MUSIC STORIES RING THROUGHOUT HERITAGE PARK
The Heritage Park Epp Barn loft was filled to the brim on Tuesday, May 18, when Heartland third and fourth graders unveiled their newly published book, Music Maniacs: All for theLove of Music. History was made that day when the barn experienced its first wireless internet connection. The crowd sat mesmerized while being transformed back in time as they watched the 1960’s Newbeats perform their hit song “Bread and Butter’ and Johnny Rogers sing “Honeycomb.” An autographed photo of the Newbeats was on display, thanks to their lead singer, Larry Henley, who has been emailing the students.
Laughter filled the barn loft as the audience viewed the video and song “Unibrow” by Rhett and Link. Since music has enhanced this years’ curriculum, it was a science study of the sandhill crane unison call that began the students on the discovery of words beginning with the prefix “uni.” Unison, unicycle, unicameral and unicorn lead to the word unibrow, and after watching that video, no one will ever forget the meaning of “uni.”
As a special treat, Mr. Herman W. Goertzen entertained the audience while playing his guitar and harmonica. He concluded his performance with the song “Amazing Grace” as everyone sang along.
Thanks to Arlin Hiebner and Mainstay Communications, Heartland’s music student teacher, Zach Rush, was able to watch the presentation via “Skype” while sitting at a Starbucks in the state of Oregon. His arrival by satellite was the highlight of the day for the students. They all said hello to Mr. Rush and he waved back.
Just one week after the book signing, the fourth graders have already raised $820.00 for the Heritage Park. Those wishing to purchase a copy of this music book still have a chance. The books are on sale for $10.00 at Heartland Community School’s front office and at the Heritage Park General Store. These stories will help remind everyone the importance music plays in all our lives, so fill your hearts with song by purchasing a book and, at the same time, giving to our local museum.
