How thrilled I am to know what talented, community-minded

students we have in the Upper Valley.

During the Santa Train, the Northwest Railway Museum’s annual

fund-raiser, 15 students played piano in one of our railway cars for visitors to

enjoy as they stood in line for cookies and hot chocolate. These

musicians were excellent performers in all respects, cheerful and

wonderfully adaptable _ no complaints about piano keys missing ivory or

children happily blowing whistles as they passed by.

Huge thanks go to Matthew Bowers, Vikki Campbell, Fiona

Carter, Lauren Johnson, Beth Kumbalek, Brian Lange, Jared Lettau,

Jordan Lettau, Meghan McDevitt and Caitlin Rathe _ students of North Bend

piano teacher Marilyn Healea (whose response time was truly

phenomenal). Delighted thanks also to Sandra Barnum, Lindsey Beach,

Tara Eddings, Emily White and Abbey White _ students of Fall City’s

Marlyn Venskus. Thanks also to piano tuner David Scott for referring me to

these teachers.

It takes a lot of people to put together a successful event for

9,000 participants. Our excellent local musicians deserve praise both for

their talent and selfless spirit.

JENNIFER YOUNGMAN

Volunteer Coordinator

Northwest Railway Museum