SL was not also listed? Does any one know? Perhaps someone could write the reporter to see if was her oversight or if the School of Music failed to note the SL when providing information. I was going to send the reporter a note, but I think the question would be odd coming from an alumnus.

The reporter's email is nls144@psu.edu

Marty

----------------------------------------------

[Collegian, Tuesday, Aug. 24, 1999 ]

Penn State choirs auditions begin today

Sounds of "America the Beautiful" echo through the halls of Music Building I as students audition for the Penn State choirs.

From 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. today through Thursday, any interested student may try out for a place in Concert Choir, Oriana Singers, Glee Club, University Choir, Essence of Joy or Women's Chorale. The auditions are nonstrenuous and require no prior preparation, said Lynn Drafall, coordinator of choral studies.

A typical audition consists of a test of vocal range, a tonal memory test, a sight singing test and finally a rendition of "America the Beautiful," "God Bless America" or "My Country 'Tis of Thee."

"The best advice to offer someone nervous about auditioning is to relax — it's not that bad," said Nate Hafer, president of Concert Choir.

Also this week, there will be auditions for Symphonic Wind Ensemble, Penn State Symphonic Band, Philharmonic Orchestra, Penn State University Chamber Orchestra, Sinfonietta and Penn State Opera.

- by Nicole Serenko

************************************************************

Martin Egna 08/26/99 02:00 PM

To: Ms. Elizabeth Goodman, Reporter
The Daily Collegian
Penn State University

Dear Ms. Goodman,

Thank you again for taking time to speak with me about the Singing Lions. I am sure you are speaking to a number of people and are gathering a lot of information. I mentioned in our conversation that the group has given a lot to the university and alumni. I would like to provide a typical example.

Over its seventeen year history, the Penn State Singing Lions have performed for 42 Penn State alumni association chapters, many several times. A recent show the group performed for the Delaware Chapter is a good example of the influence the group has had over the years. The Delaware chapter engaged the Singing Lions to entertain guests at its annual offer reception (an offer reception is an event that chapters hold for area high school students who have been offered admission to Penn State). Singing Lions mingled with perspective students answering questions about the university and academic programs (the group's members typically represent a wide range of majors across the university). Because of the Singing Lions involvement, attendance doubled at this event and the chapter received an award last April from the alumni association for the chapter's student interaction program.

Performances and university service such as this would be very difficult in the future should the group's status change from a School of Music ensemble to a student activity group.

The president of the Delaware chapter of the alumni association, Michelle Kramer-Fitzgerald, in response to a request by Singing Lions alumni Courtney and Tim Hall, recently sent a note to Dr. Green, President Spanier, and Diane Ryan, executive director of the alumni association, to express support for the group. She might be a good person to contact to get a Penn State alumna's perspective.

If I can provide any more information, please do not hesitate to call. As I said, I am available until September 3 when I leave for a two-week trip to Japan. I will return on September 18 should you need to reach me later on.

Sincerely,

Martin Egna, PSU '91, SL 1987-90, SL president 1989-90
m.egna@worldnet.att.net

---------------------------------------

cc:

Michelle Kramer-Fitzgerald '92
Delaware Chapter President
4 Variton Dr.
Wilmington, DE 19810
h: 302-529-0533
michelle_fitzgerald@dorland.com

Tim & Courtney Hall
t.j.hall@worldnet.att.net

*****************************************************

Dear Elizabeth and Martin,

I would be happy to speak with The Daily Collegian on behalf of the Singing Lions' situation, and offer my views as an alum. Either of you may feel free to contact me via e-mail, work phone (215-928-2379), or home phone (302-529-0533). However, I do ask that you give me at least 24 hours' notice if you're planning to contact me, so I can be available to you at the time you require.

Thanks!

Best regards,
Michelle Kramer-Fitzgerald
President, Delaware Chapter of the Penn State Alumni Association

1999-2000 Season & Group Status from Yac

From: "Yacyshyn, Robert" on 12/22/99 02:32 PM

To: Martin Egna@Computax

cc:

Subject: Update & Such

Hey Marty,

It's Yac and I thought I would give you an update on how the group is going.  Sorry I didn't do this before but I was concentrating on grades, and keeping the group going...and since I never got an email saying "What's going on???????" I thought you must be ok.  Well, to start with the obvious, we are a student organization.  Specifically, we receive no money from the School of Music, and we get no credit.  The School has been "kind" enough to allow us to keep our closet full of our stuff.  We also are "allowed" to rehearse in the School and they pay for the newsletter publication, and there will be another one going out at the beginning of the next semester.  Dup Dup is our director and he basically takes care of song selection and teaching the music.  I did most of the producing this semester but I am teaching him how to take over.  I believe that the "producing" will be a student's or a pair of students' job but I am going to teach him just in case he doesn't get any volunteers. 

We have 16 performers, eight guys, eight girls.  We have a drummer, bassist, and four techs.  When you add Dup Dup and our assistant director, Darci we are 24 strong.

Our X-Mas show went very well, and I think our vocal talent is the cream of the crop.  Our dancing could be better, but we are working on it...I wasn't a good dancer when I first joined.  We had a great fall semester, performing all of our regular shows and a couple new ones.  I worked really hard to keep the same feel to the group. 

Financially, we have $9700 that is a combination of alumni donations, fall show revenue (SBS) and our original balance.  Dup was kind enough to say that he didn't want payment for his job because he felt that Lisa (our dance captain) and I did most of the work.  He shouldn't be that modest though, he did a phenomenal job too.  We also have $1000 coming from IBM's matched donation which hasn't cleared yet, $1000 from the Penn State Bookstore (we sold them 100 CD's at $10 a piece) and I deposited another $1000 we made from the last shows of the semester.  So we will have roughly $13,000.  We hope to have at least $5000 in our account after the end of the spring semester.  So I think life is ok.

I will be writing a new constitution and handbook over the break and Dup and I are always talking about how to make the group better.  We strive to continue Pete's legacy of professional in entertainment.  Other things I want to have happen during the spring semester is get the communication lines open and I want to kick this off by creating a new website (outside of the School of Music one) at www.singinglions.com.  Alum Tom Musumeci (sp) has the rights to it so I need to contact him and figure out what his plans for it were.  We will need alumni support to continue to keep the group going in the future.  However, it should never have to be to the level that it was over this past summer. 

Speaking that a week before school we were unsure of the group's future, I think we're doing pretty darn good.  And we couldn't have done it without you!  If you don't get this email until after the new year, you can respond to rly108@psu.edu.  But if you get it sooner, respond to this address.  I look forward to hearing from you and I hope you have a nice holiday. 

Sincerely,

Yac

P.S.  Do you have a list of everyone who donated to save the group?  I would like to include it in our newsletter.

P.P.S.  I completely forgot to tell you that we are going to Florida and points south for tour.  We will singing for alumni groups, high schools, and Disney World!  Should be a blast!  Working on funding options...it's tough to do all this and keep up my GPA.  Alright, later

Martin Egna 01/24/2000 04:25 PM

Hi Yac,

Sorry for the delay in responding (holidays, 6 week cold/flu thang, work staff vacations, buried at work--blahblahblah).

Thanks for the update, I posted it at the alumni website over the weekend and will send out a message to alumni about the your message.

As for the list of donors, I believe, if I'm remembering correctly, Jeff Rezer (I cc'd him) had maintained the list of names and addresses of people who gave us advance notice of a donation during the August frenzy (Jeff let me know if I'm wrong). It is possible that Pete got some donations from people who did not send advance word and who would not have made it on Jeff's list (I'm thinking of Rosanette Abrams, 87-91, in particular but there could be more).

I guess I'm writing the rest of this email to the current group and with an eye toward posting it on the alumni web site.

Despite being demoted out of the school of music, it sounds like you guys have been working very hard and faring well. I imagine the Singing Lions will eventually get back into the school, but it could take years before someone on the music faculty takes an interest in and is willing to be responsible for the group. It will be important for outgoing members to carefully pass the torch to new members (much of which can happen on tour).

The most dangerous thing to have happen would be to not have SLs one year. It is much easier to continue than to restart. The SLs have an attitude and a sense of dedication and hard work that each SL has passed down to every new member. I know I speak for many alumni when I say how thankful we are that the current group is comprised of such dedicated people who want the group to continue despite the misfortune. It has always been hard work to be a SL. I only wish the alumni could have done more to help ease your burden.

Penn State may not currently recognize the importance of SLs in helping to educate and strengthen Penn Staters. But hopefully, one day, the school of music will be led by someone with more depth and vision and the university will be led by someone more supportive of the value that Singing Lions brings to the Penn State community. When that happens, Penn State will recognize the importance of a vocal jazz program that includes the Singing Lions as an ensemble in the school of Music family.

To reach that point, everyone who has an interest in restoring the Singing Lions to its rightful place in the school of music will have to take every appropriate opportunity to lobby for the return of the Singing Lions to the Penn State school of music.

I know you are all busily preparing for the 2000 spring break tour. I'm sure you will make us all very proud to have been SLs (and maybe a little envious). I wish Margee and I were back East to catch a show.

Try to minimize the inevitable Red Skeleton incidents on tour and have a great time.

With much love to my Singing Lions brothers and sisters,

Marty Egna, SLs 1987-90

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