News From Britt Hill – April 2019

The Britt season goes on and on thanks to the 90 volunteers who show up on the Hill night after night. These volunteers are all members of the Britt Society, a separate non-profit organization with their own Board of Directors and 300 fantastic and active members. Recently two such volunteers retired after decades of service to Britt. We are so grateful to Brian and Sharon for all of their support and inspiration to others that we asked them to tell us why they volunteered and share a few memories.

Brian McCormick—I’m very proud of my association with Britt. That first year I worked about 40 concerts. (So much for starting out slowly!)

My most memorable concert would probably be John Denver a bunch of years ago. (June 26, and 27, 1997). In those days, Security routinely passed through the pavilion and one of the duties for that particular concert was to guard the men’s shower room while the artist used it. As a result, some of us had the privilege of listening to John Denver sing in the shower. He really liked to sing. Unfortunately he was killed in a plane crash not very long after his Britt appearance. (October 13, 1997.)

Volunteering at Britt, both on the hill and on the Board allowed me to enjoy music while giving back at the same time.

Sharon Williams—I became a volunteer around 1992 at the recommendation of my best friend. I never regretted signing up! I joined the Britt Society Board approximately 13 years ago, and am proud of our accomplishments.

My first concert as a patron was the “Gladys Knight” performance in the early 90’s. As my family and I sat on our blanket at the top of the Hill, I was fascinated by the beauty of the Britt venue!

My most memorable concert was the “Kenny G” concert about a week after 9/11/01. I believe he was scheduled to perform on Sept. 11th, but all flights were grounded at that time. It was an impactful and moving performance.

There’s no other venue as beautiful as the Britt Hill, and the Britt volunteers are the best of the best! They are an extended part of my family!

Sharon and Brian have left big shoes to fill. Through serving Britt, these volunteers serve the entire Jacksonville community. So, next time you see a Britt Society Volunteer, give them a pat on the back and say “thanks.” Volunteers are crucial to Britt and our community’s success. We simply could not do it without them!

Please contact Bow Seltzer at bow.seltzer@brittfest.org if you would like more information about becoming a volunteer.