Down On The Corner

By Paul Moffett

Heading into the Labor Day weekend, watching the continuously unfolding disaster in Houston, I wonder if it's at all possible to kick back even a little. I really can't travel to Houston, as I would just be an additional body in an already overcrowded and strained city, besides which, I don't have any of the necessary skills to help deal with the situation. The only possible assistance is a monetary contribution and even that is tied up with complications: what charity, will any money actually go to help Houston and, of course, what I can afford to give? All in all, such a contribution would be a salve to more consciousness, of greater value to me than to any citizens of Houston. It's a conundrum, ethically, morally, personally. Still, toss a few dollars to the charity of your choice.

We're heading into one of the most intense periods of festivals of the year. The double shot of Louder Than Life and Bourbon & Beyond at Champions Park will really grind on the neighborhood residents' nerves. If you go, please be considerate with your noise, your parking and your trash. They have enough to deal with.

For those of you who are historically inclined, two bits of news: Keith Clements, Gary Falk and Michael Jones, among others, are working on a book about Louisville music. Don't have a release date yet, though the creators are optimistic. On a different scale, the Kentucky Music Heritage Foundation is in the process of creating a Louisville Music Museum. (Full disclosure: I am on the Board.) the KMHF is looking for additional volunteers. Contact Jen Grove at jsgrove23@mail.com.

The Louisville Youth Orchestra is holding auditions for the LYO's 59th Season on September 2 through September 10 at Louisville Collegiate School. How to apply: visit www.lyo.org