SAI Reg23 Resources & Information - Recently Updated Pages

2009 Nashville Convention

jlpalus — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:19:21 CST

The 2009 Sweet Adelines International Convention is in NASHVILLE!
[visit the SAI site page for Nashville]

Tuesday 10/20: Harmony Classic
Wednesday 10/21: Quartet Semi-Finals
Thursday 10/22: Chorus Semi-Finals
Friday 10/22: Quartet Finals
Saturday 10/23: Rising Star Contest & Chorus Finals

Reg23 Rising Star Competitors	Reg23 Quartet Competitors	Reg23 Chorus Competitors
Moonlit Melodies...contestant 2 RamBunctious...contestant 9 Restless...contestant 15 Almost Famous...contestant 16	Black Tie (Reg7)...contestant 8 Spice (2009 Reg23 Champions)...contestant 20	Metro Nashville (Wildcard)...contestant 14 TuneTown Show (2008 Reg23 Champion)...contestant 27

Learn about the 2009 YSF Silent Auction and the 2009 YWIH Festival

Want to stop by a chorus rehearsal? Here's the information you need

Metro Nashville Chorus is staying at the DoubleTree Hotel.
Rehearsals are open and will be held at:

Monday 10/19, DoubleTree Tennesee Ballroom, 6-9pm
Wednesday 10/21, DoubleTree Tennesee Ballroom, 10am-12pm
Wednesday 10/21, Nashville Convention Center Room 204, 7-9pm

TuneTown Show Chorus is staying at the Marriott Hotel at Vanderbilt.
Rehearsals:

Tuesday 10/20, Marriott Hotel at Vanderbilt 1:30-3:30pm
Wednesday 10/21, Marriott Hotel at Vanderbilt, 9-10:30am
Wednesday 10/21, Marriott Hotel at Vanderbilt, 7-9:30pm

Have you ordered your 2009 Nashville Convention shirt? Show your Region 23 pride!
Click the image for more information or to order - available in 19 colors (btw, site will include color swatches soon)
$18 per shirt; $5.95 S&H --- you can save quite a bit on shipping cost if you order as a chorus - ask your Pres/TL!

Region 23 Contest

jlpalus — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:18:46 CST

Chattanooga TN - March 18-21, 2009

NOTE: Information for 2010 Contest has not yet been posted - please check back.

Contest Logistics - A Published in December (first group of forms and info)	Contest Logistics - B Published in January (final group of forms and info)	Contest Order of Appearance Explaination of Reg 23 Contest Awards Previous years' Regional Contest Results


Click here for addresses and a map of the Chattanooga Marriott and Auditorium	Click for information on the Harmony Bazaar	Need info to share with family/friends? Send them to CONTEST VISTORS

Contest Steering Committee
Nancy Field, CC, nafield@aol.com
Karin L. Kinder, CRC, karink12@yahoo.com
Natalie Allen, EVC , nallensing@aol.com

Future International Conventions - Location and dates
2009, Nashville, Tennessee, October 20-24
2010, Seattle, Washington, October 19-23
2011, Houston, Texas, October 18-22
2012, Denver, Colorado, October 30-Nov. 3
2013, Honolulu, Hawaii, Nov. 5-9

Chapter Insurance

jlpalus — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:17:42 CST

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All Sweet Adelines International chapters in the United States are required to purchase liability insurance through a group plan provided by the international organization. This is part of the charter and recharter each May 1st.

This coverage provides protection for claims brought by third parties who may have been injured or had property damage by activities of members or chapters.
This coverage is for legal liability, which means the claimant must show that the member or chapter was negligent in causing the accident. It is NOT voluntary coverage which pays even though we are not at fault.
This policy covers normal chapter activities, but does NOT cover unusual activities, such as fireworks, carnival and amusement rides, racing events and sporting events.
This coverage does not cover chorus members. It also does not cover chorus property.

Other insurance your chorus might want to consider:

Policies can be purchased from local insurance agenciesto cover such items as risers, sound equipment, music cabinets, and financial records.
Some choruses rent space to store these items and might find this good coverage to carry to protect these items from fire, theft, tornadoes, etc.

Guidelines for Reimbursement

jlpalus — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:17:26 CST

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Expenses incurred by the RMT and regional managers are generally reimbursable. These amounts are spelled out in the budget.
Although the budget itself is not on this site, the Finance Coordinator or the RMT member you report to will be happy to advise you at any time.
For reimbursement expenses should be submitted on a reimbursement form. Reimbursement forms are available from the Finance Coordinator or any RMT member.
A blank form will be available on the wiki site soon.
Receipts for all expense should be attached to this form and the form should be signed by the appropriate RMT member.
Forms can be sent to the Finance Coordinator in two ways.
- The first is by snail mail.
- Or if you have the technology, receipts can be scanned and submitted along with a filled our reimbursement form and the email approval of the RMT member and all of this can be sent electronically to the Finance Coordinator.
Reimbursement forms should be submitted to the Finance Coordinator within 60 days of incurring the expense.

Regional Assessments

jlpalus — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:17:09 CST

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Attention Chorus Treasurers! The Regional Assessment of $40 per member is based on the numbers that Sweet Adelines International have for you as of April 30 each year. You will receive a letter with that information, in addition to the listing of the members on your roll as of April 30th. The letters will go out in June and will be due August 15th. Be sure your roll with International is correct prior to April 30th each year.

How Big is Our Region?
4/30/09

The numbers below represent the chorus membership as of 4/30/2009.

There are 20 regions larger than Region 23 and 7 regions smaller.
Important note: Chorus size at competition is based on members actually singing on stage, not members on your roll.

Crossroads of the South	23	Small
Sound of the Bay	24	Small
Harmony Shores	25	Small
Sweet Georgia Sound	25	Small
Pensacola Sound	26	Small
Southern Accent	26	Small
Harmony Hills	29	Small
Harmony River	29	Small
Scenic City	31	Mid-Size
Azalea City	32	Mid-Size
Smokie Mountain Melodies	36	Mid-Size
Metro Nashville	39	Mid-Size
Memphis City Sound	44	Mid-Size
Smoky Mountain Harmony	48	Mid-Size
TuneTown Show	100	Large
Song of Atlanta	135	Large
Total in chapters	672
Chapter at Large	45
Total in Region	717

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Ways and Means

jlpalus — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:16:58 CST

Back to Finance

Ways & Means Manager, Bonnie Morgan; RMT Manager Contacts

Job Highlights

Oversee the region's activities in the area of fund-raising and supplementary income
Organize and manage a proactive committee whose mission it is to plan and implement programs designed to support the financial needs of the region
Seek out new and/or better methods of fundraising including, but not limited to, available grants and awards

Taxes and Audits

jlpalus — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:16:43 CST

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March 2009 M E M O TO: United States, Chapter Finance Coordinators United States, Regional Finance Coordinators RE: Filing of United States Government Form 990 for 2008 (fiscal year ending April 30, 2009) Verification of Audit IMPORTANT NEW INFORMATION Last year the IRS required chapters and regions with gross receipts of $25,000 or less to file an electronic 990-N (e-Postcard) with the Internal Revenue Service. The following provides information about each of the filing requirements. NEW Effective with 2008 tax years (returns filed beginning in 2009), chapters or regions with gross receipts of more than $25,000 and less than $1 million, and total assets less than $2.5 million may now file a 990EZ or 990. IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT THE 990EZ FORM BE FILED BY CHAPTERS OR REGIONS BECAUSE OF EXTENSIVE NEW SCHEDULES AND QUESTIONS ON THE 990 FORM. Annual Electronic Filing Requirements-Form 990-N (e-Postcard) For the fiscal year ending April 30, 2009, e-Postcards are due every year by September 15 for organizations with $25,000 or less in gross receipts. Although our organization’s year ends in 2009, this is considered a 2008 filing. An organization's gross receipts are considered to be $25,000 or less if the organization: Has been in existence for 1 year or less and received, or donors have pledged to give, $37,500 or less during the organization's first tax year; Has been in existence between 1 and 3 years and averaged $30,000 or less in gross receipts during each of its first 2 tax years; or Is at least 3 years old and averaged $25,000 or less in gross receipts for the immediately preceding 3 tax years (including the year for which calculations are being made). An e-Postcard must be filed on the IRS Web site. The information required for the electronic filing is as follows: Employer identification number (EIN) Tax year (2008) Legal name and mailing address of the chapter or region (name of chapter/region of Sweet Adelines International) Name and address of a principal officer (finance coordinator/treasurer or president) Web site address if chapter or region has one Confirmation that the organization’s annual gross receipts are normally $25,000 or less If applicable, a statement that the organization has terminated or is terminating To learn more about the 990N requirements and how to file: http://www.irs.gov/charities/article/0,,id=169250,00.html Internal Revenue Service Form 990EZ or 990 Filing Requirements All United States chapters, regions and prospective chapters in existence during the period beginning May 1 to the following April 30 are required to file Form 990EZ or 990 annually with the IRS if their annual gross income is more than $25,000 and less than $1 million and total assets are less than $2.5 million. Schedule A must be completed for forms 990 and 990EZ. The Schedule A has been re-designed so that many of the questions are now incorporated into the 990EZ or 990 Form. Additionally, a Form 990-T must be filed if gross income from an unrelated trade or business is $1,000 or more. The deadline for filing these forms with the Internal Revenue Service is September 15 of each year. IT IS HIGHLY ENCOURAGED THAT 990EZ BE USED AS THE NEW 990 REQUIREMENTS ARE EXTENSIVE SCHEDULE A Schedule A was revised beginning in 2008. In Part I, Box 9 needs to be checked, part II does not need to be filled out, part III needs to be completed and part IV should be filled out only if needed. For additional information regarding the 990EZ forms and schedules, please contact the Director of Finance and Administration at donna@sweeetadelineintl.org or 1-800-992-7464 ext 115. FAILURE TO FILE 990 INFORMATION FOR THREE CONSECUTIVE YEARS, MAY RESULT IN REVOCATION OF THE CHAPTER OR REGION’S TAX EXEMPT STATUS Please provide a copy of the 990 filing to International Headquarters, attention Donna K. Kerley, Director of Finance and Administration. VERIFICATION OF AUDIT Each chapter and region is required to submit a verification of audit. The region's and chapter’s books and financial records should be audited by an internal audit committee or an independent third party such as an accounting firm. When making arrangements for a third party to conduct the audit, be sure to discuss the fee. It is not necessary for the auditor to do a complete audit and issue a formal or unqualified opinion. The auditor should primarily seek to verify bank balances and the proper recording of receipts and disbursements. Attached is the Verification of Audit form to complete. Please return to International Headquarters by July 15, 2009. NOTE: The Verification of Audit form is sent to chapter finance coordinators and regional finance coordinators. Frequently Asked Questions Q. How are gross receipts determined? A. Gross receipts are all monies received from all sources, without deducting any costs or expenses, which contributed to the activities and operations of the organization. The exception to this is sales items. The net amount (gross sales less cost of goods) is reported in gross receipts. The following revenue is not reported as gross receipts. a. The collection of International dues from members which are subsequently forwarded to Headquarters and regional assessments which are sent to the region. Any pass-through monies are not included. Pass through monies are defined as any funds collected as a convenience and forwarded to another entity. b. Funds received for payment of registration or fees for future events that do not pertain to the current fiscal year. EXAMPLE The fiscal year ends April 30, 2009 Monies are received from members in March 2009 (or earlier in the year) for an event or workshop being held in June 2009. These funds may be recorded in an account titled "Deferred Income" and would not be reported as income for the fiscal year ending April 30, 2009. On May 1, 2009 this amount would be transferred from the "Deferred Income" account on the balance sheet to an income account for the event or workshop and reported for the fiscal year ending April 30, 2010. Please contact Donna Kerley, Director of Finance and Administration at International Headquarters with additional questions pertaining to GROSS RECEIPTS. Q. If any of the Forms 990s must be filed, how can they be obtained? A. The IRS will send your chapter or region the forms if you have previously filed. If they have not been received, contact your local Internal Revenue Service office and request the forms or access the forms on the IRS Website http://www.irs.gov, click the tab for charities and non-profits and search for 990 forms. Upon request, International Headquarters will provide Forms 990EZ, Schedule A, Schedule B and 990-T. Q. How do I know if my state has filing requirements? A. The finance coordinator should check with the appropriate state agency to see if there are any filing requirements. Sweet Adelines International's exemption from federal income tax does not necessarily exempt chapters or regions from filing requirements and tax requirements on the state and local level. Each chapter and region is responsible for obtaining the necessary forms and for filing on a timely basis. This information should become part of the files and should be passed on to each finance coordinator. Q. If assistance is needed to complete the Form 990s, who may be contacted? A. The Director of Finance and Administration at International Headquarters will answer any questions you may have regarding the requirements for filing or completing the forms, donna@sweetadelineintl.org or 1-800-992-7464 ext. 115. Q. Where do I file the returns? A. Chapters: Form 990s are filed by districts as defined by the Internal Revenue Service. The addresses are listed in the Form 990 instruction booklet or may be obtained from International Headquarters. Regions: Form 990s are filed in the district as defined by the Internal Revenue Service. The district is determined by the State in which the current Finance Coordinators resides. The returns are processed according to the tax identification number of the region. It is the responsibility of the Internal Revenue Service district in which the return was filed to forward it to the processing agency. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Donna K. Kerley Director of Finance and Administration (3/09) donna@sweetadelineintl.org 1-800-992-7464 ext. 115

March 2009
M E M O

TO: United States, Chapter Finance Coordinators United States, Regional Finance Coordinators

RE: Filing of United States Government Form 990 for 2008 (fiscal year ending April 30, 2009) Verification of Audit

IMPORTANT NEW INFORMATION
Last year the IRS required chapters and regions with gross receipts of $25,000 or less to file an electronic 990-N (e-Postcard) with the Internal Revenue Service. The following provides information about each of the filing requirements.

NEW
Effective with 2008 tax years (returns filed beginning in 2009), chapters or regions with gross receipts of more than $25,000 and less than $1 million, and total assets less than $2.5 million may now file a 990EZ or 990.
IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT THE 990EZ FORM BE FILED BY CHAPTERS OR REGIONS BECAUSE OF EXTENSIVE NEW SCHEDULES AND QUESTIONS ON THE 990 FORM.

Annual Electronic Filing Requirements-Form 990-N (e-Postcard) For the fiscal year ending April 30, 2009, e-Postcards are due every year by September 15 for organizations with $25,000 or less in gross receipts. Although our organization’s year ends in 2009, this is considered a 2008 filing. An organization's gross receipts are considered to be $25,000 or less if the organization:

Has been in existence for 1 year or less and received, or donors have pledged to give, $37,500 or less during the organization's first tax year;
Has been in existence between 1 and 3 years and averaged $30,000 or less in gross receipts during each of its first 2 tax years; or
Is at least 3 years old and averaged $25,000 or less in gross receipts for the immediately preceding 3 tax years (including the year for which calculations are being made).

An e-Postcard must be filed on the IRS Web site. The information required for the electronic filing is as follows:

Employer identification number (EIN)
Tax year (2008)
Legal name and mailing address of the chapter or region (name of chapter/region of Sweet Adelines International)
Name and address of a principal officer (finance coordinator/treasurer or president)
Web site address if chapter or region has one
Confirmation that the organization’s annual gross receipts are normally $25,000 or less
If applicable, a statement that the organization has terminated or is terminating

To learn more about the 990N requirements and how to file: http://www.irs.gov/charities/article/0,,id=169250,00.html

Internal Revenue Service Form 990EZ or 990 Filing Requirements
All United States chapters, regions and prospective chapters in existence during the period beginning May 1 to the following April 30 are required to file Form 990EZ or 990 annually with the IRS if their annual gross income is more than $25,000 and less than $1 million and total assets are less than $2.5 million.

Schedule A must be completed for forms 990 and 990EZ. The Schedule A has been re-designed so that many of the questions are now incorporated into the 990EZ or 990 Form. Additionally, a Form 990-T must be filed if gross income from an unrelated trade or business is $1,000 or more. The deadline for filing these forms with the Internal Revenue Service is September 15 of each year.
IT IS HIGHLY ENCOURAGED THAT 990EZ BE USED AS THE NEW 990 REQUIREMENTS ARE EXTENSIVE

SCHEDULE A
Schedule A was revised beginning in 2008. In Part I, Box 9 needs to be checked, part II does not need to be filled out, part III needs to be completed and part IV should be filled out only if needed. For additional information regarding the 990EZ forms and schedules, please contact the Director of Finance and Administration at donna@sweeetadelineintl.org or 1-800-992-7464 ext 115.

FAILURE TO FILE 990 INFORMATION FOR THREE CONSECUTIVE YEARS, MAY RESULT IN REVOCATION OF THE CHAPTER OR REGION’S TAX EXEMPT STATUS

Please provide a copy of the 990 filing to International Headquarters, attention Donna K. Kerley, Director of Finance and Administration.

VERIFICATION OF AUDIT
Each chapter and region is required to submit a verification of audit. The region's and chapter’s books and financial records should be audited by an internal audit committee or an independent third party such as an accounting firm. When making arrangements for a third party to conduct the audit, be sure to discuss the fee. It is not necessary for the auditor to do a complete audit and issue a formal or unqualified opinion. The auditor should primarily seek to verify bank balances and the proper recording of receipts and disbursements. Attached is the Verification of Audit form to complete. Please return to International Headquarters by July 15, 2009.

NOTE: The Verification of Audit form is sent to chapter finance coordinators and regional finance coordinators.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How are gross receipts determined?
A. Gross receipts are all monies received from all sources, without deducting any costs or expenses, which contributed to the activities and operations of the organization. The exception to this is sales items. The net amount (gross sales less cost of goods) is reported in gross receipts. The following revenue is not reported as gross receipts.

a. The collection of International dues from members which are subsequently forwarded to Headquarters and regional assessments which are sent to the region. Any pass-through monies are not included. Pass through monies are defined as any funds collected as a convenience and forwarded to another entity.
b. Funds received for payment of registration or fees for future events that do not pertain to the current fiscal year.

EXAMPLE
The fiscal year ends April 30, 2009 Monies are received from members in March 2009 (or earlier in the year) for an event or workshop being held in June 2009. These funds may be recorded in an account titled "Deferred Income" and would not be reported as income for the fiscal year ending April 30, 2009. On May 1, 2009 this amount would be transferred from the "Deferred Income" account on the balance sheet to an income account for the event or workshop and reported for the fiscal year ending April 30, 2010. Please contact Donna Kerley, Director of Finance and Administration at International Headquarters with additional questions pertaining to GROSS RECEIPTS.

Q. If any of the Forms 990s must be filed, how can they be obtained?
A. The IRS will send your chapter or region the forms if you have previously filed. If they have not been received, contact your local Internal Revenue Service office and request the forms or access the forms on the IRS Website http://www.irs.gov, click the tab for charities and non-profits and search for 990 forms. Upon request, International Headquarters will provide Forms 990EZ, Schedule A, Schedule B and 990-T.

Q. How do I know if my state has filing requirements?
A. The finance coordinator should check with the appropriate state agency to see if there are any filing requirements. Sweet Adelines International's exemption from federal income tax does not necessarily exempt chapters or regions from filing requirements and tax requirements on the state and local level. Each chapter and region is responsible for obtaining the necessary forms and for filing on a timely basis. This information should become part of the files and should be passed on to each finance coordinator.

Q. If assistance is needed to complete the Form 990s, who may be contacted?
A. The Director of Finance and Administration at International Headquarters will answer any questions you may have regarding the requirements for filing or completing the forms, donna@sweetadelineintl.org or 1-800-992-7464 ext. 115.

Q. Where do I file the returns?
A. Chapters: Form 990s are filed by districts as defined by the Internal Revenue Service. The addresses are listed in the Form 990 instruction booklet or may be obtained from International Headquarters. Regions: Form 990s are filed in the district as defined by the Internal Revenue Service. The district is determined by the State in which the current Finance Coordinators resides. The returns are processed according to the tax identification number of the region. It is the responsibility of the Internal Revenue Service district in which the return was filed to forward it to the processing agency.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Donna K. Kerley Director of Finance and Administration (3/09) donna@sweetadelineintl.org 1-800-992-7464 ext. 115

Budget Process

jlpalus — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:16:29 CST

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Fiscal Year
Region23 follows the SAI fiscal year of May 1 - April 30

Annual Budget
Regional Management Team members and committee managers will estimate their budget needs for the next fiscal year and submit the information to the Finance Coordinator in the fall. The Finance Coordinator will assemble the information from all Coordinators and estimate possible income for the next fiscal year. The proposed budget will then be submitted to the RMT for review and revision. The goal is a balanced budget.

The RMT will finalize the budget at the January/February meeting.

Back to Finance page

Finance

jlpalus — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:16:00 CST

Dot Hackman
Dot's wiki ID is FC23

Although the Finance Coordinator is primarily responsible for administering and monitoring the region’s financial resources, financial management is the responsibility of the entire Regional Management Team. Financial planning is incorporated into all goal-setting sessions and long-range planning meetings.

Budget Process
Chapter Insurance
Guidelines for Reimbursement
Regional Assessments
Ways and Means
Taxes and Audits - information from SAI

Finance Coordinator – Regional Appointment

Manages all bank accounts and investments, receives and deposits all monies and writes all checks
Prepares and submits the annual budget for the region
Prepares monthly and year end reports for the RMT and International
Coordinates projects to raise non-dues income
Presents a report on the region’s financial condition at meetings of the RMT
Prepares an annual financial statement for submission to the Director of Finance and Sweet Adelines International
Signs all contracts for the region
Attends all RMT meetings, participating in discussions and decisions
Files Annual 990 tax form to the Internal Revenue Service by September 15th

Marketing Showcase

jlpalus — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 12:01:47 CDT

WANTED!
Great examples of marketing (for membership, fundraising, or performance) that has worked for YOUR CHAPTER
Please use the thread below to share (and we'll post it here) or email to the Marketing Coordinator at MKC@region23.com

We also posted color scans of the Chapter Business Cards in Reg23 and beyond.

Southern Accent Chorus, submitted by Dot Hackman 10/16/09	Using Social Media to Drive Membership Southern Accent Chorus is having a member drive that used Facebook successfully. We are having a Christmas concert December 1st and invited singers to come and learn six songs and sing with us at the concert. No obligation, but of course we hope they will like singing with us enough to become members. An event was set up on facebook promoting the event and our members sent it to all their friends on facebook. We also sent press releases to local media. The first evening, September 8th, we had ten guests, and at least half of them came from facebook! And at least twenty others indicated on facebook that they might attend! Although none of that twenty attended, that is twenty people who know more about us and are possibly interested. As of this writing, October 16, eight of the ten are still attending. These eight have learned the original six songs and are now working on learning a harder Christmas song and our new contest uptune! Stay tuned for further details.

Southern Accent Chorus,
submitted by Dot Hackman
10/16/09

Using Social Media to Drive Membership

Southern Accent Chorus is having a member drive that used Facebook successfully. We are having a Christmas concert December 1st and invited singers to come and learn six songs and sing with us at the concert. No obligation, but of course we hope they will like singing with us enough to become members. An event was set up on facebook promoting the event and our members sent it to all their friends on facebook. We also sent press releases to local media. The first evening, September 8th, we had ten guests, and at least half of them came from facebook! And at least twenty others indicated on facebook that they might attend! Although none of that twenty attended, that is twenty people who know more about us and are possibly interested. As of this writing, October 16, eight of the ten are still attending. These eight have learned the original six songs and are now working on learning a harder Christmas song and our new contest uptune! Stay tuned for further details.

Win Free 2010 Registration

jlpalus — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 11:55:47 CDT

Would you like to win a FREE Registration(formerly known as AEB) for Region 23's 2010 Contest?

It's easy!

Step 1. Become a registered used of this site (click SIGN UP to enroll)
Already a user? Great! Do you have a photo on your profile? If not, see step 2

Step 2. Add some personal details and a photo to your profile

Not sure how to add a picture to your profile? Click here to link to a 1 minute how-to video

Not sure how to add a picture to your profile?

Click here to link to a 1 minute how-to video

All registered users with a profile picture as of 1/1/2010
will be eligible for a drawing for a Free Registration.
Two free registrations will be awarded.

But Wait...There's MORE!

Step 3. For an extra entry in the drawing(total of 2 per person), just reply to the thread below (after you comlete your profile).
Creating and responding to threads is a great way to join in a digital conversation with the region....so feel free to make other comments around the site!

Welcome Region 23 and Visitors!

jlpalus — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 11:31:51 CDT

Sweet Adelines International, Region 23 Regional Management Team

Need to contact a RMT Coordinator or Manager? Go to Region 23 Contacts

As a visitor to the site, you can view content about Region 23 of Sweet Adelines International. Along the left side of the screen, you see an outline of the site content. You can click on a page to view it; if there is a small arrow next to a topic, that means there are sub-pages. Clicking the arrow will open the interior links. If you'd like to see on outline of the entire site, click here for a sitemap. (that's a complete list of the main pages and topics)

Please note, this type of site is always a work-in-progress...it's a "living" website! So if you notice something that's missing, post a comment on that page (in the THREAD section at the bottom of each page) to suggest new content. A good place to share general comments is the "Wiki Talk" page..or you can find dedicated chat pages on costume + makeup, quartetting, inspiration, vendors, and other topics near to the hearts of Sweet Adlines every where.

Keep in mind: The more we use the site, the better it will become, so roll up your sleeves and let's build a great site!

You can win a Free 2010 Contest Registration! Click to learn more

Congratulations to our 2009 International Competitors!
TuneTown Show Chorus -16th
Metro Nashville Chorus - 22nd
Way to represent Region 23!

Learn how you can
Get Involved in Reg23 in a variety of ways - both big and small!

Breaking News

jlpalus — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 11:29:21 CDT

Win FREE 2010 Contest Registration!
The RMT is offering two free 2010 Contest Registrations (formerly known as AEB).
To enter in the drawing you must be a registered user of this site and have a profile picture -- as of 1/1/2010.
You can also have one extra entry per person...if you follow the instructions found here!

Quartet Workshop 2009
Info and forms for the 2009 Quartet Workshop has been posted. Go to the Quartet Workshop page to download! Hope to see you there!

Pensacola Sound Chorus is looking for a musical director

This energetic and highly motivated individual should have a strong knowledge of the barbershop craft. We are a 19 member chorus, and we perform regularly in our community. We continue our growth and education by competing each year in our regional event. An application is available on our website www.pensacolasoundchorus.com. For more information contact Harriette Robinson at (850) 748-4052 or hhr19@bbellsouth.net

Sweet Georgia Sound Chorus Director Search

Sweet Georgia Sound Chorus is searching for someone to be our new director since Sue Ann Justus has retired after years of dedicated service to us here in Middle Georgia. We prefer finding a director who is familiar with the barbershop-style of singing, or one who is willing to join us in perfecting our art through the many educational opportunities provided by our region and international organization. Since this is a hobby, our director's salary is supplemented with paid benefits such as education, travel, costuming, and other incidentals. If you think you, or someone you know might be interested in this opportunity and would like more information, please contact either: Rose Goette-Turner - RosieSing@juno.com - 478.477.0527 Tracy Coyle - baritone@cox.net - 478.335.3322

Director Search, Region 10

DIRECTOR SEARCH -- MAGIC VALLEY CHORUS -- MCALLEN, TX

Our 25-member Chorus of hard-working ladies achieved the status of "Most Improved Chorus" at Region 10's Competition in March 2009. It took the dedication of all members, all section leaders, the music team, the management team and our director to achieve this milestone for our small chorus. We are now ready for even greater achievements!

A director for our Chorus might be someone who wants to move to the warm subtropical climate of deep south Texas. She or he will possess the vision, leadership, inspiration, enthusiasm and musical and barbershop skills necessary to help us grow. This director will like the challenge of directing at numerous performances across the Rio Grande Valley as our Chorus is hired by Winter Texans for entertainment at their Parks...places they live during the winter months while avoiding the cold. Our Chorus thinks nothing of performing 5 to 7 times per month. We have 4 quartets who also perform during these times. Check us out at www.magicvalleychorus.org and contact us for an application.

2010-11 RMT Positions
Interested in serving on the RMT in 10-11? See your President or Team Leader for information and application!

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YWIH Grants

jlpalus — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 11:51:03 CDT

Region 23 YWIH Grant
Region 23 is pleased to be able to offer grants to assist chapters and organizations in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, and the panhandle of Florida in promoting the love of barbershop music to young women aged 25 years of age or younger.
The YWIH grant can be applied for at any time during the year, as long as the application is received at least 45 days before the intended event. Late or retroactive applications will not be considered.
Grants up to $300 will be awarded for events and activities promoting YWIH. The grant application covers four areas: YWIH festivals, Performance Opportunities for young women, assistance for YWIH Quartets, and General (non specific), which will cover any event we haven't thought of yet! Please take the time to look over the grant application (attached below) and think of way your chapter can begin to reach out to young women in your area!

Vickie Wonders Foltz Memorial Grant A talented performer as well as a gifted coach and teacher, Vickie Wonders Foltz was a member of the Sweet Adeline International Faculty as well as the Artist Director for Metro Nashville Chorus. The impact of her approach to barbershop showmanship can be seen and heard in choruses across the US and as far away as Sweden and New Zealand. A teacher by profession and avocation, Vickie loved to work with young voices and help them bring their talents to new audiences.
Friends and family from around the world who had been touched by Vickie have donated to a YWIH fund in her name. The monies will be used to support up to five individual $100 YWIH grants each year.
For an application, see attachments below.

Melody DeVane-Kight Memorial Scholarship TuneTown Show Chorus is happy to announce its first Melody College Scholarship Award. This award honors the memory of the late Melody DeVane-Kight, who was a devoted TuneTown member and dearly loved by her sisters in song. The scholarship is open to all of Region 23's YWIH qualifying high school seniors (see application and qualifying criteria for details). If you have any questions, please contact Joyce Peck, President, TuneTown Show chorus (contact information included on application). For an application, see attachments below.

Contest Logistics-A

jlpalus — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 10:19:07 CDT

Click here for Contest Logistics-B - second group of forms and information Jan 2009
Return to Region 23 Contest page
________________________

12/5/08 Letter from Karin Kinder, CRC (below, scroll down)

Links to Contest Details:

Tentative Schedule of Events (see updated schedule in 2009 Contest Logistics-B)
Pre-competition Survey - Due 12/12/08
AEB Registration Information - Due 1/23/09; $$ due 2/7/09
Housing Information & Forms - Forms Due 1/23/09
Evaluation by Video Recording
Rising Stars of the South Competition
Reserved Seating - offered to International VIPs, Directors, Regional Management Team, and Committee Managers (due 2/7/09)
Info on the Rising Star Contest and registration forms are on the YWIH page

Question, comment, or suggestion about 2009 Contest? Please share on this thread!

December 5, 2009 To: President / Team Leaders, Directors, CAL Members and Prospective Chapters From: Karin L. Kinder, Region 23 Chair of Regional Convention (CRC) Soon, fall breezes will turn into winter chills…the next thing you know, it’s convention time. Region 23 is setting up for an exciting year in 2009! Two choruses, TuneTown Show Chorus and Metro Nashville Chorus, as well as our 2009 Quartet Champion, will represent us at the International Convention in Nashville, TN! Our Convention Headquarters will once again be the Chattanooga Marriott and Competition will take place at Memorial Auditorium. The Convention Steering Committee has made a preliminary site visit and is busy working to get ready for competition. Our Official Judging Panel will be: Sound: Ozzi Mask; Annandale, VA, Region 14 Music: June Berg; South Barrington, IL, Region 22 Expression: Vickie Maybury; Centennial, CO, Region 8 Showmanship: Gina Kaiser; Clearwater, FL, Region 1 Panel Secretary: Gail Burke; Bradenton, FL, Region 9 June Berg will also serve as Panel Chair. Region 23 Competition Coordinator is Nancy Field. Sweet Adelines International has determined the following dates and deadlines for entry in the Quartet and Chorus Competitions: Quartet Entry Deadline: January 26, 2009 Quartet Late Entry Deadline: February 10, 2009 Regional Assessment Paid by: January 31, 2009 Chorus Entry Deadline: January 27, 2009 Chorus Late Entry Deadline: February 11, 2009 Quartets (both name and personnel) must be registered by January 15, 2009 to be eligible for the 2009 competition. The “Intent to Compete” Forms will be sent soon from International Headquarters, so please read them carefully and meet all the deadlines. Deadline dates are when the forms MUST BE RECEIVED at International Headquarters. Directors, please be sure to note the riser configuration of your choice. We will be offering both configurations again this year. Hostesses for quartets and choruses will be used again this year. More information will be sent to each chorus and quartet in the second mailing. There will be no advanced sales of individual tickets again this year. Tickets will be available at the box office at Memorial Auditorium one hour before each session. The following information will be included in the second mailing: Saturday’s boxed breakfast and/or lunch order forms Photo and video order forms (as mentioned before) Hostesses for quartets and choruses Please appoint your Chorus Competition Coordinator. She should be prepared to handle your housing registration, All Events Badges, and share all information regarding the Convention to your members. If there is anything the Steering Committee can do for you, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Have a joyous Holiday Season and we’ll see you in March!

December 5, 2009
To: President / Team Leaders, Directors, CAL Members and Prospective Chapters
From: Karin L. Kinder, Region 23 Chair of Regional Convention (CRC)

Soon, fall breezes will turn into winter chills…the next thing you know, it’s convention time. Region 23 is setting up for an exciting year in 2009! Two choruses, TuneTown Show Chorus and Metro Nashville Chorus, as well as our 2009 Quartet Champion, will represent us at the International Convention in Nashville, TN!

Our Convention Headquarters will once again be the Chattanooga Marriott and Competition will take place at Memorial Auditorium. The Convention Steering Committee has made a preliminary site visit and is busy working to get ready for competition.

Our Official Judging Panel will be:

Sound: Ozzi Mask; Annandale, VA, Region 14
Music: June Berg; South Barrington, IL, Region 22
Expression: Vickie Maybury; Centennial, CO, Region 8
Showmanship: Gina Kaiser; Clearwater, FL, Region 1
Panel Secretary: Gail Burke; Bradenton, FL, Region 9
June Berg will also serve as Panel Chair.
Region 23 Competition Coordinator is Nancy Field.

Sweet Adelines International has determined the following dates and deadlines for entry in the Quartet and Chorus Competitions:

Quartet Entry Deadline: January 26, 2009
Quartet Late Entry Deadline: February 10, 2009
Regional Assessment Paid by: January 31, 2009
Chorus Entry Deadline: January 27, 2009
Chorus Late Entry Deadline: February 11, 2009
Quartets (both name and personnel) must be registered by January 15, 2009 to be eligible for the 2009 competition.

The “Intent to Compete” Forms will be sent soon from International Headquarters, so please read them carefully and meet all the deadlines. Deadline dates are when the forms MUST BE RECEIVED at International Headquarters.

Directors, please be sure to note the riser configuration of your choice. We will be offering both configurations again this year.

Hostesses for quartets and choruses will be used again this year. More information will be sent to each chorus and quartet in the second mailing.

There will be no advanced sales of individual tickets again this year. Tickets will be available at the box office at Memorial Auditorium one hour before each session. The following information will be included in the second mailing:

Saturday’s boxed breakfast and/or lunch order forms
Photo and video order forms
(as mentioned before) Hostesses for quartets and choruses

Please appoint your Chorus Competition Coordinator. She should be prepared to handle your housing registration, All Events Badges, and share all information regarding the Convention to your members.

If there is anything the Steering Committee can do for you, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Have a joyous Holiday Season and we’ll see you in March!

RMT Associates

jlpalus — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 09:19:09 CDT

The Associate program was created to introduce interested members of the region to the management and general operation activities of the RMT.

Current Associates:
Charle Dunsten - Memphis City Sounds Chorus
Jennifer Cooke - TuneTown Show Chorus

Associate appointments are made by the RMT at the last meeting for the fiscal year;
interested members complete applications for the Associate position
Applicants must be in good standing with the region/chorus.
Associates serve a one year appointment to the RMT; Associates may be re-appointed
Associates attend the RMT meetings and are encouraged to attend regional events
Attendance may be funded based on the RMT guidelines.
Associates are not guaranteed a position as a Coordinator on the RMT; they may be encouraged to apprentice or shadow an RMT role.
Duties include but are not limited to:
- Participate in general discussion at meetings
- May be asked to hold a manager position
- Perform assignment as delegated by the RMT
- Associate opinion may be asked, but they are not part of formal team consensus at meetings
- Take minutes at meeting

RMT Contact Info
RMT Page

Awards & Recognition

jlpalus — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 09:14:00 CDT

To contact the Awards Manager, Sheila Killingsworth, go to RMT managers
Click for information on Region 23 Contest Awards

Chapter Achievement Award
Each chorus is eligible for the Chapter Achievement award. The winner receives a $100 gift to be used to pursue Sweet Adeline related activities. It is awarded presented to the chapter that has been most actively involved in a variety of Sweet Adeline functions during the past fiscal year (May 1-April 30). The form for this award is in the attachments section below.

Longevity Awards
Individual longevity awards are presented to members celebrating 25, 30, 35 and more years of membership in Sweet Adelines International. A certificate of recognition is given. 25 year members receive a pin as well as the certificate.

Chorus STAR Awards
Every chorus may elect one of their members as their STAR of the year. Special recognition is given to a chorus member who exemplifies a positive image of Sweet Adelines, supports her chorus and the International organization and goes the "extra mile". She is given a certificate and a special pin.

Turn in your chorus’ 2009 Star Award to Sheila Killingsworth by June 6th
Send her a picture and a description of why this member was chosen to sfk1949@comcast.net

Regional Leadership Award
This award is given to a Region 23 leader for exemplary work in the past year. This is a most prestigious award and only those in leadership positions in the previous year (as well as one vote from each each chorus) are allowed to nominate candidates for this award. Follow the link above for the details about this award and the nomination form.

Awards Managers Job Description:

Communicate with coordinator and communittees to idnetify significant accomplishment, progress, and skills of chapters and members
Suggest methods of recognition/presentation
Inventory, order, purchase, and/or produce quality awards and recognition products
Deliver awards to respective coordinator or committee in advance of event
Assist with presentation as required

Back to Membership

Contest Awards

jlpalus — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 09:12:14 CDT

Return to Region 23 Contest

In addition to the standard Sweet Adeline Awards, Region 23 has established four special awards for our annual contest:

Novice Quartet Award
Presented to the quartet having the highest score whose total points are at least 400 points and whose membership is composed of at least two (2) members who have never competed. There must be at least two (2) quartets eligible for this award to be presented.

Most Improved Quartet Award
Presented to the quartet which showed the greatest increase in total competition points over the previous years score.

Novice Director Award
Presented to the director directing a chorus for the first time in any barbershop competition whose chorus scores at least 400 total points.

Novice Chorus Award
Presented to the chorus having the highest score whose total points are at least 400 and who is performing in competition for the first time.

2009 Results

jlpalus — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 09:04:01 CDT

March 26-28, 2008
Chattanooga TN

QT 1st - Spice (614)
QT 2nd - 7th Heaven (567)
QT 3rd - Last Minute (563)
QT 4th - Shine! (548)
QT 5th - Takin' a Chance (536)
Novice: Charmed
Most Improved: Tessitura (+75)

1st - Song of Atanta (668)
2nd - Sound of the Bay (537)
3rd - Scenic City Chorus (520)
4th - Harmony Hills Chorus (508)
5th - Memphis City Sound (503)

AA 1st - Memphis City Sound
AA 2nd - Smoky Mountain Harmony
AA 3rd - Smokie Mountain Melodies

A 1st - Sound of the Bay
A 2nd - Scenic City
A 3rd - Harmony Hills

Most Improved Chorus - Harmony Shores
Novice Director - Kevin Miller, Smoky Mountain Harmony

Back to Regional Contest Results

Contest Visitors

jlpalus — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 09:00:55 CDT

Hello Friends, Family, Guests, and Visitors who plan to attend the 2009 Region 23 Contest; this page is designed to give you helpful details.

Venue

Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Auditorium
399 McCallie Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37402; (423) 757-5156
Click here for map

Quartet Contest
Friday 3/27 4:00pm
Tickets available at the box office 1 hour before show - tickets are $35

Chorus Contest
Saturday 3/28, 12:30pm
Tickets available at the box office 1 hour before show - tickets are $35

Transportation to Venue
Audience transportation will begin 1 hour prior to each event and run continuously; ending 1½ hours after the event has completed. Transportation schedules will be posted in the lobby area of the Marriott.Transportation will leave the hotel from the 11th Street entrance. Please follow the instructions of the hostesses who will be guiding you to the correct bus/van. [note: for those who prefer to drive, there is paid parking at the auditorium and nearby]

Primary Hotel
Chattanooga Marriott at the Convention Center
2 Carter Plaza, Chattanooga, TN 37402; 423-756-0002

Alternative Housing
Because hundreds of Sweet Adelines are staying at the Marriott, you may prefer to make alternative hotel arrangements. Some nearby alternatives include:
Rivergate Inn....................(423) 756-7505
Days Inn - Rivergate.........(423) 266-7331
Sheraton............................ (423) 266-4121

Notes on Contest Etiquette
The doors to the auditorium will be closed and will remain closed for each performance. You are free to leave the auditorium, for concessions or restrooms, but you may have to wait to return to your seat. Please ensure that your cell phone and other audible electronics are completely off. Photography of any kind is not allowed during the performances; there is only one authorized convention photographer. Audio recording is not allowed.

Because this is a contest, the judges must complete their remarks and scores after each performance. They do this as quickly as possible, but occasionally there is a delay. Please be patient.

The performers do not know what songs other groups have sung. Sometimes a particular song is repeated several times during a contest. Please remember to give each contestant an opportunity to sing their songs, and try to listen to them as if it's the first time. This may sound silly, but sometimes the audience sighs when they recognize a popular song, and that can be disheartening to the singers on stage!

Each performing group returns to the auditorium via a side door and sits in the house for the remainder of the contest. It is customary to greet their entrance into the house with a second round of applause.

Please limit your use of hairspray and perfume when attending the contests; strong scents and chemicals can make their way to the stage and can cause breathing trouble for some competitors.

If you have questions or comments that would make this page more helpful to our visitors/guests, please post it as a thread below.