Band boosters shine rides

Published 9:18 pm Monday, July 22, 2013

The Lakeland High School band booster club is planning two fundraising car washes for the “Quiet Storm.” Here, band members get down to work during a previous car wash.

The Lakeland High School band booster club is planning two fundraising car washes for the “Quiet Storm.” Here, band members get down to work during a previous car wash.

The Lakeland High School band booster club is planning two fundraising car washes to help “Quiet Storm” members march toward success.

Both events will be held at NAPA Auto Parts on Pruden Boulevard from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., the first this Saturday, according to booster club president Lisa Williams.

Giving motorists enough time to get their ride dirty again, the second car wash is planned for Saturday, Aug. 24.

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The cost is $10 per vehicle, and band members will wash cars under the supervision of parents and/or boosters, Williams stated.

“We have been very successful with our previous car washes,” she added. “Lakeland High School band has a large following of supporters, and we anticipate the two upcoming car washes to be just as successful.”

The band’s expenses include equipment, travel, and much more besides.

“During the performance season, we provide meals to the band after their half-time performance, as well as snacks and Gatorade during parades, away games and competitions,” Williams stated.

“For the LHS Marching Quiet Storm, band season is not restricted to football season. The band performs in competitions, parades, college graduations and, most recently, the opening ceremony for the Special Olympics.

“With each performance there are additional costs involved that their annual band dues don’t cover.”

Another reason for the fundraising is a year-end banquet that boosters hold to honor band members.

The event allows boosters to “express our thanks, gratitude and pride in the band (members) for their hard work and dedication throughout the year,” Williams stated.

“I have been the booster president for the past two years and a member of the booster organization for the past five years, and I have the utmost respect for the students as well as staff.

“They work hard and truly are a family, and we depend on the support of the community and parents to keep the LHS Marching Quiet Storm in the number-one spot it has earned.”

Band director Alvin Wilson said the band continues to grow, with about 96 members at last count.

“Fundraising is very important,” he said. “It helps us fund things the school system might not be able to provide.

“Right now there are no upcoming events, but this (fundraising) puts us in a position of strength.”

Donations will also be taken at the car washes, Williams stated.

In the fall, she added, boosters will be selling Joe Corbi’s kits, containing pizza dough, cookie dough, and “other family favorites.”