Listening to the recording of the Minnesota Orchestra, I'm reminded of its world-class quality. Why can't we keep these quality musicians in Minnesota? Why must we reduce this great orchestra to mediocrity? Minnesota seems to be seeking mediocrity. Funds for education are continually being cut. Roads and bridges need repair. Good jobs are hard to find. If this goes on, what will we have left besides overpaid athletes and an expensive stadium? When our vaunted quality of life has declined to merely mediocre, how can we expect to compete with other states, much less the world? Maintaining a quality of life takes dedication and hard work and a willingness to spend the money to keep it.

RONALD STRUCKMANN, Maple Grove