Band trip once in lifetime opportunity

In response to George Deckey’s comments about the Gadsden Band donations in his Sept. 19 letter to the editor (“Better uses for band donations”), first of all unemployment has nothing to do with this band’s trip. Second it is an honor to be invited to the event in London, and third music is education.
I am sure that the teachers and parents are preparing for this trip with their students to keep up with their studies. Donations are what they are and are given from the heart.
Deckey called this trip luxury – well to some this is a once in a lifetime chance. Most of these kids will go on to college and study music because it’s their passion.
If he is worried about our state ranking he needs to go higher than the school for funds. We live in the land of the free and have the choice where we give our money. I wish the Gadsden Band the best of luck and urge them to reach high for all their dreams. Make Yuma proud like your band always does.

Joseph Graef
Yuma