Houston Symphony Helps Community Heal After Ike
By Carl Willis
POSTED: Sunday, October 5, 2008
HOUSTON -- Those in need of calm after the devastation of Hurricane Ike treated themselves to a soothing symphony at Grace Community Church with the "Sounds of Recovery" concert on Saturday, KPRC Local 2 reported.
"It helps get your mind off of everything you have to do when you get back home," Houstonian O.B. Murray said.
The orchestrated escape from the stresses and anxiety of repairing and rebuilding also came with a somber note.
"We also want to remember that not everyone did survive," said Local 2 Meteorologist Frank Billingsley, who was the master of ceremonies. "There are still people missing. Our hearts go out to those people wondering if they'll ever see someone again."
Soon after those words, the crowd was immersed in sounds and images showcasing the power of Mother Nature and the strength of our community.
"We wanted to show images not only of the destruction, but of the rebuilding and people coming forward to give of themselves and give of their time," Houston Symphony spokesman Matthew Van Besien said.
The concert was dedicated to the first responders and the volunteers.
While Maestro Hans Graf conducted a masterpiece, many of those in the audience said the true beauty is in the hearts of those helping us heal.
"It's been very helpful to know that there are so many people out there willing to help, and people coming from all over the country," said Temple Lloyd.
"It just restores my faith in man," said Jim Lloyd. "Just to be able to reach out and help other people and show what we've gone through."
A symphony spokesman said nearly 3,000 people turned out for the concert.
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