For the Jan. 28 issue.
Music program benefits community
To the editor:
Last Thursday I attended a wonderful concert at Hightstown High School and want to congratulate all the performers on their musical ability and the courage it takes to perform solo, in a duet or in a small group, with or without accompaniment. I believe many intend to make music a career and their obvious talent and drive makes their success most likely.
As was indicated by band leader Mr. Juzwiak, the students performing that night rehearsed their vocal and instrumental talents completely on their own time. This was not part of their curriculum and they do not receive any school credit for their efforts. I thank Mr. Juzwiak, Mr. Berkuta and Ms. Petri for the extra time they spent working with these talented young people. It was a pleasure to see our new HHS principal, Mr. Ward, there as well.
Seven years ago, when my oldest child first began learning the recorder at McKnight, I had no idea how important music would ultimately be for her. Now a sophomore, she has already decided on a career in music. I now look at my son, who is learning the recorder, and wonder how far he might go. For the students who performed last week or at previous concerts, for those musicians whose talents are still emerging, and for the younger students who await the music learning opportunity, I believe they are limited only by the resources available to them.
Whether it is a chosen career path or personal enrichment, music enhances all our lives. Imagine a football game without the stand songs cheering on the players or a parade with no music. Imagine movies with no musical score, holidays without song, commercials without memorable little ditties and silent elevator rides. We use music to quiet a baby to sleep, remember a past love, shed feelings of sadness and unite people in spirit. Music is used to teach and reinforce both academic and social skills. Yes, music is woven into our lives in both obvious and subtle ways.
Music students from all of our schools entertain our community during the high school football games, at several parades, in concerts throughout the year and in an upcoming musical production. The high school music students represent our little corner of the world at various statewide band and vocal competitions and in a few months will represent our community at a festival in England. I hope the resources will be available to ensure that my children, your children, and therefore our community, will be able to enjoy the richness of music in their lives. We have much of which to be proud and an important program to support.
My thanks to Mrs. Cox and her kindergarten colleagues, who use music daily, Mrs. Bishop (retired), Mr. Ridge, Mrs. Grois, Mrs. Gumnic (a superb role model), Mr. Bravo, Mr. Berkuta, who described my daughter as a "sponge," and Mr. Juzwiak, who has provided many music resources for her to "soak up." You have all made a difference!
East Windsor
First-aiders, hospital working together
To the editor:
Just a short note regarding EMT services in the Borough of Hightstown. Response time has returned to its "old self" thanks to the combined efforts of the Hightstown First Aid Squad and St. Francis Medical Center.
After a loss of our volunteers, the need for help came upon the borough. A good neighbor stepped up to the plate and offered its help. Working with our First Aid Squad, St. Francis has begun responding to calls. This combined effort allows Hightstown to again offer emergency medical assistance to our residents whenever it is needed.
There is currently a volunteer drive for the First Aid Squad taking place. Anyone who would like to volunteer can contact the clerk’s office at 490-5100 ext. 772. Your help will make a difference. "A friend in need is a friend in deed."
Borough Councilman
Hightstown

