Letters: Music enriches our lives
November 30, 2012 7:42PM
Updated: January 3, 2013 6:10AM
The Herald-News has recently published articles acknowledging the many fine musical organizations that exist in our area schools. The many traditions and examples of musical accomplishment are a direct result of the combined efforts of outstanding teachers and directors, school programs, educational commitments by school districts and long-standing community support. It is a pleasure to see the spotlight shine on their respective programs.
The initiation of so many young citizens into the realm of music provides an opportunity for lifelong participation and attendance to this marvelous activity. We, as professional musicians, know the value of those beginning lessons in schools and studios.
Many local entertainers received their introduction to the world of music through the leaders of school bands, orchestras and choirs. Of equal significance is the many general music classes and school holiday concerts produced in our schools.
So many headline performers have roots in the Joliet area. To name any would omit many. Let it suffice to note their existence as true professionals. Our list of achievement must also include the Joliet American Legion Band, the Joliet Junior College Community Band and the University of St. Francis Symphony and Wind Ensemble, as well as numerous church musicians, choirs and soloists.
As president of American Federation of Musicians Local 37, and on behalf of our board of trustees and membership, I will proudly applaud all of the directors, singers, marchers, dancers and instrumentalists. You bring an enrichment to our community and a personal song in our hearts.
Norbert L. Zielinski
Joliet Federation of Musicians AFM Local No. 37
Joliet
Jackson deluded self on airport
Jesse Jackson Jr.’s obsession with the proposed airport near Peotone may have been an early warning sign of bipolar disorder, which can include a tendency to make grand and unattainable plans. Jackson’s proclamations about the airport were, at best, wildly unrealistic — even in his recent letter of resignation from Congress, he claimed that it would employ 300,000 people.
Jackson could never accept the fact that market forces do not support the airport and that Chicago political and business leaders would never allow it. In demanding that he get his way, Jackson alienated important Democrats, undermining his effectiveness as an elected official.
It’s a shame that Jackson’s career, which started out like a modern-day Camelot, turned into a Greek tragedy, complete with hubris, leading to the fall. And it’s a shame that thousands of residents in the 36-square-mile site of the proposed airport have lived under continual stress and uncertainty for so many years and tens of thousands of economically distressed residents in the south suburbs were fed false hope about jobs. Perhaps the next congressman will be more based in reality.
Hitting bottom psychologically often is the precursor to emotional and spiritual growth. At 47, Jackson still has immense potential to help make the world a better place. I wish him well.
George Ochsenfeld
President of STAND (Shut This Airport Nightmare Down) Monee
