Dear Editor,

I am writing this letter concerning a young man by the name of Angelo Rodriguez. Angelo is a junior at Monte Vista High School. He earned the title of drum major as a freshman for the High School Band.

Most recently, Band Director Josh Garcia left suddenly in pursuit of other career endeavors. At this point, the director of the bands was questionable. Angelo stepped up and made it possible for the band to perform in the Stampede parades. Angleo found a way to provide music and uniforms for the band. Angelo is highly respected by his fellow classmates, very highly motivated and talented when it comes to music.

This community prides itself in the history and success of the band, which has brought home many state championships and other accolades throughout the years. In my family, there are three generations of band members also.

In my work of 45 years in child welfare and working with troubled youth, I felt it is time to give kudos to a young man who took responsibility upon his shoulders to made sure the band would continue to thrive and make Monte Vista proud once again.

We are living in a world of drug addiction. Unfortunately this epidemic exists among our youth in this community. We tend to focus on the bad choices kids are making yet we fail to acknowledge the good, positive choices our young people make.

In my books, Angelo is a shining example of a young man who makes good choices in his life. Kudos to him and his parents for taking on the responsibilities of an adult and putting a band together in the absence of a director. If he continues down this path great success will be a part of his life in the near future.

Respectfully Yours,
Judy D. Lujan

Monte Vista