If you did not realize it already with the heavy increase in traffic in the area, school is back in full swing this week. So it is time for caution on the road as the many school buses, walking and driving students hit the highways and local streets.
Just a friendly reminder to the many people I see talking, texting and plainly just not paying attention to their surroundings while driving, it only takes a split second to turn a morning commute into a lifelong tragedy.
If you did not realize it already with the heavy increase in traffic in the area, school is back in full swing this week. So it is time for caution on the road as the many school buses, walking and driving students hit the highways and local streets.
Just a friendly reminder to the many people I see talking, texting and plainly just not paying attention to their surroundings while driving, it only takes a split second to turn a morning commute into a lifelong tragedy.
But, with that out of the way, I am excited about the new school year and everything that comes with it.
Fall sports are already in action, and soon to come will be the many plays, musicals, special programs and outstanding students from kindergarten through college, many of which we will cover. It is almost like home, as I miss the children during the summertime. There are so many phenomenal things that they do through school activities that make for a great story. Although I despise the traffic, I welcome the activities that make our local youth grow, thrive and become a large influence in our local communities.
I am particularly fond of the art programs and from Lakeside to Lemon Grove there will be plenty of opportunities to see our youth put their talents on a local stage. It has been amazing to see the talent that East County youth have to offer and I challenge everyone to take the chance to go see a play, concert, art exhibit or musical at a local school in your area. Believe me when I say you do not have to be a parent, friend or family member to enjoy these performances. This was one of the major things I noticed when coming here, is that the talent and professionalism in the arts is not limited to the seasoned actor or performer.
Performing Lakeside Acting Youth (PLAY), the Young Actor’s Theatre (YAT) and anything playing at Grossmont College’s Stagehouse Theatere is worth the money and time to go see budding talent making a difference in our community. Supporting our local art programs at any level and any school is an investment in the future of the youth and the community. And I promise that you will not be disappointed. In most cases, though the stage may be smaller, the performances are on a grand scale and as I watch, can see many of these young performers being formidable adults in the entertainment industry. Many of them already are, and I am talking about an age range from 12 to 20.
State and federal funds have an overwhelmingly failing grade in supporting arts in our schools, but fortunately, passionate people find ways to overcome the budget bludgeoning and create these programs and classes. I have yet to meet a teacher or professor that does not recognize the importance of art in our culture and what a positive impact it has on our youth and the community as a whole. I understand a parent’s concern over a child who chooses the arts as a profession as it is a tough industry to get into, and sometimes survive in. Yet even if they never make it to the main stream, the basic foundations that are taught in all types of artistic expressions are positive traits that can carry them through any career choice, and make them a better person, professional and community leader. So take a chance this fall and go to a local show. You will be surprised at the entertainment value of the performance, you can choose your favorite genre and you will help build a better future for our students in school and those that follow them.
