President’s News and Notes

Gratitude This Thanksgiving

November 22, 2025

I recently returned from a very nice visit with family and friends in Connecticut and Vermont, where I enjoyed catching up on people's lives, hot buttery lobster rolls, and real apizza (properly pronounced "abetz"). I even had a chance to do a deep dive into the Brattleboro jazz scene, where I reconnected with percussionist Ulysses Owens Jr. We have to bring him back to Sarasota.

I was surprised by how often I was asked if I would be returning "home" to Connecticut now that I was alone after the passing of Synia. They were surprised when I responded that I was committed to my new home in Sarasota. After chuckling about the comparative levels of snowfall and taxes, I shared that there were deeper, more personal reasons.

While I do feel a profound loss, I don't feel alone. I enjoy friendships here that go back nearly 60 years. I also have many new friends who are mostly rooted in the Jazz Club. I am so grateful to all my friends for their embrace and support over the last year.

This brings me to thoughts about the Jazz Club. How fortunate we all are to have this organization and its mission of preserving and promoting jazz in our community. And not in just a little way. Last year, the club produced 107 events that reached an audience of over sixteen thousand people. This includes thousands of students through school-based programs, free and reduced-priced tickets to events, the annual high school jazz band conference, and scholarships to college students majoring in jazz studies. It also includes free programs for hundreds of adult musicians who simply want a place to jam and perhaps improve their skills. And of course, it includes scores of opportunities to enjoy local and national artists playing the music we love.

I want to add how personally grateful I am to be a part of the leadership team that not only coordinates all these activities, but dreams about a broader and brighter future. We recently held a luncheon with a group of our most active donors entitled "Giant Steps," which focused on a number of future possibilities. The excitement was palpable. Working to support this organization brings me immeasurable satisfaction.

As we approach next week's holiday, I want to say a heartfelt thanks to each of you for your support and encouragement. Together we make a difference.

–Ed