Not a typical Sunday

Dear Editor:

When I woke up, I had no idea I would be going to a concert. Most Sundays are boring for me, but this day I was excited because my mom told me I would be able to attend a concert in Claremont.

As a musician who plays the cello, I enjoy watching others perform and therefore, I was excited to hear the Claremont Young Musicians Orchestra. When I arrived, I was overwhelmed by the beauty of Bridges Hall and shocked to see the intricate and ornate organs on the wall. 

While walking to my seat, I also noticed that the orchestra appeared to be smaller than most orchestras and consisted of violins, some cellos, a few violas, a harp and other instruments that my school band uses. After observing the orchestra, I now was excited to hear them play because I haven’t been to a concert in a while. Finally, after much anticipation, the orchestra started playing.

The first song they began to execute was “Overture to “Nabucco,” and it was played in a very loud manner and included contrasts that made the song come to life. Although it was rather loud, I thoroughly enjoyed the song because the musicians played with a great amount of enthusiasm. The songs to follow this one were enjoyable to me because I felt that the orchestra took their performance seriously by playing as a cohesive ensemble.

I have never been to a concert where I have felt part of the orchestra and I have to say that being in Bridges Hall with the beautiful organs and scenery surrounding me made this a concert I will never forget. 

Kayley Toyama 

Diamond Bar

Punishment for whistle-blowing

Dear Editor:

I have read the article in a recent COURIER based on visions by the Superintendent of Claremont Unified School District relative to a long-employed teacher at Claremont High School.

The teacher cited has taught for many years at the high school and has been considered by his students as a successful teacher.

Not particularly mentioned in the article was the danger to students caused by the failure of CHS to maintain facilities, namely mold in the walls. I have also heard that CHS allows the use of grass killer on campus, which is dangerous to the health of the students.

The teacher involved followed established procedures in reporting the dangerous deficiencies that could directly affect the health of students. There have been few, if any, letters from parents thanking the school teacher. In return for attempting to save students, he was subjected to a hostile working environment and threated with expulsion for speaking up.

In the whistle-blowing arena, it has been said that the person who reports the breaking of the law gets punishment, and the person who breaks the law gets a meritorious award.

In the statement written by the superintendent, he felt it necessary to publicly chastise the teacher, which illustrates his bias with the situation. Everything he said was contradicted by the police.

Hopefully, justice can prevail for the teacher involved.

Maurice Carter

Claremont

Protect our open space

Dear Editor:

Open spaces are especially valuable to residents of densely populated areas like Los Angeles County. They provide a place for families to get away for the weekend, and for kids to learn about the outdoors. That’s why I’m grateful that Representative Judy Chu introduced legislation to permanently protect the San Gabriel Mountains. 

These mountains make up over 70 percent of the open space in Los Angeles County alone. Thanks to her leadership, we could have access to a permanently protected place for families and children to hike, climb, camp, stargaze, kayak, cycle and learn about all that nature has to offer.

 Having permanently protected access to these areas is vital for young people who grow up in urban communities, and have limited access to outdoors experiences. I’m excited that we’re making progress on keeping the San Gabriels permanently protected!

Christine Gatson-Michalak

Claremont