Page 27 - Jo Dee C Jacob Girl Scouts CEO

"Everyone in New Orleans is like family and even if you’re not they treat you like them. I’m inspired by these kids and how serious they are about playing music and
you are family. I remember when I was a kid and walking down the street carrying taking it to the next level. I think most of the kids in the program are very serious
my trombone about 7 pm and people passing me in their cars would say, ‘Hey about music because they didn’t have to show up after school, but they continue to
boy, do your parents know where you are?’ They would follow me in their car show up and play music. I just want to give them a chance to do what I am doing
and make sure I got home. Many great musicians took me in when I was a young and be better and bigger than me. I am just opening the doors for those kids and
boy and I would play music with them. My parents and brothers trusted them. I let their music and their instrument be their passport to the world. I would like to
received a lot of input from the community and that is why New Orleans raised have an impact on them that may help change their lives."
me. Just one of those things, it is just a beautiful city and everyone cares for each
other, loves each other, and makes you feel like you are a part of their family. It is How do you see your legacy in Treme?
one of those things I will never forget." In Treme, they love their musicians and have named a park after Louis Armstrong.
In the park there is a picture of the Great Uncle Lionel who the community just lost,
he was the King of Treme. I mean I am looking at the picture of Louis Armstrong

San Diego Woman

27

You travel all over the world. How do you keep that New Orleans attitude? and Uncle Lionel and now they are starting to paint my picture. I’m honored to see
"Oh, I don’t know. I think New Orleans is just in my blood. No matter what I do, my picture. I’m very honored to be where I am in my life right now. When I drive
no matter where I go, it is hard for me to get away from where I have lived for my down the streets in the neighborhood I don’t see a lot of kids in the parks playing
entire life. You know in New Orleans it is about us just playing music, we are not ball. You know, it may be fun to help restore one of the parks I see around here.
trying to be stars. We are not trying to do anything besides make some nice music Maybe I can redo a park and make it really exciting for some of the kids, put
and put smiles on people faces. That is all New Orleans is about. That is what in some swings and basketball courts. It may be something I have to do next
probably keeps me in my New Orleans attitude. I have never forgotten where I because when you do not see kids outside too much something is wrong."
come from and what got me where I am."
You have unquestionable artistic talents. What is your dream in all of this?
"My dream is to become a better musician and give back to the youth of New
Orleans and spread that around the world. Hopefully save the lives of some of
these kids here in New Orleans. The only way I know how is through music. That
is my dream."
What is your greatest hope for ‘The Trombone Shorty Foundation?’
"My greatest hope is that all of the kids benefit because of the music brought to