Schools

Fundraising, and Talent, Move Band Forward

The marching band holds its annual Barnes & Noble fundraiser.

For students who spend days together and feel like family, Thursday was just one more opportunity to hang out—and raise some money.

The marching band held a fundraiser Thursday and Friday, raising money at by collecting funds from all the sales made during the day.

“Lots of people from the band are here and supporting us,” said junior Caroline Merrill, a member of the colorguard. “They always support us.”

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AnnaRene Jeremiah, Band Parents Association board member, said the band gets 5 percent of the proceeds up to $2,000, 15 percent from there to $10,000 and 20 percent after that when books are sold.

Jeremiah said they raised $700 last year, and were hoping to raise $1,000 this year.

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And members of the band, Jeremiah said, were on hand at the store Thursday to wrap books as gifts for customers and perform some of their own pieces and medleys.

“We brought in the orchestra and choir too to broaden the entertainment and showcase the talent,” she said. “And they selected the music themselves.”

Although the in-store fundraiser ended Friday, it continues with online purchases through Sunday.

In addition to this yearly fundraiser, the band does a candle and fruit sale, as well as fundraisers through , and others.

And in December, they will hold a craft fair and sports memorabilia auction.

“Most times we give fliers out, and if they show at the restaurant with it, we get a percentage of the bill,” said Nick Mossa, drum major for the band. “We are glad we have such a big turnout because funding is hard to come by.”

“Despite all the talent in the band, we wouldn’t be anywhere without fundraising,” he added.

Having the band’s final performance during Friday’s last football game of the season, members of the band said they are proud of the work they do, and enjoy the time they all spend together.

“It is an enjoyable experience,” said senior Dan Enny.

“The band becomes our lives and it’s very positive,” junior Ashley Nitahara added. “I spend more time with these people than with my own family.”

Senior Jimmy Romano said being part of the band is a great experience.

“We make a lot of friends, and we have improved a lot,” he said. “It has become even more fun as I’ve been a senior, and I’m going to miss it.”


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