The Rewards of Teaching

Steve Raybine:


Blog #116:


The Rewards of Teaching


Teaching has many personal rewards and those individuals that pursue this vocation do so because they believe in the importance of education and its impact upon an individual's life. A teacher, much like a parent or other family member, can provide proper guidance and direction for his or her students that hopefully will prove beneficial throughout that person's life. Because of the short- and long-term implications regarding the teacher/student relationship, conscientious teachers shape the entire person, not just one aspect of the student. In the field of music and perhaps within the arts in general, teachers philosophize and motivate, as well as instruct their students within the appropriate area of study (music; drama; art; writing; etc.,). Considering the demands and expectations placed upon teachers within contemporary society, it is an ongoing journey to not only teach, but to mentor your students as well.


Students need teachers that are committed to assisting them now and throughout their careers. After a student acquires the necessary information and skills from his or her teacher, I believe the teacher assumes a mentor relationship with the student as his or her career progresses. Because of this lifelong educational commitment, which undergoes a transformation throughout the course of time and events, teachers must be prepared to always provide the best possible instruction and guidance for their students.




Copyright 2010 Steve Raybine
All Rights Reserved

http://www.steveraybine.com/


http://www.myspace.com/steveraybine


http://www.facebook.com/pages/Steve-Raybine/56070941106/


http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/raybine3


http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Steve+Raybine&search_type=&aq=f


http://www.smoothjazz.eu/index2.php?artist=85


http://www.sonicbids.com/SteveRaybine


http://www.radioindy.com/bands/7188

Updating Teaching Materials

Steve Raybine:


Blog #115:


Updating Teaching Materials




In order to stay current with musical trends and contemporary innovations, teachers will find it imperative to update their teaching materials regularly. By doing so, they will better prepare their students for a successful career in the world of contemporary music. The key to this concept is up-do-date, not out-of-date.




Copyright 2010 Steve Raybine
All Rights Reserved

http://www.steveraybine.com/


http://www.myspace.com/steveraybine


http://www.facebook.com/pages/Steve-Raybine/56070941106/


http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/raybine3


http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Steve+Raybine&search_type=&aq=f


http://www.smoothjazz.eu/index2.php?artist=85


http://www.sonicbids.com/SteveRaybine


http://www.radioindy.com/bands/7188

Attend Conferences and Workshops

Steve Raybine:


Blog #114:


Attend Conferences and Workshops



Conferences, workshops and seminars are designed to provide teachers with important information germane to their area of interest. The amount of materials and information presented and discussed as presented by clinicians and specialists is condensed into a relatively brief period of time. In most instances, the presentations are outstanding and beneficial to most of the participants. Therefore, teachers should confer with their department chair regarding the feasibility of attending a conference, workshop or seminar when the situation presents itself.





Copyright 2010 Steve Raybine
All Rights Reserved

http://www.steveraybine.com/

http://www.myspace.com/steveraybine


http://www.facebook.com/pages/Steve-Raybine/56070941106/


http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/raybine3


http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Steve+Raybine&search_type=&aq=f


http://www.smoothjazz.eu/index2.php?artist=85


http://www.sonicbids.com/SteveRaybine


http://www.radioindy.com/bands/7188

Replacing Irresponsible Ensemble Members

Steve Raybine:


Blog #113:


Replacing Irresponsible Ensemble Members


At any point in time, certain members of an ensemble may be habitually late or erratic in their attendance. Moreover, he or she may also cease practicing their parts and become a musically non-productive member of the ensemble. If either or both of these scenarios occurs, I would recommend speaking with the individual(s) to discern what is causing the attendance problem or the lack of musical productivity. If the absence and/or tardiness continues, the director must decide what the next logical step is. As difficult and awkward as it may appear, replacing the individual may be in the best interest of the ensemble and the student. The same conclusion would result with the other problem area that was defined.


An ensemble needs to operate with 100% efficiency. This cooperation requires nothing less than total commitment from all ensemble members. If there are any individuals that are unwilling or unable to make that commitment, perhaps a substitution or replacement is in order. Furthermore, if a personal conflict between members of an ensemble occurs and cannot be resolved, group morale can suffer, a situation which can erode the overall musical effectiveness of the band. Should the entire ensemble suffer because of one or two individuals? I think not! The adjustment should be made. Perhaps one positive aspect on behalf of the person causing the conflict will be that he or she will come to a greater understanding of what is involved in becoming a significant contributor to a musical ensemble.






Copyright 2010 Steve Raybine
All Rights Reserved

http://www.steveraybine.com/


http://www.myspace.com/steveraybine


http://www.facebook.com/pages/Steve-Raybine/56070941106/


http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/raybine3


http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Steve+Raybine&search_type=&aq=f


http://www.smoothjazz.eu/index2.php?artist=85


http://www.sonicbids.com/SteveRaybine


http://www.radioindy.com/bands/7188

Marking the Parts

Steve Raybine:


Blog #112:


Marking the Parts





One of the most productive ways to prepare music is to learn how to mark the parts. Marking parts requires highlighting various aspects of the music (meter shifts; crescendos/diminuendos; dynamics; tempo markings; coda signs; etc.,) that shape and define the overall design of the composition. The visual articulation of these musical parameters (in different colors) will help students do a better job of preparing and interpreting the music. No one should ever mark in ink or a use a permanent marker on an original part since doing so would deface the printed music. I recommend copying the music and making the requsite marks to enhance the visual comprehension of the composition.







Copyright 2010 Steve Raybine

All Rights Reserved

http://www.steveraybine.com/


http://www.myspace.com/steveraybine


http://www.facebook.com/pages/Steve-Raybine/56070941106/


http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/raybine3


http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Steve+Raybine&search_type=&aq=f


http://www.smoothjazz.eu/index2.php?artist=85


http://www.sonicbids.com/SteveRaybine


http://www.radioindy.com/bands/7188

Scheduling Weekly or Bi-Weekly Sectional Rehearsals

Steve Raybine:


Blog #111:



Scheduling Weekly or Bi-Weekly Sectional Rehearsals





Without exception, every ensemble benefits from productive and frequent sectional rehearsals. The instructor should create an environment wherein he or she or an assistant (this could also include student section leaders within the ensemble) is available on a weekly- to bi-weekly basis to direct sectional rehearsals. This process will refine the sound and technical capabilities of individual sections and also contribute to an improved large ensemble sound. In addition, sections within the ensemble that meet regularly for sectional rehearsals will develop an increased sense of inner pride. The instructor should challenge his or her members to give 100% of their time and talents to an organization that will bring them the most musically rewarding ensemble experience they are collectively capable of producing.






Copyright 2010 Steve Raybine

All Rights Reserved

http://www.steveraybine.com/


http://www.myspace.com/steveraybine


http://www.facebook.com/pages/Steve-Raybine/56070941106/


http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/raybine3


http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Steve+Raybine&search_type=&aq=f


http://www.smoothjazz.eu/index2.php?artist=85


http://www.sonicbids.com/SteveRaybine


http://www.radioindy.com/bands/7188

Devising Mental Games to Memorize Musical Material

Steve Raybine:
 

Blog #110:


Devising Mental Games to Memorize Musical Material



A teacher that challenges students with intellectually-stimulating games helps them to better retain and memorize important musical facts and concepts. In order for this to be effective and interesting, one must be clever and creative when devising games of mental acuity. Suggestions for your mental gymnastics might include the following:


1.) Reciting scale/mode-connecting exercises (verbally articulating the immediate and intermittent shifts in ascending and descending order between various scales or modes).


2.) Listing all the available chord extensions in altered and unaltered forms and other color tones with a specific root from the primary chord categories (major; minor; dominant; augmented; diminished and half-diminished) within a certain time allotment.


3.) Reciting the note names and rhythms at any place within a specific composition the student is currently studying.



Games the require mental agility are not only entertaining and refreshing, but they also stimulate the student's desire for knowledge and for retaining that information.





Copyright 2010 Steve Raybine

All Rights Reserved

http://www.steveraybine.com/


http://www.myspace.com/steveraybine


http://www.facebook.com/pages/Steve-Raybine/56070941106/


http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/raybine3


http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Steve+Raybine&search_type=&aq=f


http://www.smoothjazz.eu/index2.php?artist=85


http://www.sonicbids.com/SteveRaybine


http://www.radioindy.com/bands/7188

Aural and Visual Components=Comprehensive Learning

Steve Raybine:



Blog #109:



Aural and Visual Components=Comprehensive Learning






The contemporary music student responds favorably to aural and visual stimulation. The visual component has become integrated into the mainstream of our culture via television, movies and sophisticated computer-generated graphics, etc. Therefore, the teacher should use videos and other visual aids in conjunction with audio examples to enhance and augment the learning experience for his or her students whenever possible--listening and observing as the comprehensive educational experience unfolds.






Copyright 2010 Steve Raybine

All Rights Reserved

http://www.steveraybine.com/


http://www.myspace.com/steveraybine


http://www.facebook.com/pages/Steve-Raybine/56070941106/


http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/raybine3


http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Steve+Raybine&search_type=&aq=f


http://www.smoothjazz.eu/index2.php?artist=85


http://www.sonicbids.com/SteveRaybine


http://www.radioindy.com/bands/7188

Using Computer-Based Technological Innovations when Teaching

Steve Raybine:



Blog #108:



Using Computer-Based Technological Innovations when Teaching





MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) is a manifestation of new technological innovations in music. This well-integrated computer-derived system has created seemingly endless modes of expression for performers, arranger/composers and teachers. Interfacing computer equipment with MIDI-compatible sound units and software packages has greatly expanded the parameters of musical expression and educational instruction. A teacher should investigate the ways in which he or she can effectively utilize this and other contemporary computer-based technologies to expand and enhance his or her teaching methods.






Copyright 2010 Steve Raybine

All Rights Reserved

http://www.steveraybine.com/


http://www.myspace.com/steveraybine

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Steve-Raybine/56070941106/


http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/raybine3


http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Steve+Raybine&search_type=&aq=f


http://www.smoothjazz.eu/index2.php?artist=85


http://www.sonicbids.com/SteveRaybine


http://www.radioindy.com/bands/7188

Defining One's Musical Design

Steve Raybine:


Blog #107:



Defining One's Musical Design




An instructor should define, articulate and clarify his or her musical and/or visual creation or intention on paper in order to enhance and solidify his or her understanding of the musical objectives he or she has chosen. Committing these thoughts to paper in essay or outline format will provide the students with an alternate and tangible means of evaluating, assessing and defining the music and method of creation that is being presented to them.






Copyright 2010 Steve Raybine
All Rights Reserved

http://www.steveraybine.com/


http://www.myspace.com/steveraybine


http://www.facebook.com/pages/Steve-Raybine/56070941106/


http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/raybine3


http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Steve+Raybine&search_type=&aq=f


http://www.smoothjazz.eu/index2.php?artist=85


http://www.sonicbids.com/SteveRaybine


http://www.radioindy.com/bands/7188

Accept Difficult Assignments with a Positive Attitude

Steve Raybine:


Blog #106:




Accept Difficult Assignments with a Positive Attitude


When you are given a difficult or frustrating assignment, it should be done with a pleasant demeanor. Throughout the course of everyday events within any music department; music school; band; etc., there will invariably be jobs that must be done, which are onerous at best. Every teacher or band member will be called upon periodically to perform a task, which is done for the benefit of the entire department (a.k.a. "for the good of the order"). When it is your turn to complete such a task, accomplish the chore efficiently and with a good attitude. Being a team member benefits the entire faculty or band and functioning selflessly within this capacity is the hallmark of a true professional.






Copyright 2010 Steve Raybine
All Rights Reserved

http://www.steveraybine.com/


http://www.myspace.com/steveraybine


http://www.facebook.com/pages/Steve-Raybine/56070941106/


http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/raybine3


http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Steve+Raybine&search_type=&aq=f


http://www.smoothjazz.eu/index2.php?artist=85


http://www.sonicbids.com/SteveRaybine


http://www.radioindy.com/bands/7188

The Intellectually-Superior Musicians

Steve Raybine:



Blog #105:


The Intellectually-Superior Musicians



Over the years, I have taught many students, a significant number of whom could be considered intellectually gifted in music. These students, both young and old, possessed an innate ability to process sophisticated musical concepts and techniques. Furthermore, they were able to utilize and manipulate these musical elements in their own creative ways and to become talented composers; performers; technologists; teachers; etc. Teaching these students was and continues to be a challenge, but eminently rewarding--at least in the long run.




Attending to the needs and demands of the so-called "superior" musicians is not easy--they require constant intellectual stimulation. Finding new and creative ways to inspire them and to keep them motivated puts the onus on the teacher, which can be difficult. I've always felt that as the teacher, it was and still is my ongoing responsibility to inspire my students and to provide them with the materials that would enable them to succeed within the music field. Many times, however, providing them with the proper guidance, motivation and instruction has been my greatest challenge. When any student, gifted or otherwise fails, the teacher fails, at least to a certain degree. This is why the field of music and all other fields for that matter, needs to have our very best teachers teaching all of our students--not teachers that are unable to meet the needs of all their students.










Copyright 2010 Steve Raybine
All Rights Reserved

http://www.steveraybine.com/


http://www.myspace.com/steveraybine


http://www.facebook.com/pages/Steve-Raybine/56070941106/


http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/raybine3


http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Steve+Raybine&search_type=&aq=f


http://www.smoothjazz.eu/index2.php?artist=85


http://www.sonicbids.com/SteveRaybine


http://www.radioindy.com/bands/7188

Radio Rules the Music World

Steve Raybine:

Blog #104:

Radio Rules the Music World

Many musicians are amazed that my music has been played on over 150 terrestrial and internet radio stations worldwide. My best assessment is that someone is listening to my music at all times throughout the global community. As a young musician, this was a particular goal of mine--acknowledgement and acceptance of my music by the archetypical jazz listener. I worked a long time to achieve this goal and I am particularly proud of this achievement. The internet has certainly enabled my music to be heard internationally as well as nationally. Radio airplay is all-important to any musician if they desire commercial success as a recording artist.

What makes my music appealing to radio stations is its melodic orientation. Moreover, it has strong rhythmic underpinnings and is produced well. It is, however, the strong melodic component within the design of the songs that attracts it to radio, which is why many of my songs have been played on numerous radio stations. In contemporary music, radio airplay is essential to the overall success and longevity of a performer. Radio enables one's music to be heard, which in turn, creates an interest in the music from prospective audience members. Moreover, radio airplay helps to generate CD sales in both hard copies and downloads.

Without radio airplay, a performing musician's career will most likely stall at some point in time and become less popular on a large or even moderate scale. Radio greases the proverbial 'wheel' and enables a musical artist to expand his or her music to a much larger audience.

Copyright 2010 Steve Raybine

All Rights Reserved

http://www.steveraybine.com/



http://www.myspace.com/steveraybine




http://www.facebook.com/pages/Steve-Raybine/56070941106/




http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/raybine3




http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Steve+Raybine&search_type=&aq=f




http://www.smoothjazz.eu/index2.php?artist=85




http://www.sonicbids.com/SteveRaybine



http://www.radioindy.com/bands/7188

Should You Relocate for Your Music?

Steve Raybine:

Blog #103:

Should You Relocate for Your Music?

Occasionally, I am asked my opinion whether a musician associate of mine should consider relocating to a new location. My answer is typically a cautious perhaps and/or perhaps not. Relocating just for the sake of trying something new in a different environment may not yield the results you're looking for (more gigs; better money; performing opportunities with different musicians; etc). Although these are three good reasons to contemplate relocating, are they, in fact feasible and achievable? If they are, then maybe you should consider it. However, if you're truly uncertain as to the viability of these situations actually occurring, then maybe you should put on the proverbial 'brakes' and do some more careful research before you consider any professional move.

Let's face it: most musicians and most people in general are interested in expanding their business. They want new challenges and new opportunities. If that means that they need to relocate in order to achieve that goal, then it bears consideration at the very least. However, the bottom line should be, can you afford to make a move of that magnitude. If the price of living on various levels (housing; medical care; food; entertainment; etc.,) is too expensive for your current income level, then rethink the relocation before you jump into something you really can't afford to do. Any substantial elevation in income will probably evolve over time, even within the new environment. You would still need to spend a considerable amount of time establishing yourself and your musical product within the new location. And, as it has been said so eloquently before, "Time is money." Can you realistically afford the monetary investment that relocating requires? Would you be able to sustain yourself financially while you're networking and becoming an established musical presence within your new environment? These are serious questions, which should be thought out very carefully before you embark upon any move.

In summation: proceed with caution and a realistic viewpoint as to the pros and cons of relocating. Perhaps a relocation is exactly what you need in order to reinvigorate your career...or perhaps not.

Copyright 2010 Steve Raybine

All Rights Reserved

http://www.steveraybine.com/



http://www.myspace.com/steveraybine




http://www.facebook.com/pages/Steve-Raybine/56070941106/




http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/raybine3



http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Steve+Raybine&search_type=&aq=f




http://www.smoothjazz.eu/index2.php?artist=85




http://www.sonicbids.com/SteveRaybine




http://www.radioindy.com/bands/7188

All Day, Everyday

Steve Raybine:


Blog #101:


All Day, Everyday




I work at my craft--music, everyday. I spend endless hours either teaching music, or performing/practicing; composing and doing the endless chores associated with the business of music. Music is an exceedingly demanding profession. In order to survive and perhaps thrive within this ultra-challenging field, it appears to take a superhuman effort, which is why I work so hard. I want to be successful at music and I am determined to put forth the time and effort to realize as many of my musical ambitions as I possibly can.




Many of you are either contemplating a career in music or are presently engaged in this endeavor. If you are new to this business, you have a great deal to learn about how things work and whether or not you have the talent and drive to make music your full-time career. Unfortunately, many of you will not succeed because the music field is too competitive and difficult for your skill set. Others of you will find your way within the world of music as you too, come to the realization of what is truly involved in becoming a successful contemporary musician. Music will consume you as you champion your own musical voice and all that entails. Promoting yourself and your musical projects is an ongoing daily experience that requires a supreme effort...and money to invest in yourself.


Do you have what it takes to become a successful contemporary musician? Do you possess an unrelenting drive to excel within music? Are you willing to dedicate yourself to seemingly endless hours pursuing your musical exploits? These are answers that you must reconcile within your own mind. Music is not a career that should be entered into lightly--it will test your mettle all day...everyday.






Copyright 2010
All Rights Reserved

http://www.steveraybine.com/


http://www.myspace.com/steveraybine


http://www.facebook.com/pages/Steve-Raybine/56070941106/


http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/raybine3


http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Steve+Raybine&search_type=&aq=f


http://www.smoothjazz.eu/index2.php?artist=85


http://www.sonicbids.com/SteveRaybine


http://www.radioindy.com/bands/7188

The Perfect World versus the Fantasy World

Steve Raybine:


Blog #100:


The Perfect World versus the Fantasy World






For you avid blogsters that read my previous blog (#99), you read about the world I wished all world citizens would and should embrace for the advancement of civilization. The content articulated within blog #99 would in truth, be my perfect world and my dream world--all we can do as the body politic is set an example and do whatever we can to change the world for the betterment of all people.






Bearing that in mind, if I could also have some of the personal things--known as well-earned "perks" that I've wanted as the result of my hard work as a musician for over 40 years, these would be some of them, but in no particular order. Here they are:






1.) I'd like to own a very fast and sleek "convertible" sports car--preferably black or red. At this point, I'm most attracted to a BMW Z4 or an Audi TT, but who isn't?






2.) I'd like to be fairly wealthy and be able to have the finances to vacation for long periods of time in the South of France or perhaps Tuscany, Italy. Maybe even portions of Switzerland? I'd really like to be near the Mediterranean Sea or Lake Geneva in Switzerland--wouldn't it be glorious? Yes!






3.) Believe it or not, I'd like to own a very upscale quik shop (convenience store), where I could hire all my favorite folks and have a relatively large performance area within the shop where I could keep my vibes. We'd have a grand time.






4.) I'd like to be a part owner of a sports franchise--more than just the one share I own of the Green Bay Packers. I love sports and I love being around the sports environment--just like my son, David and my Dad, Art.






5.) I'd like to own my own swimming "lap" pool to keep in shape.






6.) I'd like to concertize at more jazz festivals playing my music with my band. Moreover, I'd like to get everything recorded that I've composed. Some of this might actually be achievable, however, especially now that I'll be primarily recording singles.






7.) I'd like to be 20-25 pounds lighter. Oh, to be 35 years old again and to have more stamina. I am exercising quite vigorously each day, now.






8.) I'd like my hair back (black) and my black beard back as well. I started losing it during my mid-twenties. Some people think I look "distinguished" with my gray hair and beard, but I'll take volume and black coloring.






9.) I'd like to own a house by the lake or ocean. Someday, I'll inherit my original home by Lake Butte des Morts in Wisconsin, but until then, I'll just live a land-locked lifestyle.






10.) Did I mention that I wanted a fast convertible sports car--oh yeah, I guess I did.






11.) I'd really like to not have to work so hard on so many levels within the music business--it's exhausting and a very tough business.






12.) Although I love my three cats, I'd like to have a dog--small dog.






13.) I'd like to have a roadie for every gig, so that I'd never have to move or lift a vibraphone, sound equipment or percussion instruments ever again..






14.) I'd like to never have to worry about my health--I'm abit of a hypochondriac.






15.) I'd really like to have a lifestyle where I don't have to literally run from one event to the next--I'm wearing out, ladies and gentlemen. However, with the increased exercise regimen, I may really get back into good shape.






16.) I wish that I were more technologically savvy with all of the mobile/cell phone app's and various computer programs.






17.) I'd absolutely love to be able to afford a secretary or personal assistant--I could literally swamp them with endless chores, etc.






18.) No more teaching on the weekends would be my final request for this blog--at least I can achieve this during the summertime.






Copyright 2010 Steve Raybine


All Rights Reserved

http://www.steveraybine.com/


http://www.myspace.com/steveraybine


http://www.facebook.com/pages/Steve-Raybine/56070941106/


http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/raybine3


http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Steve+Raybine&search_type=&aq=f


http://www.smoothjazz.eu/index2.php?artist=85


http://www.sonicbids.com/SteveRaybine


http://www.radioindy.com/bands/7188

The Perfect World

Steve Raybine:



Blog #99:



The Perfect World




Before I begin my 100th blog and get back into music education and performance suggestions/tips, I decided to articulate my perfect world in ten steps, so here goes:




A) In a totally altruistic and life-affirming world, the following would be my so-called dream world:


1.) I would have a foundation and would help fund numerous charities and organizations such as:





A.) World Hunger.


1.) It's shameful and a deeply sad situation that so many of our world citizens go hungry everyday. All of us must do much more to help eradicate this world famine issue.




B.) Aids crisis prevention.


1.) All caring Americans should do something to help our fellow man cope-with and overcome aids. Far too many gifted men and women have died as the result of this hideous disease.



C.) Breast Cancer.


1.) Breast cancer has killed more women and some men, too, throughout the world than many other diseases. It is time for all Americans to put their money where their mouths are and contribute their time and talents to helping rid the world of breast cancer. Moreover, cancer in general needs to be stopped, so that boys and girls; men and women can lead a healthy and cancer-free existence.




D.) Diabetes must be controlled.


1.) Diabetes has become one of the most prevalent health-care problems within the United States, primarily due to our eating habits and lifestyle (lack-of-exercise). All people must become more proactive in committing to a more healthy lifestyle in order to decrease the incidence of diabetes in our children and adults as well.





E.) Heart disease is a serious health threat to many thousands of Americans.


1.) All citizens need to reevaluate their eating and exercise regime in order to conquer premature heart disease. It is one of the primary killers of people within the United States and needs to be greatly diminished.






F.) All people need to care for their fellow men (and women).


1.) So many folks are homeless and others are without families. Ask yourself, "What can I do to help these poor, less fortunate people?" Then do it! Begin by becoming more involved within your community.





G. America's political leaders need to be far less polarizing and start working for the greater good--the American people.


1.) Currently, our political system is run by special interest committees/organizations; large corporations and lobbyists. It's time for the great American thinkers and doers to stand-up for their convictions and vote their conscience--not their political ratings. Moreover, the young people need to become more engaged within the political system and not feel so disenfranchised by how government operates--we need you, and we need you now!






H. We must take care of our environment before things become problematic beyond the point of no return.


1.) Our environment necessitates our utmost care and I say that from the perspective of the entire body politic. What we destroy today, may not be fixable in the future. Everyone needs to sign on to this agenda from a global perspective, otherwise we may never solve the environmental problems that confront us today. Need I mention the current oil spill off the coast of Florida and Louisiana? This sort of catastrophe cannot continue to keep happening as it destroys our wetlands; fishing industry and overall quality of life.







I. Education is the final answer.


As a progressive nation, we must embrace the educational challenges of today. Without the proper educational training, our children will be ill-equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century as physicians; teachers; attorneys; engineers; physicists'; artists of various kinds (and yes, art is essential to the enrichment of mankind); politicians; judges; IT workers; computer designers; carpenters; architects; etc. Education is the answer from which all things flow.






J. Exercise religious tolerance for all mankind.


1.) It is time to stop judging the moral and ethical values of our neighbors. Although we may not agree with them, remember this concept, "There are many paths up the same mountain." Religious tolerance is one of the precepts of this country. Lately, it has become compromised by certain people and political factions spewing evil invectives against the beliefs of others. Is this the best we can do or be as a people? It's really shameful and it's time to appeal to our higher selves.






Copyright 2010 Steve Raybine
All Rights Reserved

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
http://www.steveraybine.com/


http://www.myspace.com/steveraybine


http://www.facebook.com/pages/Steve-Raybine/56070941106/


http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/raybine3


http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Steve+Raybine&search_type=&aq=f


http://www.smoothjazz.eu/index2.php?artist=85


http://www.sonicbids.com/SteveRaybine


http://www.radioindy.com/bands/7188