In light of recent events concerning discrepancies in the bookkeeping of the Oregon Coast Lab Band program, it is important that the community recognizes the merits of Greg and Patricia Young, lest their efforts be forgotten. 

As a community member, a former Lab Band student and a friend of the Young family, I can and will personally attest to the unmistakably amicable character of both Greg and Patricia. These are two extraordinary citizens who, over the course of the past 16 years, have worked diligently to promote a virtuous and selfless end. They have voluntarily given of themselves in terms of time, money, sweat, tears and boundless fervor to encourage the love of music in the youth of our community. In so doing, they have not only bettered our community in ways yet unforeseen, but, given that their focus has been on the youth demographic, they have also worked to assure the welfare of our posterior. The terms used above are not to be interpreted figuratively in the least.

While the nature of the Youngs’ conduct, as well as the extent of their alleged involvement in the questionable accounting practices, has yet to be seen, it must be understood that, in regarding the matter at hand, the very idea of the Youngs acting on malice or ill-intention seems fundamentally conflicting.

These questions notwithstanding, it is my sincere hope that the community is able to recognize the caliber of Greg and Patricia’s character and how this has been of great value to our area.



Erik Larsen

North Bend