Dear Editor,
On Saturday, April 1 there was a fundraiser in support of the
South Valley Suzuki Music Foundation’s Violin Tour Group. These
students ages range from 6 to 16. The students and their parents
will be accompanying Mayor Al Pinheiro to the Azores Islands as
part of the Sister City Friendship Tour for the City of Gilroy.
Dear Editor,
On Saturday, April 1 there was a fundraiser in support of the South Valley Suzuki Music Foundation’s Violin Tour Group. These students ages range from 6 to 16. The students and their parents will be accompanying Mayor Al Pinheiro to the Azores Islands as part of the Sister City Friendship Tour for the City of Gilroy.
I wish to thank everyone in the community for the absolutely outstanding manner in which this event was supported. Businesses and individuals donated a beautiful array of gifts for the auction for which we are truly grateful. The event was well attended and supported by the community.
These students and their director, Lori Franke, have been spending many hours learning new material, practicing and rehearsing as a group. These students will be the future ambassadors of peace and good will. The life skills they are learning as a result of their involvement are immeasurable. They are learning music appreciation, discipline, and commitment. As a result of the trip they will also learn to appreciate a different country, culture, language, and customs.
In addition, this is a hands-on geography lesson.
Very special thanks go to Mayor Pinheiro, for providing the food and being a gracious host. Thanks to his wife Vilma for arranging the travel itinerary. Thanks to Rocha Catering Service for providing the delicious, authentic food. Thank you also to the Board of Directors of the I.F.D.E.S. Lodge that allowed the students to practice at their hall on a weekly basis. Last but not least, a big thank you to Musical Director Lori Franke and her staff, instructor Mary Bormann and accompanist Paul Bauer. None of this would be possible without Lori’s vision and dedication to her students. Citizens of Gilroy, rest assured, you will be well and ably represented in the Azores by a talented group of students.
Jacqui Carraso, Gilroy
