Minutes for Band Parent Association Meeting on October 7, 2009

Meeting was held in High School Cafeteria and began approximately 7:34 pm.
Approximately 20 parents attended.

Ms. Saez (B.P.A. President) began by apologizing for the late start and informed the parents about fund-raising projects that are planned for the weeks to come.Some parents suggested a cake sale and a fashion show.

Parents requested a meeting with teachers of Performing Arts to explain the requirements of each Arts class. Parents asked about the function of School Leadership Council (S.L.C.).

More fund-raising projects are needed to pay for supplies,replacing instruments and preparing meals and snacks for performing students. Funds also will be used to present an instrument to seniors upon graduating. Parents offered to prepare meals for band members for each game performance. A committee was formed by some parents to rotate the responsibility for preparing meals (Tracy Mcgill, Sophia Fullwood and Velma Gayle). More help is needed to clean-up after game.

A suggestion was made that all band parent contribute $10.00 per meeting. Parents were encouraged to assist band members to organize uniforms before each performances.

Mr. and Mrs. Weatherspoon were introduced as the suppliers of instruments and they offer to help students in any way possible.

The Marching Band entered and performed "Never Can Say Goodbye" and "Secret Garden". Performers wore red shirts and red hats to commemorate the visit to Southern University in Louisianna. Some members were absent because they were visiting Carnegie Hall for a live Concert.

Band members received praises and awards for hard work over the summer holidays. Band members got the opportunity to see how a real marching band prepares and performs at Southern University.

East Orange's Mayor Bowser was commended for authorizing the travel cost for some of the students to Louisianna.

Mr.Goode introduced Mr.Franklin and Mr.Kevin Lyons as his assistants who work daily with the students. Mr. Franklin and Mr. Goode each received an award from B.P.A. for their hard work.

Mr. Jim Gerrish helped to arrange trophies, to set up visual aides and to update website. Comments and pictures are encouraged to be sent to to the website. NOTE: There is an on-line photo record of some of the performances and awards that took place during the meeting HERE.

Compiled by
Leon Mantle
B.P.A. Secretary