October 04, 2007
Thursday

Ketchikan, Alaska - PATCHWorks has presented the October monthly "Asset Builder" award to Roy and Tina McPherson, Kim Kleinschmidt, Sayers McAlpin and all the other adult musician mentors who are providing support and guidance to many of Ketchikan's young musicians.

Executive Director of PATCHWorks Karen Eakes said, "Through their work with the jazz groups Windjammers, Sound Waves, and Discovery, they share their love of and expertise in music. In so doing, they have in the past, and continue in the present, to encourage many of our youth to pursue further study in music, develop meaningful personal avocations, and in many cases, choose future careers. Mentoring young people is an important form of asset building."

Eakes said these folks were nominated and selected for recognition due to their efforts and success at bringing the power of music and jazz to Ketchikan's young musicians. She said, "Their high expectations and performance standards have instilled in their students the importance of constantly striving toward excellence."

"Through the mentoring process provided by these talented musicians, young people are given performance opportunities at the yearly Jerry Galley and Sam Pitcher Memorial Scholarship Concerts," said Eakes. The proceeds from these concerts are used to provide scholarships for deserving music students either to apply toward college attendance or for further summer study for high school students. Eakes said, "The entire community has benefited from enjoying these jazz performances and watching the growth of our young musicians."

"In addition, within this supportive and challenging rehearsal and performance environment, music students are building and receiving the important developmental assets of Service to Others, Adults Role Models, Community Values Youth, High Expectations, Creative Activities, Personal Power, Self Esteem and Sense of Purpose, among others," said Eakes.

This presentation, which included a lovely quilted wall hanging donated by the Rainy Day Quilters, was made during a recent rehearsal of the Windjammers Jazz ensemble.

Eakes said, "PATCHWorks wishes to thank the nominator for this nomination and encourages other community members to consider submitting a nomination for an individual or organization that you feel is worthy of recognition as an asset builder within our community."

To submit a nomination, contact PATCHWorks at 225-4350 or email communityassets@yahoo.com.

On the Web:

Asset Builders of the Month

SitNews
Stories In The News
Ketchikan, Alaska