Dear Editor:

The board of directors, musicians, patrons, and friends of the Gabriel Chamber Ensemble (GCE), Schuylkill County's resident piano quartet, extend their heartfelt condolences on the untimely passing of Joe Plasko.From 1997 through 2002, Joe served on the GCE board of directors, and from June 2002 until his death served as an at-large board member. For many years, he consistently made sure news of the GCE's concert series, individual concerts, and special events were prominently covered by the Times News. His coverage of GCE's activities helped broaden audiences, attracting music lovers of all ages and from all backgrounds and walks of life.Joe understood the importance of culturally enriching opportunities to area residents and championed GCE wherever and whenever he could. His enthusiastic support of GCE in the press drew new listeners from throughout eastern Schuylkill County and beyond. Joe possessed the rare talent of being able to report on a wide array of topics-from high school football playoffs to classical music recitals. He will be sorely missed by all those who have had the privilege of knowing and working with him.At its final concert of the 2010-2011 season, to be presented on Sunday, April 10, at Jerusalem Lutheran Church, 252 Dock Street, Schuylkill Haven, GCE will dedicate "Piano Quintet in F-sharp Minor" (1922) by Reynaldo Hahn (1874-1947) in Joe's memory. This beautiful tribute to Joe features the entire ensemble and guest artist, violinist Dana Weiderhold.Area residents, among them sports fans, concert-goers, newspaper readers, and many others will undoubtedly note the enormous void left by Joe's death.Rest in peace, Joe. You were a friend and inspiration to many.Michael J. O'Malley IIITamaqua,