It is often stated that part of the soul of a city or community is its interest and support of music and the arts. Our city is blessed with creativity that seems limitless. Children’s music and bands at our middle and high schools, the fabulous theatrical programs at our schools, colleges, and university, our beautiful Long Beach Art Museum, the historical Ranchos, and much more. They all add to the character and quality that makes our city a wonderful place to live.
I am proud to be involved in helping to bring the marching band back to St. Anthony’s, my local high school alma mater. It’s a great feeling to experience all the wonderful support from our local citizens rolling up their collective sleeves to help by donating their own musical instruments that were dust collectors in the garage or attic. We know from past experience that a young student that channels their talent into music can also be one that becomes an asset and leader in their community. Music is the best medicine and well known crime buster when it comes to keeping kids off the street and out of gangs.
When we look at the linkage to a progressive, safe and beautiful city, all one needs to do is look at its art, humanities, and culture to know the true character and fabric of a proud community.
We must continue to maintain a standard of excellence and commitment whether it comes from donating a flute or sax to a program such as what is going on at St. Anthony’s, or buying season tickets to one of the multitude of cultural events going on year round throughout our great city. All this eventually pays off toward creating a safe, proud city with strong neighborhoods.
Anyone interested in donating an instrument to the St. Anthony Saints band effort please contact me at 562-213-8528.