To the editor:

I’ve been following the debate regarding music as a source of “noise pollution” with great interest, but nothing has gotten my dander up and dancing like Bellevueite Steve Isitt’s letter, especially his comment: “One of the factors of becoming disinclined to come [to Langley] would be the type of people likely to be drawn to the music and entertainment.”

More on that, shortly.

Why is it that when Langley begins to show signs of life there are those who would stomp it out in the name of keeping this the proverbially quaint “Village by the Sea”?

I believe this is fundamentally a generational and cultural divide. There are those who want Langley to remain what it is today, essentially a retirement community — a staging area for the Lawrence Welk set; a ghost village by the sea. And then there are those who would love to see Langley emerge as a vital center for the arts, attracting talented people from around the world.

I for one enjoy the sound of music wafting into our home, music which is more often than not of the highest quality, whether it be classical, folk, country, jazz, world, gypsy — you name it. As I stroll through town, I thrill to the musical expressions signifying life and youthful vitality. We’re not talking heavy metal or punk rock, but rather sophisticated music played with great skill and passion, much of it original.

As for the “type of people” this music attracts, this is code — as we well know — for progressive young people; youth who have yet to have their creative vitality conditioned and socialized out of them by their more- conservative elders. What a horrid development! Signs of life and creativity in Langley — we can’t have that! Those young people will ruin everything!

This community is schizoid. We bemoan the fact that we can’t attract young families while doing our level best to keep this place placid, staid, lifeless and unfriendly to youth.

I have no objection to keeping the volume within reasonable limits, but let’s not over-correct and kill the musical renaissance which can help revitalize and regenerate our community. If you’re seeking sublime quiet, visit a park or retirement home, not our town. We’re coming to life.

Sixty-four years young,

Gary Croft

Langley