As a youngster, music was my salvation. I ended up in the hospital (lot's of broken bones, a punctured lung from a stabbing) lot's of times, from abuse by a troubled parent.

Luckily, at the age of 11, I was able to make enough to help ease the situation for my four younger brothers, and leave home at the age of 14, where I could support myself and still assist my brothers.

Music is so powerful, and sharing the joy of music is an amaising, nobel thing to do. It can change lives.

Recently, I was honored to fund the purchase of a controller keyboard and needed Roland electronic drum components for the kids at the school where our good friend Dave Boyd teaches.

I suggested to Dave that we see if there is interest in this group in contributing to the school, with funds going to improving the music program. He works with talented, but troubled kids, and he's the most dedicated teacher I know of.

A contribution of $5.00 would purchase an instrument cord, strings, picks, etc. Combining our contributions would make it possible to do so much more.

Any interest? Dave is preparing a "wish list"/budget of needed items. If, as a group, we want to do this, he'll supply history of the school and his plan for improvements to the music equipment and program. The school is a 501-c non-profit, so any contributions are tax deductible.

Please let me know what you think. Don't send any donations yet, but let us know if you would consider participating. If we proceed, checks would be made out to the school and sent to Dave. We would get acknowledgement and thanks from the administration, the kids, photos of the equipment posted here, and all enjoy a good feeling in the knowledge that we made a difference and shared the gift of music that is so important to us all.

I'm in...how about you!

In appreciation...


Russ