Commentary by Amy Pauszek
Where’s Amy attended a special retirement party for former Songbook Foundation Vice President Karen Kelsey after the magnificent Songbook Academy All-Star Concert at the Palladium Jan. 7. The gathering included Kelsey’s family, friends, city officials and a slew of The Center for the Performing Arts associates and board members. Kelsey was praised by Artistic Director Michael Feinstein via Skype, received the prestigious Songbook Foundation Award presented by Interim President/CEO Jeff McDermott and given a proclamation from Mayor Jim Brainard by Director of Community Relations and board member Nancy Heck. It was a night to celebrate the many years of dedication, drive and hard work that Kelsey had given to The Songbook Foundation, which has become a world-wide success. Philanthropist and board member Frank Basile, along with new Vice President of Songbook Foundation Chris Lewis, told stories and praised Kelsey during the award presentation. Everyone who attended felt the warmth and deep love that Kelsey gave every day to the foundation, and because of this, her legacy will continue on. The seven returning Songbook alumni told Where’s Amy how proud and honored they were to be able to attend Kelsey’s retirement party. I looked around the room and it was clear that everyone felt the same. Good luck Kelsey as another chapter in your life begins! For more, visit thesongbook.org
