Our First Miriam Long Spirit Award Winner!

The DCC choral family lost a very special person, Miriam Long, last May in a tragic fire. Miriam was a person everyone drew inspiration from. She sang with the group for 17 years and, in spite of many physical challenges, hardly ever missed a rehearsal or concert. Her dear husband Cliff (who also passed away in the fire) was always by her side and accompanied her to Carnegie Hall many times as well as on musical cruises.

One way we chose to honor her legacy is through the Miriam Long Spirit Award. Miriam was the epitome of a selfless, caring, courageous, creative, resilient and kind person. Chorale members were invited to submit nominations of a fellow member that they believe embodies the same spirit. The number of nominations that came in were a testament to how many wonderful people are a part of Deer Creek Chorale. One name quickly rose to the top and that name is Meredith Leroy. Here are some of the things her fellow choristers had to say about Meredith:

• Meredith has been a constant and devoted presence in the Deer Creek Chorale (DCC) for at least 15 years. During this time she has served admirably and most competently on the Board. Her calm, steady demeanor and wisdom bring common sense to the decision-making process. Most importantly, with the current health challenges Meredith is facing, she models courage and embodies the true DCC spirit by following the sage advice offered by Woody Allen, “80% of success is showing up.” An integral component of the DCC that we all value is its intergenerational aspect. Meredith clearly demonstrates the beauty of aging with grace and great spirit. She leads and mentors by example; consequently, others are inspired to perform at their best. It is an honor to be a fellow chorister with Meredith in the DCC. Miriam Long would be extremely proud for Meredith to be the first recipient this prestigious spirit award–truly, nobody is more deserving.
• Meredith was the one who always stayed after rehearsals to make sure Miriam had everything she needed and was comfortably and safely in her car. When in NYC, as well as other venues, Meredith stayed in touch with Cliff and Miriam to see if they were managing ok. A year after Miriam’s tragic loss, Meredith is now handling medical and physical challenges of her own. She’s the one sitting and needing extra time and care. Yet, like Miriam, Meredith remains loyal and faithful to her DCC commitment, both as a chorister and her many years of service to the Board. Seems the torch is passed…. PS Meredith has beautiful plants and flowers, too. Many from Miriam’s garden.
• Meredith could be called Miriam’s twin in her dedication to the DCC. Her positive quiet spirit is a joy to be around. She rarely misses a rehearsal and always brings her smile and humor. She always makes every person she talks to feel good about themselves. If we could all have her spirit!
• Meredith is a longtime member of the DCC and served as the secretary for several years. Weekly, she waited by the door to help Miriam from the parking lot into the rehearsal space and then back to the car. Always, Meredith has a sweet smile for everyone. Even though Meredith does not read music, she is always prepared for rehearsal. Now, Meredith faces debilitating pain with grace and continues to be as independent as possible. As always, Meredith serves as a role model for each of us.
• Meredith has served this organization for years, both as a choral member & member of the board. When we moved to Chestnut Grove, she helped Miriam maneuver the elevator & get to her seat & then back to her car at the end of rehearsal. Like Miriam, she is kind, brave & well loved.

Meredith was presented with a certificate and a plant at our annual membership meeting and dinner on May 5th. The presentation was accompanied by a standing ovation from her friends and fellow choristers.