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March 22 2008 Salisbury Post Article

On March 15, I had the wonderful opportunity to attend the Rowan Blues and Jazz Society's workshop for area youth at the Hurley Park recreation building. My youngest son, a guitar and bass player, had the privilege to meet and play with other area youth guided by the skilled members of the RBJS. It was amazing to see these young people join together despite different ethnic and cultural backgrounds. You see, when playing music there are no barriers of age, color or ethnic backgrounds. Actually, the blending of these differences makes music what it is.

Afterward, I found out more about the Rowan Blues and Jazz Society. Normally, one would only find something of this nature in New York, Los Angeles or other major cities. To find the dedication, skill and willingness to offer the youth of Rowan and surrounding counties an alternative to the many harmful activities that abound needs to be acknowledged.

I started playing music in the late '60s and early '70s and the only place to play was nightclubs. Not the best environment for a teenager. I have volunteered to help the Rowan Blues and Jazz Society in any way I can. I am calling on others to do the same. Our youth are going to be running the country when we get old. Think about that and what you see and hear in the newspaper or nightly news. Surely you'd be willing to invest some of your time and money to help our children. Even area churches should consider investigating the RBJS. Contact number is 704-636-2811.

As an evangelist/teacher/musician, I say pray and ask what you can do. Do you know where your teenagers are on Friday and Saturday nights? Look into your heart and get involved in this very worthwhile cause.

-- Pastor Steven M. Gray

Woodleaf