Each year the Pensacola Bay Harmonizers, their wives, family and friends, get together to install the new Chapter board members. Special awards are also presented to members whose participation in chorus activities are deserving of special recognition. One award, Rookie of the Year (ROYT), is presented to a new chorus member who consistently displays an enthusiastic attitude and dedication to his craft. Another, Barbershopper of the Year (BOTY), is awarded to a member who is committed to the chorus, never misses a rehearsal, learns, and knows his music and has a strong desire to improve. The 2023 Installation Banquet was held at Calvert's On The Heights, Pensacola.
Chris Feaster, a 20-year member of the Harmonizers and who is well know to the Barbershop Community in Alabama and the Florida Panhandle, conducted the installation ceremony.
This year the ROTY award was awarded by chapter Secretary, Jacob Van Hall, to Mike Landers. Mike’s dedication and his “we can do this” attitude has made Mike a valuable addition to the Harmonizer’s baritone section.
The BOTY was traditionally awarded by last year’s recipient, our Director, Carl Siefert. The award went to Joshua Hutt for qualities enumerated by Carl: the strong desire to improve; the ability to adapt to instruction; the trust in his fellow singers; and, an earnest commitment to the chorus. Also pictured are Jacob Van Hall and Carl Siefert, both BOTY recipients and Joshua Hutt, the 2023 BOTY recipient.
Chorus President Russ Pascoe announced that Dave Cassens is the third chorus member to be inducted into the Harmonizers’ Hall of Fame. Dave has been a chorus member for 20 years, has served as chapter treasurer for 19 years. He was commended for his devotion to the Chapter.