RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Wooten Choral Ensemble, under the direction of Robert E. Wooten, Jr., the oldest community choir in the country is set to present a lively and spirited choral concert at Beth Eden Baptist Church to celebrate its 65th Anniversary; and
WHEREAS, This august body has been informed of this prestigious event by the Honorable Carrie M. Austin, Alderman of the 34th Ward; and
WHEREAS, Founded in 1949 by Robert E. Wooten, Sr. the Wooten Choral Ensemble has established a legacy of 62 years of uninterrupted service to the community. They have brought their unique blend of Anthems, Spirituals, Hymn Arrangements, Traditional & Contemporary Gospel songs along with Show tunes and Jazz pieces to audiences across the country; and
WHEREAS, Robert E. "Gene" Wooten, Sr. celebrated his faith through song for more than half a century. A lifelong resident of Chicago, Robert enjoyed a distinguished career as an educator outside the church working for the Chicago Board of Education until his retirement in 1994; and
WHEREAS, After 60 years of service, Robert retired as Minister of Music of Beth Eden Baptist Church. For his contributions to gospel music, Wooten received many awards and recognitions. In 2004 he was listed by the History Makers for outstanding contributions in Music and in 2005 he was honored by NASPAAM (National Association for the Study and Performance of African-American Music) for outstanding achievements in African-American Music. On March 27, 2008, Robert moved to his "Bright Mansion Above"; and
WHEREAS, Firmly established as "The Oldest Community Choir in the Country" the Ensemble is committed to carrying on the legacy of its founder and the more than 600 former and 50 current members; and
WHEREAS, Robert E. Wooten, Jr., (Bobby) is carrying on the founders tradition through his work as Minister of Music at Beth Eden Baptist Church where Rev. Dr. Craig M. Jenkins is Pastor. He has been honored with ASCAP Top Ten awards for his compositions which have hi...
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