Yesterday I had the pleasure of hearing the Monterey County Symphony perform for the local school children at the same venue where Ariel has performed for so many years. Last July, the City of Salinas closed Sherwood Hall over city budget woes. The National Steinbeck Center approached the City about leasing the site and running it for profit. The idea was approved thus saving Sherwood Hall for continuous use by such groups as Ariel and Jeannie Robinson Dance Studios, at least for the near future. As I listened to the Orchestra, the thought occurred to me that I finally get what this, and other type of good music, is all about. I believe we are able to sense and thus share in the inspiration for the music itself, both from the composer and the giver of all inspiration. Thus the better and more sacred the music, the closer we come to Heaven.

Jim Welch, organist and accompanist for our Valparaiso Singers, was the guest artist. (See above link). Jim stayed with us for two nights while the concerts were in progress. The Welches and Gayles have known each other since the late 50's when they were in the La Canada Ward in Southern California, so it was great to visit and reminisce.

On Thursday, Jim and I drove to the Pinnacles National Monument Park and took the 6 mile loop trail to the top of the jagged peaks and then back to the valley floor. It is interesting that I have lived in this area for most of my 59 years and had never before taken the opportunity to explore what turned out to be a most extraordinary place. Of course the topography is most different from the surrounding gentle hills terrain, no doubt due to upheavals caused by constant seismic activity. It was just an enjoyable time.