The Nicholas S. Priore New Possibilities Fund was founded in October, 2011 in honor, memory and as a tribute to our long time fan and supporter, Nicholas S. Priore. The fund's purpose will be to designate and make available much needed start up monies to launch special new projects as they emerge.
As Chelsea Opera's reputation grows, we are presented with more and more project opportunities that require a quick response and turn around. Such undertakings may not initially be fundable by grants from private foundations or the government simply because of the timetable restrictions involved. Any funding requests to foundations and government agencies require an application 12-18 months in advance of the actual project dates with no guarantee of funding.
That's where The Nicholas S. Priore New Possibilities Fund can play a critical part. It will give us access to start up funds to launch and develop valuable new projects while we continue to seek additional funding sources for the longer term.
Everyone who knew Nick knew of his great passion for life, singing, performing and his love for music and the arts in general as well as him being an advocate for the underserved. This fund is a perfect way to honor him and keep his spirit alive.
Nick approached life with a constant excitement for the possibilities of tomorrow. Through this fund Nick will remain instrumental in making great things continue to happen for so many. Through The Nicholas S. Priore New Possibilities Fund, Nick can continue to make magic happen and it will be a lasting tribute to our friend and Lee's brother. |
Nicholas S. Priore, Esq., was born and raised in Utica, New York and was the eighth child of nine born to Mary and Salvatore Priore on March 30, 1961. Nick grew up in this very large Italian family with his four sisters, Margherita, Palma, Rosa Linde, and Leonarda and his four brothers, Salvatore F., Daniel, Anthony and Joseph.
Nick was always a sensitive and caring boy growing up and that continued into adulthood. Nick was a graduate of Thomas R. Proctor high school, the University of Rochester (B. A. 1983) and SUNY Buffalo School of Law. (J. D. 1986). He was active in many state, county and local Bar Associations and served on the 5th Judicial District nominating committee.
Not only was Nick loved by everyone in the legal industry - lawyers, judges and clients alike held him in the highest esteem for his honesty, intelligence and diligent work ethic - but Nick was also an excellent actor and singer, frequently starring in performances of opera and musical theatre by the Mohawk Valley Opera Society, Players Theater Company, SummerStage at the Capitol Theater in Rome, NY, Stage Two Theater Company, B Sharp Music Club, at the Stanley Theater and many other venues in and around Utica, New York. Nick sang and acted in such famous plays, musicals and operas as The Music Man, South Pacific, The Sound of Music, Victor/Victoria, Guys and Dolls, 42nd Street, and Gianni Schicchi. Nick was also a member of the elite all-male a cappella group, The Yellowjackets at the University of Rochester.
A true "lawyer's lawyer" and a widely-acclaimed expert in Bankruptcy and Commercial Transactions law, Nick's ability as a lawyer was only surpassed by his pleasant, kind, humble and compassionate personality. One lawyer fondly remembered, he could clobber me in court, but never made me feel angry or frustrated. He was a true gentlemen. Nick joined the law firm, now known as Getnick, Livingston, Atkinson, Gigliotti and Priore, in 1986 and became chair of their bankruptcy department in 1993. That same year he became a partner in the firm. Nick's pro bono work, civic contributions and accomplishments as a lawyer and citizen were extensive. Nick's law partners established the Nicholas S. Priore Advocacy & Professionalism Award in his memory and each year the award is given by the Central New York Bankruptcy Bar Association and the Capital Region Bankruptcy Bar Association to an attorney who closely exemplifies the qualities and skills of Nick - that of skilled advocacy on behalf of clients while maintaining a spirit of collegiality and professionalism.
Nick always had a smile, found pleasure in the simple things in life, and was a devoted father and friend. He was proud of his Italian heritage, and he found joy and peace studying the music, choreography and text of great musicals. Every client with whom he worked was proud to have him as their lawyer.
Nick passed unexpectedly on December 20, 2007 at the age 46. It came as no surprise that people from all over the greater Syracuse and Utica area came to Mount Carmel Church on a snowy December evening to say a tearful farewell to a man who inspired them all with his kind heart, sincerity, gentlemanly demeanor and friendliness.
A great light was extinguished with Nick's passing but his positive energy lives on.
"I luv ya, buddy" was something Nick never forgot to say to his friends. |
