The official announcement came out yesterday--Barry raised close to half a million at his concerts at the McCallum theater. Half a million big ones--all going toward those 25 charities. Charities that struggle to survive each year and got a much needed shot in the arm because of Barry and his music. Not only Barry, but all those that donated their time and expertise to make this all possible.
Barry has the ability to give "big" because of his talent and his ability to bring the right people together to get the job done. But we can all give, in our own way, to those that need our help every single day. It's not difficult, but it does require that we take that first step and make an offer of help. I read Brian Culbertson's Facebook post the other day that said to take $25 one dollar bills and give one to anyone you see while shopping that asks for help. I thought that was an excellent idea. It might be the Salvation Army bellringers, a homeless person sitting on the corner, or a box at the checkout for a local charity. It might seem small and insignificant but as YBA said, no contribution is too small and that dollar might inspire someone else to give as well.
Barry's charity has always inspired his fans--and this time it was five nights of shows. I think that was above and beyond. Not only that, but he incorporated the kids who benefited from the Manilow Music Project. Kudos to the guy with the giving heart!
May the joy of this season surround you, Texas Fan
Reading all the reviews from the shows at the McCallum theater sure can put you in the Christmas spirit. Of course hanging my treasured "Barry Christmas" ornament the other night put the cherry on top of my Christmas mood.
I love Christmas. I love the decorations, wrapping presents, the Hallmark channel Christmas movies, baking, Christmas pageants and of course, the music. My all-time favorite Christmas album of Barry's is the most recent, "In the Swing of Christmas"; but, honestly, I love all three of his Christmas offerings. Just for fun, I thought I would list my choices for the BEST songs from each of them. See if you agree!
In the Swing of Christmas Violets for Your Furs Count Your Blessings It Came Upon a Midnight Clear Gift of Love (Duet with Oliva Newton-John)
Christmas Gift of Love Happy Holidays/White Christmas I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm River
Because It's Christmas The Christmas Song Baby It's Cold Outside Joy to the World/Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
The jazziness of "In the Swing of Christmas", the festive holiday feel of "Christmas Gift of Love" and the classics on "Because It's Christmas" give any Manilow aficionado a variety of styles to choose from. The arrangements in each of these albums draw attention to the fact that Barry is first and foremost a musician that can take a song and make it his own with his genius arrangements.
Listening to the "sounds" of the season, Texas Fan
P.S. I think "Christmas is Just Around the Corner" has become my FAVORITE "fun" Christmas tune--for this year and for many years to come. What can I say? It makes me smile EVERY time I hear it!
The official announcement came out yesterday--Barry raised close to half a million at his concerts at the McCallum theater. Half a million big ones--all going toward those 25 charities. Charities that struggle to survive each year and got a much needed shot in the arm because of Barry and his music. Not only Barry, but all those that donated their time and expertise to make this all possible.
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