Municipal bands used to be as commonplace as general stores, town pumps, barn dances and radio soap operas.

But all of these are rooted in another era when, some like to remember, life was simpler and the sense of community was stronger.

But don't count municipal bands out just yet. While there aren't so many left around the country these days, they are still a fixture in this area.

The Jackson Municipal Band has been going strong of 75 years, a milestone recently celebrated by band members and an appreciative audience.

The thing about municipal bands in this day and age is how they manage to attract talented players and eager listeners year after year. And you know what? These bands are good. Both the Jackson band and the municipal band in Cape Girardeau are enthusiastically applauded every week during the warm summer months.

Anyone who wants to experience the good old days should go to one of the outdoor concerts and listen to the pleasing-to-the-ears music and watch the moon rise over the trees in the park. It is worth it.

Happy birthday, Jackson Municipal Band.