USAF Brass Ensemble was well received

Editor,

Who would have thought last spring to plan a fall concert outdoors? When the Polson Chamber of Commerce heard that part of the United States Air Force Heartland of America Band was touring the area, nostalgia ruled over reason for Riverside Park as the venue.

Okay, so it may have been a gamble on weather. Rick Rafter was standing by to open up Polson High School should conditions call. Happily, Sunday afternoon did turn out to be glorious throughout the performance of the quintet's brass ensemble for a crowd that sat on chairs, blankets, and in vehicles.

I was excited to be there to represent the Chamber's work and receive a plaque of appreciation from leader Jennifer Bates. Jennifer's energetic presence on stage appealed to a crowd of over 100, and the repertoire consisted of classical, jazz and the popular "oom-pah."

Especially touching was the ensemble's tribute to all military segments, inviting veterans and families to rise and cheer as each song was played. I stood up for my grandfather, an army veteran physician in both World Wars, and for my father-in-law a navy seaman. But nothing touched me more than to see the pride of an Air Force veteran close to tears during "Wide Blue Yonder." (You know this one! I hear you humming).

Thanks so much to Dave Tolley of Wal-Mart, who agreed to underwrite the advertising for this event. And a sincere appreciation goes to Kimberly Maloney, who helped through the logistics.

Nancy Glueckert

Polson