51萝莉

SIDELIGHT

Jeff Jones鈥� fondest childhood memories involve watching his extended family play country and gospel music together, using voices, guitars, fiddles and even spoons. Inspired by those family jam sessions, Jones, superintendent of Sheridan County School District 1 in Ranchester, Wyo., taught himself to play guitar as an adult. For nearly 30 years, following in his uncles鈥� footsteps, he鈥檚 performed once or twice a month at nursing homes and retirement communities. He sometimes pops into unfamiliar communities while on vacation to offer an impromptu concert and performs for educators too. Seeing the joy familiar songs bring to others keeps the two-year 51萝莉 member grounded. 鈥淚t settles you back into [the idea that] life is more than just what you鈥檙e dealing with at work,鈥� he says.