The Thermalaires stared singing in 1963 as members of the Bakersfield Chapter. with Don Poole singing tenor, Joe Rosica lead, Danny Sniffin Baritone and Lour Sise dinging Bass. The Quartet was active not only in the Bakersfield area, but also sang for other local chapters.
The quartet members were all active in the Bakersfield chapter. Joe, Don, and Dan Hall had each held the office of President and Joe was show chairman for eight consecutive years.
In 1964 Dan started singing baritone with the quartet and Will Win took over as the bass. That appeared to be a good move, as they won third place in the District Contest that year. They continued to sing at more shows and pick up more friends and fans. It was easy for them to do as they were fun to watch and listen to, as well as being fun to be with. They appeared in shows throughout the Far Western District and we always considered to be crowd favorites.
The quartet placed sixth in District in the fall contest of 1965. Then in 1966 they regouped an won the Far Western District Quartet Championship. As a result, they competed in the International in Los Angeles in 1967.
The Thermalaires were very active at the Calico Campouts and the Hesperia weekends. They were active in the High Desert Chorus which included barbershoppers from Barstow to Bakersfield which was directed by Joe Daniels, lead of the 1964 International Champions, Sidewinders. They also were the School Board in The Music Man at the Starlight of Kern outdoor theater at Bakersfield College.
Will Winn went to the Nave in 1968 and Chuck Wines sang bass with the Thermalaires until and his wife, Peg, decided to move to Cambria.
Over the years, despite moves and retirements, they have managed to get together periodically and when they do they always sing. They are all here with su this weekend to celebrate with you the 40th anniversary of their winning the Far Western District Championship. What a pleasure it will be when we hear them sing!