As a performer who prefers nursing homes to virtually any other kind of venue, I have a totally opposite viewpoint than Russ does. I could not, in fact and with all due respect, disagree with him more.

Given the "speed" with which industry-wide changes are realized in the long term care sector, a well intending person trying to change the system from the outside had better have the patience of Job. Of course its an uphill climb. A damn near impossible one, at that. I give Russ credit for his efforts and generosity on this matter, but I will not cede any moral high ground/ethical high ground whatsoever.

While residents may (and hopefully) benefit down the road from reform efforts, those same residents are lonely today. They are frightened today. They are confused today. What several of us provide on daily basis is a personal touch. A smile, embrace, a song, a laugh, etc. that in some way tells the recipient that they matter to someone.

I have trimmed back my Club work dramatically over the last few years to concentrate more on nursing homes and retirement communities. Because of ethics as much as anything else.

I am a professional musician. I could perform in any number of different environments around SW Ohio and make a comparable living. I choose to concentrate on enhancing as many lives of these folks as I can.

Given Russ' love of music and skill level, I ask him this. Isn't there even a little time during the month you could share your music, warmth and spirit with these people that would pay an immediate dividend? It might refresh your own battery as fighting that fight must take its toll from time to time.

As turnabout is fair play, I'll give some serious thought to see how I might contribute to helping the reform effort.

God Bless you, Russ...