To the Editor:
Great traditions survive for a reason; they continue to bring value to their community, no matter what changes life throws at us.

For more than 50 years, the Guilderland Town Band has been a mainstay in Guilderland, bringing music to life. 

I was so glad to co-sponsor a county legislature proclamation underscoring the band’s contribution over the years. Fellow legislators and I presented it at the band’s recent performance at Tawasentha Park.

Afterwards, as I sat on a tree trunk on the hill, taking in the warm summer breezes and the stirring music that engulfed the air, I thought, “This is one piece of Guilderland that makes us a little special.”

The closing personal remarks by the band’s director, Kathleen Richards Ehlinger (herself a music legend in Guilderland), were the cherry on the top for the evening.

I recalled bringing my then-very-young daughter to a similar concert years ago and was so pleased she became part of the Guilderland schools music program with her clarinet.

It is worth noting, every member of the band is a volunteer. Thanks to each of you for your labor of love. Our summers would not be the same without you!

Mark Grimm

Guilderland

Editor’s note: Mark Grimm represents District 29 in the Albany County Legislature.