Mailbag: Proud of city’s embracing of arts

I was so proud of my city Thursday night! Not only was I witnessing the premiere performance of our new Glendale Renaissance Orchestra on the lawn of the Americana at Brand (“Concert Review: Chill, spirited,” May 1), but I was also treated to two renowned artists performing a lovely variety of music.

It did my heart good to witness such professional artists almost in my backyard. I became a season subscriber because I want to support the city and the emergence of the arts in Glendale. Another amazing perk is that the show was free to anyone and everyone who wanted to stroll the grounds of the Americana.

I don’t know of any other place that lets non-ticket holders enjoy the same benefits as those who paid!

JANICE MATHIEU

Glendale

College aid bill will be a boost

President Obama’s passage of the new bill on college aid will make lots of good changes in student lives (“Optimism in college aid,” April 2). According to the new bill, federal aid for college-bound students will be expanded at $26 per unit, so for a full-time student with a 12-unit course load, that is $312, excluding the cost of books and other expenses.

The Pell Grant will be increased from $5,350 to a maximum $5,550 next year and about $6,000 by 2017 by the health-care reconciliation bill. Advocates of this idea claim that there will be no more banks and student lending agencies that charge fees. On the other hand, opponents not only disagree with the expansion of health care, but dislike the idea of expanding financial aid for college students, because the state lending agencies will be forced to lay off workers.

As a result of the new bill, students will apply directly through their school for financial aid and not by lending programs at other governmental organizations or banks. Therefore, they will just work with one organization, which will be much easier to pay off the loan. Furthermore, students who want to get an education, but cannot because of their financial situation, will be able to afford it.

Glendale Community College needs to have financial aid workshops for its staff as Pat Hurley, the associate dean of financial aid, told the Glendale News-Press. According to the new law, more middle-class Glendale and Burbank families can apply for Financial Aid and Pell Grants. Due to the new law, parents will also benefit from the new Pell Grant aid. Parents who have financial problems and are unable to afford their children’s college expenses can continue their education because of Obama’s new law.

MEGHEDI DIRGHAZARIAN

Glendale