In response to Perry Cockerell's Jan. 27 column, "U.S. should end sanctions with Cuba now more open," I would echo his support for lifting the Cuban embargo.
Having visited Cuba in December 2010 with the TCU Jazz Ensemble as participants in the Havana International Jazz Festival, I can personally affirm the gracious hospitality we received from Cuban citizens.Cockrell provides logic that supports the lifting of the embargo. Unfortunately, the government's Communist regime and the embargo force the people of Cuba to endure significant hardships.We provided Cuban music students and professional musicians with sorely needed instrumental supplies that they are unable to afford or obtain in their own country. Most of the instruments were as old as the unique and restored automobiles!It was indeed strange to be among the very few Americans in Havana during a popular holiday travel season. Visitors from Europe and Canada would stop us to express curiosity at our presence.Cuba has wonderful food, great beaches, a thriving nightlife and music scene, and Ernest Hemingway's estate. The housing and automobile markets there are ripe for development. Lifting the embargo would benefit both countries.-- Curt Wilson, TCU professorof music emeritus, Fort WorthHave more to add? News tip? Tell us
