[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 65 (Monday, May 20, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E855]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


               IN HONOR OF THE ORATORIO SOCIETY OF QUEENS

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GARY L. ACKERMAN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 20, 2002

  Mr. ACKERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to 
The Oratorio Society of Queens on the occasion of its 75th anniversary.
  As one of the oldest performing arts institutions of Queens, The 
Oratorio Society has established itself as a leading chorus group in 
the County. Since its establishment in the Spring of 1927, its 
membership has grown in number and programs have increased in quality.
  Among its many accomplishments, The Oratorio Society of Queens offers 
outlets for the interests of amateur musicians in the community; 
assists local schools with their musical programs and development; 
promotes an appreciation of classical music in the community; and 
contributes to the overall quality of life in Queens County by 
providing the residents of New York's premier borough with first-class 
cultural entertainment.
  Practicing and performing without interruption through the Great 
Depression and briefly interrupted during World War II, this choral 
society illustrated early on its commitment to providing quality 
entertainment to the borough of Queens. Through diligent work, and with 
beautiful voices, the choral group has helped countless New Yorkers 
forget about their troubles and live life as usual during some of our 
nation's most trying times.
  Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the members of The Queens Oratorio 
Society and to pay tribute to an organization that has made Queens a 
much richer and more enjoyable place to live. I ask that all of my 
colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me now in 
congratulating The Queens Oratorio Society President, Ardelle Donohue, 
Artistic Director, David Close and all members, both past and present, 
on their 75 years of enriching the lives of the people of Queens.

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