The band at Lakeland High School is one step closer to Washington D.C.

Thursday night, the school board approved a motion to transfer $10,000 from remaining fuel funds to sponsor the band’s trip to the capital.

“This was totally unexpected,” said Alvin Wilson. “We are so excited and humbled. This is just a blessing for us.”

The band will represent Virginia at the 2010 National Memorial Day Parade.

“They did not initiate this field trip,” said Superintendent Milton Liverman. “It’s not fair to ask them to represent Suffolk and then ask them to make pancakes too.”

According to Wilson, the band has raised $14,000, including the monies from the board, through contributions and fundraising events at Sam’s Club, a drum line competition, car washes and a pancake breakfast.

“This entire effort has been a community effort,” Wilson said. “Everyone is coming together as a family to see it come to pass.”

To get to D.C., the band must raise a total of $27,000.

“We don’t have the $27,000 yet, but every penny has been a blessing,” Wilson said. “Until that last penny is in though, we have a lot of work to do.”

To donate to the Lakeland band’s efforts, send a check to Bayport Credit Union, Attention: Lakeland High School Band Booster Parade Fund, 1463 N. Main St., Suffolk, VA 23434.