Mark Hissong wrote a letter of well-deserved praise for Rhythm & Roots. It was three days of well-organized music, food and fun. Then he goes on to say it was all because of free enterprise capitalism. That is only part true. Everyone who introduced a group urged patrons to thank the sponsors. Of the top five sponsors, the platinum four were government entities: Bristol, Tenn., Bristol, Va., Virginia Commission for the Arts and the Tennessee Arts Commission. They are elected by the people or appointed by people who are elected. The fifth platinum sponsor was The United Company, a stellar example of successful capitalism which supports numerous important causes.
Rhythm & Roots happened because a group of volunteers made their dream a reality, our elected city government made our city a good place to invite company and ponied up financial support, as did the two states.
The United Company led the way for other companies and groups to add financial support. Dozens of volunteers gave their time. People turned out en masse to enjoy it all. We sat next to a family of five who had come from Munich, Germany, because their daughter was a classical violinist who had discovered blue grass and loved it.
We need to remember, we elect our governments and the majority rules. We have done a pretty good job electing city councils, as evidenced by our beautiful Twin City.
We are so lucky to live here. Bravo to everyone involved in R&R. Look forward to next year.
Charlotte Burnette
Bristol, Tenn.
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