Ryan Keene elected Downey Symphony board president

Ryan Keene

DOWNEY — At their June meeting, the Downey Symphony’s Board of Directors elected officers for the 2020-21 year. President will be Ryan Keene and Vice President, Anthony Crespo.  

Ruth Hillecke will continue with her faithful note-taking as Secretary, and Bill Hare was re-elected as Treasurer. Bill was thanked for his formidable knowledge of where the dollars are coming from, and where they should go.

“We are in a good financial position,” said outgoing President Don Marshall.  “And attendance has been constantly on the increase.”   

The Board expressed their deep gratitude to Don, for keeping on top of the many confusing developments this spring, and communicating events as they have unfolded. 

Outgoing Vice president Carol Kearns was applauded for her many contributions, especially grant writing and liaison with city officials.  “I’ll still be around to advise on grants,” said Carol. “And taking pictures,”

“We have a loyal following in membership,” said Don, “and great community support for the classical repertoire, which our talented Downey Symphony Orchestra members perform.  

“They are our greatest asset.” said Music Director Sharon Lavery.

Plans for next season are yet to be announced, but the Downey Theater, home of the Downey Orchestra, is closed for performances.  When it does reopen, the new glass elevator will be ready to take handicapped patrons to the balcony, and the mezzanine level will house an expanded art exhibit. 

The Downey Symphonic Society is ending their year the way they began, with optimism, and faith in the future.